Lowes Deck Building Calculator

Understanding Your Deck Building Costs

Building a deck can significantly enhance your outdoor living space, but understanding the costs involved is crucial for proper budgeting. This calculator provides an estimated cost based on common factors such as deck size, materials, foundation, and labor. While this tool offers a good approximation, actual costs can vary based on specific product choices, regional pricing, and project complexity.

How the Calculator Works:

The calculator breaks down the estimated cost into several key components:

• Decking Material: The cost of the primary surface material (e.g., pressure-treated pine, cedar, redwood, composite). Prices vary widely based on durability, appearance, and maintenance requirements.
• Framing: This includes the joists, beams, and posts needed to support the deck. Costs depend on the size of the deck and the height from the ground, as higher decks require more robust and potentially longer structural elements.
• Railing: If your deck is a certain height off the ground (typically 30 inches or more), building codes will require railings for safety. The cost is calculated based on the linear feet of railing needed and the chosen material.
• Foundation: This covers the cost of footings, concrete, or deck blocks to anchor the deck posts securely to the ground.
• Fasteners & Hardware: Essential components like screws, nails, bolts, joist hangers, and post anchors.
• Labor: This is a significant factor if you're hiring professionals. The cost is often estimated per square foot. DIY projects have $0 labor cost in this calculator, but consider your time and effort!

Material Cost Estimates (Illustrative Averages – CHECK LOWE'S FOR CURRENT PRICING):

The following are illustrative average costs per square foot. You should verify current pricing at Lowe's:

• Pressure-Treated Pine: $3 – $7 per sq ft (decking only)
• Cedar/Redwood: $6 – $12 per sq ft (decking only)
• Composite: $8 – $15+ per sq ft (decking only)
• Framing Lumber: Varies greatly with size and height, often included implicitly in cost-per-square-foot estimates for basic decks.
• Railing: $20 – $50+ per linear foot (material dependent)
• Concrete Piers: $30 – $60 per pier (including labor/materials for digging and pouring)
• Deck Blocks: $5 – $15 per block

How to Use the Calculator Effectively:

1. Measure Your Deck: Accurately input the desired length and width in feet.
2. Note the Height: The height from the ground influences the type and length of posts needed, impacting foundation and lumber costs.
3. Select Materials: Choose your preferred decking and railing materials. Composite is generally the most expensive but offers low maintenance.
4. Specify Foundation: Decide on concrete piers or deck blocks. Piers are more robust for higher decks.
5. Estimate Hardware Costs: Use the cost per square foot for fasteners and connectors.
6. Factor in Labor: Enter a realistic labor cost per square foot if hiring a contractor, or $0 if it's a DIY project.
7. Calculate: Click the button for your estimated total project cost.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides an estimate for planning purposes. Prices are subject to change and vary by location and specific product selection. Always consult with Lowe's sales associates and local building codes for the most accurate pricing and requirements.