You know that feeling, right? You’re scrolling through Pinterest, maybe just walking through a neighborhood, and you spot one of those incredible outdoor spaces that just makes you stop and think, “Man, I wish I had a deck like that!” Well, here’s the cool part – you absolutely can have that space, and it might just be one of the smartest money moves you’ll make for your home.
I’ve been in the home improvement world long enough to see trends come and go, but let me tell you, custom decks? They’re sticking around. Think of them as the Swiss Army knife of home improvements – they look amazing, add serious practicality to your daily life, and here’s the best bit: they actually pay you back when it’s time to sell.
But let’s be real for a second. You’re probably wondering if spending a few thousand dollars on a deck is truly worth it, aren’t you? I mean, we’re not talking about a quick $200 weekend project here. A quality custom deck is an investment, and like any good investment, you want to know what kind of return you can expect.
What Makes a Custom Deck So Special Compared to DIY?
Before we dive into the numbers, let’s chat about what I mean by “custom deck installation.” I’m not talking about those pre-fab kits you can grab at the big box store (and hey, no judgment if that’s your thing!).
A custom deck is designed just for your home, your yard, and your lifestyle. It considers all the important stuff: your soil, local building rules, how your family actually uses outdoor space, and how it’ll look with your home’s unique style. It’s the difference between a “one-size-fits-all” solution and something that feels like it was always meant to be there.
When Stewart Remodel Design Build works on a custom deck project here in Colorado Springs, they’re not just slapping some boards together. They’re creating an outdoor room that perfectly complements your home and handles Colorado’s unique weather challenges with ease.
The Real Numbers: What Can You Expect to Get Back?
Alright, let’s get to the part you’re probably most curious about – the money talk. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a wood deck addition generally gets you back about 65-75% of its cost when you sell. But here’s where it gets interesting – that’s just the average.
In markets like Colorado Springs, where outdoor living isn’t just a hobby, it’s practically a way of life, I’ve seen custom decks return 80% or even 90% of their investment. Why? Because buyers here aren’t just looking for a house; they’re looking for a lifestyle. And nothing says “Colorado lifestyle” like a beautiful deck where you can sip your morning coffee while gazing at Pikes Peak.
Breaking Down the Investment
Let’s say you put $15,000 into a custom deck (which is pretty typical for a nice 16×20 composite deck with some cool features). In most places, you can expect to add about $10,000-$12,000 to your home’s value right away. And that’s not even counting all the other awesome, hard-to-measure benefits we’ll chat about soon.
But here’s a little secret most people don’t think about: the return often gets better over time. While your kitchen renovation might start to feel a bit old-fashioned in 10 years, a well-built deck just matures beautifully. It develops that lovely, lived-in character that buyers adore, and the landscaping around it grows in. I’ve actually seen 15-year-old custom decks that added more value than they originally cost!
How Decks Help Your Home Stand Out
You know what real estate agents call a truly great deck? A “showing stopper.” It’s one of those features that makes potential buyers slow down, take a deep breath, and start picturing themselves living there.
The First Impression Factor
Your deck is often one of the very first things people see when they pull up to your house. It’s like the outdoor version of a grand entryway – it sets the whole mood. A thoughtfully designed custom deck tells buyers right away that you care about your home and that you’ve put effort into quality improvements.
I remember showing a house a few years back that had this amazing multi-level deck with built-in seating and a pergola. The buyers hadn’t even stepped through the front door, and they were already buzzing about hosting summer barbecues. That’s the real power of a fantastic outdoor space.
Standing Out in the Market
Here’s something that might surprise you: in many neighborhoods, having a custom deck isn’t just a nice bonus; it’s practically expected. This is especially true in places like Colorado Springs, where outdoor living is such a huge part of our culture. If your house doesn’t have some kind of outdoor entertaining space, you’re automatically starting at a bit of a disadvantage.
But it’s not just about having a deck; it’s about having the right deck. A basic, builder-grade deck might check a box, but a custom deck that’s designed with real thought and care? That’s what makes buyers choose your house over the one down the street.
Deck Materials: What’s Best for Your Wallet and Your Home?
Not all deck materials are created equal, and the choice you make can really impact both what you spend upfront and what you get back later.
Pressure-Treated Lumber: The Wallet-Friendly Choice
Let’s start with the most common option: pressure-treated lumber. It’s affordable, easy to find, and with proper care, it can last 15-20 years. For a basic 12×16 deck, you’re probably looking at around $8,000-$12,000 installed.
The catch? It needs regular upkeep – think staining every 2-3 years, replacing boards as they warp or split, and dealing with those annoying splinters. From a resale point of view, buyers see it as “just fine.” It won’t hurt your value, but it won’t blow anyone away either.
Composite Decking: The Sweet Spot
This is where I see most homeowners ending up these days, and for good reason. Composite materials like Trex or TimberTech cost more upfront (plan on adding 30-50% to your lumber costs), but they’re practically maintenance-free.
