Looking to add a new deck to your backyard? Many homeowners are tempted to tackle this home improvement project themselves, especially if they are trying to keep costs low. After all, how hard can it really be?
Here’s what these DIYers often don’t realize: building your own deck is more complicated than it might seem. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the risks of undertaking this project on your own and the benefits of partnering with a deck builder in Kamloops instead. Keep reading!
The Hidden Risks of Building a DIY Deck
Deck building can be a rewarding experience. However, here are the key considerations that homeowners should be aware of.
Skill Level
As we mentioned, building your own deck isn’t as simple as it seems, especially if you are starting from scratch. Every stage–from building the foundation to adding finishing touches–comes with its own unique challenges and learning curve.
For example, a lot of homeowners think laying vinyl decking is easy. All that’s required is to roll out the PVC layers and glue them down, right? Wrong. Proper vinyl decking installation requires proper timing and expert precision. An inexperienced DIYer is more likely to make mistakes, like not allowing glue to set properly or incorrectly aligning seams.
Some other common DIY deck building mistakes include:
- Undersized beams or joists that cause bounce or sagging
- Improperly installed footings that move with freeze–thaw cycles
- Loose or wobbly deck railings that don’t meet safety standards
- Inadequate waterproofing around doors, posts, and exterior walls
Time Commitment
Like most home renovation projects, building your own deck takes time. What might start as a “quick” weekend project can quickly turn into evenings and multiple weekends filled with extra work just to get your deck finished before summer is over.
Mistakes only slow this process down further. All it takes is one misaligned railing post, an out-of-square frame, or a poorly installed vinyl seam to trigger additional delays like tearing out sections, redoing work, or repurchasing materials.
Before you set your heart on building your own deck, consider what you might be giving up. While you might save on labour, this project could cost you quality time with family, precious summer weekends, and the chance to actually enjoy your deck during the Kamloops summer season.
Cost Savings
Most people think it is cheaper to build a deck rather than buying one due to the cost of labour. While this might seem true on paper, the truth is more complicated. Material, tool, and permit costs add up quickly. And, in some cases, you’ll be paying standard retail prices rather than the wholesale discounts provided by local deck contractors. Plus, if something goes wrong, you’ll be on the hook for repairs or replacements. At the end of the day, the savings of building your own deck might not be as drastic as they seem.
The Benefits of Professional Deck Installation
While it might seem more expensive than a DIY approach, hiring a deck builder in Kamloops has several advantages. Let’s break it down.
Professional Craftsmanship
Say goodbye to stress and hello to a new deck that stands the test of time. Here at Dekstar Exterior Solutions, we take pride in what we do. When you work with our team, you don’t have to worry about uneven framing, loose railings, or other mistakes that come with DIY building. Instead, you get a finished product that feels solid underfoot, looks clean and professional, and is built to perform for years to come.
Efficient Timelines
When you hire a professional deck builder, you get a clear schedule and a team that knows how to stick to it. Experienced crews can complete projects in a fraction of the time it takes most homeowners, turning multi-month projects into quick and easy exterior home renovations. They also anticipate common challenges, like weather delays or material shortages, and plan around them, so your project doesn’t drag on for weeks longer than expected.
Product Warranties and 24/7 Support
When you work with a deck builder in Kamloops, the relationship doesn’t end when your deck is finished. Qualified contractors, like Dekstar Exterior Solutions, offer ongoing support for all your decking and exterior renovation needs. If there are any issues with your completed project, like loose deck railings or bubbling vinyl, our team will be on-site as soon as possible to fix the problem.
Key Takeaway: Is it Worth Building Your Own Deck?
Here’s the truth: it might be worth building your own deck in certain situations. If you are dealing with a smaller structure, making minor changes, or are primarily concerned with cost savings, then a DIY approach can work. However, most of the time, trusting a professional deck builder is the best call.
When to Hire a Professional Deck Builder
Still not sure which route to go? Consider:
- Skill level: Are you comfortable with power tools? How confident are you with reading a plan and taking precise measurements?
- Availability: Realistically, do you have the time required to complete this project?
- Complexity: What is the scope of your project? For new decks, what size do you want your deck to be? Will there be multiple levels? For renovations, are you looking to make small cosmetic upgrades or large structural changes?
If you are leaning towards hiring a professional, make sure you know what to look for in a deck builder.
Get Started on Your Deck Today!
Whether you are simply exploring your options or already have your heart set on a design, the Dekstar Exterior Solutions team has got you covered. With over 20 years of experience in Kamloops and Interior BC, we are ready to help you build the deck of your dreams. And, even if you decide to pursue the DIY route, we’re still here to help. Visit our showroom to take a look at some of our best-selling exterior renovation materials, explore our past projects for inspiration, or contact us today for your first quote. We can’t wait to work with you.
