How much for a new deck
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Deck in 2023? - Lawn Care Blog
The average cost to build a deck is $7,320, and most homeowners pay $3,920 – $10,540. However, some large and lavish decks cost as much as $17,000, and some small decks cost as little as $1,600. Expect to pay about $21 per square foot for a deck.
The cost of building a deck depends on square footage, decking material, and other cost factors. Softwoods, such as pine and cedar, are the cheapest decking materials. Although exotic wood, composite, and PVC decks are pricey, they are more durable than softwood decks.
In this cost guide:
- Average costs
- Cost estimator by size
- Other factors that affect cost
- Related services
- Pro cost vs. DIY cost
- Cost by location
- FAQ
Average costs to build a deck in 2023
| National average cost | $7,320 |
| Typical price range | $3,920 – $10,540 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $1,600 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $17,000 |
If you are on a tight budget, consider a small single-story deck made of pressure-treated pine, but if you are looking for longevity, ipe (exotic wood) is the best material – and also one of the most expensive.
Deck cost estimator by size
The typical American deck is 300 – 400 square feet, meaning the average deck costs about $21 per square foot. However, high-class decks can cost as much as $50 per square foot, and minimalistic models can cost as little as $15 per square foot. Please see typical pricing by size in the table below.
| Deck size (sq. ft.) | Typical price range |
| 200 | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| 300 | $4,500 – $15,000 |
| 400 | $6,000 – $20,000 |
| 500 | $7,500 – $25,000 |
Other factors that affect cost
- Deck material
- Deck design and style
- Prep work
- Add-ons
Deck material
Decking material costs $2 – $19 per square foot (not including labor and additional parts). If you have a small budget, consider building a pine deck; however, ipe and composite decks have much better resistance to the elements.
Please see the typical pricing for decking materials in the table below.
| Decking material | Cost per square foot (material only) |
| Cedar | $3.40 – $6.00 |
| Composite | $8.20 – $13.30 |
| Ipe (exotic wood) | $9 – $16 |
| Pine (pressure-treated) | $2 – $3.75 |
| PVC | $10 |
| Redwood | $5.50 – $19 |
When choosing a deck material, consider the following:
- What is your budget? Pressure-treated pine works great for many homeowners on a tight budget. However, ipe decks can last 50 years or more compared to 10 – 15 years with a pine deck.
- Where are you building the deck? For example, composite decking holds up great in direct sunlight, and ipe doesn’t get as hot as other wood decks.
- What is your outdoor decor? If you like a rustic look, you probably want to go with natural wood decking. However composite material has a very customizable appearance that can fit any outdoor living space.
- How much maintenance do you want to deal with? PVC decks require less maintenance than most decking material.
Ipe vs. composite decks
Ipe (aka Brazilian Walnut and Lapacho) is an exotic hardwood from South America that typically costs $9 – $16 per square foot. It is known for its exquisite beauty and remarkable durability.
Composite decking is an eco-friendly option, typically made of recycled wood and plastic. Composite decks usually cost $8.20 – $13.30 per square foot and are more durable than most wooden decks.
How do Ipe and composite compare?
- Durability: Ipe wood is more durable than composite decking.
It is naturally insect, fungus, and weather-resistant and is almost twice as dense as standard wood. Furthermore, it has a class A rating for fire resistance. As a result, ipe has a longer lifespan and requires fewer repairs than composite decking.
- Appearance: Homeowners everywhere admire ipe’s natural beauty, but it doesn’t allow much flexibility in appearance. Composite decking is offered in many colors and can be customized to look how you want it.
- Price: Although ipe costs more than composite material, it lasts about twice as long. As a result, you get more bang for your buck with ipe. However, high-end ipe decks can cost significantly more than a composite deck.
Softwoods (redwood, cedar, pine)
If you are on a budget, you might want to choose a softwood deck, such as:
- Pressure-treated pine: Pine doesn’t have a natural resistance to the elements, so it needs a chemical treatment.
It isn’t the strongest wood, but it is low-cost and easy to work with.
- Cedar: Cedar is an attractive wood from the western U.S. and Canada that typically costs $3.40 – $6.00 per square foot. Because it is naturally resistant, it does not have to be pressure-treated with chemicals.
- Redwood: Redwood is known for its beauty and remarkable resistance to the elements. Like cedar, redwood does not need chemical treatment.
How do softwoods compare?
- Durability: Redwood is the most durable softwood decking material, and a redwood deck can last up to 30 years. Next in line is cedar, and it has a typical lifespan of 15 – 20 years. Finally, pine is the least durable option, and a pine deck usually lasts 10 – 15 years.
- Appearance: Most people prefer the exquisite look of redwood. However, many homeowners build beautiful decks made from cedar or pine.
