What is the Cheapest Type of Deck to Build?
The best thing about having a deck on your property is that it provides you with a great place to entertain. It also helps you to improve your home’s landscape. Regardless of what your reason for building a deck is, there are a few things you should know before you start. One of the first things you need to consider is what type of wood you’re going to use for your deck. You’ll find that there are several options, so make sure you choose the one that’s right for you.
Pretreated wood
If you’re thinking of building a new deck, there are a variety of different materials to choose from. Some are more expensive than others. You’ll also want to consider how much maintenance the material will require. Choosing the right material will make it easier to maintain your deck and prolong its lifespan.
The most popular option is pressure-treated wood. It can be painted any color and is durable and resistant to rot and insect infestation. Pressure-treated lumber is also less expensive than other types of wood. However, it’s important to remember that it will need to be resealed and refinished every year.
Redwood
Redwood is an excellent choice for a deck because of its beauty and durability. However, it is a bit more expensive than other options.
There are several grades of redwood available for purchase. The price depends on the grade and the width of the board. Heartwood redwood is more expensive than other grades.
Some of the more expensive hardwoods include Tigerwood and Ipe. These woods are heavy, strong, and last a long time. They also require special tools for installation.
Cedar is another attractive option for a deck. It is lightweight, easy to seal, and can be stained. If you are a DIYer, this material is an affordable option.
Ipe
Ipe is a Brazilian hardwood. It is a dense, durable wood that has natural resistance to rot and insects. This makes it a great choice for your decking. You can expect to have it in your home for up to 50 years.
The cost to build an ipe deck can be high, but it is well worth the investment. Because it is naturally resistant to mold, rot, and insects, your deck should last a long time.
If you decide to use ipe for your deck, you will need to have specialized tools and drills to work with the material. In addition, it takes more time to build an ipe deck than other types of decking.
Bamboo
A bamboo deck is an eco-friendly alternative to hardwood. It is not the cheapest type of deck to build, but it is relatively easy to install and will last longer with proper care.
Unlike hardwood, bamboo does not need to be treated with chemicals. However, it is important to keep your bamboo deck clean and dry in order to prevent moisture damage. Cleaning and maintenance should be done at least once a year. You can also use a water-based oil to protect your bamboo decking.
If you’re interested in building a bamboo deck, you’ll need to spend a little more money than you would for a composite or pressure-treated deck. Nonetheless, you can expect your bamboo deck to last as long as 25 years or more.
Curved edges
Curved edges are not something you will find in every house, but they are a trend these days and they can make for an eye-catching addition to your backyard. In the real world, they are also easier to build. Obviously, they cost more to do than the standard straight edged deck. But in the long run, they may end up saving you some money.
Building a curved deck requires some careful planning and some technical know-how. First, you’ll need to figure out which deck planking material is the best for your needs. You might want to go for composite decking. It’s a lot easier to bend and stretch than traditional lumber.
Landscaping
The price of a new deck can vary widely from one neighborhood to the next. However, there are some steps you can take to lower the cost of building a deck. One thing to consider is your budget. If you have a tight budget, it’s worth considering whether a reclaimed wood or composite deck will work for you. It’s also a good idea to get estimates from at least three contractors. Having three quotes on hand will help ensure your home improvement project goes off without a hitch.
While you’re at it, ask your contractor about insurance and licensing. You might want to check your homeowners insurance policy before you start the construction process.
