Crafting Your Milton Oasis: A Deck Design Price Breakdown
Have you ever dreamt of hosting summer barbecues on a beautifully designed deck?
Or perhaps sipping your morning coffee while watching the sunrise from your own outdoor haven?
Many Milton, GA, residents share these aspirations.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into the costs and considerations of deck design in our lovely town.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your new deck design in Milton, GA.
Importance of a Well-Designed Deck
A well-designed deck isn’t just an extension of your home; it’s a reflection of your lifestyle and tastes.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax or an expansive space for entertaining, the design of your deck plays a pivotal role in how you use and enjoy it.
Factors Affecting Deck Design and Cost
From the choice of materials to the intricacy of the design, there are multiple factors that can influence the cost of your deck project.
And while budget is always a consideration, it’s essential to understand the value behind each dollar spent.
You can learn more about the cost of installing a premium deck here.
What’s The Difference Between A Premium Deck Building Service and a Standard Deck Building Service?
Tailored Design vs. Generic Design
A premium deck is more than just a structure; it’s a reflection of your unique vision and lifestyle.
A premium deck designer and builder like Story Custom Decks prioritizes understanding each homeowner’s specific desires, ensuring the final product is a custom space that truly mirrors their aspirations.
This contrasts sharply with standard deck builders, who might adopt a “cookie-cutter” approach, offering designs that, while functional, lack the personal touch and customization that homeowners often seek.
Premium vs. Standard Materials
The choice of materials can make a world of difference in the longevity, aesthetics, and overall feel of your deck.
Premium deck builders, such as Story Custom Decks, work exclusively with top-tier materials like TimberTech Composite and TimberTech Advanced PVC products.
These materials not only ensure your deck stands the test of time but also provide a luxurious finish that’s pleasing to the eye.
On the other hand, standard deck services might lean towards more cost-effective materials, which might not offer the same durability or aesthetic appeal.
Transparent Process, Consistent Communication
One of the hallmarks of a premium service is the level of transparency and communication they offer.
From the initial design phase to the final touches, companies like Story Custom Decks keep homeowners in the loop with weekly check-ins, ensuring they’re always informed and involved.
This level of consistent communication is often lacking in standard services, where updates might be sporadic or only provided upon request.
Warranty
Investing in a deck is a significant financial commitment, and it’s only natural to want assurances that your investment is protected.
Premium deck builders understand this and often provide robust warranties.
For instance, Story Custom Decks offers a 12-month warranty on their labor and craftsmanship, ensuring any potential issues are promptly addressed.
Additionally, their premium TimberTech decking material comes with a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty.
In contrast, standard deck-building services might offer limited warranties or, in some cases, none at all.
Premium deck-builders like Story Custom Decks will also acquire the necessary permits required by the city of Milton.
By understanding these key differences, homeowners in Milton, GA, can make an informed decision about the type of deck-building service that best aligns with their needs and vision.
Whether you’re leaning towards a premium or standard service, it’s essential to weigh the long-term benefits against the initial costs to ensure you’re making a choice that offers the best value for your investment.
Average Cost to Design a Premium Deck
For those in Milton, GA, looking for a premium deck design, you can expect a price range of $1,500 – $2,000.
Here at Story Custom Decks, we use deck design software to create a 3-D rendering of your project.
The process usually spans about two weeks and includes up to three revisions to ensure the design aligns with your vision so we create the perfect deck for you.
Importance of Deck Design
Your deck should be more than just a flat surface; it should be a reflection of your personality and lifestyle.
A well-thought-out design ensures that every inch of your deck is utilized efficiently and aesthetically.
Average Cost To Build a Premium Deck
In Milton, GA, the cost of building a premium deck can range from $50,000 to $150,000+.
The time it takes can vary and usually depends on the scope of work and size of the deck project.
Here at Story Custom Decks, we offer three tiers of deck-building, each with a different timeline:
- A Cozy Outdoor Space: 3-4 weeks to complete
- An Enhanced Deck: 6-7 weeks
- A Premier Deck: 8-9 weeks
Factors Impacting Deck Construction Price
Building a deck is a significant investment, and understanding the various factors that influence its cost can help homeowners make informed decisions.
Here’s a deeper dive into the elements that can affect the price of constructing your dream deck:
Size of the Deck
The size of your deck is one of the most straightforward factors affecting its cost.
Naturally, a larger deck requires more materials and more labor hours, leading to a higher overall price.