- Price: Pine is the cheapest softwood decking material, and redwood is the most expensive. Consider the cost per square foot, warranties, and service contracts to find the best deal.
Deck design and style
Choose a simple deck without intricacy if you want to save money. However, if you have the cash, you may want to consider these lavish styles:
- Wrap-around decks are usually attached to your home and typically cost $5,200 – $17,600. If your property has appealing scenery, wrap-around decks help you enjoy the view.
- Decks with intricate designs that include curves and detail cost $4,610 – $18,085.
- Decks with built-in seating can cost $4,245 – $16,040. Small prefabricated seats are much more affordable than elaborate custom designs.
- Raised foundations are great on uneven terrain and in flood zones.
Expect to pay about $3,970- $10,940 for a raised foundation deck.
- Floating decks, also called freestanding decks, are not attached to your home and typically cost $6,000 – $24,000. Although great for parties, floating decks require a lot of maintenance.
- Multi-level decks are a great way to separate your deck into parts, and they typically cost $35 – $75 per square foot.
Prep work
Before your contractor starts building your deck, you may need the following services to prepare the area for construction:
- Deck removal typically costs $5 – $10 per square foot of your existing deck.
- Land leveling and grading usually costs $800 – $4,000.
- Excavation costs $60 – $200 per cubic yard.
- Clearing land costs $100 – $735 for a quarter-acre.
Add-ons
Do you want to stargaze from your deck on a cool November night? Or maybe host a private outdoor party with a hot tub? No matter what you want to do with your deck, there are add-ons to make it happen.
| Add-on | Typical cost |
| Electricity | $30+ |
| Fire pit | $250 – $2,200 |
| Flooring | $750 – $1,600 |
| Furniture | $100 – $5,000 |
| Heater | $100 – $375 |
| Hot tub | $4,500 – $10,000 |
| Lighting | $1,670 – $3,000 |
| Misting system | $115 – $500 |
| Patio bar | $175 – $1,800 |
| Planters | $100 – $375 |
| Privacy screen | $20 / panel |
| Railings | $25 – $30 / linear foot |
| Stairs | $175 – $1,650 |
Related services
- Deck repair
- Pergola installation
- Gazebo installation
- Walkways
Deck repair
Most deck repairs cost $575 – $2,600.
The cost of repairing a deck depends on the deck type and the damage’s extent. Minor repairs can cost as little as $150, and extensive repairs can cost several thousand dollars.
| National average cost | $1,465 |
| Typical price range | $575 – $2,600 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $150 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $6,670 |
Pergola installation
Pergolas add shade to your deck and help protect furniture and other add-ons. Expect a new pergola to cost $2,100 – $6,000, but large pergolas made of fiberglass or teak may cost significantly more.
| National average cost | $4,000 |
| Typical price range | $2,100 – $6,000 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $1,050 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $11,000 |
Gazebo installation
Gazebos are solid-roofed structures that provide more shade and protection than a pergola.
Most gazebos cost $5,365 – $9,025, depending on square footage, building material, and gazebo style.
| National average cost | $7,590 |
| Typical price range | $5,365 – $9,025 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $325 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $27,000 |
Walkways
Many homeowners accent their decks with a decorative walkway. Most walkways cost $1,080 – $2,160. For example, if you build a floating deck, you might want to make a walkway to get to it from the house. Also, you can create a walkway from your deck to a separate outdoor space.
| National average cost | $1,620 |
| Typical price range | $1,080 – $2,160 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $700 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $2,770 |
Pro cost vs.
DIY costIt might be tempting to try to save money by building the deck yourself. However, you may not end up saving any money, as you can see from the DIY cost breakdown below.
Equipment costs
If you don’t already have them, you’ll need to purchase the tools in the table below.
| Equipment | Typical Cost |
| Clamps | $6 |
| Hammer | $18 |
| Level | $35 |
| Mixing paddle | $14 |
| Protective equipment | $50 |
| Sawhorses | $30 |
| Speed Square | $7 |
| Tape Measure | $18 |
| Total Cost | $178 |
In addition to purchasing the equipment above, you can rent the tools in the table below.
| Equipment | Daily rental cost |
| Air compressor | $53 |
| Circular saw | $23 |
| Impact driver | $25 |
| Miter saw | $35 |
| Pneumatic nail gun | $29 |
| Post hole digger | $10 |
| Power sander | $43 |
| Table saw | $53 |
| Total Cost | $271 / day |
Material costs
Depending on the type of material, you can expect to pay $600 – $7,600 for a 300 – 400 square foot deck.
For example, a pressure-treated pine deck will need $600 – $1,500 in decking material, and composite decking will cost $2,460 – $5,320. That’s the cost without professional construction.
