The daily enjoyment that comes with having a beautiful, functional outdoor living space is hard to deny! A lovely, well-designed new deck offers so much fun and relaxation to your life—and earns 89% return on your investment, according to the National Association of Realtors’ Remodeling Impact Report.
Here’s a closer look at the factors that affect the costs of replacing a deck, so you can make good decisions as you plan your budget.
Deck Size
The dimensions of your replacement deck will impact its overall price. A modest deck of 10 x 10 square feet involves less material than an expansive 24 x 24 space.
Cost: $ – $$$
Materials Used for Building Your Deck
Outdoor living space materials fall into two general categories—natural wood and composite (manmade) decking, which encompass a range of prices.
Pressure-Treated Pine
Pressure-treated pine tends to be more affordable compared to other materials. The wood boards are chemically cured to protect them from weather, moisture, and pest infestation, but they still require annual staining and sealing.
Cost: $ – $$
Specialty Woods
Unique woods create a gorgeous appearance for your outdoor living area. Cedar is popular and classic, with a natural ability to resist rot and pests, though its softness makes it prone to damage. Bamboo is lightweight and eye-catching, but it’s likely to scratch or dent.
Cost: $$
Exotic Hardwoods
Hardwoods provide strong, durable performance as well as organic beauty. Ipe and tigerwood have attractive grains and can last for decades, but they are also heavy and demanding to install. Redwood has a striking appearance but needs constant upkeep.
Cost: $$ – $$$
Composite Decking
Made from a blend of recycled wood and plastics, composite decking has the advantage of looking as attractive as natural wood while being much more durable and easier to care for. It typically lasts 30–50 years, without the risk of rotting, splintering, cracking or fading. It costs more initially but saves you on upkeep.
Cost: $$$
Style of Deck
Basic structures require less intensive planning and labor, while complex projects will involve more detailed work—and you will see this reflected in your estimate.
Ground-Level Deck
Built like a simple platform, this kind of deck is flush with the ground, making it an affordable design. It rises no more than 30–36 inches off the ground, so railings and stairs are optional.
Cost: $
Detached/Floating Style
A freestanding deck is not attached to your home’s exterior and can be built anywhere in your yard. It’s built low to the ground and doesn’t require stairs, railings or deep footings, which helps keep expenses down.
Cost: $
Elevated Style
An elevated deck is built so that its floor is at least 3 feet above the ground, a practical solution if your land is sloped or uneven. You’ll need to install a solid, reinforced concrete base with footings, steps, and railings required by building codes—which adds to the overall price.
Cost: $$
Multilevel Deck
A highly popular option, multi-level decking creates a truly luxurious outdoor living space filled with customized seating areas, indoor-outdoor entries from two stories of your home, and more. Sturdy pillars, a reinforced foundation, and safety railing will be installed, as well as stairs. These details cost more, but they give great value to your overall experience!
Cost: $$$
Site Preparation and Other Details
Readying your land, breaking down your old existing decking, and labor costs all factor into the estimate for your replacement deck.
Preparing the Ground
If you’re replacing an existing deck, you may not need any special work done to your land. However, if your updated deck will be larger or more complex, extra preparation costs may come into play.
Cost: $ – $$$
Adding Drainage
Proper drainage around and beneath decking is essential to preventing wood rot, unhealthy mold growth, and foundation issues. If you need a new drainage system, this will contribute to your overall budget—but it’ll be well worth it to ensure your deck and home remain protected against moisture damage.
Cost: $$
Securing a Permit
Most municipalities require you to have a construction permit for your new deck. The specific fees will relate to details like the size and style of your deck.
Cost: $
Clean-Up and Debris Removal
Replacing an existing outdoor living space means that there will be an old structure to break down and cart away. This will show up in terms of dumpster rentals, labor, and trash fees.
Cost: $
Add-On Features and Final Touches
Don’t overlook the benefits of incorporating fun, inviting add-ons that allow you to elevate your outdoor living experience. As you consider what to include, think about how you’ll enjoy your deck most, and prioritize those features.
Basic Add-Ons
Some details are worth including for the beauty and safety they provide. Consider simple landscaping with hearty plants for visual appeal. Outside lighting ensures a well-lit space that’s easier to navigate when night falls. Ceiling fans create comfort on hot days.
Cost: $
Mid-Range Add-Ons
Prefabricated pergolas, large sets of outdoor furniture, built-in wooden benches, and stone walkways offer pleasant touches to your deck in a meaningful and affordable way.
Cost: $$
Premium Add-Ons
Gazebos, built-in hot tubs, outdoor kitchens, and fireplaces will boost your investment, and can give you a truly luxurious experience every time you step onto your new deck.
Cost: $$$
Transform Your Outdoor Living Space with a Gorgeous Replacement Deck You’ll Enjoy for Years to Come
Why not level up your enjoyment of your home with a beautiful new deck? The investment is well worth the hours you’ll spend soaking up the sun, grilling for guests, and relaxing with a good book or meal.
At Iron River Construction, our local craftsmen bring expert knowledge, attention to detail, and responsive service to your deck replacement—so you can relax and enjoy your outdoor living space in style. See how our deck and porch installations can transform your home.
