4 Smart Criteria to Know When to DIY vs Hiring a Deck Contractor

Upgrading or building a new deck is one of the most important projects you can do.

A beautiful and well-designed deck can increase your home’s overall value (in case you want to sell it and make money off it). If you plan on living in the house, then the deck becomes so much more than just a ‘boost in house value’. A deck is an extension of your living space, and it serves as a natural gathering spot, so changing it is a pretty big deal. But it’s also a complex one.

Before you click the start button (metaphorically speaking), you need to be sure that you have made a smart decision when choosing between DIY vs hiring a deck contractor. It’s not a simple dilemma, as the answer depends on several key factors.

Below are four smart criteria explained so that you can make the right decision for your home and your budget.

1. Project Size and Complexity

Don’t take more than you can chew, or you’re going to end up doing something that is completely above your carpentry skills or knowledge.

That is the recipe for disaster. First, you need to know what types of decks are manageable for DIY projects and when professional help is necessary. When a small, single-level platform deck is in question, you can give it a go even if you have only basic carpentry skills.

On the other hand, if there is a multiple-level deck with built-in seating or integration with landscaping, that is something that requires advanced skills.

• Some DIY-friendly projects: Simple square decks, small platforms, small repairs such as replacing boards, etc.
• Pro-only projects (you can DIY these if you have professional experience yourself): Multi-tiered decks, rooftop decks—basically anything that connects to your home’s structure.

2. Time Commitment

Building a deck is a project that takes time. If you think that you can do it in no time, the simple answer is, “No, you can’t”.

Even a small project can take weeks to complete when you factor in things such as planning, obtaining materials, cutting, fastening, finishing, etc.

Ask yourself:

• How much time do you really have to commit?
• Are you prepared to prolong the project if there are delays?
• Do you have backup help if the work gets too much?

3. Equipment and Materials

If you think that all you need is wood and nails to build a deck, give up on trying to DIY it right away!

There are a bunch of things you need (e.g., circular saws, power drills, post-hole diggers, leveling tools, etc., etc.). Purchasing or renting every piece of equipment required can drain your DIY budget surprisingly quickly (these things are EXPENSIVE!). At least renting tools is more environmentally friendly.

• Hidden expenses: Tool rental fees, waste disposal, delivery fees, etc.
• Material: Treated wood, composites, metal, etc.

When you hire a professional, you don’t have to deal with any of that. He already owns the required tools and knows the material suppliers.

4. Safety and Building Codes

Whatever you do, safety is a priority.

A deck that isn’t built properly is at risk of collapse under load which can (obviously) cause injuries, and will surely end up being very expensive (not only due to repair costs, but also fines). Building permits, zoning restrictions, and inspection requirements vary by county and township.

People from Pennsylvania, for example, must follow local building codes whether they are located in Ivyland, Doylestown, Warminster, or Newtown.

This is also the reason why a lot of homeowners there like to hire a trustworthy deck contractor in Ivyland, who is familiar with Bucks County and the areas around it, for their distinct codes/permits, which materials work best, and specifics like that.

Local builders are aware of the soil conditions, frost lines, and inspection processes.

DIY vs Hiring a Deck Contractor—Cost Comparison Table

When DIY Is a Smart Option

DIY is the right option when:

• The project is small (e.g., a ground-level platform).
• You already have the tools.
• You enjoy working with your hands and the satisfaction of doing it yourself.

If these check marks exist, a DIY build can be cost-effective and rewarding.

When Hiring a Pro Is Smarter

Hiring a contractor makes sense when:

• The design is complex or multi-level.
• Time is limited, and deadlines are paramount.
• Local permits and codes are onerous.
• You desire long-term value and warranties
• You want peace of mind (because you know it works)

You pay, you get—that’s it. You know it works. If there are any issues, you’re covered by a warranty.

Conclusion

To make the right decision while choosing between DIY and professional deck construction, you need to take into consideration these four main factors: cost, time, skill, and safety.

If you’re dealing with a small project, that is a perfect chance for ambitious DIYers to dive in, but if there is a complex design and regional code requirements, don’t think twice—hire a contractor.

If you choose carefully, you’ll avoid expensive mistakes and you will enjoy your new outdoor space sooner.