Deck Building Advice: Costs, Materials, Permits
In this segment of The Marc and Mandy Show, Ask The Expert, deck-building-expert Paul Bulat of Citywide Sundecks answers some common viewer questions. Do you need a permit to build a deck? Cost of vinyl decking, composite decking and wood decking? What are the latest trends in decking and deck building?
Keep reading for the expert answers.
Q: Do I need a permit for my deck project?
A: If your project requires construction, you do need a permit.
Q: How much does vinyl cost compared to wood or composite decks?
A: Vinyl decking starts at about $7.00 per square foot. When it comes to wood decking, you can choose between pressure treated and cedar. Pressure treated starts at about $4.00 per square foot, while cedar can cost anywhere from $6.00 to $10,00 per square foot. On the other hand, composite decking tends to be quite pricy. Composite decking starts at about $25.00 per square foot. Something to keep in mind: vinyl and composite decking are very low maintenance, while wood products (such as pressure treated and cedar) will require regular upkeep to maintain the quality, health, and appearance.
Q: What’s the latest trend in decking?
A: People are trying to beautify their homes now, rather than selling and upgrading. This extends to the outdoor space; people are trying to increase the value of their outdoor space by investing in it and creating an outdoor space they can enjoy with their friends and families.