Establish a Budget for Building a Deck Using Cedar Boards

Establish a Budget for Building a Deck Using Cedar Boards

Building and adding a deck to your home can help increase the value of your property. There are several things you must consider when choosing your decking materials and supplies. First, you have to establish a budget for your project. This is an important step you should not overlook, because it helps you determine exactly how much you are able to spend for your new deck. Some people skip this step and end up spending more than they initially planned on, or running out of money before they are able to complete their project.

In order to establish your budget, you need to decide the type of decking you want to use, such as cedar boards. Once you have picked out the wood for your decking, you are able to create your budget after taking some measurements. You should mark out the area where you intend to install your deck. By measuring the length and width, you are able to calculate the square footage of the deck and use this to determine an estimate of the materials required. If the decking will be raised off the ground, also include the height in your calculations, as well as the materials needed to build stairs.

For example, to build a 10 foot by 10 foot deck using cedar boards, you would need to approximately 20 boards which were 2 inches by 6 inches by 10 feet long. In addition to your decking boards, you are going to need cedar support posts and cross beams to go under the decking. Ideally, you will want at least 9 support posts at 6 cross beams. Other materials you should include are additional boards and support posts for the stairs, as well as the wood needed to build railings around your deck.