Cost Comparison
It can take up to ten days for an experienced builder to complete a deck, but let’s assume you work quickly and rent equipment for 5 days.
| DIY Deck Cost | $2,133 – $6,853 |
| Professional Deck installation | $3,920 – $10,540 |
Keep in mind the prices above assume you did everything right the first time and worked quickly. Equipment rental and material costs add up fast; one mistake can cost you more than you save. We recommend hiring an experienced and insured contractor to build your deck.
Cost of building a deck by location
The cost of building a deck varies by location for the following reasons:
- Property taxes: Adding a deck increases your home’s resale value and may raise property taxes.
Contact your local tax collector for details.
- Building permits: You will probably need a permit for deck building, but prices and requirements vary by location. Rural areas usually have less requirements than cities. Rooftop decks can be the trickiest to get approved.
- Climate: Your climate affects the materials you can use, and some environments require extra protection. For example, composite decks hold up the best in ice and snow, and ipe decks do great in the heat. Areas prone to flooding may require a raised foundation.
- Labor: Cities with a higher cost of living typically have higher labor costs.
- Materials: Locally available materials typically cost less than materials that are shipped. The further the materials travel, the higher the cost of materials.
- Homeowners insurance: Your new deck may increase homeowners insurance premiums.
Contact your insurance agent for more information.
FAQ
How much should a 20×20 deck cost?
Most 20 x 20 decks cost $6,000 – $20,000. The cost of the deck depends on the decking material, features, and design.
How do people pay for a deck?
If you have the cash, paying for a deck in full is a great way to save money on interest. Otherwise, you can use a personal or home equity loan. In addition, some deck builders offer financing. Most deck loans have to be paid back within 2-7 years.
What is a good size deck?
The best size for your deck depends on your home. Most contractors recommend that decks are less than 20% of the size of your home. The average American home is 2,480 square feet, and the average American deck is 300 – 400 square feet.
Final Thoughts
Decks are great for outdoor relaxation and entertainment.
However, choosing the right deck can be daunting with so many choices. Thankfully, an experienced contractor can help you pick the perfect deck for your budget and lifestyle. Contact a local deck contractor today!
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Photo by: woodleywonderworks – Flickr – CC BY 2.0
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Michelle Selzer is a web developer, technical writer, and Linux enthusiast from the hills of Tennessee. Her hobbies include collecting toys, hiking to waterfalls, and writing short fan-fiction stories.
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What’s the Average Cost to Build a Deck?
Typical Range:
$4,126 - $11,648
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 17,246 HomeAdvisor members.
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- Homeowners use HomeAdvisor to find pros for home projects.
- When their projects are done, they fill out a short cost survey.
- We compile the data and report costs back to you.
Updated January 19, 2023
Reviewed by Andy Kilborn, Expert Home Building and Remodeling Contributor.
Written by HomeAdvisor.
Cost to Build a Deck
The national average cost to build a deck is $7,887. Most people pay between $4,126 and $11,648. You can expect to pay between $30 and $60 per square foot, including labor and materials, to build a deck.
In this article
- Deck Cost Calculator
- Deck Cost Estimator by Size
- Decking Costs per Square Foot
- Decking Prices by Type
- Prices for Additional Decking Features
- Other Decking Cost Factors
- DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Deck Cost Calculator
Let's calculate cost data for you. Where are you located?
Where are you located?
ZIP Code
| National Average | $7,887 |
| Typical Range | $4,126 - $11,648 |
| Low End - High End | $1,500 - $21,000 |
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 17,246 HomeAdvisor members.
Top Factors That Affect Your Deck Cost
The size, style, quality of materials, and any additional features you add on will greatly impact the price of your new deck. Building a deck is a labor intensive job, which means the time and experience from a pro is the most important cost factor. Finally, most decks are built with lumber, which has seen volatile price fluctuations due to COVID and supply chain shortages.
How Your Deck Cost Breaks Down
See the estimated average percentages your factors contribute to your total cost.
Materials
1. Labor
Typically, labor for installing a deck runs $15 to $32 per square foot. If you use an easy-to-install material, like pine, expect labor to fall at the lower end of the budget. However, if you use something particularly challenging, like an exotic hardwood such as ipe, expect higher labor costs.
The labor to install the deck foundation is $25 to $300 per post. The costs vary so much per post because foundation requirements differ so significantly.
For example, some decks require piles, or foundation posts, driven into the ground mechanically, while others require holes dug manually with concrete poured to support the pilings. Others can get away with an above-ground foundation, with pilings that sit on top of blocks on the ground.
2. Materials
Decks have a wide range of materials to choose from, like affordable pressure-treated wood to high-end fiberglass. Depending on the size of your deck, you may need to opt for a more affordable material in order to fit your budget. Your pro can help you decide on what tradeoffs to make in order to achieve your end goal.
