We are a trusted deck builder in Toronto, Richmond Hill, Markham, and other nearby areas.
Building a bigger deck seems like a great way to boost your home’s value, but how much does size actually matter when it comes to resale? We get this question a lot: does a larger deck always mean a higher return? Honestly, a bigger deck doesn’t automatically add more resale value—other things like design, materials, and how the deck fits your yard matter just as much.
It’s tempting to go big, but sometimes less really is more. We’ve seen oversized decks turn buyers off or just not deliver the payoff people expect. Deck features and some smart planning can make a bigger difference than just adding square footage.
Key Takeaways
- Deck size alone doesn’t guarantee higher resale value.
- Several factors influence how much value a deck adds.
- The best decks are well-designed and fit the home’s style.
Does Deck Size Directly Affect Resale Value?
When we look at how deck size impacts resale value, it’s really about balancing space, curb appeal, and cost. Not every home actually benefits from a huge deck, and buyers tend to have pretty specific ideas about size and use.
Comparing Small vs Large Decks
Small decks can seriously improve how a home looks and works, especially if you don’t have much yard to begin with. They’re easier on the wallet, too. Large decks give you more room to entertain, but the higher build costs don’t always mean you’ll get that money back when you sell.
Most buyers just want space for a barbecue, a table, and a few chairs. Decks much bigger than that can make people worry about upkeep or safety. We’ve noticed that small to medium decks usually hit the sweet spot for return on investment, while huge ones may not add much more value.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Deck Size | Usable Space | Build Cost | Typical Value Added |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Limited | Low | Fair |
| Medium | Practical | Medium | Good |
| Large | Spacious | High | Moderate |
Optimal Deck Size For Most Homes
The best deck size usually matches the scale of your home and yard. As a rule of thumb, we try not to let the deck cover more than 20% of the yard. That keeps things feeling balanced and usable.
For most family homes in Canada, a deck in the 150–300 square foot range works. It’s big enough for gatherings but doesn’t stick out. Adding built-in benches or storage can make a mid-sized deck feel even bigger—without actually making it bigger.
We always say, talk to buyers or agents in your area. Trends come and go, and the key is to build a deck that’s useful but doesn’t overwhelm your house or yard.
Market Preferences in Canada
Across Canada, climate and taste shift a lot. In the west, like B.C. or Alberta, people go for mid-sized or a bit larger decks for outdoor dining and mountain views. In crowded cities like Toronto or Montreal, smaller decks are the norm but still popular.
Buyers want decks made from materials that stand up to Canadian weather—composite or pressure-treated wood are big here. Style and finish matter as much as size. A mid-sized, well-finished deck usually draws more buyers than a big, bland one.
It’s worth thinking about what buyers in your neighbourhood want. Sometimes, it’s not about square footage at all, but about smart design and solid materials.
Key Factors Influencing Deck Value
When we’re talking about resale value, just making a deck bigger doesn’t guarantee a better return. The details—what it’s made from, how it fits your home, and its condition—can really sway buyers.
Quality of Materials and Workmanship
Buyers notice what the deck’s made of. High-end materials like cedar, redwood, or premium composite stand out and last longer. Cheaper stuff wears out faster and can drag down curb appeal.
Workmanship matters, too. We want neat corners, smooth surfaces, and sturdy railings. If boards are crooked or screws stick out, buyers notice. Getting the little things right makes a difference—nobody wants to fix a deck right after moving in.
Table: Common Deck Materials and Appeal
| Material | Durability | Buyer Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar | High | High |
| Pressure-Treated | Moderate | Moderate |
| Composite | Very High | High |
| PVC | High | Moderate-High |
Deck Age and Condition
Deck age and current condition matter as much as size. An old deck made with good materials but showing rot or loose boards won’t impress anyone.
A clean, freshly stained deck in good shape stands out. Regular care—power washing, sealing, and replacing bad boards—keeps your deck looking sharp and safe.
