What Are the Cheapest Decking Materials? - NA Deck and Patio (2024)

FAQs

What Are the Cheapest Decking Materials? - NA Deck and Patio? ›

Pressure treated wood is usually the least expensive option of all the decking materials, but other types of wood can be more costly, especially for large decks. Composite decking is usually more expensive per square foot than common types of wood because it's manufactured and long-lasting.

Pressured Treated Wood

This economical wooden decking is typically made from pine and is widely available. It is the most economical and least expensive out of decking materials with a lifespan of an average of 15 years but with proper maintenance can last decades. Proper maintenance can average annual costs of $450.

PVC decking

DIY-friendly, PVC mimics wood's appearance and suits budget-conscious and installation-focused individuals. Despite environmental concerns, it's among the cheapest decking alternatives.

Bamboo. One of the least expensive decking materials you can choose, bamboo is growing in popularity and can make a beautiful deck. Yearly maintenance requirements are similar to wood, but bamboo typically boasts a longer life than wood.

Decks are more expensive and tend to have a high ROI (between 60% to 80%). Patios cost less to build and provide a lower ROI (up to 50%). While returns may be a bit higher in warmer climates, this is generally what you can expect.

Vinyl decking is made from PVC plastic and comes in a variety of colors and styles. Vinyl is easy to clean and doesn't require any sealing or staining, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners who don't have time for extensive upkeep.

We've covered a range of different points in this article but you may be wondering if a deck or patio is cheaper. Usually, patios will be cheaper to build but will often require extensive labour to make the ground flat and even for building.

Ipe decking, also known as Brazilian Walnut, takes the crown as the longest-lasting decking material. Renowned for its incredible durability and resistance to decay, Ipe can last up to an astonishing 75 years with proper maintenance. Its dense structure and natural oils make it resistant to rot, insects, and even fire.

Budget Deck Ideas- Less is More

If you are looking to build a deck on a budget, one of the biggest secrets to saving you money is choosing a very simple deck design using standard dimensional lumber. A simple design requires less cutting and less waste of material.

How to build a deck on a budget? ›

The best bet to keep your deck building costs low is to stick to the basics. Skipping curves, bends, and other fancy design features will reduce both the decking materials and installation time needed for your build. Reducing the overall size of the deck in general is also likely to find you the biggest savings.

Gravel. Gravel is, on average, the cheapest material for a patio and requires the least time to install. It can match well with a less landscaped, wilder garden or backyard, and offers great drainage.

At this point, you know that a patio offers a slightly better resale value than a deck. But since both patios and decks add significant value to your home, it's usually best to go with whatever option appeals to you the most.

Budget Deck Ideas: Build a Ground-Level Deck

A ground-level deck also doesn't require railings or stairs, which will save you costs there too. A ground-level deck allows you to build a cheap deck without spending money on all the extras.

In fact, Trex is generally 20-40% cheaper than TimberTech across all pricing tiers, making it a more budget-friendly option for those seeking to build a sustainable deck without breaking the bank.

While the initial investment for a pressure-treated wood deck is less than that of a composite deck, a Trex deck saves you money in the long run because it lasts longer and requires less maintenance.

How much does it cost to build a 20×20 deck? A 20 x 20 deck installation costs approximately $20,000 on average. Using more economical materials like bamboo or cedar deck boards can knock the price down. In contrast, high-end decking materials like composite decking will increase the price.