What Your Deck Budget Gets You
The average cost of a new deck is around $8,000, but you can build a deck on the lower or higher end of this budget range as well.
My budget is $2,000 - $4,000 $4,000 - $8,000 $8,000 - $12,000
Deck Cost Estimator by Size
There are no exact size guidelines for your decking project.
However, take a look at some of the most common deck sizes and their associated costs.
| Dimensions | Total Square Feet | Average Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 10 x 10 | 100 | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| 12 x 12 | 144 | $5,760 – $8,640 |
| 10 x 20 | 200 | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| 12 x 20 | 240 | $9,600 – $14,400 |
| 14 x 20 | 280 | $11.200 – $16,800 |
| 12 x 24 | 288 | $11,520 – $17,280 |
| 16 x 20 | 320 | $12,800 – $19,200 |
| 20 x 20 | 400 | $16,000 – $24,000 |
Decking Costs per Square Foot
Expect to pay between $2 and $35 per square foot for decking (not including labor), depending on the material you choose. Take a look at the most popular types of decking and their typical costs per square foot.
| Type of Decking | Cost Range per sq. ft. | Average Cost per sq. ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Wood | $2 – $5 | $3.50 |
| Cedar | $3 – $7 | $5 |
| Bamboo | $3 – $10 | $6.50 |
| Mahogany | $8 – $11 | $9.50 |
| Tigerwood | $7 – $15 | $12 |
| Ipe | $10 – $20 | $15 |
| Fiberglass and Composite | $12 – $22 | $17 |
| Redwood | $5 – $35 | $17.50 |
| Aluminum | $15 – $20 | $17.50 |
Pressure-treated wood resists moisture, rot, and insects at an affordable price of $2–$5 per square foot, making it a popular option for those on a budget.
Costs for redwood decking range from $5–$35 per square foot, depending on the grade.
Redwood decking is beautiful and durable but expensive and a non-renewable resource.
Mahogany decking typically costs $8–$11 per square foot. Mahogany decking is lower maintenance than pressure-treated wood and takes on stain well.
Ipe decking costs $10–$20 per square foot. Ipe is an exotic hardwood known for its durability and long lifespan.
Tigerwood decking costs from $7–$15 per square foot and bears a distinctive striped pattern from which it gets its name.
At $3–$10 per square foot, bamboo is an affordable, environmentally friendly option. Bamboo is actually a grass, not wood, but has many of the same qualities.
Cedar decking costs $3–$7 per square foot, making it comparable to pressure-treated wood, but without any of the chemical treatments. Cedar is a naturally insect- and UV-resistant wood harvested sustainably in North America.
Composite decking costs $15 to $36 per square foot, including railings, framework, and hardware. Decking boards only cost $4 to $13 per square foot.
Trex decking costs $5 to $10 per square foot for boards only. Expect to pay $10 to $27 per square foot, including decking, railing, and framing. Trex is a popular type of composite decking made from 95% recycled materials. It's a low-maintenance option resistant to termites, rot, warping, and splintering.
AluminumAluminum decking runs $15 to $20 per square foot. Many of these systems are gapless, meaning they make a seamless waterproof roof for anything underneath. Because they are both waterproof and lightweight, they make great outdoor spaces that double as roofs above carports, patios, and outdoor kitchens.
Decking Prices by Type
While most people install a ground-level deck attached to their homes, there are many other options. A popular choice is to build a second-story deck, creating a beautiful elevated deck space upstairs and shade and shelter for the ground floor.
| Type of Decking | Price Range per sq. ft. | Average Price per sq. ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Ground-Level | $10 – $20 per sq. ft. | $15 per sq. ft. |
| Floating | $20 – $60 per sq. ft. | $40 per sq. ft. |
| Second-Story | $40 – $50 per sq. ft. | $45 per sq. ft. |
| Elevated Concrete | $30 – $75 per sq. ft. | $50 per sq. ft. |
| Multi-Level | $30 – $75 per sq. ft. | $50 per sq. ft. |
Ground-Level Decks
Ground-level decks, or platform decks, cost an average of $15 per square foot, or between $10 and $20 per square foot, all-in. They are the least expensive option because they have minimal framing, no foundations, and no stairs or railings.
They're also not generally attached to the home as they don't need the extra support because they lack real elevation and are essentially a wood or composite alternative to a patio.
Floating Decks
Floating decks cost an average of $40 per square foot. You can pay anywhere from $20 to $60 per square foot, depending on material and location. Floating decks are usually a little more elevated than ground-level decks, but not usually enough to require driven-in pilings. They do, however, require more framing and sometimes concrete footings to make them stable.
