AZEK PVC Decking: Build a Project Budget Before You Buy

Understanding AZEK PVC Decking Materials

AZEK PVC decking is a premium capped polymer board with zero wood content, offering durability and a sophisticated aesthetic. It comes in three collections: Vintage, Landmark, and Harvest, each with distinct grain patterns and color palettes. The Vintage Collection, for example, offers widths of 5-1/2 inches and 7-1/4 inches, while Landmark and Harvest are available in 5-1/2 inches.

When budgeting, consider not just the decking boards themselves, but also matching fascia and risers for a cohesive look. These components are designed to complement the decking and complete the visual appeal of your project. Factor in the specific profile (grooved or square) needed for your chosen fastening system, as this influences the type of fasteners you'll purchase. AZEK PVC decking also features an Alloy Armour Technology cap, providing a durable surface.

Worked Example: Decking Material Takeoff

Let's assume a hypothetical deck measuring 16 feet wide by 10 feet deep. The design calls for AZEK Vintage Collection in Coastline, using 16-foot grooved boards laid perpendicular to the house, with a single picture frame border on the three exposed sides. There will also be a small set of three stairs.

Main Deck Area: The deck is 16 feet wide. Using 5-1/2 inch wide boards (0.458 feet), laid perpendicular to the house, you'll need approximately 16 ft / 0.458 ft/board = 34.93 boards. Round up to 35 boards.

Picture Frame Border: The border will run along the two 10-foot sides and one 16-foot side. This requires (2 * 10 ft) + 16 ft = 36 linear feet of border material. Assuming the same 16-foot board lengths are used for the border, you will need 36 ft / 16 ft/board = 2.25 boards. Round up to 3 boards to account for cuts and waste.

Stairs: For a three-step stair unit, you'll need three stair treads and three risers. Each tread and riser will likely be cut from a full board. If the stairs are 4 feet wide, you would need 3 x 4 ft = 12 linear feet for treads and 3 x 4 ft = 12 linear feet for risers. Using 16-foot boards, this would require 1 board for treads and 1 board for risers, assuming efficient cutting.

Fascia: For the exposed perimeter, excluding the house side, the fascia would cover (2 * 10 ft) + 16 ft = 36 linear feet. Fascia boards are typically 12 feet long. So, 36 ft / 12 ft/board = 3 boards.

Total Board Estimate: 35 (main deck) + 3 (border) + 2 (stairs) + 3 (fascia) = 43 boards. This is an initial estimate and does not include a waste factor. It is always recommended to add 5-10% for cuts, potential mistakes, and future repairs. For this example, let's add 10%, bringing the total to approximately 47-48 boards.

Fasteners and Hardware

AZEK PVC decking offers both grooved and square edge options. For grooved boards, hidden fasteners such as US4 hidden clips are recommended, providing a clean, screw-free surface. The choice of fastener system will impact your budget.

Hidden fasteners are generally purchased in boxes or buckets designed to cover a certain square footage, while face screws are sold by quantity. Remember to account for any specialized drill bits or installation tools that might be required for your chosen fastening method. Also, consider the need for starter clips if using a hidden fastening system around the perimeter.

Framing and Structural Considerations

While AZEK PVC decking is the visible surface, the underlying substructure is crucial. This budget component includes lumber for joists, beams, and posts, along with concrete footings or piers. Consider the span ratings for your chosen framing material and ensure it meets local building codes. Pressure-treated lumber is common for outdoor framing due to its resistance to rot and insects.

Even if you are reusing an existing deck frame, it's critical to have it inspected by a qualified professional to ensure it is sound, level, and can adequately support the new decking. Any necessary repairs or upgrades to the existing frame should be factored into your budget. Adequate ventilation beneath the deck is also important for the longevity of both the decking and the frame.

Labor, Permits, and Contingency

Labor costs can be a significant portion of your project budget, whether you hire a professional contractor or tackle some tasks yourself. Obtain multiple bids from licensed and insured contractors, ensuring their quotes are detailed and itemize labor, materials, and any sub-contracted work.

Permits are often required for deck construction or renovation. Check with your local building department for specific requirements and associated fees. Failing to obtain necessary permits can lead to fines and project delays. These fees should be included in your budget.

A contingency fund is essential for any construction project, typically 10-15% of the total project cost. This fund covers unexpected issues, such as unforeseen framing repairs, changes in material availability, or minor design adjustments. Having a contingency helps prevent your project from going over budget due to unpredictable circumstances.

Before you order

• Confirm exact deck dimensions (length, width, height) and specific areas like stairs or picture frames.
• Choose your AZEK PVC decking collection (Vintage, Landmark, Harvest), color, and board width.
• Decide on grooved or square edge boards, which dictates your fastening system.
• Calculate linear footage for decking boards, fascia, and risers, adding a waste factor.
• Determine the quantity and type of fasteners (hidden clips or face screws).
• Assess the condition of your existing frame or plan for new framing materials.
• Obtain quotes for labor from licensed contractors.
• Research local permit requirements and fees.
• Allocate a contingency fund (10-15% of total budget).
• Consider costs for delivery, site preparation, and waste disposal.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

Questions to help you decide

Keep planning your project