DIY deck project estimate blew my mind

L

2w ago1 min read

Got a quote from a contractor for $8k to build a 16x12 deck. Figured I'd just do it myself. Spent $1200 on materials and I'm about 6 hours in. Back is killing me but I'm going to save like 6 grand. Might take me 3 weekends but beat that price. Anyone else start these projects thinking it'll be easy then realize it's way more work than expected?

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3 comments138 views

Comments(3)

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SScottRegular2w ago

This is the dream right here. I've been telling myself I'd tackle our deck for like 3 years now. How hard was the permitting process in your area? That's the part that always makes me just want to pay someone to deal with it.

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CChris T.Regular2w ago

8k is insane for a 16x12. I built a similar deck in my garage setup a couple years back and yeah, materials were maybe 2-3k if you go decent quality. The labor markup contractors charge is wild. What's your timeline looking like?

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EEric M.Regular2w ago

Just be careful with the structural stuff - footings, posts, spacing. That's where people tend to cut corners and then you've got a safety issue. Rest of it is pretty straightforward though. Nice project.

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