Why Deck Prices Have Gone Up in the Past Few Years

You want to build a deck but are surprised by how expensive it is. Has it always been this expensive to build a deck? The answer is no. Over the past few years, the cost of building a deck has drastically increased, and we have the pandemic to blame. Here’s what you need to know about how the pandemic has affected deck prices. 

What Happened During the Pandemic?

Two or three years ago, people could purchase 1,000 board feet of lumber for less than $400. However, as the world shut down, this quickly changed. Throughout the pandemic, the supply of lumber decreased while demand on building materials increased as people started taking on DIY projects. COVID-19 caused factories, mills, and fabrication facilities to stop production temporarily.

What About Other Materials? 

While there are plenty of other decking materials homeowners could use, decking options like composite and aluminum are traditionally more expensive than wood. These materials are known for their durability and lifespan but come with a hefty price tag. Increased lumber costs have put these decking options at a similar price range to wood decking. When using these materials, many contractors typically use wood for framing.

What’s Next?

Experts estimate that building materials won’t decrease to pre-pandemic prices in the short or mid-term. That means homeowners who want to build a deck will have to be prepared to pay more for what they want. If the high lumber prices surpass your budget, other materials like vinyl decking, screws, and concrete are expected to become less expensive sooner than lumber decking and its materials. 

How to Save Money on Your New Deck

Here are three tips for saving money on your new deck:

1. Keep it Simple

The simpler the deck design, the less expensive it will be to build. Skip the curves, bends, and other fancy design features to reduce both the decking materials and installation costs. It’s also helpful to reduce the overall size of the deck, as fewer materials are needed.

2. Use Prefabricated Pieces if Possible 

Using prefabricated pieces will cut down on labor time and material costs. 

Built by section and transported to your home where they are put together, prefabricated save deck builders a lot of time when building a deck. It’s a simple way to get the deck you want while saving money.

3. Time it Right

Most homeowners build their decks during the spring and summer. However, if you want to save money on your deck, consider having it built during the fall or early winter. Many deck-building companies offer deals or promotions during the off season. 

Start Building Today

Here at North American Deck and Patio, we pride ourselves on providing affordable, high-quality decks for homeowners throughout Maryland. While deck prices have increased, we work hard to ensure that we provide our customers with fair and honest prices for their new decks. Contact us today to learn more about our financing options and to get started with a FREE consultation. 

“Jim at North American patio and deck's came up with the most ingenious way of utilizing our small very slanted very water drained environment and turned it into a virtual oasis. Making this deck the envy of all our ambitions and gem for the community.”

– C. Cross