DIY-ing Your Deck vs. Hiring a Contractor in Chicagoland?

When it comes time to build a deck, many homeowners in Chicagoland face a dilemma. Should they try to do it themselves, or should they hire a contractor? Both options have pros and cons, and the best decision for each individual depends on their particular circumstances.

This blog post will explore the pros and cons of DIY-ing your deck vs hiring a contractor. We will also provide some tips to help you make the best decision for your needs!

DIY-ing Your Deck

If you’re the handy type and enjoy working on projects around your home, then DIY-ing your deck might be a good option. Building decking in Chicago is a relatively simple process if you know what you’re doing, and there are plenty of resources available to help you do it yourself.

The biggest advantage of DIY-ing your deck is that it will cost you less money. If you’re on a tight budget, this can be a deciding factor.

However, there are some disadvantages to consider as well. First of all, it will take you longer to build your deck if you’re doing it yourself. This is because you likely don’t have the same level of experience and expertise as a professional contractor.

Another thing to keep in mind is that if you make any mistakes, it will be up to you to fix them. This can end up costing you more time and money in the long run.

Below are the steps involved in building a deck:

1. Planning and Design

The first step is to determine the size, shape, and location of your deck. You’ll also need to consider things like how much sunlight it will get and whether you want any features like a built-in bench or planter boxes.

Once you have an idea of what you want, you’ll need to create a detailed plan. This step is important because it will help you stay on track and avoid making any mistakes.

If you’re not confident in your ability to create a plan, you can always hire a professional deck designer.

2. Permits

Of course, you need to make sure that you have all the necessary permits before you start building your deck. Depending on where you live, this process can be simple or quite complicated.

The best way to find out what permits you need is to talk to your local building department. They will be able to tell you what’s required in your area.

3. Ordering Materials

Once you have your plan and permits, you can start ordering the materials you need. This is one of the most important steps because it will determine how much your project will cost.

Be sure to compare prices at different stores before making your purchase. You should also buy more than you think you’ll need just in case you make a mistake or want to change something.

4. Excavation and Footings

The next step is to excavate the area where your deck will be built. This is necessary to create a level foundation for your deck.

After excavation, you’ll need to pour concrete footings. These will support the posts that will hold up your deck.

5. Deck Framing

Now you can start building the frame of your deck. This step will require some basic carpentry skills.

First, you’ll need to install the posts and beam. Then, you’ll add the joists and decking boards. Finally, you’ll add any finishing touches like railings or stairs.

If you’re considering DIY-ing your deck, be sure to do your research and plan everything out carefully.

UglyDeck.com’s DIY Program makes DIY-ing  a deck easier. With a free coach, drawings, and assistance with footings and ledgers. We take the guesswork out of a large project. Consider contacting UglyDeck.com if you want to tackle a deck project by yourself.

Hiring a Contractor

Of course, DIY-ing your deck is not the right choice for everyone. If you’re not confident in your ability to do it yourself, or if you simply don’t have the time, then you might want to hire a contractor.

The biggest advantage of hiring a contractor is that they will do all the work for you. This includes everything from planning and design to ordering materials and building the deck.

Another benefit of hiring a contractor is that they can help you avoid making any mistakes. This is because they have the experience and expertise to know what works and what doesn’t.

Of course, there are some disadvantages to hiring a contractor as well. The first is that it will cost you more money. This is because you have to pay for their labor.

Another downside is that you might not get exactly what you want. This is because you’ll be working with someone else’s vision.

If you’re considering hiring a contractor, be sure to get multiple estimates. This will help you find the best price for the job. There are plenty of deck builders near Chicago, so you won’t have a problem with hiring a contractor!

However, you need to make sure that you always prioritize quality work at all times. Skimping on this could lead to big problems down the line. You should also take the time to read reviews of different contractors. This will help you find someone who is reputable and has a good track record.

No matter what route you decide to take, be sure to do your research and plan everything out carefully. By taking the time to do things right, you can save yourself a lot of money and hassle in the long run. After all, your deck will be a part of your home for many years to come. Make a wise decision!

Contact UglyDeck Today!

If you are looking for deck builders near Chicago, look no further than UglyDeck. We specialize in building custom decks that are both beautiful and functional.

We can help you with everything from design and planning to ordering materials and construction. We also offer a wide range of decking options, so you can find the perfect one for your home.

With us, you are guaranteed:

• Affordable rates
• High-quality materials
• Experienced and skilled professionals
• A deck that will last for years to come

Contact us today to get started! You can rest assured that you’re in good hands with UglyDeck. We look forward to working with you!