Here’s the cool thing about composite: buyers absolutely love it. They see those beautiful, consistent colors and hear “no maintenance required,” and suddenly that higher price tag doesn’t seem so scary. I’ve seen composite decks add 15-20% more value than their wood cousins, even after factoring in the initial extra cost.
Premium Options: Hardwoods and Exotic Woods
If you really want to make a statement, materials like ipe, mahogany, or cedar can create truly stunning results. These premium choices can double your material costs, but they also create an incredibly luxurious outdoor space.
The key with premium materials is making sure they fit with your home’s overall value. A $30,000 exotic hardwood deck on a $200,000 house is probably a bit much. But on a $500,000+ home? It might be exactly what makes your house stand out from the competition.
Design Features That Really Add Value
Not all deck features are created equal when it comes to boosting your home’s worth. Some upgrades give you serious bang for your buck, while others are more about personal enjoyment than resale value.
Multi-Level Designs
If your yard has any kind of slope or elevation change, a multi-level deck can be absolutely magical. It adds visual interest, creates distinct areas for different activities, and makes your outdoor space feel much bigger than it actually is.
I’ve seen modest backyards transformed into what feels like a resort-style escape just by adding a second level or some thoughtfully placed steps. The trick is making it feel purposeful, not like you just ran out of flat ground.
Built-In Features That Work
Built-in seating is almost always a winner. It looks custom, saves space, and buyers love that they don’t have to worry about buying and arranging furniture. The same goes for built-in planters, fire pits, and storage benches.
But here’s a little warning: don’t go overboard. I’ve seen decks so packed with built-ins that they felt cramped and inflexible. The best designs strike a nice balance between built-in convenience and open space for furniture and moving around.
Lighting and Electrical
This is one of those upgrades that costs relatively little but makes a huge difference. Adding electrical outlets and some smart lighting extends the hours you can use your deck and creates a truly inviting atmosphere.
String lights, subtle recessed deck lighting, or even just a couple of well-placed wall lights can transform your deck from a daytime-only spot into an amazing evening retreat. And buyers definitely notice – trust me on that one.
Colorado Springs: What You Need to Know
Living in Colorado Springs means dealing with some unique challenges that can actually work in your favor when it comes to deck value.
Weather and Durability
Our weather here is no joke – intense sun, sudden hailstorms, and temperature swings that’ll make your head spin. But here’s the thing: buyers know this. They’re looking for outdoor improvements that can truly handle what Mother Nature throws at them.
This is where working with a local contractor like Stewart Remodel Design Build really pays off. They understand which materials work best in our climate, how to handle our tricky clay soils, and what design features will truly stand up to our weather patterns.
Altitude and Sun Exposure
At our elevation, UV exposure is no joke. Materials that might last 20 years at sea level might only give you 15 here. But buyers understand this trade-off because they also understand the incredible outdoor lifestyle that comes with living in Colorado Springs.
The key is choosing materials and finishes that are specifically made for high-altitude, high-UV environments. It might cost a bit more upfront, but it’ll pay off big time in both how long your deck lasts and how confident buyers feel about it.
Local Design Preferences
Colorado buyers have specific tastes when it comes to outdoor spaces. They want decks that feel connected to our beautiful natural environment, that take advantage of our incredible views, and that support an active, outdoor-focused lifestyle.
This might mean adding natural stone elements, picking stain colors that blend with our landscape, or designing sight lines that perfectly frame those mountain views. These little details matter more here than they might in other markets.
Timing Your Deck Installation for Maximum Impact
When you install your deck can be almost as important as what kind of deck you choose, especially if you’re thinking about selling your home sometime soon.
Best Seasons for Installation
In Colorado, late spring through early fall is prime deck season – both for building and for enjoying your new space. If you’re planning to sell, having your deck finished by Memorial Day is perfect. That gives you the entire summer to enjoy it and for potential buyers to see it in its full glory.
But here’s a little insider tip: if you can handle the construction during the off-season, you might save some money. Contractors are often more available and sometimes more flexible on pricing during their slower months.
How Long Before Selling?
If you’re thinking about selling really soon, you might wonder if it’s even worth putting in a deck. My general rule is this: if you’re selling within six months, you should probably skip it unless your house is at a serious disadvantage without one. But if you’ve got a year or more, go for it!
The sweet spot is actually 1-3 years before selling. That gives you plenty of time to enjoy the space, work out any initial kinks, and let the deck settle into the landscape. Plus, you’ll have real stories to tell potential buyers about how much you’ve loved living out there.
Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Return
I’ve seen plenty of deck projects that didn’t quite deliver the returns they should have, and it usually comes down to a few common slip-ups.
Going Too Big or Too Small
This is probably the most common mistake I see. Either people build a giant deck that completely swallows their yard and their budget, or they go so small that it feels like an afterthought.
