Lumber and Trex Market Update: 1/29/2022
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Can I Demo My Existing Deck to Save On Costs?

There comes a time when every deck reaches the end of its days. It’s no longer a source of joy but a bit of an eyesore or even a safety concern (and a to-do). You’re ready to say goodbye and excited for something new. 

When this happens, homeowners often ask us if they can be the ones to demo their existing deck to reduce costs. We completely understand; a new deck is not a small investment, after all.

DIY Demo

So is a DIY demo a possibility when you work with us? Absolutely! We like to collaborate with homeowners and develop a custom game plan that works for them.  

And if we’re being honest, taking a sharpened reciprocating saw to your deck can also be a great way to take out some frustration. Especially if your deck has been giving you a hard time with all the maintenance, rotting boards, etc. Plus, we can’t forget about the fun factor; you could even invite some friends over to help.

But there’s also a lot to consider when it comes to safety. You’ll be working with saws and other demo tools, so don’t forget your safety glasses, gloves, and close-toed shoes! So while you can certainly handle the demo, feel free to rely on us if you aren’t feeling up to it. 

Time to Complete

If you’re considering handling the demo, I’m sure you’ve also wondered about the time it will take, so we’ll give you an idea. Typically, it takes a crew of two carpenters about two hours to two days to demo a deck, depending on its size and complexity. Here are a few factors that will affect the total time:

  • The height of the deck
  • Railings
  • Built-in benches
  • Deck skirting or lattice
  • Pergolas
  • Roofing
  • Windows
  • How the deck was built (footings & framing)

Savings

Alright, let’s talk savings (that’s why you’re reading this, right?). On average, a DIY demo of a 350 square foot deck that’s a few feet off the ground will save you between $1,000-$2,000. A few things come into play here that we can walk you through during our proposal. 

But these savings include the cost of renting dumpsters, hauling them away, and the dump fee. If you’d like to do the demo and have us haul away the debris, we can certainly do that too! However, the cost savings would be a bit less.

The Bottom Line

We want to work with you in whatever capacity works best. So if you’re itching to get your hands dirty and handle the demo of your old deck, we say go for it! And we’ll even haul away the junk if you want to skip that step (because that’s not the fun part, is it?).

Or, if you’re more comfortable with us managing it, we’ll gladly get started ASAP!

What Next?

Custom Deck Creations designs and builds composite decks for clients across Southeast Michigan. We’ll work with you on the project to create the perfect deck for you that’s within your budget. And if you’re feeling ambitious, you can take on the demo of your old deck to save on costs. 

When you’re ready to get started, please get in touch, and we’ll give you a free over-the-phone estimate. If you’d like some inspiration, feel free to check out our most recent builds

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About Custom Deck Creations

From design to installation, Custom Deck Creations combines beautiful decks with fair pricing and unparalleled customer service. Our designs stand out, while our install processes exceeds expectations. We are a certified TrexPro Platinum builder. Custom Deck Creations is located in and serves Southeast Michigan. 

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Lumber and Trex Market Costs Update

Last Updated: 1/29/2022
Custom Deck Creations

A brief look into the current and expected inflation

Quick Summary

Lumber rose +28% locally from November 2021 to January 2022, and is expected for another significant double-digit increase impacting us in June 2022. We’re also anticipating a cost increase  from Trex around that  same time frame. Depending on size and material selection, decks are anticipated to increase in cost an average of $2,000 to $4,000 come June 2022. Custom Deck Creations is currently scheduling projects for April/May, before we feel these cost increases. Schedule a quote with us today to lock in today’s costs.

For a more detailed look into the market, please continue reading:

Lumber

The lumber market continues to see pressure on the supply side. Canadian truck drivers are protesting COVID vaccine mandates, threatening to disrupt deliveries in Canada and possibly into the US. Fuel prices are also increasing. Overall demand for Southern Yellow Pine (pressure treated lumber used here in MI) remains steady. Mills are not sitting on a lot of inventory. Lead times from mills to dealers are getting extended.

Pressure treated lumber costs increased locally +28% from November 2021 to January 2022.

Lumber is expected to increase another ~+40% in June 2022. 

Custom Deck Creations is currently scheduling projects for April & May 2022, before we’re impacted by these increased costs.

Trex

Data from Trex distributors nationwide are seeing a steady growth in purchases even through winter.

Trex continues to see huge demand increases nationwide. 

Our Interpretation

Lumber will continue to rise in price throughout 2022. We don’t believe we’ll see pre-2022 lumber pricing any time soon.

In 2021 Trex put out 4 separate approximately +10% price increases. We believe more are to be expected in 2022. We do not expect Trex to ever lower their pricing.

No Inflationary Clause

Custom Deck Creations does not have an inflationary clause. Lock in today’s lumber and Trex costs with a signed agreement which puts you on our schedule. We will not charge you more even if our costs go up.

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