How to Reduce Costs When Building a Deck

A deck can become the center of entertainment for a home.

A deck can become the center of entertainment for a home.

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A deck for outdoor entertaining is high on the list of desirable features for many homeowners. A good deck allows people to enjoy time together without feeling crowded and provides room for amenities such as grilling and even a fire pit. Putting in a deck even with a tight budget is doable if the homeowner is willing to forgo high-priced material and put in some sweat equity. Most communities require a building permit before installing a deck, so always check with the local authorities.


Decks can be complex or simple. A flat, single-level deck is the least expensive and easiest to build. Knowing the type of events that you have and the number of people you invite prevents spending too much on overbuidling. One way to measure your potential deck is to outline a size with rope on the grass and then place furniture -- or mock-up furniture -- around the area to see what room you have to move around in. Adjust the rope until you find the right fit.


Deck material ranges from the plain and simple to the exotic and pricey. Standard pressure-treated pine wood will last for years if cared for properly and can be painted or stained to mimic much more expensive woods. Untreated wood costs less but requires more yearly maintenance. Consider plywood sheets as a substitute for more expensive planks. Such sheets can be covered with a variety of weather-resistant material.


Labor can quickly equal the cost of material, and doing as much of it as you can yourself reduces the cost dramatically. Labor-saving techniques include using premade concrete piers instead of digging and setting footings and posts. Making your deck with the standard sizes of lumber means no cutting. Use free plans from websites such as, and you can have a deck as large as 8 feet by 12 feet done in a day with minimal assistance.


With a new automobile, you can start out inexpensive and quickly run up the price with options. It's no different with a deck. By not adding amenities such as a roof and a gas fire pit or fireplace, you keep the cost down. If the deck is close to the ground, you might be able to avoid putting on expensive rails. Install solar-powered lights as a way to avoid running electrical outlets outside.

About the Author

Jack Burton


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