Building a deck is one of the best ways to improve your home. It creates a space where you can enjoy the outdoors, entertain friends and family, or simply relax and take in the sunshine. But when you start looking into how much it costs to build a deck, you might be surprised. Decks are often more expensive than people think, and there are a lot of reasons for that.

In this article, we’ll go over all the costs of building a deck and break down why it might be more expensive than you expect. We’ll also talk about how MKW Services can help you design and build the perfect deck while keeping costs in mind.

1. What Are the Average Costs of Building a Deck?

The first question most people have when thinking about building a deck is: How much is it going to cost? The truth is, the cost can vary widely depending on several factors. On average, building a deck can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000 or more. But the exact price depends on things like the size, materials and design.

Here’s a rough breakdown of what you might pay for different types of decks:

  • Pressure-treated wood deck: This is usually the least expensive option and can cost between $40 to $50 per square foot.
  • Cedar deck: These materials are more expensive and can usually cost between $50 to $60 per square foot.
  • Composite or PVC deck: These are high-quality, low-maintenance materials, but they’re also the most expensive. You can usually expect to pay between $70 to $100 per square foot for these options.

So, for a 240-square-foot deck—maybe 12ft deep x20ft long, the total cost could range from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on the materials you choose. But that’s just the basic cost of a deck. Let’s dive into why decks are often more expensive than people expect.

2. Why Is Building a Deck More Expensive Than You Think?

Building a deck may seem like a simple project, but there are a lot of additional costs that can add up quickly. Here are the main reasons why decks are often more expensive than you might think.

1. Materials Are Expensive

One of the biggest factors that affect the price of a deck is the material you choose. While pressure-treated wood is the least expensive, it requires more maintenance and may not last as long as higher-end materials like composite or PVC. Composite decks, while more expensive upfront, are much easier to maintain in the long run because they don’t need staining, sealing, or painting. Also, composite decks are more resistant to weather damage, and rot, so they can save you money on repairs over the life of the deck.

The price of wood and other building materials can also go up depending on market conditions. For example, if there’s a shortage of lumber or an increase in demand, like we experienced during covid, the price of wood can rise, making your deck more expensive.

2. Labour Costs Add Up

Building a deck is not a DIY job for most people. Sure, you might be able to hammer a few boards together, but constructing a deck requires some expertise—like ensuring it’s level, stable, and up to code. That’s why hiring a professional contractor is important. However, hiring professionals means you’ll need to pay for their time and expertise.

Labour costs for a deck can vary greatly depending on size and complexity of the deck. If it takes several days or even weeks to build your deck, those labour costs can add up quickly.

3. Additional Costs for Deck Design and Features

A basic rectangle deck with is going to be less expensive than one that includes custom features. For example, adding stairs, railings or built in seating will increase the overall cost. If you want a deck that wraps around your house or has multiple levels, that will require more materials and more time to build, which will increase the price.

Other options like privacy screens, pergolas, or lighting can also add to the cost. These are great upgrades that can make your deck more enjoyable and more customized, but they will increase the total price of the project.

4. Building Permits and Drawings

Before you start building your deck, you will likely need to get a set of drawings and/or a building permit from your local township office. A building permit is a legal requirement in many areas, and its to ensure that your deck is safe and built according to local building codes. The cost of drawings and a building permit can range from $1500 to $2000, depending on the complexity and the size of your deck.

In addition to the building permit, you may also need to obtain a local conservation permit. Conservation permits are often required when building near a lake, river, water way or a natural flood plain. While these permits are necessary, they can add extra time and cost to your project.

5. Site Preparation and Landscaping

Before construction can even begin, the area where you want to build your deck might need to be prepared. This could include removing an old deck, clearing the area shrubs, or trees, levelling the ground, or digging holes for the deck’s posts. Depending on the complexity of the site, site preparation can impact the cost.

If your deck is going to be built on a slope, has limited access or a second story, you might need special equipment such as scaffolding or ladders to help, which will increase the cost of the project. Working at heights, slopes and difficult terrains can slow the labour down which can affect the overall costs. Additionally, landscaping around your deck might require new plants, gravel, or stone, which adds to the overall expense.

6. Hidden Costs and Unexpected Problems

Finally, occasionally we run into hidden costs that pop up during construction. Although these can be rare for a well planned out deck, sometimes they do arise. For example, if the soil is too soft or the ground is uneven, the foundation of the deck might need extra support-possibly even helical piles, which could cost more. Sometimes we find that the wall where the ledger board will be attaching is rotting and requires additional work to provide adequate support for your deck. These unexpected issues can sometimes add a few hundred or even thousands of dollars to the final price of your deck.

3. How Can MKW Services Help with Costs?

At MKW Services, we understand that building a deck is a big investment, and we want to make sure you get the best value for your money. Here’s how we can help:

  • Expert Design: We work with you to design a deck that fits your needs, style, and budget. Whether you want a simple, affordable deck or a larger, more complex design, we’ll help you choose the right materials and features that work for you.
  • Efficient Construction: Our team of professionals has the skills and experience to build your deck efficiently and correctly, which can help keep labour costs down.
  • Handling Permits and Inspections: We take care of all the paperwork for building permits and inspections, so you don’t have to worry about navigating the legal side of the process.
  • Transparent Pricing: We give you a clear, upfront estimate that breaks down all the costs involved, so you know exactly what to expect. In fact, you can find most of our pricing online.

4. Conclusion: Why a Deck is Worth the Investment

While building a deck can be more expensive than you might initially think, it’s still a great investment in your home. A well-built deck adds beauty, functionality, and value to your property. Whether you’re relaxing outside on a warm summer evening or hosting a barbecue, a deck creates the perfect space for making memories.

If you’re ready to build your dream deck but are worried about costs, MKW Services is here to help. We’ll work with you to design a deck that fits your budget while delivering a beautiful, safe, and functional outdoor space. Reach out to us today, and let’s get started on creating your perfect deck!