These decks don't attach to the house and are commonly set away from the building, sometimes as a focal point or entertaining space in the yard.
Second-Story Decks
A raised deck costs around $45 to install, with prices ranging from $40 to $50 per square foot. These decks are the most common type and sit in an elevated position attached to the second story of a home.
Second-story decks require foundations and support pillars to hold them up and sit on brackets attached to the home. Some have posts that sit on concrete footings, while others have support posts driven into the ground.
Elevated Concrete Decks
An elevated concrete deck costs an average of $50 per square foot. You can pay anywhere from $30 to $75 per square foot. The price you'll pay depends on your location, the slab size, and the finishing materials you choose.
Elevated concrete decks require strong concrete and steel foundations as they're much heavier than wood or composite decks, hence the increased cost. These decks have an interesting, contemporary appearance, and they're very low maintenance.
Multi-Level Decks
Multi-level decks cost $50 per square foot, on average. Prices range from $30 to $75 per square foot, based on size and material. While not as common, multi-level decks are a great way to add extra entertaining space to smaller homes and can cover two or three stories.
Just remember that the higher and bigger you go, the more support the deck needs, so the more costs rise.
Compare Quotes From Local Deck Builders
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Talk to ProsPrices for Additional Decking Features
Once the deck is in place, you need to furnish it, whether you're building an entertaining space, a place for family fun, or a tranquil haven to relax in. There is a range of must-haves and nice-to-haves that you should consider for your deck, but remember to factor their prices into your budget, as costs can quickly mount.
Stairs
Deck stairs cost between $25 and $50 per stair, depending on the material, the size of the stair, and the elevation. For an average staircase of between eight and 16 steps, you'll pay $160 to $560 for prefabricated wooden stringers. For wooden stairs with custom stringers, expect to pay $280 to $800, and for metal stairs, expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000.
RailingsRailings for decking cost between $35 and $210 per linear foot. The price depends heavily on the type of railing you choose. While railings are not necessary for a ground-level floating deck, they're essential for raised decks because they add safety. Take a look at the most popular deck railing choices and how much they cost.
Fireplace or FirepitThe average cost to install a firepit is $300. But you can pay anywhere from $100 to $2,000, depending on the size and style of firepit you choose. This is for an above-ground, prefabricated firepit suitable for use on a deck.
Deck or patio enclosures cost around $50 per square foot, or between $20 and $75 per square foot. Building a pergola costs $45 per square foot, on average. You'll pay anywhere from $30 to $60 per square foot, depending on size and materials.
For a deck roof, prices range from $3,000 to $10,000. A more affordable alternative is an awning. Installing an awning costs $1,200 to $3,700.
Flooring and PatternsThe pattern of your deck can increase the total project price by up to 20%. Simple, plain designs are the most economical because they take the least time to install and require the least amount of material. If you really want to up your deck’s wow factor, you can go with a complex hexagonal pattern or a herringbone-style deck. But remember to add 20% to your budget to accommodate this extravagance.
Built-in seating prices vary hugely, from $100 to $8,000 or more, with the average homeowner spending around $1,800. The price variance is based on the size, style, and material you choose for your seating.
A simple built-in bench with minimal upholstery and no storage costs as little as $100, while an upholstered bench with interior storage made of mahogany or oak can run you $3,000. Built-in booths for dining give your eating area a funky retro flavor and cost between $1,000 and $7,000 each, plus the cost of the dining table.
Planter BoxesPlanter boxes cost anywhere from $10 to $200 each for prefabricated styles. Custom planter boxes cost $100 to $1,000, depending on the type of wood for planters you choose and their size. You'll need to account for the cost of the wood, at around $300 per cord, as well as the carpenter's hourly rate of $35 to $100.
Hot tub installation costs between $650 and $6,100, with most people paying around $3,400. This includes the cost of the hot tub and the installation. Above-ground hot tubs are the most affordable and the most common, as they sit on top of your deck and just need you to fill them and plug them in. Remember, though, that the deck must be designed/rated to support an in-deck hot tub.
You can, however, have an in-ground hot tub installed in your deck, although the hot tub will most likely need a concrete pad beneath it for support. While this is the most costly option, at $5,000 to $20,000 all-in, it creates a more cohesive, tranquil, spa-like finish and is a good option if you plan to spend a lot of time enjoying the hot tub.
SkirtingDeck skirting costs $2 to $50 per linear foot, with the price variance based on the skirt style and material. Skirting provides a nice, neat finish and stops pets and wildlife from getting underneath.
There are many other features you can add to your deck to make the space usable day or night, year-round. Here is a selection of the most popular additions.
Lighting costs $8–$30 each. Post lighting runs $30-$100+ each. Light fixture installation costs can run another $150 each.
