The cost of building a deck depends on the space you have, the materials you choose, and how you build it. You must consider these three criteria to understand the costs and prepare your budget. Moreover, you need to consider other expenses like permits and inspections. Some materials are cheaper upfront but need long-term maintenance, and the constant maintenance will cost you a fortune and a chunk of your energy. 

So, here are some rough ideas and estimations on how much a deck will cost.

1. Material Costs

The material you choose affects your overall cost significantly. The most common choice would be wood, but even wood comes in a variety of prices. Treated pine, the most common wood decking, can cost $50 per square meter. Higher-end wood or hardwood like Merbau or Oak can cost more than $300 - $350 per square meter. 

Wood decking is usually priced cheaper than other options, so if you’re on a budget, they are the perfect choice. However, wooden decking is more prone to damage, so you need to be ready for constant maintenance and extra costs in the long run.

If you have a little room in your budget and you don’t have much time for maintenance hassle, choose composite decking. Composite decking is made of wood fibres and plastic, so it looks like wood but is durable like plastic. You can expect to spend approximately $100 per square meter for composite decking. 

2. Size and Design

How big do you want your deck? The bigger the deck, the bigger the cost. You will need to spend more, too if you want to put a railing, balustrade, or a second story. A 10 m2 deck will cost around $3,000 to $5,000. Bigger than that, you can expect to spend $4,000 - $10,000. 

Plus, your deck size will determine whether or not you need a permit. Council permits will cost you money and energy, so think it through before you upsize your deck. Take the time to think about how big of a space you need in your backyard and decide.

3. Labour Costs

Labour costs can vary depending on the contractor and the region. Typically, labour costs $190 - $200 per m2, taking a huge chunk of your budget. Decks with more complex designs will cost more, as they need more adjustments and expertise.

To save money on labour costs, you can consider DIY-ing your deck. If you want a simple floating deck, you can use composite decking tiles that can be installed with a few clicks. You can do it yourself or with a friend on a weekend. This saves so much money and enables you to redirect your budget to other necessities. 

4. Permits

Before building a deck, you may need to obtain a building permit, which can vary in cost depending on your local municipality. Permits ensure that your deck's design complies with local building codes and safety regulations. In some states and areas, you will need a permit if your deck is more than 10 m2. Additionally, some localities require inspections during and after construction, which may have associated costs.

Conclusion

The cost of building a deck can range widely, from as low as $4,000 for a simple, pressure-treated wood deck to over $20,000 for a large, high-end wooden deck. It’s important to carefully consider all the factors mentioned and get multiple quotes from contractors before making a decision. Planning thoroughly and choosing the right materials and designs for your needs and budget will help ensure that your deck is a valuable addition to your home.