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Costs to Consider When Remodeling a SoCal Home’s Deck or Patio

When it comes to remodeling a SoCal home, there’s no secret why decks or patios can be a priority. Because of our SoCal weather, we use them so frequently for enjoying life; which means they also can wear out because of exposure to that weather.

Enhancing your home’s deck or patio will add curb appeal and value to your home. Therefore, it’s good to know what kind of  investment you will need to make. From permits to repairs, every homeowner should consider the following remodeling costs.

Costs of Remodeling

Are you staining an existing deck? Adding new railings? Recoating and resurfacing? Changing the deck mountings? Is the patio going to be completely overhauled, redesigned and repaved?

According to HomeAdvisor, homeowners spend between $900 and $2,000 on deck repairs and simple remodeling. That is an average of around $1,500 in Los Angeles. This gives you a ballpark starting point. As for patio work, the average sits around $3,500 but can go as high as $8,000 for larger or more complex jobs.

Of course, remodeling a SoCal home can go much farther and the sky is the limit when it comes to decks and patios. Some homeowners like to make theirs into stylish extensions of the living space. Therefore, there is nothing like getting an estimate from a contractor before committing. You will receive a full list of every aspect and detail.

Damages and Repairs

Obviously, repair costs will be lower and less frequent for decks and patios that are well maintained and inspected regularly. But there are some costs that people don’t always consider and are essential like bracing, earthquake proofing, drainage and safety features.

As time passes, wood decks rot and lose their finish coating. Neglected decks develop broken boards, popped nails and other issues that can lead to mold, pests, and compromised safety.

The minimum cost of essential repairs is about $450, depending on the size and type of deck.  With a severely damaged or compromised porch or patio, this cost could go as high as $5,000.

Set a Remodeling Budget

Many factors come into play when you determine a budget for remodeling any part of a SoCal home. The most common are labor, materials, designing, and permits. Homeowners can expect an average of $45 per square foot for a 200-square-foot deck.

Remodeling a patio involves heavier materials as well as concrete work. The process may also uncover hidden issues. Keep some wiggle room in your budget for surprises.

Building Permit Fees

Almost every remodeling project requires a permit for complying with municipal codes and safety regulations. Contractors submit detailed building plans to the city and an inspector reviews them.

Factor in permit fees as you work out budget details with your contractor. Failure to get a permit could result in hefty fines or forced removal of a project. Always check with your contractor and the local bylaws.

Go With a Pro

Remodeling a SoCal home’s deck or patio is an investment that increases property value and curb appeal. The perfect deck in Los Angeles County is worth the costs. Even with the rise of the DIY trend, most people hire contractors to finish these projects on time and within budget.

Romney Tripp of RWT Design & Construction“Romney Tripp started construction in 1977 and formed RWT Design & Construction in 1992, eventually setting up the shop in Burbank. From the mid 1980’s Romney has been working on building recording studios as well as…” Read more.

Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to RWT Design & Construction.

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