If you're weighing the pros and cons of a new deck for your Saskatoon home, one of the first big decisions is whether to go with a full-service installation or jump into an assisted DIY approach. We see homeowners and contractors wrestling with the same questions every spring: Is the turnkey convenience worth it? Can you really save that much by doing part of it yourself? And how does the finished quality compare? With The Ultimate Deck Shop’s unique position in Saskatoon, we offer an informed, personal perspective on both options—because we help customers succeed at both every single season.
Overview: What Are Full-Service and Assisted DIY Deck Installs?
Let’s start with what each approach truly looks like in real life—because these terms get thrown around, but for most homeowners the fine print is what matters most.
- Full-Service Deck Installation: Our team handles every step. Think of it as “set it and forget it”—from design to permits, code compliance, delivery, build, inspections, clean-up, and warranty. Your time is spent making decisions and enjoying the finished product, not wrestling with tools or city paperwork.
- Assisted DIY (Hybrid Install): We create a custom plan and supply a pro-built, code-compliant frame (the most challenging part), while you take on the visible work: installing deck boards, rails, and finishes yourself. All with expert guidance, tool rentals, and on-call support whenever you hit a snag.
What Does Full-Service Deck Installation Offer?
- Personalized Design and 3D Planning: We love bringing your vision to life with our 3D design tools. From simple platform decks to multi-level stunners or integrated Pergolas & Shade Structures, we model it all before you commit to materials.
- Permit Navigation and Safety: Saskatoon deck requirements can get confusing. Full-service includes all code checks, permit submissions, and inspections—no sweat or stress on your end.
- The Right Materials, On Time: Drawing on our large in-stock selection, you get input on options (pressure-treated, cedar, composite, custom railings, built-in lighting, hardscape accents) without product bias. We’ve done thousands of these projects—no wasted trips or delays.
- Professional Build Crew & Project Management: Seasoned contractors execute your build. That means tight framing, proper fasteners, safe footings, and meticulous attention to finish. Decks are typically installed within 1–2 weeks once permits are ready.
- Clear Timelines & Accountability: Expect proactive updates, real answers, and a fixed schedule—plus a workmanship warranty on the frame and structure, and product warranties up to 30+ years on decking materials.
- Additional Upgrades: Full-service means it’s easy to add features like privacy screens, integrated lighting, and modern Shade Structures at the design stage or afterwards.
Who Is Full-Service Right For?
- Busy families and professionals who value peace of mind and want guaranteed results
- Projects with complex features (multi-level, custom insets, difficult yards)
- Homes where resale value, curb appeal, or strict code compliance matter
- Anyone who prefers a single point of contact from start to finish
Full-Service: Typical Costs and Timelines in Saskatoon
- Decks usually cost between $50 and $85 per square foot (materials and install only, extras like railings and lighting are separate)
- Average 300 sq. ft. composite decks land in the $18,000 to $24,000 range, fully finished
- Project runs 7–14 days on site after design/permits, with everything managed by our local crew
How Does Assisted DIY (Hybrid Install) Work?
This is hands-down the fastest-growing deck install path in Saskatoon—and for good reason. It splits the tasks in a smart way: you get a pro-built frame to guarantee safety and code, but save substantially by handling deck boards, rails, and finishing details with our help.
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Step 1: Planning and Material Selection
Visit us, bring your measurements/sketches, and we’ll review your design in person or with our tools. You see material options, discuss budgets, and can visualize upgrades like privacy fencing or specialty railings. During this stage we’ll often suggest how to plan for pergolas or shade features, even if you aren’t adding them right away. -
Step 2: Our Crew Builds the Structural Frame
You get professional framing—the structure that must be level and code-compliant. This includes footings, beams, joists, and posts. That’s where DIYers stumble most, so we make sure it’s right. Most frames are built in 1–2 days. -
Step 3: You Take Over with Pro Backup
Once the frame is done, we deliver your pre-ordered (and often pre-cut) boards, hardware, and extras. You finish the job—decking, railings, stairs, skirting, and other details—at your own pace, saving 60–70% of the labor cost. When a question pops up? Call, email, or video chat with us. We’re always here to talk you through a tricky step. -
Step 4: Specialty Tool Rentals (Optional)
Rent tools for edge-fastening, leveling, or cutting just for the days you need them, so you’re not stuck buying expensive, one-time gear.
Who Is Assisted DIY Best Suited For?