A deck that looks neglected can even lower your property value. Maintenance really does matter.
Integration with Home and Yard
A deck should feel like it belongs, not like someone just slapped it on. Good placement, matching finishes, and smooth transitions from inside to outside make a big difference.
We try to match the deck’s style and colour to the house. A modern composite deck on a century-old farmhouse? Feels weird. Good design also makes sure there’s enough yard left, plenty of sunlight, and some privacy.
Backyards that feel balanced are more attractive. Sometimes, a smaller, well-placed deck adds more value than a giant one that eats up the yard.
When a Larger Deck Makes Sense
A bigger deck isn’t always better, but sometimes it just fits the way you live or what buyers expect.
Lifestyle and Entertaining Needs
If you love hosting family barbecues or parties, a larger deck can make life easier. More space means a bigger table, extra chairs, maybe even a grill station. Nobody likes bumping elbows or squeezing past furniture.
Families with kids or pets often need more room to play or just hang out. A bigger deck keeps things open and safe—even when there’s a lot going on. Space for games, planters, or comfy furniture makes your outdoor area way more usable.
If you’ll actually use the extra space, a larger deck can be a real selling point. Buyers often picture themselves doing the same. It’s just important to match the size to your real needs, not just build big for the heck of it. Function first, then style.
Neighbourhood Standards
Deck size should make sense for your neighbourhood. If most homes have good-sized decks, a tiny one might hurt resale. But if you go much bigger than everyone else, you might not get that money back.
Think about it this way:
| Typical Deck Size in Area | Recommended Deck Size |
|---|---|
| Small (under 150 sq. ft.) | Stay in the 150-200 sq. ft. |
| Medium (150-300 sq. ft.) | Match or go slightly bigger |
| Large (over 300 sq. ft.) | Don’t go too far above average |
When your deck matches what’s normal locally, buyers feel like the house fits in. Too big, and it can look odd or be a maintenance headache. Too small, and it might feel like you’re missing out. The goal is comfort, not showing off or cutting corners.
Potential Downsides to Oversized Decks
Bigger decks might look impressive, but they come with extra work. More square footage means more cleaning, less yard, and sometimes extra paperwork.
Maintenance and Upkeep Costs
Building a large deck means more work later. More boards, more screws, and more surface area all need regular cleaning, sealing, and repairs. Even with good materials, a big deck can mean higher yearly costs for staining or weatherproofing.
Homeowners are often surprised by how much longer it takes to sweep or shovel snow from a deck that’s double the size. Replacing boards, rails, or fasteners gets pricier as decks get bigger. If you need to power wash or refinish, you’ll probably pay by the square foot—so, bigger bills.
If you’re not up for spending weekends fixing and cleaning (or hiring someone to do it), a huge deck might not be the best idea.
Loss of Yard Space
A big deck can eat up a lot of green space. If you have kids, pets, or just like to garden, you might end up with less lawn once the deck goes in. Some families wish they’d left more room for a firepit, flower bed, or just a simple game of catch.
It’s smart to think about how you’ll use the whole yard. A huge deck can crowd out features you actually want, like a pool or trampoline. Sometimes, more deck means less flexibility.
Here’s a quick look at what you might give up:
| Feature | Deck Space Used | Yard Space Left |
|---|---|---|
| Standard deck | 12′ x 14′ | Plenty |
| Oversized deck | 16′ x 26′ | Limited |
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of a big deck, but always consider what you’re giving up.
Permitting and Local Bylaws
A large deck can mean extra steps with city permits or homeowner association rules. Many places in Canada have limits on deck size, how close you can build to property lines, and what kind of railings or footings you need.
Sometimes people build before checking the rules, then face fines or have to tear down part of their new deck. Permits take time and can add costs. If a deck is too big, it might not even get approved.
It’s worth checking before you build. We always suggest a quick look at your local guidelines—or just let us handle the paperwork so there aren’t any ugly surprises. The bigger the deck, the more likely you’ll run into red tape.
