Thinking about improving your home with a new deck? Hiring a deck builder can greatly improve your outdoor area. In the Denver Metro region, several cost factors come into play that affect how much you will spend on this project. This article will break down these costs to help you make smart choices as you plan your deck building.
Getting Familiar with Deck Building Costs
To understand what you might pay for a new deck, let’s first look at the average prices in the Denver Metro area. Typically, homeowners should prepare to spend between $15 and $35 for every square foot of a new deck installation. This price range will be influenced by the type of materials used, the complexity of the deck design, and labor costs. Keep in mind that this is just an average portion of what the final price could be, as other factors will alter the total amount.
Essential Factors Affecting Costs
1. Choice of Materials
One of the most critical aspects influencing deck costs is the materials selected for its construction. Here are some commonly used options:
- Pressure-Treated Wood: Known for being budget-friendly, this typically costs around $15 to $25 per square foot. It’s resilient and resistant to insects, but it does need regular upkeep.
- Composite Decking: A blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite decking is generally more pricey, averaging between $30 and $45 per square foot. It requires minimal maintenance while providing good durability.
- Hardwoods: Higher-end woods like mahogany or teak can start at $50 per square foot or more. These materials look amazing but need careful maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Choosing the right material not only affects your spending but also impacts how long your deck will last and how much work you’ll need to put into its care.
2. Size and Design Complexity of the Deck
The overall size of your new deck significantly influences the cost. Larger decks will consume more materials, which means higher labor and material expenses. Moreover, the intricacy of the design can drive up costs a lot. For example, multi-level decks or those featuring complex railings and built-in seating will take more time and skill, leading to increased labor charges.
3. Labor Expenses
In general, the costs for labor can vary depending on the builder’s expertise. In the Denver area, experienced deck builders can charge anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour. While hiring a quality contractor may come with a higher price tag, their skill and experience can ensure that what you get is professional and will last long term.
4. Permits and Local Regulations
In many instances, getting a deck built means you’ll have to acquire local permits. In the Denver region, the costs of these permits can beat around $100 to $500, depending on your project’s size and scope. It’s best to include these costs in your budget at the start to avoid surprises later on.
5. Preparation of the Site
The state of your property can also play a significant role in total expense. You may incur extra fees for preparing the site if your yard needs a lot of clearing or leveling. Tasks can include removing old structures or smoothing out an uneven area before you start building your deck.
6. Extra Features to Enhance Your Deck
Incorporating features such as lighting, planters, or built-in benches adds great utility and enjoyment to your deck but remember, it also lifts the cost. Consider the following:
- Lighting: Installing low-voltage lighting might set you back anywhere from $500 to $2,000 based on how many fixtures you want.
- Built-In Seating: Custom benches can range between $1,000 to $3,000, influenced by the chosen materials and design.
These add-ons not only help in making your deck more functional but may raise your property value too.
Crafting a Budget for Your Deck
To set up a suitable budget for your deck-building project, follow these easily workable steps:
- Explore Material Prices: First, look into different local suppliers to gather material costs.
- Obtain Multiple Quotes: Reach out to various deck builders in the Denver Metro area for price estimates.
- Think About Long-Term Maintenance: Don’t forget to include future maintenance expenses based on your material choice.
- Account for Surprise Costs: It’s wise to put away an extra 10% to 20% of your budget for any unplanned expenses that may pop up.
Locating the Right Deck Builder
Once you’ve mapped out your budget and envisioned your project, the next step is selecting a capable deck builder. Here are some helpful suggestions:
- Verify Qualifications: Confirm that your chosen builder is licensed and carries insurance.
- Look at Previous Work: Review their portfolio to assess if they match your style and experience background.
- Seek out References: Don’t hesitate to ask prior clients about their experiences with the builder.
- Share Your Ideas: Good builders will listen and offer expert advice about achieving your vision.
Wrapping Up
Hiring a deck builder in the Denver Metro area means understanding various aspects that contribute to the overall price of your project. By keeping in mind the material choices, design components, labor fees, permit requirements, site prep work, and any additional features, you can plan an effective budget that matches your outdoor living space goals.
If you’re looking for professional help to create a beautiful outdoor area, consider experts who can offer quality work tailored to your specific needs. With a clear understanding of these cost elements and teaming up with skilled professionals, you can build a stunning deck that not only elevates your home’s appeal but also improves your outdoor experience.