- DIYers who want the thrill (and savings) of building, but want their frame guaranteed ‘bombproof’
- Families on a budget or those who want to stage upgrades over a couple of seasons
- People who have time on weekends and like learning new skills
- Anyone wanting flexibility (add skirting, shade upgrades, or privacy walls later)
Assisted DIY: Typical Costs & Timelines in Saskatoon
- Hybrid decks average $20 to $35 per square foot (materials and frame labor, you supply finishing effort)
- 300 sq. ft. deck example: $6,000 to $10,000 including a pro-built frame and materials
- Frame: 1–2 days install. The rest: at your pace, from a single weekend up to a few weeks
Direct Comparison: Full-Service vs. Assisted DIY in Saskatoon
| Feature | Full-Service Install | Assisted DIY |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Planning | Personal consult, 3D visualization | In-store session, digital tools |
| Permits & Codes | All handled by TUDS | We advise, you submit if needed |
| Frame/Floor Structure | Professionally built | Professionally built |
| Deck Boards & Railings | Installed by TUDS/contractor | You install with guidance |
| Warranty | Workmanship & product | Product & frame only |
| Time Investment (Homeowner) | Minimal (make decisions, approve design) | Majority of project (usually 1–3 weekends) |
| Investment (300 sq. ft.) | $18,000–$24,000 | $6,000–$10,000 |
| Flexibility to Add Shade | Seamless—add Pergolas & Shade Structures during install or later | Easy to integrate at any stage |
Key Questions to Decide What’s Right for You
- Time vs. cost: Can you dedicate DIY time to finishing, or is your schedule packed?
- Budget constraints: Do you want to conserve cash, or is top-tier finish your main priority?
- Complexity: Multi-level decks, custom rails, outdoor kitchens, integrated lighting or pergola designs often make full-service the smoother route.
- Desire to learn: If you like hands-on projects and want to tackle backyard features yourself, assisted DIY is satisfying (and you get our full support if you get stuck).
- Long-term flexibility: Both install types are future proofed—you can add skirting, privacy, or Pergolas & Shade Structures later, but hybrid DIY lets you spread costs over time.
Real Homeowner Reflections from Saskatoon
- Nicole N.: “We recently gave our 20 year old wood deck a makeover with the help of The Ultimate Deck Shop... Highly recommend TUDS for all deck needs—these guys know their stuff and provide fantastic customer service.”
- Garrett Gosselin: “We built a landing step in our backyard and chose the assisted DIY option to help us save on the install. We are so happy with our final product and customer experience!”
- Garth Belanger: “They built the framing and we did the decking and skirting. Joe, Dale, and Wade were great to work with. They did a great job with the framing and assisted us with all of our decking and skirting questions.”
Why Choose The Ultimate Deck Shop for Either Path?
- Experienced Local Staff: Every consult is with a real deck expert, not just a cashier or “big box” sales rep. We answer design, code, and material questions, and our support doesn’t end after purchase.
- All-in-One Service: We don’t just sell you materials—we help you plan, deliver on time, rent tools, and offer free returns (30 days on most products). That means fewer mistakes and less stress.
- Material Options and Brands: From pressure treated to cedar and high-performance composite decking, with matching rails, privacy screens, and integrated shade or pergola systems, we suggest what works for your priorities and budget.
- Support Before, During, and After: Use our Deck Budget Calculator or request a 3D design to start. We guide, coach, and problem-solve even after you’ve started the build.
Tips to Get the Most from Your Deck Project
- Use a budget calculator early to avoid sticker shock.
- Consider building in fall or early spring—supply and installer backlogs are lower, and you’re ready for early summer enjoyment (explore more in our detailed fall deck building guide).
- If shade is top of mind, review our Pergolas & Shade Structures ideas to see how integrated shade can up your deck’s usability and design value.
- Don’t skip maintenance—composite is low maintenance, not no-maintenance. Read our breakdown of composite deck care myths and realities.
- For in-depth DIY insights, especially on fastener choices, tool tips, and design pitfalls, see our blog on fall deck building projects or composite vs. wood decking.
Get Started or Book a Free Consult
We know that choosing how to build your dream deck isn’t “one size fits all.” Our role is to give you clarity, cost transparency, and honest guidance—never a hard sell. Whether you lean full-service for peace of mind or assisted DIY for savings and pride of ownership, The Ultimate Deck Shop’s Saskatoon team is on your side, from brainstorming to backyard barbecue. Reach us for a free in-store consult, request a quote, or dive deeper into inspiration with our Pergolas & Shade Structures hub. Our deck specialists listen and make your backyard project truly yours.
