Great Questions To Ask Any Deck Contractor

There's nothing quite like the beauty and comfort of a backyard deck. Many homeowners wonder if they can afford a deck or even if they should go to the expense. Many questions surround the installation of a deck. Will I need footing? If I do, how much will that expense add to the project? How much does composite decking cost? Should I use it or hardwood?

The average deck costs $7,500 but typically ranges between $4,000 and $10,000. Many variables go into deck building. You will need to ask yourself if that whirlpool or Jacuzzi you dreamed of fits into your budget.

Since we'll need a design before we can start the deck building, that's a logical place to start.

How Much Extra Will It Cost for a Custom Deck Design?
The national average for deck designs is $200-$500. However, if you do an online search, you can probably find one that meets your needs for free. Otherwise, if you have AutoCAD experience, you can draw one yourself.

Consider these expenses before you finalize your plans:

Deck enclosures add $8,000 to $18,000
A roof will add $3,500 to $11,000
A sunroom could add $20 or $30,000
Stairs will add $15 to $20 per square foot
Add awnings for $650 to $1,000
Concrete footings usually add $4.75 to $120 per linear foot
Figure about $200 to $250 per hole for support beams

It's your deck and your design, just don't break the budget on things you could add later, even though it likely cost less to do it all at once.

What Is Composite Decking?
Composite decking materials are usually fiberglass, vinyl, PVC, or other recycled content. How much does composite decking cost? Many believe these materials are much cheaper than wood, but in most cases, the opposite is true. Although these materials do not bend or warp and are generally maintenance-free, the materials cost almost 50 percent more than wood. A composite deck could cost $50 to $100 per square foot. However, if you want a maintenance-free choice that you will never need to paint, composite is the way to go if you can afford it.

Why Choose Hardwood Decks?
Most prefer hardwood over composite or the less expensive alternative like cedar, pine, or bamboo. However, hardwood decks such as redwood, mahogany, ipe, and tigerwood can run from $5 to $30 per square foot, compared to cedar or bamboo at $3 to $10 per square foot. When it comes to which materials you use for deck building, it will depend on your budget and how much maintenance you want to do.

If there are many insects in your area, cedar might be the right choice. Then, add an excellent stain and sealer for $1,000 to $1,500.

Deck Repair Versus a Replacement Deck
Should you get it repaired or replaced? Repair is generally cheaper than deck replacement. Although it will usually depend on what needs to get done. If your decking and supports are old or there's an insect infestation, you might need to tear it down and replace it.

Deck Contractors in Boise
When you have questions about a new deck, deck replacement, or deck design, call the best deck contractors in Boise. We can assist you with hardwood decks, composite decks, or deck repairs or replacement with a no questions asked warranty from Boise Deck and Fence Contractors.