Deck advice please!

Hi All, We have been toying with the idea of adding a deck to the back of our house, as we currently have no area to entertain. We've gotten 5-7 quotes and all are around the 40-45K mark. I've attached a pic of the back of our place, and a pic of the type of deck we're aiming for. The floor plan is perfect for a deck, as it'll come straight off the kitchen/living. Do you think it's a good idea in terms of adding value? The quotes were more than what we were expecting (originally predicted 30-35K). We do want to stay for a few years yet. Or should we hold off, and make sure future house definitely has a deck/entertaining area? Any advice is appreciated Thank you

 

Decks are awesome!!!

We just put one on our place and its night and day. Best reno we could've done.

If you do pit one on...You might not want to move...

I'm about to get my place revalued post deck. I'll report on if it made a difference or not.

 

We're looking at the same thing in Brisbane but at ground level. Have one quote for the pergola only at 12k, but need to update and get more quotes.

Much more structural work in what you are proposing, assuming the quotes include the price includes changes to the wall/large sliding door etc.

 

Thanks for your response. I don't think future owners would extend as the house is already 4 bed. And yes, it's really annoying not having anywhere to have people over for drinks etc, so I think we may just go for it. It was just that bit more than I was hoping for. I had no idea they were that expensive! Honestly expected it to be around 30/35K

 

Thanks for your input. I'd love to hear how it goes!

 

I'm just going to say, wow, if it's just like the pic that would be a very nice deck. I generally think it will be good for future resalability. In what price bracket is your home?

 

Yeah the quotes include everything (approvals, engineering, surveying, draftsman, roof, bi-fold doors). We're looking at 45K. I see so many places with decks (even absolute dumps) and now I'm thinking- is that what everyone is forking out?!

 

We paid 630K two years ago. Prices in the area haven't moved much. So when quotes came back in the 40s, I've started to worry we're overcapitalising. I've even wondered if we'd be better just buying a place in same price range with a deck?

 

So is it more like a balcony as it's coming off the upper storey? That would explain the cost more than a simple deck at ground level.

It will also create some undercover area at ground level too I imagine as an added bonus?

 

All good. Ok, so you are around the middle of the market, and you plan to live there for a fair few years yet. I think do it, but I do wonder if it can still be done for less.

 

I had a quote for my place, 7 x 4.5 in hardwood finish and treated pine frame. $10176 at 1.4m off ground with stairs and rails. No roof though, which is where a lot of your cost will be

 

Thanks. That's actually a great idea. Will do that!

 

I wish! Every visitor claims 40K can be beaten- then when they go away to do calculations- it always comes back 40+

 

Seems a lot for a roof though? Obviously I've misjudged the magnitude of the project

 

No, it won't be high enough to walk under, but will certainly add more room for storage and minimise some mowing!

 

If you budget allows, and more importantly, if you can get good view out of the deck when built at higher level, go for it (balcony). Provided you do not over-capitalize.

However, if you just want a place to entertain, go for a ground level, cheaper deck. The plus of this is that guests dont have to go to through your living area upstairs, which protects your privacy. And they can have direct access and saves energy from lugging their beer or esky upstairs. Kids get to kick the balls and BBQ pit can be set-up........