How to Save Money When Building Composite Decking?
Building a deck is an excellent option for homeowners who want to add beauty and utility to their outdoor space. Building a composite decking can result in a beautiful and durable outdoor space for relaxing and entertaining. So don’t lose your outdoor paradise by thinking composite deck boards are too expensive.
Although composite decks have many advantages, you still need to consider some cost-saving strategies. But how do you save money on composite decking? This article will provide you with some tips on how to save money on composite decking costs during the construction process and beyond. With these affordable tips, you can easily plan a cheap and beautiful deck.
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Table of Contents
How to Save Money When Building Composite Decking?
There are many ways we can save money on building composite decks. But please don’t give up on the quality of your deck just because it’s cheap. In general, there are the following ways to save money when building composite decking.
- Plan and budget carefully
- Research composite deck brands and materials
- Install the deck yourself
- Compare composite decking prices
- Reduce design complexity
- Recycling
- Determine installation time
Plan and Budget Carefully
Start by determining the size and price of the composite decking needed. Carefully measure the dimensions of the outdoor space and the area where the decking needs to be installed. Meticulous planning can be effective in avoiding unnecessary wastage of materials. You also need to set a realistic plan and budget for the outdoor project. Make sure that your main budget can be utilized for the purchase of composite decks, installation, and important components such as keel framing.
Research Composite Deck Brands and Materials
Many brands and types of composite deck boards exist in the market today. That’s why we recommend that homeowners research the various composite decking brands to find the best brand and product. Compare prices, warranties, and benefits between different products. There is no such thing as the best composite decking, only the best composite decks.
Many companies manufacture composite decking, but most consumers only know about Trex composite decking. In fact, for many homeowners, Trex has become the name of the game in composite decking. In fact, for many homeowners, Trex has become the generic term for composite decking material. However, other manufacturers make excellent composite decks as well. EVODEK, Fiberon, and TimberTech also make excellent decks at a cheaper price.
Also, you need to choose between quality and cost. Find composite wood deck options that offer a good balance between quality and cost. These usually offer decent durability and functionality at a modest price. It is important to note that you should not buy a low-quality composite deck because of the cheap price. This will result in a very durable outdoor space.
Installing a Deck Yourself
Evaluate your abilities and skills to determine if you can build your composite decking project. As the saying goes, “time is money,” and DIY installations can save a lot of money on labor costs. About half of the cost of a composite deck project comes from labor costs. So a do-it-yourself deck installation can save thousands of dollars.
From a technical standpoint, installing a composite wood deck yourself is a very simple construction project. So if you have DIY skills and aren’t afraid of difficult jobs, then you can build your deck. If you hate doing it yourself or don’t have enough hands-on skills, then hire a professional deck installer. Hiring a professional contractor can save you tons of time and ensure the quality of the deck installation. But a do-it-yourself installation will save you more on labor costs, but it will take more time.
If you plan to install composite decking yourself, make sure you have the necessary tools and knowledge to complete the project. Review the installation instructions and installation video provided by the manufacturer. Ensure proper installation of the composite decking board. EVODEK provides homeowners with detailed installation instructions and guidelines. This helps homeowners with proper installation and ensures the long life and performance of outdoor composite decking.
Compare Composite Decking Prices
Before building a deck, obtain quotes for composite decking from multiple local contractors. Compare the services and prices of multiple contractors. Choose the most cost-effective quote. Researching quotes ensures that they detail the cost of materials, labor, and any additional services.
You can compare prices from different suppliers and manufacturers using the cost of Trex decking as a rubric.
You can also look for discount composite decking and check for promotions. Check local suppliers and retailers for composite decking clearance sales. Consider buying decking materials in bulk to negotiate lower composite decking prices.
Reduce Design Complexity
Try to choose simple composite deck design patterns that require less design and labor. Multiple layers, curves, and complex composite decking patterns can significantly increase costs. This tip is very simple, but easily overlooked. Many homeowners think herringbone deck patterns, contrasting trim, and diagonal trim are more aesthetically pleasing. But it will cost more time on composite decking cutting. Choose a standard deck size and shape and try to avoid custom designs. Save more time and money by completing all cuts along the edges of your composite decking.
Also reducing the size of the composite wood decking can reduce the cost of the project from the root. Consider carefully how you plan to use your outdoor deck and how much space you will need. If you don’t need a deck too big to entertain guests, a smaller deck space can provide just as good a life.
Recycling
If you want to refurbish or replace your existing deck, consider recycling the old deck. Reuse structurally sound decking materials for incorporation into new composite deck board projects. Recycling your old deck can save you a lot of money on the cost of purchasing new materials.
Or ask your local recycling centers and online platforms to buy discount composite decking. This is not only an effective cost-saving, but also more environmentally friendly by reducing the waste of resources to some extent.
