Building a deck is an exciting way to expand your living space and enjoy Michigan’s outdoors. If you have some construction experience, maybe you’ve framed walls or done basic electrical work, the idea of building your own deck can be appealing.
Decks come with their own set of challenges. From securing permits and meeting building codes to managing materials and ensuring excellent craftsmanship, there’s a lot to consider. Many homeowners start with DIY plans but find themselves facing unexpected complexities along the way.
As a licensed TrexPro Platinum builder since 2004, we’ve built hundreds of decks that are not only beautiful but built to last and meet all safety standards.
This article will help you weigh the pros and cons of building your own deck versus hiring a professional. You’ll get a clear picture of what’s involved, the common hurdles, and how to decide what’s best for your home, budget, and peace of mind:
- What’s Involved in Building a Deck?
- DIY Deck Building: The Reality
- Hiring a Full-Service Deck Contractor: What You Get
- Long-Term Maintenance: What You’ll Deal With Later
- Should You Build or Hire?
What’s Involved in Building a Deck?
Whether you go DIY or hire a contractor, every deck build requires:
- Designing the layout
- Pulling permits
- Choosing materials
- Preparing the site
- Installing footings and framing
- Inspections (if required)
- Decking, railing, and stairs
Most deck projects will require more than a weekend. A deck needs to hold weight, resist the weather, and meet safety standards. That takes planning, precision, and time.
DIY Deck Building: The Reality
If you're experienced and enjoy carpentry, building your own deck may be the right choice. You’ll save on labor and gain full control of the process.
It’s important to take a look at all the pros and cons before heading into your potential build, though:
The Upside of DIY Deck Building
1. Lower upfront labor costs
When you build it yourself, you’re not paying for a contractor’s time. That can lead to noticeable savings, especially if you already have some tools and know-how.
2. Full control over the process and timeline
You get to decide when and how things get done. You can make design changes as you go and move at your own pace, without waiting on someone else’s schedule.
3. The satisfaction of completing the project yourself
There’s something deeply rewarding about stepping back and seeing a deck you built with your own hands. If you enjoy physical work and solving problems, a DIY build can be a proud accomplishment.
The Downside of DIY Deck Building
1. Permitting, inspections, and code compliance are your responsibility
You’ll need to understand your local building codes and pull the right permits. If your work doesn’t meet code, you could fail inspections or have to tear things out and start over.
Solution:
Before you begin, call your local building department. Ask for a copy of the deck-building code requirements and inspection process. You can also bring your plans in for a preliminary review. If you're unsure about the design or footing requirements, consider paying for a one-time consultation with a structural engineer or contractor.
2. Tools and equipment costs can add up quickly
Building a deck requires more than just a hammer and saw. You’ll likely need a post hole digger, circular saw, drill, level, string lines, safety gear, and more. Renting or buying the right tools can close the gap on any upfront savings.
Solution:
Make a list of all the tools you'll need for each phase of the project. Check local hardware stores for rental options, or consider borrowing from friends or family can also help minimize costs.
3. Risk of costly errors, especially with footings, framing, or railing safety
If something is installed incorrectly, like the footings being too shallow or the railings not secured to code, you may face expensive repairs, safety hazards, or inspection issues later on.
Solution:
Use manufacturer-provided guides (like those from Trex) to follow best practices. Watch tutorial videos from trusted sources and double-check your work with a code checklist. If you're unsure about framing or railing, bring in a pro to do just that part. You’ll still save money while protecting the integrity of the build.
4. No labor warranty if issues arise after completion
If a problem arises six months later, such as a loose board or wobbly stairs, you’re the one responsible for fixing it. With no warranty to fall back on, even small issues can become big headaches.
Solution:
Document your entire build with photos, receipts, and step-by-step notes. This will help if you ever need to troubleshoot or explain your work during a future sale. Consider hiring a licensed contractor to inspect the finished deck to catch any issues you may have missed.
5. Many DIY decks take weeks or even months to finish
Evenings and weekends can fill up fast, especially with Michigan’s unpredictable weather. If life gets busy or materials are delayed, a “quick project” can stretch out longer than expected.
Solution:
Create a realistic schedule with clear milestones (e.g., demo done by week 1, framing by week 2). Allow for buffer time in case of weather or delays. Ask family and neighbors to help. Extra hands make light work.
6. Potential impact on resale value if the deck isn’t up to code or properly finished
Homebuyers and their inspectors notice when a deck doesn’t look right. Gaps in code compliance or visible mistakes can reduce your home’s value or lead to requested repairs during a sale.
Solution:
Keep everything in code and save all paperwork, including permits, inspections, and material warranties. If you plan to sell your home within a few years, consider hiring a licensed professional for a final inspection to confirm that your build meets current standards.
Hiring a Full-Service Deck Contractor: What You Get
A professional deck builder does more than just build. We handle every step of the process, from design to permits to completion.
The Benefits of Hiring a Full-Service Deck Contractor
1. Professional guidance on layout, materials, and code
A good contractor brings years of experience to the table. They’ll help you choose the right size, shape, and materials for your lifestyle and home style, ensuring everything meets local building codes.
