What Is the Most Econmical Way to Build a Deck?

Planning Phase

• Keeping budget constraints in mind during the deck planning stage is important when building a deck economically. Plan for only the minimum amount of space necessary to build a small outdoor living space; you can always extend your deck or add other features later. A flat, square-cornered deck is economical because decks with tiers, curves and unusual angles cost more to build. Likewise, a low deck, also called an “on grade” deck, costs less than a high deck. That is because a high deck requires stairs, and your city or county probably requires any structure more than a couple of feet from the ground to have railings; stairs and railings add significant costs to the project. Before you purchase deck materials, check your area's building codes to ensure all your plans comply, and obtain a building permit if necessary.

Material Management

• Although using the least expensive lumber available may be tempting, doing so could result in a temporary deck that starts decaying at the first hint of moisture. Appropriate deck lumber includes insect-, moisture- and decay-resistant wood such as cedar, redwood and pressure-treated lumber. To cut some costs, buy different grades of wood for use in different parts of the deck construction. If, for example, you build a redwood deck, then the more expensive construction heart-grade redwood can form the structural framing and support posts, and sapwood-containing, construction-grade redwood can be the planks.

Cost-Efficient Construction

• The cost of your own time, among other factors, is a consideration when deciding whether or not to hire labor to construct your deck. Hire someone else unless you have construction experience, own an array of power tools, are familiar with the process and local building codes, have health insurance in case of an accident and won’t need to take time away from work to build the deck. Without meeting those requirements, building the deck yourself could end up costing you far more than you save in mistakes, tool rental, injuries or missed work. Find a reliable, inexpensive contractor through word-of-mouth or objective websites, and verify that the contractor has all the licenses and insurance required by your area. Checking the contractor's references is wise.

Other Ways to Save Money

• Trimming small amounts from different parts of the process will save money in your deck-building budget. Because higher grades of lumber are necessary for joists and posts, space them as far apart as your area's building codes allow. Buying all the materials in bulk decreases their purchase price. Build your deck off-season in late fall or early winter, when many home-improvement retailers sell their deck materials at a deep discount. Off-season is a better time to hire less expensive labor, too.