Deck Cost Calculator To Easily Estimate Your Expenses

Figuring out how much a new deck will cost can be tricky. That’s why we created an easy-to-use deck cost calculator to estimate your total expenses. Simply input your deck’s dimensions, chosen materials, and any extra features. The calculator automatically determines the estimated square footage, materials, and labor costs.

How the Deck Price Calculator Works

First, enter specifics like the length, width, and type of decking material you want. The tool will automatically update the cost per square foot based on your selection. Next, input labor fees per square foot and for extra items like permits. If you want railings, stairs, lighting etc., select those next and enter the unit costs. Finally, account for waste material, sales tax, and delivery fees.

Once all the details are entered, our calculator goes to work crunching the numbers. It multiples the area by material and labor costs, estimates linear railing footage, tallies stairs, lighting and other additions, then factors in fees and taxes.

In the end, you get a detailed, custom breakdown of estimated costs including materials, construction, features, taxes and total budget. With this comprehensive estimate in hand, you can determine if the project fits your budget or if adjustments need to be made. Our easy Deck Cost Calculator takes the headache out of planning so you can focus on designing your dream deck.

If you need help determining the amount of materials you need for your decking project, we also have a calculator for that.

Ways to Save Money When Building a Deck

When it comes to building a new deck, there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing quality or safety. The key is smart planning and design. For starters, opt for a simple, straight design with fewer angles and curves. Complex shapes require more complicated cuts and additional materials, driving up costs unnecessarily. Go with standard lumber sizes as well to reduce waste.

In terms of materials, pressure-treated lumber is usually the most budget-friendly decking option, as it stands up well to weather and wear over time. Composite decking has a higher upfront cost but can save you money later since it requires virtually no annual maintenance. Keep an eye out for sales on decking materials at local home stores too – you can score great deals if you buy at the right time.

Perhaps the biggest way to save is to take on the project as a DIY build. While you’ll need the right skills and tools, completing the labor yourself with help from friends can shave thousands off the price tag. Thankfully, there are ample online tutorial videos to teach yourself the fundamentals. The key is properly planning out your design first so you buy the right materials in the right quantities.

When purchasing materials, accurate measurements are crucial to not buying more than you need. Designing the deck to utilize standard lumber lengths will also reduce excess. Buying in bulk, sourcing reclaimed building materials, and shopping local suppliers can also yield savings.

You can also simplify the railings by utilizing basic wood or metal options, rather than customized designs or glass panels, which look lovely but cost a premium. Using a mix of materials like wood posts with metal balusters helps strike the right balance of form and function.

Scheduling the project during the off-season when contractor rates are lower and phasing the build can further help, as can using deck blocks as a foundation instead of poured concrete footings. Maintaining the deck properly once built will also pay off in the long run.

The key with any big DIY project is doing your homework first, assessing your skill level and creating an efficient plan of attack. But for a little grit and elbow grease, you can build the deck of your dreams and have money left over for the barbecue.

Did you find the deck cost calculator useful or have suggestions? Leave your response down below in the comments.