Whether you’re envisioning a quaint space for intimate family gatherings or a sprawling platform for grand parties, the size of your deck will have a direct impact on your budget.
Materials Used
The choice of materials can greatly influence the overall cost of your deck.
From classic wood options like pressure-treated wood and natural woods like cedar or tigerwood to modern composite materials, each comes with its own price point, durability, and maintenance requirements.
For instance, Story Custom Decks uses high-quality TimberTech composite decking, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal, but it might come at a premium compared to standard pressure-treated wood.
Design Complexity
A simple rectangular deck will cost less than a multi-level deck with intricate patterns and designs.
Features like built-in seating, pergolas, or custom railings can add to the design’s complexity, increasing both material and labor costs.
Generally speaking, the more customized and intricate your deck design, the higher the price tag.
Labor Costs
Labor forms a significant portion of your deck construction budget.
The complexity of the project, the experience and reputation of the contractor, and local labor rates in Milton, GA, all play a role in determining labor costs.
Opting for a premium deck builder, known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail, might come at a higher labor cost but can ensure a superior end result.
Add-Ons & Upgrades
Personalizing your deck with additional features can enhance its functionality and aesthetics but will also add to the overall cost.
Common upgrades include:
- Fireplace
- Heaters
- Hot Tub or Spa
- Landscaping and Garden Features
- Masonry (Concrete Pavers/Flagstone)
- Motorized Awnings
- Outdoor Kitchen
- Pergolas
- Planters
- Retractable Screens
- Seating
- TV and Sound Systems
- Under Decking
While these add-ons can elevate your deck experience, it’s essential to factor them into your budget and decide which ones align with your vision and financial plan.
Deck Cost Breakdown Based on Size
The size of your deck plays a pivotal role in determining its overall cost.
Here’s a more detailed look into how size influences the price and what you can expect:
Small Decks: Intimate Spaces for Close Gatherings
Smaller decks, typically ranging from 200 to 300 square feet, are perfect for homeowners who want a cozy space for intimate gatherings or a quiet spot to relax.
While these decks require fewer materials, the cost per square foot might be slightly higher due to the fixed costs associated with any deck project.
However, the overall price tag will generally be on the lower end of the spectrum.
Medium Decks: Versatile Spaces for Varied Uses
Medium-sized decks, which can range from 300 to 500 square feet, offer a balance between space and cost.
They provide ample room for dining, lounging, and other activities without breaking the bank.
The cost per square foot might decrease slightly as the size increases, but the total cost will naturally be higher than that of a smaller deck.
Large Decks: Expansive Platforms for Grand Parties
For those who love hosting large gatherings or want multiple functional areas on their deck, large decks exceeding 500 square feet are the way to go.
Large decks require a significant amount of materials and labor, leading to a higher overall cost.
However, the cost per square foot might offer better value due to economies of scale.
Deck Cost Breakdown Based on Material Type
The material you choose for your deck determines not only its appearance and durability but also its cost.
Here’s a closer look at some popular decking materials and their cost implications:
Pressure-Treated Wood
A popular choice for many homeowners, pressure-treated wood is affordable and resistant to rot and pests, thanks to the chemicals it’s treated with.
While pressure-treated wood is typically the least expensive decking option, it requires regular maintenance, such as staining and sealing, to prevent weather damage and maintain its appearance.
Natural Wood
Natural woods like cedar or redwood offer a classic, timeless look.
They possess inherent resistance to decay and pests.
However, they also demand consistent maintenance to keep their luster.
The cost of natural wood decks can vary, often being pricier than pressure-treated wood but offering a distinct aesthetic appeal.
Composite Decking
Composite decking, made from a blend of wood fibers and plastics, is a modern alternative known for its durability and low maintenance.
While composite decking is resistant to rot, decay, and pests, it comes at a higher price point than pressure-treated wood.
Brands like TimberTech, used by Story Custom Decks, offer high-quality composite decking that’s both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting.
Value Addition from Building a Deck
Investing in a well-designed deck not only enhances your living space but can also offer a substantial return on investment.
Per Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a premium wood or composite deck in the Atlanta region can recoup around 60% of its cost.
Why Choose Story Custom Decks?
Your dream deck is within reach, and Story Custom Decks is here to make it a reality.
With our expertise in deck design and premium deck construction, we promise to deliver a space that’s both functional and beautiful.
Ready to take the next step?
Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call. Your dream deck awaits!