2. More efficient and structured project completion
With a dedicated crew and a clear process, you’ll avoid long gaps between steps. Most professional deck builds follow a set timeline, meaning you can enjoy your new space sooner and with fewer surprises.
3. Licensed and insured work
If something goes wrong during construction, you're protected. Licensed contractors carry liability insurance, workers' comp, and the proper credentials to handle everything safely and legally.
4. Built-in workmanship warranties and accountability
Most contractors offer a workmanship warranty, so you’re covered if something shifts or cracks after the project is done. That kind of peace of mind is hard to put a price on.
5. Higher opportunity for better resale value
Buyers notice a well-built deck. Professionally built outdoor spaces not only look better, but they also appreciate in value. A permitted, code-compliant deck can make your home more marketable when it’s time to sell.
6. Access to premium material warranties
As a TrexPro Platinum Builder, we install high-performance composite materials backed by warranties of up to 50 years. These low-maintenance decks resist fading, staining, and warping—and they look great for decades.
Our team also understands the intricacies of Trex design features, hidden fasteners, and layout options that add real value to your space.
The Considerations of Hiring a Full-Service Deck Contractor
1. Higher upfront cost
You’ll pay more initially for labor and project management. But that cost also includes expert design help, professional installation, proper permits, and long-term durability—things that are often more expensive to correct after the fact if issues arise from your DIY project.
2. Less hands-on control (but a lot less stress)
You won’t be making every cut or setting every board yourself. However, you also won’t have to chase down inspectors, wait for materials, or fix framing issues when something doesn’t line up. A well-run project means fewer headaches and more time to focus on what matters, like planning your first backyard gathering.
Long-Term Maintenance: What You’ll Deal With Later
Whether you build it yourself or hire a pro, your deck will need upkeep. But how much and how soon depends heavily on the material choices you make upfront.
DIY Builds May Need More Upkeep
Homeowners who build their own decks often use pressure-treated wood because it’s affordable, easier to install, and readily available. But wood decking requires annual maintenance:
- Power washing
- Sanding and staining
- Checking for rot, warping, or popped nails
Miss a year or two, and you could end up replacing boards or the entire structure sooner than expected.
Some DIYers opt for composite decking instead, hoping for a low-maintenance option, and it can be. But composite materials are less forgiving during installation. If the joist spacing is incorrect or the boards aren’t secured with the correct fasteners, it can lead to sagging, separation, or even voided warranties.
Composite decking is a great long-term investment, but to get the most out of it, precise installation of the specific product is necessary. If you're taking the DIY route, take extra time to understand the manufacturer's specifications and ensure your framing supports the material as intended.
Contractor-Built Decks Last Longer
Professionals often recommend low-maintenance composite decking, such as Trex, which doesn’t require staining or sealing. It resists fading, mold, and damage from Michigan weather.
When installed correctly, a composite deck:
- Looks great year after year
- Saves time and money on upkeep
- Holds its value better
If you want to enjoy your deck without a long to-do list, hiring a contractor who builds with quality materials is a smart long-term investment.
Should You Build or Hire?
It depends on your goals, skills, and timeline.
A DIY deck build can feel rewarding and cost-effective if you’re comfortable with construction and have the time to commit. On the other hand, hiring a professional brings expertise, faster timelines, and peace of mind that everything is done right:
Build it yourself if:
- You have strong carpentry experience and understand structural framing.
- You’re comfortable pulling permits and following local building codes.
- You have the proper tools (or access to them), including power saws, drills, and levels.
- You have time to dedicate evenings and weekends for multiple weeks.
- You enjoy hands-on projects and problem-solving on the fly.
- You’re okay with delays if weather or scheduling conflicts arise.
- You’re willing to take full responsibility for any mistakes or warranty issues.
Hire a contractor if:
- You want a safe, fast, and lasting result that’s code-compliant.
- You want guidance with layout, materials, and custom design options.
- You want professional-grade tools, skills, and knowledge on-site.
- You want to avoid costly mistakes, redos, or inspection failures.
- You want the job completed on a specific timeline, even with weather challenges.
- You want warranties, liability coverage, and clear accountability.
- You value your time and want to enjoy your deck sooner without the stress.
Next Steps to Building or Remodeling Your Deck
Building a deck yourself can feel rewarding, but it comes with risks, delays, and potential code issues. Hiring a pro means expert guidance, quality construction, and long-term value.
You’ve now seen the pros and cons of both options and can better assess what fits your skills, budget, and timeline.
At Custom Built, we specialize in high-quality, low-stress deck builds across Greater Lansing and Northern Michigan. As a TrexPro Platinum builder, we deliver beautiful, durable outdoor spaces that last.
Thinking about your own deck project? Schedule a consultation or explore our past builds to get inspired.
Now that you know more about whether you should DIY your deck build or hire a contractor, let’s explore how much lighting and composite decks cost and Trex’s high-quality composite lines:
- How Much Does Deck Lighting Cost in Michigan? - Discover how much Trex and other deck lighting options cost and what affects the estimate.
- How Much Do Composite Decks Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - An overview of how much your Lansing composite deck will cost and the factors that will influence your price.
- Comparing Trex Lineage, Transcend, Select, and Enhance Composite Decking Lines - Explore our thorough comparison of Trex’s most common composite decking options, including cost, colors, and benefits.
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