Heaters cost $100–$300 depending on style and output.
Outdoor misting systems cost $2,100–$3,400.
Deck staining costs $550–$1,050. For the DIYer, the price of stain is around $30 per gallon.
Sealing a deck costs $550–$1,300. Sealer runs $30–$40 per gallon.
Get Quotes From Local Deck Builders
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Find Local ProsOther Decking Cost Factors
There are several other factors you need to budget for when planning your deck-building project. Permitting, demolition, and the time of year all impact how much you'll pay for your new deck.
A deck permit costs between $225 and $500, depending on your location. While not all states require permits for decks, most do, and permitting costs and requirements can change based on the size and elevation of your deck. Check with your contractor and municipality for the regulations in your area.
Demolition and RemovalThe cost to demolish and remove an old deck is $5 to $15 per square foot. This includes tearing up the old deck surface, removing the brackets, pilings, and foundations, hauling it away, and the local disposal fees.
If you only need to replace the surface boards, the price is around the same as installing a new deck; you have to account for the labor and disposal fees associated with tearing up and disposing of the old deck boards.
SeasonWhen you build has a direct influence on price. During the winter months or around major holidays, you're more likely to get a good price, with some companies offering specials and discounts of up to 20% off.
Winter is the off-season for many deck building companies, so there's less competition for their time, and therefore, they often lower their prices. Building during summer can increase your costs, as decking companies are much busier then and can charge a premium. Shop around and talk to several local deck building companies to get the best price.
Cost to Build a Deck Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro
If you have the right skills and tools and plenty of time, you can build a basic deck yourself at about 65% of the cost of hiring a professional deck-building company. However, you'll need at least a week to complete the job yourself, and the finish may not be as professional.
Plus, you'll need to make sure your deck meets local building codes and deal with any permitting requirements. Raised decks are best left to the pros, as you have to ensure the support posts and foundations are secure and strong enough to support the weight of the deck and those using it. Get this wrong, and you could cause serious injury.
For the best experience and price, be sure to shop around before hiring a pro. "Ensure you reach out to multiple pros when planning your deck,” says Andy Kilborn, Expert Review Board member and owner of Andy's Handyman Service in Des Moines, IA. “Some companies may have relationships with materials companies, leading to a decent discount."
Still Have Questions About Building a Deck?
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Ask a ProFAQs
Do I need a new deck?
Signs you need a new deck include:
Obvious and significant damage, such as holes, split boards, and signs of termite damage
Rot, mold, or warping
Loose railings
Loose or bowing boards
Damaged or rotting ledger board
Cracked or damaged support posts
Missing or rusting hardware and fittings
There are many reasons you may want a new deck. The most common are:
How much does it cost to build a rooftop deck?
It costs $25,000 to $50,000 to build a rooftop deck. If you need your roof shingles replaced first, add another $3,000 to $10,000 to your total.
However, this type gets the best ROI. You can expect to recoup your entire investment. In southern climates, you might even see up to 1.5 times return.
How much does a deck extension cost?
Adding onto an existing deck runs $15 to $50 per square foot. To double the size of a 200-square-foot deck, for example, expect to pay between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on your location, the type of materials, and the design’s complexity.
What should I do before estimating deck costs?
Always create a comprehensive plan to start. Consider talking to an outdoor living designer, deck contractor, or engineer to help with this process. By creating a mock-up and paying attention to specifics before you commit to a contractor or building plan, you'll save yourself the cost and hassle of changing your mind once the project is underway.
When you're ready to hire, getting professional quotes is easy. Browse our deck installation directory for reviews and ratings. Expect any reputable company to give free quotes. But follow these tips:
Never take a quote from a contractor who doesn’t visit the site.
Always get at least three bids.
Check ratings and reviews.
Ask if they’re insured and bonded.
Ask to see examples of previous work.
Do decks increase home value?
Adding a deck is one of the smartest ways to increase your home value—sometimes delivering an ROI of up to 80%. However, the decking material, its size, your location, and overall home condition will factor heavily into how much of an increase you’ll see. Be sure to consult a local deck builder if increasing your home value is your top priority for building a deck.
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Fortune telling on playing cards: methods, meaning of cards
Can a playing deck give an answer to exciting questions? It is likely that fortune telling on ordinary cards will help to know the future and help find solutions to many problems. Fortune telling on playing cards can be mastered by anyone. Here are a few rules to follow.
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Divination is an old way to get answers to exciting questions. There are a great many fortune-telling, and fortune-telling on cards is one of the most common ways. Contrary to popular belief, Tarot cards are not the only tool used for divination on cards for the future, an ordinary deck can also help, 36 playing cards are enough for divination on cards.
