Building a deck is one of the most impactful ways to improve your outdoor space—enhancing both function and home value. But when it comes to getting started, one major question arises: Should you build it yourself or hire professional deck builders St. Louis homeowners trust?
At GreenScapeSTL Landscaping and Outdoor Living, we know that every homeowner’s needs, budget, and skills are different. To help you make the best decision for your home and lifestyle, we’ve broken down the pros and cons of both approaches.
The Case for DIY Deck Building
Pros:
1. Potential Cost Savings:
One of the biggest appeals of DIY deck building is saving on labor costs. If you already own tools and have some construction experience, this might be a budget-friendly option.
2. Full Creative Control:
DIY lets you design your space exactly how you envision it, from layout to materials. You set the pace and make the decisions every step of the way.
3. Personal Satisfaction:
There’s a sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a home improvement project on your own. For many, that pride is worth the extra effort.
Cons:
1. Time-Consuming:
Deck projects can take weeks—or even months—if you’re working solo. You’ll need to account for everything from digging footers to finishing touches, all while managing your regular schedule.
2. Steep Learning Curve:
If you’ve never built a deck before, you’ll likely face a variety of challenges, including permitting, structural integrity, and material choices. Mistakes can be costly and unsafe.
3. Lack of Warranty:
Unlike professionally installed decks, DIY decks typically aren’t covered under workmanship warranties, which means you absorb all future repair and replacement costs.
The Case for Hiring Professional Deck Builders
Pros:
1. Expertise and Experience:
Hiring one of the best deck companies means you get seasoned pros who understand local building codes, zoning laws, and climate challenges unique to St. Louis. This ensures a safer, more durable structure.
2. Time Efficiency:
Professional crews can complete a deck in a fraction of the time it might take a DIYer. This is especially important if you’re working with tight timelines, such as hosting an event or selling your home.
3. Quality and Customization:
A trusted deck designer St. Louis homeowners recommend can create a tailored solution that blends style, comfort, and function. Whether you want multi-level platforms, built-in seating, or lighting systems, pros can bring your vision to life.
4. Warranty and Support:
Working with professionals often includes warranties for labor and materials, giving you peace of mind long after the project is complete.
Cons:
1. Higher Upfront Costs:
Professional deck construction involves labor costs and potentially higher material markups, but these are often offset by long-term durability and fewer mistakes.
2. Limited Flexibility:
You may need to work around a contractor’s schedule and may be limited to the materials or brands they use.
The Verdict: Which Is Right for You?
Ultimately, your decision comes down to your experience level, available time, and long-term goals. DIY may be right for those with building knowledge and a modest design in mind. But for more complex, long-lasting results, working with a professional full-service landscape company is often the smarter investment.
A professional deck adds more than just square footage—it enhances outdoor living St. Louis homeowners can enjoy for years, from morning coffee breaks to summer BBQs.
Why Choose GreenScapeSTL Landscaping and Outdoor Living?
At GreenScapeSTL Landscaping and Outdoor Living, we offer more than just deck building. As an affordable landscaping St. Louis solution, we integrate decks into complete outdoor environments—blending structure with nature to create truly functional outdoor spaces.
We’re proud to be considered one of the best deck companies in the region because of our attention to detail, thoughtful design, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Whether you want a sprawling hardwood deck or a compact composite platform, our team is here to help. Visit our About Us page to learn more about our mission and approach. Explore Our Services to see our full range of offerings, or Contact Us today to schedule a free consultation.