How much does it cost to build a 20x20 deck?

The average homeowner spends $2,200 to build a 10x10 foot deck, $6,160 to build a 14x20 deck, and $8,800 to build a 20x20 deck. The cost to build a deck with pressure-treated wood, hardwood, or composite is about $25 per square foot, for both materials and installation.

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Should deck boards be parallel or perpendicular to house?

Decking running parallel to the house makes the deck look wider and blends the deck into the house. If the decking runs perpendicular, the deck looks long and extending far out, away from the house. In respect to this, should a deck be pitched? When decking is installed conventionally, with gaps between adjacent boards, sloping the deck surface is not necessary. Some decking products with limited drainage recommend sloping the deck frame to a 1/4" vertical per 12' horizontal pitch.

Thereof, should you leave a gap between deck boards?

Proper deck board spacing should have a 1/8-inch gap after the decking has dried out. If you install your decking using wet boards, pressure-treated decking that has not yet dried out, then you should install them with no gap as a gap will be created as they dry and shrink. One may also ask should deck boards have a gap? When using wood decking, you want a gap of at least 1/8 of an inch after your decking has dried out. If you're using decking that's already been dried out, you can leave a 1/8-inch gap when you install. Many decks will use "green" wood, or wood that hasn't been dried down or kiln dried.

How long will an untreated deck last?

A deck made of untreated wood can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Decks made of treated wood and composite materials can last as long as 50 years. Many composite decks come with a 20-year warranty ? and often a lifetime guarantee. One may also ask should i use deck boards or 2x6? 2x6 is thicker and is stronger, but is also more expensive. Spacing between deck boards provide a few critical functions. The primary function is to drain water from the deck. Gaps that are narrow (1/8"), can catch debris, specifically on top of the joists, and can be difficult to clean out.