True divination on playing cards: how to choose a deck
The main advantage of ordinary playing cards is that you can get such a deck without difficulty. However, it is worth remembering that the selected cards should not be used for the game - for divination, it is recommended to purchase a new deck that will be used exclusively for these purposes. To store the deck, it is better to allocate a certain place. Keep in mind: fortune-telling on playing cards for the future will be true only if the deck is used only for predictions, and no one except yourself touches it.
You need to start fortune telling on ordinary cards in a good mood and in good health - in this case, the chance to get a suitable answer and correctly interpret the message transmitted by the cards increases.
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If there is no deck at hand, then you can choose fortune telling on playing cards online from a computer or phone. And yet, if possible, it is better to choose a paper deck: it is believed that your energy is transferred to it, which makes fortune telling more accurate.
Read also: Loves - dislikes: divination by feelings on cards, runes and tarot
Fortune telling on playing cards yourself: basic rules answers to eternal questions about the structure of the world, they are not able to help enrich themselves and find out the distant future.
Before starting fortune-telling on playing cards, study the layouts and meanings so that in the process you are not distracted by the search for interpretations.
Before starting the layout of the cards, you need to clearly state your question to yourself. The question must be chosen correctly - do not be interested in what you already know, hoping to get a different answer. When guessing on playing cards for a guy, do not ask the same question several times in a row.
A clear wording of the question is the key to successful divination on playing cards for relationships. You can ask a question, to which the cards will answer “yes” or “no”, or you can ask them to outline perspectives
Having received an answer that will become clear after completing the layout and analyzing the meaning of the cards that have fallen out during fortune telling, do not forget that it only indicates a possible scenario for the development of events. Even the most accurate prediction of the future on playing cards is the most probable events, the course of which, however, can be changed.
The most accurate will be fortune telling to yourself or to the person who asked you to lay out the cards for him. In the latter case, the questioner must move the deck or take a card, if the layout requires it. Fortune telling about another person on playing cards is already less accurate, however, if there are no other ways to look into the soul of the character you are interested in, then this option is quite suitable. Just be sure to think about a specific person when guessing on playing cards in someone's name in order to get an answer about who you are interested in, and not about his namesake.
Fortune-telling on playing cards: the layout and meaning of cards in fortune-telling
36 cards in a deck can be arranged in a variety of ways - this means that there are a great many methods of fortune-telling using playing cards. For most fortune telling, 36 playing cards will suffice, so if you're using a deck of 52 cards, just set aside the extra ones.
Spreads can be used to get an answer to a specific question. For example, divination by a man's love on playing cards is traditionally popular among girls. In this case, it is worth concentrating on the image of a loved one before starting the alignment and asking a question of interest.
Fortune-telling on playing cards for the future: 4 suit layout
Perhaps the simplest is the “4 suit” layout, which any beginner can handle. You need to take a deck of playing cards and shuffle the cards, thinking about your desire in the process. Without looking at the deck, you need to draw one card. In the event that fortune-telling is carried out for another person, then he should not voice his desire. Before he pulls out a card with an answer, ask him to move the deck with his left hand towards himself. This is the simplest but most truthful divination on playing cards.
The answer to the disturbing question will give the suit of the card:
- clubs (crosses): wish will come true;
- worms: a wish can come true, but it is worth considering whether it is really necessary;
- tambourines: in order for the plan to come true, you will have to make a lot of effort;
- peaks: a variety of factors will interfere with the fulfillment of desire.
Read also: Guessing for a guy: the cards will reveal the whole truth to you
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A more complex layout that will give a lot of information to think about and help you deal with events in the past, present and future. This fortune-telling on cards is perhaps the most accurate. Perhaps such fortune-telling on playing cards for a loved one, if you want to understand what is in his soul.
When divining on playing cards for a man, be sure to focus on him when shuffling the deck. The brighter you present the person you are interested in, the more truthful the alignment will be.
How to guess on playing cards in this case? Shuffle the cards and draw out, without looking, 13 cards one after the other - they must be placed one after the other from left to right, face down. Each odd card will answer a specific question:
- first: the main event that worries right now;
- third: cause or obstacle preventing decision making or getting rid of anxiety;
- fifth: events that will take place in the near future;
- seventh: carries information about pluses, strengths and talents that can and should be used to achieve a goal or solve a problem;
- ninth: indicates those whose help can be counted on in solving a problem;
- eleventh: negative factors that hinder moving forward.
The values of each of the 36 playing cards during divination will help to decipher the received answer.
Worms
Six is the road.
Seven, eight - meetings, acquaintances, conversations.
Nine is love.
Ten - plans, hopes.
Jack - problems.
Lady - a woman (often the one who asks the question).
The king is a man. Beloved - when divining on playing cards for a loved one.
Ace - house.
Diamonds
Six is the road.
