How Long Does it Take to Build a Deck?
Just as with any significant project, building a deck involves a blend of excitement and patience. How long does it take exactly? Well, that’s a question with an array of answers. Crafted with care, your deck’s journey from paper to reality involves several crucial stages and a mix of influential factors like the deck’s size, design complexity, material choice, and even the season in which you build.
CONTACT USUnderstanding The Process
Before we get into the specifics of how long it takes to build a deck, gaining an understanding of the different phases of the deck construction process is key.
Design Phase
The first step is the design phase, where the vision for your deck comes to life. This typically involves determining the size, location, and style of your deck. Depending on your requirements and the complexity of the design, this phase could take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Permit Phase
Once the deck design is finalized, the next phase is to apply for necessary building permits. These permissions are critical to ensure the deck’s construction aligns with local regulations. The time taken during this phase depends on your local authorities—some may approve permits in a few days, while others could take weeks.
Pre-construction Preparations
With the permits received, it’s time for pre-construction preparations, which involve ordering and gathering the necessary materials and equipment. Depending on the availability of materials and the delivery times, this phase might take one to two weeks.
Construction Phase
With everything in place, the actual construction begins. The duration of this phase varies considerably based on a number of factors outlined later in this guide. As a general timeline, for an average-sized deck and assuming optimal working conditions, you can expect this phase to last between one to three weeks.
Inspection and Finishing
After completion of construction, a crucial step is the inspection to ensure everything is up to code. Additionally, finishing tasks like painting and staining are performed in this final phase. Depending on the inspection schedule and the time it takes to apply the finishing, you can expect this last phase to consume anywhere from a few days to a week.
A Flexible Process
Now that we’ve highlighted each phase, it’s important to acknowledge that these phases can overlap, and there may be some waiting period between each phase. Paying close attention to each stage not only assures a sturdy and compliant finish but also helps better estimate the overall timeline.
Factors That Affect the Time it Takes to Build a Deck
To gauge how long it may take to build a deck, it’s essential to understand the significant factors that influence construction time.
1. Size of the Deck
The size of your deck is a primary determinant of the building time. Unsurprisingly, a larger deck will generally take longer to build than a smaller one, given more materials to handle and a greater area to cover.
2. Material Selection: Wood vs. Composite
The type of materials chosen for the deck can also change the timeline. Traditional lumber may be more labor-intensive and require more time than engineered materials like composite decking. Additionally, delivery time for certain materials may also affect the schedule.
3. Complexity of Design
A simple, rectangular deck will take substantially less time to construct than a complex design with multiple levels or intricate features like built-in seating or custom railings. Each additional feature adds to the overall construction timeframe.
4. Complexity of Design
Weather plays a significant part in outdoor construction projects like deck building. Favorable weather conditions enable a smoother workflow, while adverse conditions such as rain, snow, or extreme heat can stall construction and extend the timeline.
5. Seasonal Factors
The season in which the deck build is scheduled can affect the project length. For instance, in peak construction season, obtaining permits and materials could take longer due to high demand. Conversely, building in off-peak times may speed up this process. Consider planning your schedule wisely.
6. Contractor’s Availability
If you are not building the deck yourself, the contractor’s schedule will significantly impact the timeline. A heavily booked contractor will take longer to start and may also be splitting time between projects, which can extend the build.
Each of these factors will affect the timeline. By comprehending and anticipating them, you can plan accordingly and alleviate some of the anxieties related to the time it takes to see your dream deck come to life.
Average Timeframe
SMALL DECK (10×12 feet): For a small, simple deck made with pressure-treated wood, the construction phase could take roughly one to two weeks given optimal conditions.
MEDIUM DECK (12×20 feet): A medium-sized deck of a simple design might typically take between two to three weeks to build.
LARGE DECK (20×20 feet or larger): Large decks or designs with complex features such as built-in seating, multiple levels, or custom railings can take substantially longer, with construction times often spanning a month or more.
USE OF COMPOSITES: If you opt for composite materials instead of wood, the construction time might slightly decrease. This is due to composites being easier to work with and not requiring time for staining or sealing.
Remember, the timeframes here are focused on the construction phase. They do not account for the design, permit acquisition, and prep time which can collectively take several weeks to a few months. Above all, it’s important to bear in mind the value of not rushing the process—the goal is a well-built, durable deck that fits your needs and aesthetic preferences.
Tips to Expedite the Process
Even though certain factors influencing the deck construction timeline are beyond our control, there are steps you can take to ensure the process is as efficient as possible.
1. Early Planning
Advance planning goes a long way when it comes to streamlining the deck building process. Finalizing your design decisions well in advance reduces the chances of future delays.
2. Efficient and Professional Contractor Selection
Do your research to find a contractor with a reputation for efficiency and professionalism. They should have a solid portfolio and positive customer feedback. Their experience and expertise can significantly hasten the building process.
3. Weather Considerations
If possible, schedule your deck construction during mild weather months. Less adverse weather will mean fewer work disruptions and delays.
4. Material Preparation
Ensure all materials have been ordered and are on-site before construction begins. Waiting on deliveries can cause substantial and often avoidable delays.
By implementing these strategies, you’ll have a significant role in ensuring your deck construction proceeds as smoothly and quickly as possible. Remember, however, that quality should not be sacrificed for speed. After all, your deck should be a place to enjoy for many years to come.
VERTICAL CONTRACTING
Want to learn more about decks?
Elevate your outdoor living space and create a beautiful and functional oasis with expertly designed and constructed decks by Vertical Contracting. Our team is eager to collaborate with you, discuss your project in detail, provide a customized quote, and take the first steps toward bringing your deck-building dreams to life. Contact us today to embark on this exciting journey and redefine your outdoor living experience.