Determine the Installation Time
If you are patient enough or not in a hurry to use the deck, you can choose to install the composite deck project in the off-season. Scheduling an outdoor deck project in the off-season can effectively reduce the cost of professional installation. Most homeowners want to build their decks in early spring. If you can wait until the fall and winter months to build your deck, you can save even more on labor costs.
Composite Decking Do’s and Don’ts
Proper Maintenance and Care
Following the manufacturer’s maintenance and care recommendations will ensure the longevity and performance of your deck. Proper maintenance can prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future. In addition to this, regularly clean and inspect your decking for any signs of damage and wear. Regular inspections and prompt problem-solving can prevent decking issues from worsening.
When cleaning composite decking, purchase a high-quality and professional composite deck cleaner. This will help maintain the appearance and durability of your deck and reduce the need for maintenance and replacement later on.
Consider Long-Term Cost Savings
Compared to other decking materials, composite decking is more expensive. This is mainly due to the high initial cost and the cost of manual labor. But consider the potential long-term savings. Compared to wood decking, composite wood decks require less maintenance. Avoid the high maintenance costs of painting, staining, and sanding.
The composite deck has excellent durability as well as resistance to rot, insects, and moisture. This greatly reduces the likelihood of repairs and replacements.
How Much Does Composite Decking Cost
I’m sure you’re already aware of how to save money building composite decking, but it’s also important to understand its cost. In general, a simple composite decking project can cost up to $3,600. More complex composite decking projects can cost between $12,000 and $20,000.
Composite Decking Prices
Composite deck prices typically range from $25 to $45 per square foot. The national average is around $35 per square foot. The cost includes materials and labor. However, the exact cost will vary depending on the materials used and the complexity of the project.
| SQUARE FOOTAGE | LOW COST | AVERAGE COST | HIGH COST |
| 100 | 2500 | 3500 | 4500 |
| 200 | 5000 | 7000 | 9000 |
| 300 | 7500 | 10500 | 13500 |
| 400 | 10000 | 14000 | 18000 |
| 500 | 12500 | 15500 | 22500 |
Labor Cost to Install Composite Decking
One of the main factors that affect the total cost of a composite decking project is the labor required for installation. Professional deck installation ensures that composite decking is installed properly and complies with local building codes. But it also requires a significant labor cost.
Labor costs to install composite decking will vary depending on the location of the installation, the complexity of the project, and the experience level of the contractor. On average, the labor cost for a professional deck installer ranges from $35 to $75 per hour.
Assuming an average labor rate of $50 per hour and approximately 28 to 60 hours of work. The labor cost for a standard 200-square-foot composite decking could be $1,400 to $3,000.
Factors Affecting Composite Deck Prices
Many factors can affect composite deck prices, including:
- Brands: Premium composite decking brands typically offer higher-quality materials with better durability, warranties, and appearance. But they also tend to be more expensive.
- Size of Composite Deck: The size and layout of a deck are directly proportional to the cost of materials and labor required for installation. Therefore more complex designs such as multi-level decks and intricate patterns will be more expensive.
- Additional Features: Adding custom features such as railings, outdoor lighting, and built-in benches may increase the overall cost of your project.
Easy Deck Ideas to Cut Costs
If you’re planning to build your deck yourself, then you’ll want your deck project to be as cost-effective as possible. Here are some SIMPLE deck ideas so that your card can create a stylish, functional, and durable outdoor living space.
Platform Deck
One of the simple deck designs is to go with a platform deck. Platform decks, also known as island decks, are usually a freestanding structure. You are free to place it almost anywhere in your yard. This type of deck lends itself to easy deck ideas because you can skip the siding that is used to secure the deck to the house.
Note that platform decks still require proper footings, and if you live in a cold or spring climate, you may need to install the foundation below the frost line.
Rectangle Deck Ideas with Stairs
Rectangle decks with stairs are more complex than decks without stairs but still meet simple deck design ideas. Well-designed deck stairs can add even more utility to a deck. Stairs allow for a seamless transition from deck to patio or lawn and add a touch of dimension to your deck design.
Multi-Level Decks
Consider a multi-level deck design with platforms on different levels. To ensure your deck design is accurate, keep each level one step higher or lower than the others.
Conclusion
By following these ways and suggestions, erecting a composite decking project can become more cost-effective. By careful planning, comparing prices, installing the deck yourself, or choosing to install it during the off-season. All of these ways can save money without compromising the quality of the composite decking board. In addition to the ways mentioned above, simply designing or purchasing discount composite decking can also save money. Remember, striking a balance between cost and quality is key when building an outdoor decking project.
Now that you know how to save money when building composite decks, it’s time to get started on your project. We hope this article has provided you with useful tips and ideas to help you save even more.
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