Why Have Deck Material Prices Gone Up?

Have you noticed an increase in deck prices? This surge in costs has left many wondering why the prices have increased and the factors that have contributed to this trend. At North American Deck and Patio, we are well-versed in the world of decks. Today, we wanted to shed light on the burning question: Why have deck material prices gone up? Keep reading to learn a few reasons why decks have become so expensive and how to save money when building a new deck. 

COVID-19 Pandemic Impact 

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a large impact on the global economy, having far-reaching effects on many industries. The deck material market is no exception, experiencing significant challenges and contributing to the rise in prices. 

High Demand and Limited Supply

One of the primary reasons for the increase in deck material prices is the high demand coupled with a limited supply. With more homeowners investing in outdoor living spaces and the growing popularity of decks, the demand for deck materials has surged. This heightened demand has put pressure on suppliers and manufacturers to keep up, leading to increased prices due to supply shortages.

Rising Lumber Costs

Lumber, a key component in deck construction, has experienced a significant price surge in recent years. Multiple factors have contributed to this rise, including increased global demand, supply chain disruptions, and tariffs on imported lumber. These factors have resulted in increased lumber prices, impacting the overall cost of deck materials.

Transportation and Shipping Challenges

The transportation and shipping industry has faced many challenges, including truck driver shortages, rising fuel costs, and congestion at ports. These challenges have led to increased freight costs. As deck materials are often bulky and require shipping over long distances, these transportation issues have contributed to the overall price increase.

Higher Production Costs

Deck material manufacturers have faced rising production costs, affecting the pricing of their products. Factors such as increased labor costs, higher energy prices, and inflationary pressures on raw materials have all played a role in increasing production costs.

How to Save Money on Your New Deck

Choose Cost-Effective Materials

Consider pressure-treated lumber and composite decking.  Pressure-treated lumber is a common and cost-effective choice for decking. It offers durability, resistance to decay, and insect infestation. It is typically less expensive than other decking materials like hardwood or composite.

Keep the design simple

Elaborate deck designs with multiple angles, levels, or curves can significantly increase construction costs. Choose a simple rectangular or square shape for your deck to cut down on costs. Avoid adding complex features such as built-in benches, intricate railings, or specialized lighting. These additions can inflate the cost of materials, labor, and maintenance.

Size Considerations

Assess how much deck space you actually require. Consider your intended usage, such as dining, entertaining, or relaxation, and build a deck that meets your needs without being excessive. Optimize the deck size to minimize material waste. This can help reduce costs during construction.

Prefabricated Pieces 

Using prefabricated deck components can save you money and time. These pieces are built off-site, reducing labor costs and time spent on construction. They are designed to minimize material waste, resulting in lower material costs. The assembly process is easy due to precise manufacturing and pre-drilled holes. Prefabricated pieces ensure consistent quality and offer various design options to suit your preferences.

Work with a Reputable Maryland Deck Contractor

At North American Deck and Patio, we are dedicated to offering affordable and high-quality decks to homeowners in Maryland. Despite rising deck prices, we prioritize fair and transparent pricing for our customers. We provide financing options and offer a free consultation to help you get started on your deck project. Contact us today to turn your deck vision into a reality.

“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