When is a good time to build a deck? We would say, Anytime! but we know that doesn’t fly here in Middle Tennessee. You can’t install a Deck in January with a smile on your face because you’re either wet or cold. However — and this is surprising — winter is actually the best time for building a deck. So even though you might not think of winter as a good time for building anything, read on to find out why you should change your thinking.
The When
Adding a deck is a great way to extend your square footage without costing an arm and a leg. Of course, that means your extra room can only be enjoyed in fair weather (unless you like lounging in a bulky coat and boots). However, as we just mentioned, the actual construction of a deck is best reserved for when its not pretty outside. Why? Costs are lower!
Demand for decks is lower in winter, meaning you can more easily find a contractor to do the work for less. Not only that, but your material costs will be lower due to sales put on by wholesalers. And your contractor, being less busy, will most likely get the deck done in less time.
The Where
Obviously you’re going to install a deck alongside your home. But the best spot? That’s worth taking time to think about. For example, this HouseLogic blog points out that adding a deck right outside the kitchen door seems like a good place, but it funnels party guests into the kitchen, creating culinary traffic jams. A better solution is to pop one just outside sliding or French doors from the living or dining rooms.
Once you’ve selected a prime spot for the deck, consider the size — make sure it is neither so small it is inconvenient or so large that it dominates the yard. A good place to gather size guidelines is your local building codes, which of course you wouldn’t want to accidentally violate. Finally, you need to consider the placement of stairs. Ask questions like, will they be in the way here? Will they disturb the driveway?
The What
Now that you know how to keep costs down and begin planning the location of your deck, its time to think about materials. What type of material is best for your lifestyle? Decks are built from several different types of wood, including redwood, cedar, pressure treated, composite, even synthetic like vinyl. You’ll want to see this list of deck materials and their average costs to get you started. For example, the cheapest material is pressure treated wood, ringing in at only $3.80 per square foot, installed. For a 16×20 deck, that’s only $1,220. To compare, cedar — a very popular choice for DIY deck builders — runs about $5.35 installed, or $1,700 for the same size deck. Youll also find in the link above the cost of maintenance, which for cedar means about $90 per year for sealing, and $0 for vinyl, which only needs an occasional rinsing with your garden hose.
When did you add your deck?
Since winter tends to be the most cost-effective time to install a deck, why not start planning this month? If you do, you will be ready once spring hits. And while you’re thinking about it, check out these seven free DIY tips for building a deck.
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