The right size depends on your lot, your house, and your budget, but a good rule of thumb is that your deck should feel proportional to your home. A tiny deck on a huge house looks a bit cheap, while an enormous deck on a small house can look a little like the tail wagging the dog.
Ignoring Local Building Codes
This one can really bite you. Every city has different rules for things like railing height, footing depth, and how things are connected structurally. Cutting corners here doesn’t just create safety issues – it can cause serious headaches when it’s time to sell.
Always get the proper permits and work with contractors who truly understand local codes. Yes, it adds a bit of cost and time, but it protects your investment and gives buyers confidence in the quality of the work.
Choosing Style Over Function
I totally get it – you see something gorgeous on Instagram and you want to recreate it. But the most valuable decks are the ones that actually work for how people live.
Think about how you’ll truly use the space. Do you need room for a dining table? Space for the kids to play? A spot for the grill that’s not right next to the back door? The best designs find that sweet spot between looking good and being super practical.
Maintenance and Keeping That Value Strong
Here’s something a lot of people don’t think about: the ongoing care of your deck has a huge impact on how well it holds its value over time.
Creating a Maintenance Plan
Even low-maintenance materials need some TLC. Composite decking might not need staining, but it still needs regular cleaning. Wood decking needs more intensive care, but with the right maintenance schedule, it can look fantastic for decades.
The key is staying on top of things. A little bit of prevention goes a long, long way toward protecting your investment.
When to Consider Upgrades
Sometimes the best return on investment comes from upgrading an existing deck rather than starting from scratch. New railings, updated lighting, or even just a really good cleaning and refinishing can breathe new life into a tired deck.
If your deck’s structure is solid but it’s looking a bit dated, think about what updates might give you the biggest bang for your buck before you jump into a full replacement.
Working with the Right Contractor
This might just be the most important factor in determining how much value your deck adds. The difference between a well-built custom deck and a mediocre one isn’t just about looks – it’s about how long it lasts, how well it works, and how confident buyers feel about it.
What to Look for in a Deck Contractor
Experience really matters, especially in a market like Colorado Springs where weather and soil conditions can be tricky. Look for contractors who’ve been working in the area for years and can show you examples of their work that have truly stood the test of time.
Stewart Remodel Design Build has been serving the Colorado Springs area since 1999, and their A+ BBB rating since 2007 tells you a lot about their dedication to quality. When you’re making this kind of investment, you want to work with people who’ll still be around if you need them down the road.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Don’t be shy about asking tough questions! How do they handle drainage? What’s their warranty policy? Can they provide references from recent projects? How do they deal with our challenging soil conditions?
A good contractor will welcome these questions because they know their work can stand up to scrutiny. If someone seems evasive or pushes you to make quick decisions, that’s usually a red flag.
The Awesome Benefits That Are Hard to Measure (But Still Real!)
While we’ve been focusing on hard numbers and resale values, let’s not forget about the benefits that are harder to count but just as real.
Quality of Life Improvements
A great deck truly expands your living space and changes how you experience your home. Summer dinners outside, morning coffee in the fresh air, a safe place for kids to play that’s still connected to the house – these things have real value even if they don’t show up on an appraisal.
Faster Sales and Better Offers
Homes with attractive outdoor spaces tend to sell quicker and sometimes even for more than their appraised value. Buyers get emotional about outdoor spaces, and emotion often drives decisions.
I’ve seen buyers choose a house with a fantastic deck over one with a slightly better kitchen or more square footage. That outdoor space just becomes the thing they can’t stop thinking about.
Making the Decision: Is a Deck Right for You?
So, should you install a custom deck? Like most things in life, it depends!
If you’re planning to stay in your home for at least a few years, love spending time outdoors, and your house would really benefit from more entertaining space, then yes – a custom deck is probably a fantastic investment.
If you’re selling immediately, have a tiny yard, or live in a market where outdoor spaces aren’t particularly valued, you might want to consider other improvements first.
Getting Started with Your Project
If you’ve decided to move forward, start with a clear idea of how you want to use the space. Think about your lifestyle, your budget, and your long-term plans for the home.
Then, chat with professionals who can help you turn that vision into reality. Whether you’re in Colorado Springs, Monument, or the surrounding areas, having a conversation with experienced contractors can help you understand what’s possible within your budget and timeline.
Remember, a custom deck isn’t just about adding value to your home – though it definitely does that. It’s about creating a space where life happens, where memories are made, and where you can truly soak in that incredible Colorado lifestyle.
The numbers are compelling, the lifestyle benefits are real, and the long-term value protection is solid. If you’ve been on the fence about adding a deck to your home, maybe it’s time to stop wondering and start planning.
After all, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now. The same logic applies to creating the outdoor space you’ve always wanted – and enjoying the investment returns that come with it.