Installing a new custom deck is a great way to enhance your outdoor space and improve the look and feel of your home. It can also essentially serve as an extension of the house, allowing you to make the most use of the space you have. For most homeowners, the first question that always comes to mind is “how much does a custom deck cost?”
Most homeowners spend between $15,000 and $35,000 on a custom deck. However, projects can range from as little as $6,000 to as much as $50,000 to $60,000. It really depends on the size of the deck, the materials you choose, and whether you want any custom or premium features.
Square Footage
For the initial estimate, many deck builders calculate the price per square foot. This price generally includes all of the decking materials as well as the labor costs. The cost of deck building in California typically ranges between $45 and $125 per square foot.
Decking Materials
One of the biggest factors in the cost per square foot is the type of decking materials you choose to use. The most common options are redwood and composite decking. Basic composite decking and redwood are often among the more affordable decking options, while premium composite materials typically cost more.
However, redwood is sometimes the least expensive overall because it’s easier to install. Composite decking requires specialized fasteners and is more time-consuming to install, resulting in slightly higher labor and material costs.
If you want to use a premium material like ipe (Brazilian walnut) or bamboo, the cost of the materials will be quite a bit higher. Nonetheless, these options offer superior strength and durability while also requiring little maintenance. As such, they can definitely be worth the added cost, depending on how much you’re willing to spend.
The type of railing you choose also impacts the material costs. More premium railing options typically add at least a few thousand dollars to the cost.
Layout and Design Factors
The layout and design of the deck can also impact the installation cost. A basic deck with a simple design is fairly easy to install. If you want a more intricate design or the layout is more complicated, you’ll obviously have to pay more. In terms of layout, you need to consider things like whether the deck is a single level or has multiple levels.
Whether the deck is on the ground level or connected to an upper floor also makes a big difference. Elevated decks require more engineering to ensure they’re structurally sound. There’s also the added labor and material costs for installing the posts that the deck sits on. If you want to be able to get from the deck to the ground, you also need to account for the cost of the stairs.
Features like pergolas and built-in seating or lighting will add to the cost. However, they can also allow you to make better use of the deck and enhance its beauty.
Labor Costs
The company you choose to design and build the deck can also play a big role in the final cost. Experienced, licensed deck builders tend to charge more per hour, especially compared to something like a handyman service. Nonetheless, hiring an experienced professional is always worth it to ensure that the deck is built properly and meets code requirements. You can also be more certain that the finished product matches the original design, looks beautiful, and fully meets your expectations.
Get Your Professional Deck Installation Today
At Decks By DeCamp, we have years of experience in custom deck building and are ready to help you transform your outdoor space. We offer a wide range of quality decking materials, including composite, redwood, bamboo, and ipe.
We handle all aspects in-house, from deck design and permitting to installation and cleanup. Our highly experienced craftsmen and project managers are committed to delivering quality results that exceed our customers’ expectations. Our attention to detail and focus on honest, clear communication ensure that you’ll be more than happy that you chose us for your new deck.
To schedule a deck design consultation in Monterey, Santa Cruz, or the surrounding areas, contact Decks By Decamp today.
