Is it cheaper to build a deck or pour concrete?

It's cheaper to build a concrete patio in terms of both the initial cost to lay a concrete patio, as well as its cost of maintenance over time. A concrete patio costs only $4 per square foot, while a deck costs roughly $6 per square foot for lower-cost pressure treated lumber.

How much does it cost to build a 20x20 deck?

How much does it cost to build a 20×20 deck? A 20 x 20 deck installation costs approximately $14,000 on average. Using more economical materials like bamboo or cedar deck boards can knock the price down. In contrast, high-end decking materials like composite decking will increase the price.

Which is better concrete or wood deck?

If you plan to live in your home a long time, the longevity of your outdoor floor should be a top priority. In general, a concrete patio — which offers a lifespan of 30 years or longer — will outlast most natural wood decks.

Is a wood deck cheaper than a concrete deck?

The initial cost of a cement patio is usually far less than a wooden deck. However, wooden decks typically get a higher return of the investment at about 75 percent. You will garner a return of investment with a cement patio, but usually only about 30 to 60 percent.

What is cheaper concrete or wood?

Overall, a concrete patio will generally be cheaper to install compared to a deck. While your specific house and yard set-up may determine which is cheaper for your individual needs, a wood deck is likely to have a better return on investment compared to a concrete patio.

Is it cheaper to build a deck or pour concrete?

What is the disadvantage of concrete?

However, its tensile strength is extremely weak compared to many construction materials, including our products. This means that it's easy for concrete to chip and crack — damage which can easily grow and will grow over time.

What is the least expensive way to build a deck?

Choose wood, but carefully: Untreated wood decks are generally the cheapest to install, but don't forget long-term costs. Wood decks require yearly maintenance and deteriorate quickly if they don't get it.

What is cheapest option for decking?

Pressure-treated wood is generally the cheapest material to build decks from. For up-front savings, that seems great, but don't forget long-term costs. Wood decks require yearly maintenance such as staining or painting, and they'll often break down quite quickly if you fall behind on maintenance.

What adds more value to a home a deck or patio?

Both a deck and a patio offer an impressive resale value. However, patios are usually less expensive, and their resale value is 100%—slightly higher than a deck's 76% resale value.

What lasts longer concrete or wood?

Although wood is a cheaper alternative to concrete, it ages faster and has higher maintenance and repair costs. Hence, while wood deteriorates quickly, especially if it is not maintained regularly, concrete has a lifespan of two to three times more than that of most other building materials.

What type of deck lasts the longest?

Traditional wood deck: Typically 10 to 15 years. Capped composite: Industry experts agree these boards can last 25 to 30+ years. Capped polymer (the best of the best): Because of its superior material composition, capped polymer boards can last much longer, potentially 50 years or more.

What is the easiest deck to build?

The easiest deck to build is an on-grade deck. It doesn't require railings, stairs, or posts, but the essential elements of the deck—including the ledger, beams, piers, and joists—remain the same for all types of decks.

Is it cheaper to build a deck in the winter?

Seasonality also can impact the cost of both common and uncommon building materials with prices spiking during peak season. As a result, the cheapest time of year to build a deck is typically during the winter.

Do decks add value to a home?

According to the 2021 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling magazine, a deck addition is a top 10 outdoor home improvement. A wood deck, which will cost on average about $16,766 will recoup about 68% of its value, and a composite deck, which will cost about $22,426, will recoup about 63% at home sale.

How much does a new deck cost 2022?

Chris Morrison of Walker Lumber estimates that in 2022, you can expect a materials cost of $12 per square foot for a pressure-treated wood deck. A 10-foot by 10-foot deck, at that rate, would cost around $1,200, plus labor.

What are the disadvantages of decking?

Are Trex decks cheaper than wood?

The primary drawback to composite decking is arguably the higher price tag. At $30-$60 per square foot for installation, the costs can rack up fast when compared to $25-$43 for natural wood.

How much does it cost to build a 200 sq ft deck?

Building a deck under 200 square feet can average between $3,000 and $14,000, depending on the complexity and design of the deck. Building a second-story deck increases overall costs by 30 to 60 percent.

Can I use deck pier blocks instead of footings?

Deck pier blocks are used in deck building as an alternative foundation to traditional footings. They are placed directly on the ground, and do not require digging or pouring. They come pre-formed with holes for attaching the posts of a deck, making it easy to install.

How much should I pay in labor to build a deck?

The average labor cost to build a deck is between $8 and $22 per square foot. This makes up about half the total deck cost per square foot. At that rate, you might consider making your deck project a DIY. In this case, you can eliminate the labor costs and only have to pay the deck material costs.

What is a good size deck?

What is the Average Size of a Deck? For most builds, decks are wider than they are deep, with the longer portion of the deck running alongside the house. According to landscapingnetwork.com, the average size is between 300 and 400 square feet. Decks can also be multi-level, adding more space and dimension to your home.

Can you build a deck directly on dirt?

You can either build it directly on the ground or square the site and build it on top of risers as a floating deck. If you lay it directly on the ground, you may find that it's more susceptible to absorbing moisture and might need additional maintenance.

How long will an untreated deck last?

A deck made of untreated wood can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Decks made of treated wood and composite materials can last as long as 50 years. Many composite decks come with a 20-year warranty – and often a lifetime guarantee.

Can you build a deck without footings?

Instead of using footings, adding a level of gravel will give you the drainage aspect you are looking for. You can then add a frame of wood that anchors in concrete blocks that sit in the gravel, creating your new deck. Concrete blocks won't rot, making them an ideal option for those who don't want to use wood.