Startup cost
$50k–$500k
TRUiC Business Ideas
How to Start a Deck Building Business
Decision Snapshot
Deck Building
Idea Score
39
Profit margin
14%
Break-even
4 mo–12 mo
Time to launch
12 wk–36 wk
Demand trend
Stable
5-yr failure rate
—
Capital intensity
Very high
Time commitment
Flexible
Part 1 - How to start a Deck Building business - Background
A deck building business specializes in the construction of outdoor decks and patios for customers.
Our guide is in 3 parts:
- Part 1 - How to start a Deck Building business - Background
- Part 2 - Our planner tool to see if this idea is the right fit for you
- Part 3 - Action plan to get started
What are the costs involved in opening a deck building business?
Starting a deck building business can require a substantial amount of initial capital. You will need to build up your tools and equipment, such as circular and chop saws, pneumatic nail guns, screw guns, routers, air compressors, jigsaws, and handheld tools, such as planers, chisels, and hammers. You will also need some materials, such as nails, screws, and metal hardware at hand.
Additional investments include:
- A work truck or van
- A flatbed trailer for hauling equipment and supplies
- Signage for vehicles and your warehouse
- A warehouse for storing equipment and supplies, with utilities
- Insurance for the business and your workers
- A contractor’s license
- A website, cell phones, and internet for the business
What are the ongoing expenses for a deck building business?
Most expenses will fall in the materials and equipment categories, as your tools and the deck or patio materials are most often purchased. You will also see rent, insurance, and vehicle maintenance as critical values in your earning equations.
Who is the target market?
Your target market will more than likely be middle, to upper class clients, looking to add to the appeal or livability of their homes. You may also want to focus on customers looking to advertise their house for sale or as tenant rentals. The addition of an outside deck or patio can often be a relatively inexpensive addition, which will dramatically increase the overall value and appeal of the house.
How does a deck building business make money?
A deck building business generates revenue through the completion of deck and patio projects for customers.
How much can you charge customers?
Depending on the customer’s plan and requests, you will charge between $100-150 per square foot, although it’s best to research the price points for contractors and companies in your area and strive to stay competitive with the competition.
How much profit can a deck building business make?
Depending on the size of your company and the type of clients you regularly work for, a successful deck business can see earnings in the $80,000-120,000 range, annually.
How can you make your business more profitable?
When considering more profitable options, think about what extras customers mention or ask about in the initial estimating process. If your customers want more decorative designs and added wood or stone protections, you may want to consider dedicating a division of your business to remodeling, maintenance, or add-ons to already existing structures. You might also consider partial enclosures, sun shades, or pergolas as options for customers. Listen to their requests and create additional work options, since the customers are your number one concern and the key to your success.
Day-to-Day and Growth
What happens during a typical day at a deck building business?
Day to day activities focus on the construction of decks, creating customer estimates, and following up on customer leads for new projects. A deck business will also spend some time gathering materials and equipment for future jobs.
What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful deck building business?
Since virtually all of your profit, as well as future business is determined by customer satisfaction, it is critical that you understand how to talk to your clients and foster a word of mouth customer base. A good communicator will be able to continue to develop and grow the customer goodwill.
Additionally, experience in construction is absolutely essential. Some fast learners won’t need to rely as heavily on past experiences but, understanding framing, foundation building, and finish/trim work will prepare you for many of the situations you’ll be faced with day to day.
What is the growth potential for a deck building business?
As more customers look to improve the living conditions and curb appeal of their houses, the demand for external deck add-ons will continue to grow. By maintaining a positive rapport with customers and developing a trusted brand name, your earning potential can expand exponentially.
What are some insider tips for jump starting a deck building business?
When first starting out, you’ll need to have some successes to point to, in order to attract customers. Create flyers and business cards. Many hardware stores and lumber yards will have pin boards for contractors to advertise their business. Then, take some jobs, preferably not too challenging, to complete. Take pictures of the final products and post them on your website and social media pages. Let people see for themselves what your work looks like. And, as stated earlier, rely on customers to spread the word about how professional and prompt your service was. You may even want to offer rebates on future work for customer referrals.
How and when to build a team
Having a strong and diverse team is a critical first step. A crew of 3-4 will be a good starting place. And, once you have established your business, you can build multiple crews and expand your workload and earning potential.
Part 2 - Is a Deck Building business the right fit for you?
Business Evaluation & Strategy Tool
We'll walk you through the four pillars every business needs: Points of Leverage, Marketing Strategy, Financial Model, and Personal Compatibility. At the end you'll see a personalized report and your action plan below will be tailored to your answers.
Step 1 of 4 — Points of Leverage
Every viable business has natural advantages. Below are common leverage points across four categories. Pick the ones that apply to your Deck Building business. We've pre-suggested a few based on your idea — review and adjust.
Step 2 of 4 — Marketing Strategy
Without a way to connect with customers, even great businesses fail. Pick the channels you plan to use to reach your customers.
Step 3 of 4 — Financial Model
Enter your monthly baseline costs — the minimum overhead to keep the business running. Then we'll calculate how many sales per month you need to break even.
Step 4 of 4 — Personal Compatibility
A business that doesn't fit your life will fail no matter how good the numbers look. Tell us how this business fits you.
Your Deck Building Evaluation Report
Complete the four pillars and your personalized summary will appear here.
Points of Leverage
Marketing Strategy
Financial Model
Personal Compatibility
Part 3 - Action plan to launch your Deck Building business in 90 days
Nine concrete steps to take you from idea to open business, grouped into 30-day phases. Complete the planner above and we'll highlight what's most important for your situation.
First 30 days — Foundation
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Form your legal entity
An LLC keeps your personal assets separate from business debts and lawsuits — the most common reason small business owners choose this structure. Sole proprietorships and partnerships do not provide this protection.
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Get an EIN and register for taxes
Apply for your free Employer Identification Number through the IRS, then register for any state or local taxes that apply to your business (sales tax, franchise tax).
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Open a business bank account and credit card
A dedicated business account is required to maintain personal asset protection. Mixing personal and business finances ('piercing the corporate veil') can void your LLC's liability shield.
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Set up business accounting
Recording expenses and income from day one makes tax filing easier and lets you see when the business is actually profitable. Use software (QuickBooks, Wave) or a part-time bookkeeper.
Days 30–60 — Compliance & Risk
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Get permits and licenses
State and local requirements vary widely. Brick-and-mortar businesses typically need a Certificate of Occupancy; service businesses may need specific professional licensing; food businesses need health permits.
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Get business insurance
General Liability Insurance is the most common starting point. If you'll have employees, most states require Workers' Compensation. Specific industries need additional coverage (product liability, professional liability, etc.).
Days 60–90 — Launch
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Define your brand
Your brand is how customers perceive and remember you. A clear name, logo, and visual identity make every later marketing decision easier and protect you legally as you grow.
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Create your business website
Every legitimate business needs a website. Social media pages are not a substitute — you don't own the platform. Modern website builders mean you can launch a clean site in a weekend without a developer.
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Set up your business phone system
A dedicated business number keeps your personal life private, makes the business look legitimate, and lets you route calls professionally. Cloud phone services start under $20/month.