Decking Material Dollars: Unraveling the Costs
Ever wondered how much it would cost to build that dream deck in your backyard?
Or perhaps, how the choice of deck materials can influence your budget?
Well, you’re in the right place!
This post will guide you through the intricacies of deck-building costs, especially in the Alpharetta, GA, area.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding custom deck building in Alpharetta.
A Premium Deck Building Service vs. Standard Deck Building Service
Before we dive into the details of deck materials and their costs, let’s take a moment to highlight the differences between a premium deck and a standard deck.
Choosing between a premium and standard deck can greatly influence the longevity, quality, and overall enjoyment of your outdoor area.
Premium decks, though pricier initially, offer numerous advantages, making them a valuable choice.
A Deck Designed Just For You
Here at Story Custom Decks, unlike regular deck builders, we focus on a tailored approach.
Instead of a generic design, we emphasize understanding the homeowner’s vision, resulting in a truly personalized outdoor space.
This is why we offer a custom deck design service for $1,500 to $2,000 that includes a 3D rendering of your deck and the option to make a revision.
Only Premium Decking Material
We only utilize top-tier materials, including premium wood decking and composite decking materials.
Whether you want cherry, oak, redwood, or cedar decking or tropical hardwoods like ipe or tigerwood, we can help you find the perfect wood decking material for your specific situation and needs.
Our composite decking options include TimberTech Composite and TimberTech Advanced PVC, both of which feature a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty.
(Note: Manufacturer warranty coverage for other decking materials varies depending on the product.)
In addition to the 25-year guarantee on TimberTech decking materials, we also provide our own 12-month warranty on our workmanship.
This is because we stand behind our work, and we want our clients to feel secure in their investments.
Transparent, Honest Communication
As a premium deck-building service, we also emphasize open communication with our clients, including weekly progress reports on the status of their decks.
Our goal is to establish trust and confidence and ensures a smooth experience for you.
In essence, while standard decks serve their purpose, premium decks, like those from Story Custom Decks, provide an enhanced experience in terms of personalization, material quality, consistent communication, and warranty assurance.
So if you’re in Alpharetta and envisioning your ideal deck, think about the premium edge!
You can learn more about the cost of hiring a premium deck-building contractor here.
Now that you understand the difference in value that you get from a premium deck vs. a standard deck, let’s take a closer look at the factors that affect the cost of installing a premium deck.
Factors in Calculating the Cost of Building a Deck
Deck Size
The size of your deck plays a pivotal role in determining its cost.
Naturally, the larger the deck, the higher the cost.
But remember, it’s not just about the size; it’s about maximizing the utility of that space and creating an outdoor living space that you can cherish for a lifetime.
Deck Material
Deck materials can significantly vary in cost.
From pressure-treated wood to exotic hardwoods, each material has its price tag.
Pressure-treated wood tends to be the most budget-friendly, while composite decking typically has a higher initial cost.
However, composite decking is highly durable and resistant to insect damage, rot, mold, and mildew.
That being said, some natural wood options can cost more than composite decking–especially some exotic hardwoods.
It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each material and consult with a premium deck builder to determine the best decking material for your specific situation.
Deck Design
A simple rectangular deck is always going to be more affordable than a multi-level masterpiece with intricate patterns.
In short, a more complex deck design will add to the final cost of your deck.
But sometimes, splurging on design can elevate the aesthetics of your entire home!
In Alpharetta, homeowners often opt for designs that complement their lush surroundings.
Foundation
A deck’s foundation is its backbone.
Especially if you’re planning on adding heavy features like a hot tub, you’ll need a robust foundation.
Here at Story Custom Decks, we offer traditional wood decking support as well as light gauge or structural steel beams and columns.
Pressure-treated lumber is the most cost-effective option, followed by light gauge steel, while structural steel is the most costly.
As a premium deck builder, we will advise you on the best material selection for the foundation of your custom deck.
Labor and Permits
Labor costs can fluctuate based on the complexity of the design and the current market conditions in Alpharetta.
Securing the necessary permits for your deck will also add to your budget.
As a premium deck builder, we will acquire all the necessary permits for your deck.
Deck Railings and Stairs
Safety first!
Railings and stairs not only add to the functionality but also the safety of your deck.
The cost of adding railings and stairs will depend on the material you select and the number of railings and stairs required for your deck design.
Decking Pattern
Opting for unique patterns like herringbone can increase costs.
However, they can also make your deck stand out and increase your property’s aesthetic appeal.
Maintenance and Repairs
Every deck, whether it’s made of pressure-treated wood, recycled polyethylene, or hardwood, requires maintenance.
So you should factor in costs for waterproofing, staining, and potential repairs down the line.
Here at Story Custom Decks, we have a structured follow-up program where we reach out to you at the two-week, two-month, and 12-month marks to make sure your premium deck is still meeting your needs and expectations.
This is in addition to the 12-month warranty on our labor and craftsmanship.
Additional Costs for Upgrades
From built-in seating and hot tubs to fireplaces and under-decking systems, the various custom upgrades you select can influence the final price tag of your deck.
Each upgrade enhances both the utility and visual appeal of your deck, influencing the total expense.
We aim to collaborate with you, aligning your preferred features with your budget, to craft the ideal outdoor living space.
The Impact of Decking Material On The Cost Of A Premium Deck
As you can see, many factors can influence the final cost of a premium deck in Alpharetta, Georgia.
That being said, it is difficult to determine how much your choice of decking material will change the final cost of your premium deck since the foundation of a premium deck-building service is a bespoke design.
Since every custom deck design is different, the impact of the decking material choice on each deck project is also different.
And the best decking material for one deck project may not be the best decking material for another deck project.
However, as noted above, decking material costs from cheapest to most expensive typically go from:
- Pressure-treated wood
- Natural or exotic wood*
- Composite
*Some imported wood types can be costlier than some composite decking options.
However, regardless of whether you get wood decking, composite decking, or PVC decking, the cost for a premium deck in Alpharetta, Georgia, typically falls between $50,000 and $150,000+.
FAQs
What’s the ROI (return on investment) on building a deck in Alpharetta?
On average, homeowners can expect an ROI of 61-62%, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2022 Cost vs. Value Report for the Atlanta area.
How long does it take to build a premium deck?
Depending on the design and size, it can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 9 weeks.
Is it possible to install a hot tub or a similarly heavy component on my deck?
Hot tubs are a popular upgrade, and they necessitate an engineer’s letter of approval. We can help you get this done for you.
Elevate Your Outdoor Space with Story Custom Decks
Remember that building a premium deck is an investment in your home and your lifestyle.
With the right choices, it can be a space for relaxation, entertainment, and making memories.
At Story Custom Decks, we’re committed to turning your vision into reality.
Ready to embark on this exciting journey?
Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call at (661) 699-7902.
Let’s build something beautiful together!