Building a deck in Ontario?
Ever wondered about the labour cost to build a deck in Ontario?
Finding an accurate estimate can be a challenge with various factors affecting the total amount.
Whether you’re looking to build a small simple platform or a larger more complex structure the labour costs can significantly impact your budget.
Would you believe it can vastly vary depending on the materials size design complexity and contractor rates?
Table of Contents
Labour Cost
The labour cost to build a deck in Ontario can vary greatly depending on several factors. The deck’s size the materials used the level at which it’s built and location are just a few examples that influence the end cost.
An all-important factor to consider is whether the deck is DIY or professionally installed. Performing a DIY construction offers the benefit of cost-saving.
However it does demand time and expertise. Professional installation on the other hand incurs higher costs but guarantees professional work and saves the homeowners time.
The cost for professional installation can amount to around $8 to $22 per square foot.
Labour cost is also influenced by the length of the project the type of work required and the construction materials used. For instance decks requiring a concrete base due to frost heaving may increase the labour cost.
Moreover the price can be affected by unforeseen events such as lumber shortages caused by factors like the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the midst of COVID-19 fluctuations in the construction and renovation sectors’ prices have been noted. Consequently homeowners are advised to get free estimates expert advice and a free quote from contractors to ensure they get a good price.
Building A Deck
Building a deck in Ontario is an investment that enhances property transformation. The cost is dependent on the size type of building choice of materials and whether you choose to go the DIY route or hire professionals.
Common deck sizes like 8’x10′ 12’x12′ 16’x16′ and 20’x20′ have average price ranges of $1500-$3500 CAD $2700-$6300 CAD $4800-$11000 CAD and $7500-$17500 CAD respectively.
As for materials pressure-treated wood cedar redwood and composite are popular choices. Each material has its pros and cons and therefore affects the overall price.
Pressure-treated wood is known for its affordability but demands more maintenance. Cedar and redwood offer resistance to weathering and insects but can scratch easily.
Composite decks require little maintenance and offer long-term durability but come at a higher cost.
Material prices can range from $5 to $10 CAD per square foot for cedar decks $18 to $27 CAD for redwood decks and composite decks ranging from $28 to $47 CAD. Given the varying costs homeowners should choose the materials that align with their budget and purpose of the deck.
Lastly additional features like stairs railings and a roof can add to the total cost. For instance adding a second or third story to the deck can increase the cost by 30% to 60%.
However these features have benefits like providing more outdoor space increasing longevity and value addition.
Deck Cost In Ontario
The cost of building a deck in Ontario is influenced greatly by the size level and materials used for construction. COVID-19 has also had a notable impact on the price of construction materials leading to fluctuating costs.
The larger your deck the more labor and materials will be needed inevitably leading to an increase in cost.
Moreover the intended purpose of your deck like cooking entertaining or maybe for a hot tub area should determine the size of the deck.
Deck Sizes and Prices
Averagely in Ontario the following ranges are common for deck sizes & investment:
- 8’x10′: $1500-$3500 CAD
- 12’x12′: $2700-$6300 CAD
- 16’x16′: $4800-$11000 CAD
- 20’x20′: $7500-$17500 CAD
Remember a ground-level deck is simpler and cheaper to construct. However a multiple-level deck presents you with more outdoor space albeit at a higher cost.
| Deck Type | Additional Cost |
|---|---|
| Second story deck | 30 to 60% increase of the price |
| Third story deck | 30 to 60% increase of the price |
Ontario Deck Installation
There are strains attached to DIY installations like the availability of tools the expertise needed and the possible WSIB premiums consequences. However it is a surefire way to save cash.
On the other hand having your deck professionally installed in cities like Ottawa or Toronto comes at a price—around $8 to $22 per square foot.
Consider a service like Citywide Fences & Decks in Kitchener-Waterloo well known for their topnotch craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.
Materials for Deck Building
Your choice of material will largely affect the labour cost to build a deck. Options include pressure-treated wood redwood cedar and composite.
Take this table for example:
| Material Type | Price Range per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Cedar | $5 – $10 CAD |
| Redwood | $18 – $27 CAD |
| Composite | $28 – $47 CAD |
Deck Building Expenses
The construction of a deck in Ontario Canada relies on factors such as materials used the size of the deck DIY or professionally installed methods and even the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on construction materials’ prices.
Determining the size of the deck is based on its intended purpose like accommodating furniture a hot tub cooking and entertaining. The larger the deck the more materials are required leading to an increase in the labour cost materials costs and the total cost of the project.
Ground-level decks are more affordable to build while decks with multiple levels provide more outdoor space but come with a higher price tag. For instance adding a second or third story to a deck can increase the price by 30% to 60%.
The choice of materials significantly impacts the cost of building a deck. Options include pressure-treated wood cedar redwood and composite decks made from recycled plastics and each comes with its own set of pros and cons regarding affordability durability and maintenance.
For instance the pressure-treated wood is budget-friendly but requires constant upkeep while cedar and redwood are naturally resistant to weathering and insects but prone to scratches. Composite decks require little maintenance but are among the expensive options.
The average price ranges of deck materials per square foot in Ontario are: cedar decks ($5 to $10 CAD) redwood decks ($18 to $27 CAD) and composite decks ($28 to $47 CAD).
DIY installation is cost-saving but requires time tools and expertise. Professional installation by contractors like those from Citywide Fences & Decks known for their craftsmanship and customer service costs between $8 to $22 per square foot.
Wood decks are an ecological option typically chosen because of their affordability and natural allure. Composite wood decks are also considered eco-friendly and often come with a 25-year warranty.
However they can be costly and offer limited color choices.
In considerations of affordability the total cost of building a deck can be influenced by the type of building location within an area of the city the construction materials required labor project time and even unforeseen events like the recent treated lumber shortage.
