Basic Decks

At least 100 square feet and reasonably square:

1. 8' high & shorter - less than $10 per sq. ft.
2. 8' to 12' high - less than $12 per sq. ft.
3. Steps - less than $50 each.
4. Landings (4' x 4') - $300.

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Basic Covered Porches

Open rafters & asphalt shingles:

1. Less than $10 per sq. ft. (not including the deck).
2. Extra $ for gutters.
3. Extra $ for screens.

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Inexpensive Upgrades

1. Thicker decking boards.
2. Benches.
3. Angles in the deck design.
4. Multilevel decks, when we decide where to change levels.

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More Expensive Upgrades

1. Better grade decking boards.
2. Decking boards at an angle.
3. Fancy rails, thicker rails, cedar rails, or metal rails.
4. Screws instead of nails.
5. Multilevel decks, when you decide where to change levels.
6. Cedar is a smooth board and looks great when it is first installed, but it only lasts 8 to 10 years. Pressure-treated cypress is also a nice wood. Either of these will add about 25% to the price.

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Most Expensive Upgrades

1. Composite decking.
2. Changing porches from rustic to paint-ready.