Don't Fall For A Risky DIY Deck: The Home Depot Service Everyone Should Know About

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If you're a DIYer who's dreamt about having a peaceful, private outdoor space at your house, then you've probably considered building your own deck. While we're all for a good home improvement project over here, installing decking is a major undertaking — and if you don't follow the right process, you could end up breaking the law or constructing a deck that's unsafe for you and your family. To avoid those risks, there's another option available: Hiring a professional deck builder from Home Depot's Pro Referral marketplace.

So, how does this service work? First, you'll provide your ZIP code, then you'll answer some questions about your project — including the deck's square footage and material. You'll also need to share your name and contact details. After submitting, you'll get a list of local deck companies in Home Depot's network. If you'd like, you can view their profiles, which include their areas of expertise, reviews, and past projects. At the same time, Home Depot will also pass along your information to these companies. Home Depot says you should expect to start receiving calls from these pros within 24 hours. When we tried it, we got a call almost immediately. We also started receiving messages from local companies pretty much right away. From there, you can collect and compare quotes and pick a pro to build the perfect deck for your home.

When you hire a deck installer through this marketplace, the cost includes materials, labor, and any required permits. According to Home Depot, building a basic deck with pressure-treated wood usually runs between $12 and $15 per square foot. But for more complex designs or higher-end materials, you could pay $35 or more per square foot. Prices can also vary based on where you live.

Whether you use Home Depot's service or find your own contractor, it's typically best to hire a professional to install a deck (especially a large or multi-story one). There are a few reasons for this, but the first is because of the laws surrounding deck projects. Specifically, in some areas, it's illegal to build a deck without the proper permits — even if you own the property. Here's an example: In Denver, you must have a zoning permit to install any uncovered deck more than 12 inches off the ground. If it's 30 inches or higher, you'll also need a building permit. All covered patios also need permits. In addition, there are rules around who can apply for and secure permits. Unless you're a contractor or have past deck-building experience, it's much easier to have a professional navigate this for you.

Safety is another big reason to consider hiring a pro for this kind of work. Your deck must be sturdy and secure enough to support the weight of people, furniture, and snow (depending on where you live). If not, it could collapse, potentially injuring you or damaging your property. That said, if you're willing to pull permits, create DIY deck plans, buy the supplies, and build everything yourself, you can save a good chunk of money on labor. Keep in mind, though, that you'll still have to shell out for materials and permits. And if you don't already have the right tools or equipment for the job, you'll have to pay for those, too.