Seven, eight - conversations, meetings, acquaintances.
Nine - close relationships, love without marriage.
Ten - hopes, plans.
Jack - problems.
Lady - a young girl, woman, friend, lover.
King - a single young man
Ace - a letter, important news at work.
Clubs (clubs)
Six - business trip.
Seven and eight - meetings, negotiations related to work.
Nine - close relationships, love, affection.
Ten - money, earnings.
Jack - problems, worries, including material ones.
A lady is a mature woman: mother, mother-in-law, mother-in-law, colleague.
The king is an adult male: father, father-in-law, father-in-law, colleague, boss.
Ace - business, serious business.
Peaks
Six - a road, usually a long one - a business trip, a trip.
Seven - tears, grief, sadness.
Eight - guests, friendly meeting, party.
Nine - disease, disease.
Ten - the collapse of plans and hopes.
Jack - useless efforts, useless actions.
Lady - anger, jealousy, annoyance.
The king is an important person, a boss, a man whose opinion is important.
Ace - a blow, a severe shock.
Such fortune-telling often helps to look at an exciting situation from a variety of angles, to see a non-standard solution, or, on the contrary, to confirm what you have been leaning towards for a long time. Focusing on the combinations of playing cards during divination, you can draw conclusions about what is happening in your (or someone else's) life, and what events the future promises.
How to activate the Tarot deck? Detailed instructions | entertainment Activate the Tarot deck, in other words, wake up, revive, make it work and tell the truth.
How to activate a Tarot deck
There are several ways to make a new Tarot deck work. You can choose one of the most acceptable and liked.
- Energy setting. This method involves establishing a spiritual connection with the deck. To create a relationship, you need to take the printed deck in your hands and squeeze the cards with your palms at the level of the solar plexus. Your state during this should be relaxed and calm, you can close your eyes. It is believed that the forces of the elements help when working with cards, so you can light a candle or turn on the water. You need to think about the cards, mentally ask them to help you in solving difficult issues. You should feel how the warmth passes from one palm to another through the Tarot deck. The average time for an energy attunement session is 10-12 minutes.
- Working with sensations. A popular tactic to help you figure out how good you feel about the deck. Take two cards that are opposite in meaning, for example, the major lasso of the Tower, symbolizing collapse, destruction, and the minor lasso of the Ten of Cups, promising harmony in relationships, prosperity.
Study them carefully, feel the energy of each. Then, turn over the cards and shuffle. Try to feel the energy without seeing the pictures. Subsequently, use 4-5 cards.
- Find an assistant. Among the major arcana of the Tarot, there are assistants who can be used to study the cards. You will need four cards: Mage, Hermit, Emperor, High Priestess. These are teachers. Lay them out in front of you and try to mentally talk to each one. Feel whether your image is depicted on the card, what sensations you experience when looking at the card, whether it is warm or cold. You intuitively have to choose your assistant. After choosing, talk to him, ask him to help you master the cards, teach him how to work with the Tarot.
- Activation with four elements. Light a candle, put it on the table. Place a stone to the right of it. Under the stone should be a handful of earth. To the left of the ground is a saucer of water. When all the items are on the table, put the Tarot deck in the center and cover it with your palm.
Mentally ask the deck to work with you, help in solving complex issues, divination. The average session time is 10-13 minutes.
Checking the work of the Tarot
After activating the deck, it must be checked. Make a simple spread of 3-5 cards and ask the cards a question to which you know the answer. You can ask questions about what has already happened, happened. After analyzing the cards that have fallen, you will understand whether they are deceiving you or telling the truth. If the alignment turned out to be incorrect, the deck is not ready to work. Postpone it for a few days, then perform the activation ceremony again and try to make a deal. If the second attempt fails, we can conclude that you have chosen a “not your” deck, or you are misinterpreting the meanings of the cards.
Safety precautions and rules for working with Tarot
When working with Tarot, safety precautions must be observed, especially this rule applies to new undeveloped decks.
- Do not give cards into the hands of third parties. The deck must have one owner.
- Cards should be stored in a separate box or bag in a place hidden from prying eyes.
- You can work with the deck only in a good mood. You should not feel negative towards the cards.
- You can not lay out cards during a period of poor health and during the menstrual cycle in women.
- After performing the divination ritual, thank the cards.
- Close the deck with the Major Positive Arcana. For this, cards Mage, Sun or World are suitable.
Start exploring the world of tarot or expand your card collection with our classic 1910 Rider Waite universal divination cards. There are 78 cards in the deck for divination and divination (22 major and 56 minor arcana). In the kit you will find: a bag for storing cards, an instruction book with a detailed interpretation and description of the meaning of the cards and layouts in Russian. There are 2 types of decks available.