Deck Design Features That Add Value
Not all deck designs boost resale value equally. Certain features really catch buyers’ eyes and make a deck more useful and appealing.
Built-In Seating and Lighting
Built-in seating isn’t just handy—it saves space, especially on smaller decks. Benches that match the deck add extra spots for guests without bulky furniture. Buyers love this because it feels finished and practical.
Adding built-in lighting makes a deck safer and lets you use it later in the evening. Lights along steps, railings, and edges add a soft glow that feels welcoming. Today’s low-voltage LED options don’t use much power and are easy to control. These touches are high on buyers’ wish lists because they make outdoor spaces more enjoyable with less hassle.
We recommend built-in elements with weatherproof materials, so they last longer and need less work. Little details like these help your deck stand out in a crowded real estate market.
Multi-Level and Covered Decks
Multi-level decks carve out separate spots for different activities—maybe you’re eating up top and relaxing below. Even a medium backyard can feel bigger and more organized this way. Buyers seem to like when a deck’s layout gently nudges them toward how to use the space.
Covered decks, or just a roofed section, let you use your deck longer into the season—even when there’s a drizzle. A roof or pergola shields you and your furniture from harsh sun and rain. With some cover, you won’t have to run inside every time the weather acts up.
We try to blend multi-level and covered parts with the home’s style, picking out trim, paint, or railings that match. When a deck looks like it belongs, not just tacked on, people notice.
How To Maximise Return on Your Deck Investment
When planning a deck, we think about size, sure, but also about smart design. It’s not just about going bigger. The deck should fit the house and yard so it feels right and looks like it was always meant to be there.
Quality materials matter. Composite, treated wood, or premium stains mean less fuss and better value down the road. Nobody wants a deck that twists or splits after the first cold snap.
Function matters, too. Adding built-in benches, good lighting, or privacy screens can make your deck pop without blowing the budget.
| Feature | Cost | Adds Value? |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in seating | Low | Yes |
| Composite boards | Medium | Yes (long term) |
| Fancy railing | Medium | Sometimes |
| Fire Pit | High | Not always |
We always tell folks to get proper permits and hire a pro. It keeps things above board and saves headaches later.
A simple, tidy, well-kept deck can do wonders for resale. Sometimes less is more—especially if it means a deck that looks great and doesn’t cause trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deck size, materials, and local rules all play into home value, costs, and taxes. People often ask how decks stack up against patios when it comes to long-term value.
How much does deck size impact the resale value of a home?
Deck size affects resale value, but bigger isn’t always better. Most buyers want a deck that fits the yard and leaves room for grass or gardens. We usually suggest sticking to a size that matches the home—somewhere around 200 to 400 square feet.
Is there a difference in value added between composite and wood decks?
Composite decks cost more at the start but need less work later. Wood decks are cheaper to build and still add value, though they need more regular care. Some buyers like composite for its toughness, but plenty love the look of real wood.
Can I expect my property taxes to go up after building a deck?
Most cities treat a deck as a permanent upgrade, so your property taxes will probably go up a bit. The amount depends on the size and how the city values your improvements. It’s smart to check with your local tax office before building, just to know what’s coming.
What backyard improvements are most effective for boosting home value?
Decks, patios, and tidy landscaping are always winners. Outdoor lighting or a fire pit can help, too. We’ve noticed buyers like spaces that feel inviting and don’t need a ton of work.
Are you better off building a deck or a patio for long-term value?
Both add value, but it depends on your yard and what you want. Decks suit uneven ground or second-storey walkouts. Patios work best on flat lots and usually cost less. We’re happy to talk through what makes sense for your place.
What kind of return on investment can a deck project typically provide?
In Canada, if you put in a well-built deck, you might see around 60% to 75% of your investment come back when you sell your home. Of course, that’s not set in stone—it really depends on the quality, the materials you choose, and whether the deck actually makes sense for your space. And honestly, just keeping the thing in good shape makes a bigger difference than most people think.