The Deck Effect: How a New Deck Can Boost Your Home's Value and Curb Appeal

Adding a deck to your home can boost your home’s resale value and enhance its curb appeal. You may wonder how a deck that can't be seen at the front of the house can increase curb appeal, but it can happen if it’s a wraparound deck or a deck built above your side yard. Here are some ways a deck can increase your home’s value.

You get a good ROI if you add a deck

Decks can be expensive to build, but they give you a good return on investment (ROI). Some experts estimate the ROI to be between 37% and 60%, though others believe the ROI can go even higher, depending on where you live. The ROI for decks in the East and West is a bit higher than for those in the Midwest and South.

Be mindful of materials

Decks are most often made of wood, especially weather-resistant wood such as cedar, PVC, or composites. A wood deck brings in a larger ROI percentage-wise because decks made of composite materials cost more than decks made of wood. Composite materials also need less maintenance than wood and are often more durable.

Make the deck the right size for the home

Make sure that your deck is proportional to both the size of your home and the size of the property around it. A huge deck built for a small home with a small yard has an unwieldy look, and a deck that’s too small may look “lost." To determine the right size, you also need to consider how you plan to use the deck. A larger deck would be ideal if you and your family love to dine al fresco or throw outdoor parties. A deck where you just go out to relax and unwind might be smaller.

Build a deck that complements its surroundings

Another way to get a good ROI on your deck is to build it in a way that complements its surroundings. Consider colors for the deck that harmonize with the colors of the paint on your house. You can consult a color wheel for ideas. You don't need to stick with neutrals.

Make the deck attractive

Instead of building a deck that's just planks, railing, stairs, and not much else, design it with curb appeal and ROI in mind. Think of adding deck or bistro lights, fire pits, built-in furniture, different levels, and planters.

Maximize ROI by selling soon after you build the deck

The biggest ROI from a deck comes when you sell your home right after you build it. This may be a bit off-putting if you want to enjoy your deck, but experts claim you can keep the deck for a year before selling, and it shouldn’t affect the ROI very much.

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