Adding a deck to your home can bring new life to your yard, expand your living space, boost your home’s curb appeal, and increase your property value. But before you can get started on a new deck build, you first need to decide if you’ll DIY-it or hire a pro.
From cost and timeline to skills, building codes, and safety, there are a number of factors to consider in making this decision. This blog will help you weigh the pros and cons of DIY vs professional deck installation so you can make the best choice for your new deck.
Pros & Cons of DIY Deck Installation
Pros
Potential cost savings
Probably the biggest advantage of DIY deck installation is the potential for cost savings. When you build a deck yourself, you won’t have to pay labor costs. You’ll still have to pay for materials and tools, of course, but even so, doing it yourself can significantly reduce the expense of your project.
Personal satisfaction
Building a deck on your own can be incredibly satisfying. We know from experience that there’s nothing quite like the sense of pride you feel when you accomplish such a significant project yourself! A deck build requires knowledge in carpentry, design, and construction, so if you’re skilled in those areas and are confident in your abilities, DIY might be a good fit for you.
Custom timeline
Another advantage of a DIY deck build is that you are in complete control of the project timeline, as well as the design and materials used. You can build the exact deck you want on a timeline that works best for you.
Cons
Requires time, tools, and skills
While building your own deck may save you money, it does require a lot more time, skill, energy, and knowledge than hiring a deck contractor. Deck construction is a time-intensive project. On your own, it could take weeks or even months to complete, depending on size and design complexity as well as how much time you’re able to devote each day.
To do this kind of project yourself, you’ll also need to have basic carpentry skills, a number of tools, and knowledge of construction safety to ensure the deck you build is sturdy and safe. Plus, you’ll need to make sure all permits and paperwork are in order before you can begin.
Risk of costly mistakes
Mistakes made in your deck project can be costly in more ways than one. Improper installation (think uneven footings or improperly secured railings) or mistakes (like incorrect measurements or uneven surfaces) can not only cause structural and safety issues…they can also be expensive to fix!
So while the initial cost savings of DIY deck installation may be tempting, if mistakes are made during your build, repairing them could eat up those savings. So make sure you are confident in your skills and knowledge before you choose to go it alone. If you’re not, it’s better to hire a pro.
May not meet local codes or permit requirements
One of the biggest reasons decks fail is because they don’t adhere to state, city, or municipality building codes. And even the most experienced DIYer can run into challenges in obtaining the right permits and ensuring their project meets local building codes.
Building codes regulate all materials and design for any constructed structure…and adhering to them isn’t optional. You’ll need a building permit before you start work on your deck. To obtain that permit, you might need to have your deck design approved to ensure it meets all local building codes. You’ll also need to check with your city or county to see if there are any easements, setbacks, or variances that pertain to your project.
Pros & Cons of Professional Deck Installation
Pros
Expert craftsmanship
A professional deck contractor brings years of experience and a wealth of knowledge to your deck project, ensuring a high-quality, well-built product.
A deck built by a professional is more likely to hold up to the wear and tear of heavy use and inclement weather. A pro is well-versed in local building codes, construction best practices, and how to avoid common mistakes and pitfalls. They know how to build a safe, beautiful deck you and your family can enjoy for many years to come.
Code compliance and permits handled
When you hire a professional decking contractor, they’ll take care of gathering the proper permits for your project and ensuring your deck complies with all local building codes and restrictions. Because they work with these codes and permits daily, they have a strong understanding of what is needed for each project.
A pro is also trained to follow certain safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring your deck is safe for your family.
Faster, less stressful process
While it’s true that building a deck yourself means you’ll have more control over the timeline of your project, the reality is that a professional team can complete your project much faster than you can on your own. A deck build that could take you weeks or months could be done in days by a professional (the timeline, of course, will depend on the size and complexity of your deck design).
It also means a whole lot less stress for you. Not only will your project be completed faster and with fewer details for you to deal with, many contractors offer a warranty on their work, giving you added assurance that any issues that arise will be taken care of promptly.
If you’re looking to enjoy your new deck as soon as possible—and with as few headaches as possible—hiring a pro is the best choice.
Cons
Higher upfront cost
Cost may be the biggest drawback of hiring a professional deck contractor. The cost of labor can significantly increase the expense of your project. But to get a well-crafted deck that stands the test of time, expertise is needed, and that expertise can be costly. As they say, you get what you pay for!
Less flexibility with timing/scheduling
Another potential downside to working with a pro is that you’ll have to work on their timeline. Contractors (especially the best ones) can be booked up for weeks or even months in advance, so you’ll need to plan ahead for your build.
Pro tip: Summer is the busy season for decking contractors, but it’s not the only time you can have a deck built. When you schedule a spring or fall deck build, you’ll likely find scheduling to be a lot easier.
Finding a reputable deck contractor
Finally, finding a skilled, reputable deck contractor for your project can feel daunting. It requires thorough research and checking multiple references to ensure you hire the right contractor for your project. It’s also important to ensure the contractor you hire is licensed and insured.
Learn more about what to consider when hiring a deck contractor in this blog!
DIY vs Professional Deck Installation: Which Is Best for You?
Key Questions To Ask Yourself
- Do you have the time? Determine how much time you can realistically put into your deck build. If you don’t have the time needed to complete your deck in a reasonable time frame, hiring a professional might be the better option.
- What’s your skill level? If you have the skills and knowledge needed to build the deck design you want, and you’re confident you can complete it, you may find a DIY deck build to be a rewarding project. If not, there’s no shame in hiring an expert.
- How complex is the deck design? A simple, basic deck could be doable for a DIYer. But a large, multi-level deck with a complex design may be better suited to a professional.
- What’s your budget? Determine how much you can afford to spend on your new deck build. Make sure to factor in all materials, including those for any stairs, railings, or built-ins like benches. If you’re hiring a pro, you’ll need to include labor costs; if you’re DIY-ing it, don’t forget to consider the potential costs of fixing any mistakes made.
In a nutshell: If you have the experience, skills, and time necessary to build your own deck, and want to save some money on labor costs, DIY might be right for you. But if you’re looking at a complex design or multi-level build, and/or you want to ensure expert craftsmanship, peace of mind, and a long-lasting result, it’s time to call in a pro.
If you do choose to hire a professional decking contractor, the Outdoor Solutions team would love to be considered. Outdoor Solutions is your local expert for decks, porches, hardscapes, and more. Our experienced team can help you design and build the deck of your dreams so you can relax in your new outdoor space this summer!