There’s nothing more enjoyable than relaxing on a deck or patio with nothing else to do but enjoy the beautiful weather. Or you could set up your deck or patio so you can work from home! Your backyard getaway deserves a bit of a makeover from time to time. However, it can sometimes be challenging to choose the right material for a deck renovation. Various options are available, each with their pros and cons. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of materials and prices for building or renovating a deck.
The table below shows the current average prices for each material. Of course, prices can vary depending on the quality of the materials, installation difficulty and several other factors.
*Please note that these prices are for reference only. Several factors can influence the total cost of renovations, such as the type of work, necessary labour, materials used, safety measures, demolition or transportation costs for structural elements, and unforeseen circumstances.
Demolition costs are among the main factors that can increase the bill. If an old deck needs to be dismantled, this can greatly increase the total cost of the project. Transporting materials and equipment for deck construction can have a significant impact.
Quebec’s harsh winters also affect the cost. Decks must be designed to withstand extreme cold, which may require more expensive materials or particular construction techniques.
Finally, the type of materials used can affect the total. Wood may be cheaper, but it requires regular maintenance and doesn’t last as long as aluminum, for example. Aluminum decking is more durable and requires less maintenance, but it’s more expensive up front.
Fibreglass deck
Known for its lightness and durability, fibreglass has become a popular material for deck constructions in recent years.
Fibreglass is resistant to frost, fire, corrosion and sunlight, in addition to being waterproof. That means you can create storage spaces under your deck without worrying about damage to your belongings. Fibreglass doesn’t tarnish over time and is easy to maintain. Just clean it with water and dish soap from time to time and you’re done! Plus, it’s available in a variety of colours, including imitation wood.
On the downside, fibreglass is not very slip-resistant. You need to be careful not to trip and fall on rainy days and in the winter, as a fibreglass deck can get slippery. In summer, this material tends to attract heat—it’s possible that your deck will get super hot. Light colours are a good idea. The cost of fibreglass is quite reasonable: $55/sq. ft. without frame (covering an existing deck only) and $65/sq. ft. with frame. The average lifespan of a fibreglass deck is over 20 years.
Wood deck (pressure-treated wood, cedar, or torrefied wood):
Wood is popular in Quebec, as it’s both ecological and economical. A wood deck can last anywhere from 10 to 50 years depending on the type of wood chosen, and regular maintenance can add a few extra years. There are many types of wood, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. A wood deck lasts between 10 and 25 years, on average.
Pressure-treated wood: This is the most common type of wood, as it is the most affordable. It must be treated every three years, which results in significant maintenance costs. It costs approximately $80/sq. ft. with the frame and installation.
Cedar: This wood is popular because of its natural appearance and beautiful colour. It must be treated or it will discolour over time from exposure to the elements. It costs approximately $100/sq. ft. with installation.
Torrefied wood: Baked in a low-oxygen oven, this ecological wood contains no chemical agents. However, it has a limited lifespan and is fairly expensive, between $75 and $85/sq. ft. with installation.
Source photo: Pinterest
Source photo: Pinterest
Source photo: Pinterest
Source photo: Pinterest
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Composite decking:
Composite decking is made from wood filler, recycled plastics and artificial polymers, making it an eco-friendly option. Composite is a popular choice because it looks like wood and is especially durable. It doesn’t require maintenance and frequently comes with a 25-year warranty. Unlike fibreglass, a composite deck doesn’t get unbearably hot, even when exposed to high heat. Since it’s slip-resistant, it can be the ideal material to use around a pool or hot tub.
Composite does have a few drawbacks. First and foremost is its price: Composite comes in at between $85 and $95/sq. ft. (including materials, installation and custom frame) depending on the type chosen. In addition, the colour palette for this type of decking is fairly limited, and sunlight is known to cause fading.
Concrete deck (patio)
Concrete has a long lifespan, which can make it a wise choice, but its rather cold aesthetic appearance is less appreciated. Concrete offers many advantages: it’s slip-resistant, easy to maintain, doesn’t discolour over time and is highly resistant to UV rays and inclement weather. It’s used for both the deck stairs and surface. A concrete deck (technically a patio) can be built in one day.
The cost ranges from $70 to $85/sq. ft. (including installation and reinforcements). If well maintained, a concrete patio can last over 50 years.
Aluminum deck
Aluminum is becoming an increasingly popular material for decks, particularly due to its durability and weather resistance. Unlike wood, it doesn’t rot or warp over time, making it a wise choice for harsh Canadian winters.
Other benefits of aluminum: It requires little maintenance, is corrosion-resistant and doesn’t need to be regularly painted or stained. Aluminum decks often come with a safe, non-slip finish.
However, this metal also has drawbacks. It can be more expensive than other materials. Some homeowners don’t like its industrial appearance. Plus, an aluminum deck can get quite hot in the summer sun… Watch those bare feet!
The price of an aluminum deck varies depending on the dimensions, complexity of the frame and cost of labour. On average, you can expect to pay between $65 to $80/sq. ft. (or more for higher-quality aluminum). It’s important to get an accurate estimate before starting the work.
Verified Contractors for deck renovations
At RenoAssistance, we understand that renovating a deck is a significant investment. Whether you have an aluminum, wood or other kind of deck, our Verified Contractors are here to guide you at every step.
Don’t delay, reach out to RenoAssistance to get your project underway. A Renovation Advisor will be happy to guide you throughout the process and recommend reliable contractors who have passed our 360º Verification Process.
