Saturday, December 04, 2021
Composite decking is an increasingly popular decking material because they have the aesthetic appeal of solid wood decking. In addition, they are also durable, easy to clean, and more economically priced than solid wood decking. However, the installation cost of composite decking varies depending on the area, the size of the project, and other factors. In general, the cost of installing composite decking is usually calculated on a per-square-foot basis. And it may include multiple costs such as decking materials, tools, and labor. The exact installation cost depends on a number of factors. So we can consult with a decking installation professional for a more accurate estimate.
The average cost to install composite decking ranges from $20 to $50 per square foot, with most homeowners spending between $2880 and $7200 to install a 12′ x 12′ composite deck with rails. In comparison, pressure-treated wood decks cost $15 to $25 per square foot, while cedar decks start at $30 per square foot.
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On average, the composite decking costs between $1.80 and $3.50 per square foot to purchase. This is for the purchase cost of composite decking only and does not include installation or other costs.
Installing composite decking can provide a range of other work to complete your outdoor space. When laying decking you may need to install joists, then you may need to purchase the joists separately, which will also be calculated into all costs.
In addition to this, there are labor costs associated with installing composite decking. The average labor cost is $7 per square foot. A 12×12 composite deck takes an average of 24 hours to build. The labor cost to install the deck on top of the existing joist structure is approximately $2,000.
The labor to install the bottom joists, decking, and railing averages 50 hours, which gives you an installation cost of about $3,000. Of course, labor costs vary from region to region and are subject to actual conditions.
The price of composite decking installation depends on many factors. There are also various types of composite decking, from solid, hollow, and covered composite decking. The price of composite deck boards varies by model size, and the purchase price of composite decking alone ranges from $1.80 to $3.50 per square foot.
If your composite decking needs to follow the railing, this is an additional part of the cost. Perhaps you also need to install a pergola on your outdoor deck to shield you from the summer sun. This will also affect your total cost.
The final composite decking cost depends on a number of things, most of which are factors you are free to choose, allowing you to decide how much your deck will cost.
The size and design of your composite deck have the biggest impact on the cost. The larger your composite deck is, the more it will cost. There is no doubt about it.
The more creative your design is, the more it will cost. If you want to install a composite deck that is hexagonal instead of square, then you will need to put in extra time and labor to cut it. The more complex the design, the more time it will take and the correspondingly more costly the installation.
If the deck is built around trees or other structures, or if the ground needs to be leveled, this will also increase the cost of installation.
If you do not have an existing substructure, then you will need to install the bottom joists before installing the composite decking.
Installing built-in lighting fixtures, or plumbing for a bath can also add to the deck cost. You will need to hire an electrician and a plumber for these projects.
Remove the old deck and have it hauled away. A home demolition company can provide you with a fee of $5 to $15 per square foot. Of course, you can also choose to do the removal yourself, which can take a lot of time and effort.
If you want to install your deck in the spring, then you may have to pay a hefty installation price. If you choose to install your composite deck in late summer or fall, the installation costs will be lower for a contractor at this time of year.
Composite decking materials offer many benefits, including their low maintenance and durability. Composite decking can also increase the resale value of your home. Even though the total cost of installing composite decking is high, your return on project costs is still about 60%. That’s why many homeowners are adding composite decking to their homes instead of building wood decks.
The cost of building a deck is just the beginning. Throughout the life of a solid wood deck, maintenance costs begin to add up until they exceed the cost of composite decking. Solid wood decks must be sealed, cleaned, sanded, stained, or painted regularly to maintain their beauty, and you will need to do this every few years. The exact maintenance schedule depends on the weather and usage.
The installation method of the composite deck boards is the same as that of the traditional wood deck.
However, different composite manufacturers have different installation guidelines, so instructions need to be followed carefully to avoid problems when installing fasteners and parts.
Composite decking needs to be installed with the correct spacing between decks to avoid the warping and swelling of composite decking in hot weather.
Composite decking has the difference between solid and hollow. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but both will build a strong and durable deck.
We can reduce some of the costs when installing decking by following these methods.
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