Hoping to build a pool deck in the near future but are curious about how much it may set you back?  Unless you know what you’re in for financially, your dream deck may be quickly become just that – a dream. Though no one company will likely offer the same price for a pools decks, we have a quick guide to help you calculate your costs:

Step 1: DIY or Professional?

If you choose to do the job yourself,  you could save money – with the operative word being, could. Unless you already have the basic tools and prep materials on hand, those will need to be entered into your cost estimate, and it’s always wise for do-it-yourselfers to add 10% of your final estimated costs to your total costs for any incidences or errors that may occur (this expense may very well neutralize the labor costs you’d otherwise pay a professional, so weigh your options carefully).

Step 2: What Do You Need?

If you don’t know what you need, contact a professional company to guide you. They’ll be able to advise you of the lumber and any other additional materials you may need for your deck.

TIP:  As a general rule, you should have a 2×6 for every 16 inches and 4×4 posts for every 8 feet.

Other costs that you’ll need to consider include:

• Railings: If you have children and pets in or at the home at any time, this is a must-have
• Pool decking: Do you need the best pool decking material or are you going to sacrifice quality for price?  The decking that you choose, and how much of it needed, will play a huge role in how much you’ll be spending when you build a pool deck
• Additional options: Are you creating  a separate space for an outdoor kitchen or patio area? \

Step 3: Compare Prices

The easiest way to compare prices is to contact a pool company with exactly what you need and have them provide you with an estimate.  But if you’re looking for the best value and want some leverage when determining a final price, you’ll want to know your stuff and have the prices somewhat figured out.  When pricing things out, compare costs from two sources:

• A big box store
• A local lumber company

Ask these companies for their retail price and their wholesale price.  You may be able to save up to 20% on lumber alone whether you choose to do it yourself or work with a professional decking company.

Shasta Pools is a Phoenix pool builder who provides a variety of services including swimming pool remodeling, commercial pool building, and pool service and repair. Since its establishment in 1967, Shasta has helped over 80,000 families realize their dream of pool ownership. By providing exceptional value, quality craftsmanship and superior customer service, the Shasta team continues to fulfill the corporate mission of astonishing and delighting their customers and exceeding expectations. You can learn more about Shasta Pools & Spas by visiting them online, or by connecting with them on Facebook or Twitter.