Month: August 2021

Decking is a great way to add beauty and functionality to your home. It can also be an affordable option if you know how to save money without sacrificing quality.

This article covers some deck-building tips that will help keep costs down while ensuring the project goes smoothly.

Tip #1: Determine the Budget

First, decide on a budget.

Having a budget helps guide your decisions about materials and design throughout the project.

Be sure not to go over budget, as that may affect the quality or cause you to cut corners with expensive features like railings or lighting.

Tip #2: Build Your Deck from Scratch

Don’t get tempted into buying prefabricated decks unless they are just what you’re looking for in terms of size, style, and functionality.

The cost of adding onto an existing deck will be much more than building one yourself because there are so many more variables involved.

If you buy prefabricated decks, make sure they fit your needs and design preferences so that the deck looks like it was custom built.

Tip #3: Seek Local Deals

Local hardware stores, lumberyards, and decks companies typically offer discounts to their customers.

This may be an excellent time to shop for materials if you haven’t been planning on the project but would like it sooner rather than later.

Doing your research about different wood will help, too, because some are more affordable than others, depending on where they’re sourced from.

Tip #4: Save On Labor Costs With DIY Features

There are plenty of ways homeowners can save money by doing work themselves or hiring an independent contractor specializing in deck building projects.

For example, installing railing posts is much cheaper when done with a posthole auger instead of renting out equipment, such as a backhoe to dig holes.

Tip #5: Get In Touch With a Professional Deck Builder

There is an increasing number of deck builders who specialize in affordable, quality work. You may find one near you through word-of-mouth or online research.

A professional’s input will be invaluable for helping you navigate the decisions that will affect your new deck and budget for supplies.

Speaking to a professional can also provide peace of mind if there is some part of the project where you’re unsure what type of material would be best suited.

Tip #6: Build For Your Needs

Make sure that the deck will be a good fit for your needs and lifestyle.

Building a deck that meets your needs means that you’ll get more enjoyment from it, which should make saving money go by just a little faster.

• What is the deck for?

• Are their children and pets that will use it?

• Do you want a deck that is mainly for entertaining, or do you need one with a lot of storage?

You should consider all these factors when planning the deck so that you can make sure it’s functional and livable.

Tip #7: Research Different Wood

You may save money by choosing wood from different sources to fit your budget.

For instance, Canadian pine might be cheaper than southern yellow pine because it’s sourced from less expensive areas and is more durable.

But keep in mind cost isn’t everything when deciding which type of timber fits your needs best.

Choosing the type of wood will largely depend on how much time you have before building starts, as well as what kind of look you want in terms of texture and resistance to weathering.

Tip #8: Build the Deck with Friends and Family

With an extensive project like this, it may be wise to give yourself some backup.

This way, you have a more hands-on deck-building duty and can also share the expense of materials with others interested in helping.

If your family is not available, ask if any friends or neighbors would help as well, since they’ll likely feel invested in the final product when you’re done.

It’s always better to start by asking instead of assuming someone will make themselves available because sometimes people get busy at work or take vacations without notice.

Tip #9: Be Patient

Building a deck is not something you want to rush. However, it will save on costs and headaches if you take the time to do it right.

Take your time during the planning, research, building, and finishing stages of the project so that everything winds up perfectly in both looks and functionality.

Tip #10: Go with Raw Lumber

There will be natural imperfections in raw lumber because it hasn’t been sanded and treated yet to make it more uniform looking.

By choosing this type of grade, homeowners can save money on costs associated with materials.

Raw lumber will also be more pliable for shaping and can easily be cut into different shapes with a saw or jigsaw.

Tip #11: Install Deck Lighting

Add an extra sense of security by installing deck lighting that will keep the space lit up at night for safety reasons and add ambiance from dusk until dawn.

Depending on your needs, you could install solar-powered lights, motion sensors, or even down lights across the entire surface. Hence, there’s enough light without needing any electricity connection in some parts of the yard.

Tip #12: Check the Classifieds

You may find an affordable pricing point by going through online classifieds such as Craigslist, where people are trying to sell second-hand building supplies from their old house or deck.

However, there is the risk you may not know the quality of the material before you start building.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, deck building can be a daunting project for any homeowner.

However, by following the tips in this article, you’ll have a better idea of what steps to take and which materials will work best when it comes time to build your deck.

Just remember to be patient, ask for help, and research before you start so that everything will be perfect in the end.…