How Much Does It Cost To Build A Deck?
$15 – $30 Per Square Foot
$4,380 – $10,080
$4,380 – $10,080
The average homeowner spends $2,200 to build a 10x10 foot deck, $6,160 to build a 14x20 deck, and $8,800 to build a 20x20 deck. The cost to build a deck with pressure-treated wood, hardwood, or composite is about $25 per square foot, for both materials and installation. The final cost depends on the materials used, size, level built on, and any extra options. Get free estimates from deck builders near you.
New Deck Installation Cost
The average homeowner spends $2,200 to build a 10x10 foot deck, $6,160 to build a 14x20 deck, and $8,800 to build a 20x20 deck. The cost to build a deck with pressure-treated wood, hardwood, or composite is about $25 per square foot, for both materials and installation. The final price of your deck depends on the materials used, size, level built on, and any extra options like built-in seating or stairs.
| National Average Cost | $6,280 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,200 |
| Maximum Cost | $14,000 |
| Average Range | $3,600 to $8,400 |
Table Of Contents
- New Deck Installation Cost
- Average Deck Cost Per Square Foot
- Material Costs To Build A Deck
- Additional Decking Options & Costs
- Cost To Repair, Rebuild Or Replace
- Estimating The Cost To Build
- Deck Styles & Types
- Hiring a Deck Builder
- Deck Builders Near Me
Average Deck Cost Per Square Foot
The average cost to build a deck is $25 per square foot with most homeowners spending between $4,380 to $10,080 total. An entry level deck with basic materials costs $15 per square foot, while a deck built with premium materials costs $35 per square foot.
| Deck Quality | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Basic Materials | $15 |
| Average Materials | $25 |
| Premium Materials | $35 |
Cost To Build A Deck By Size
Here are the most common deck sizes and the average cost to build based on a range from basic to premium materials:
| Deck Size | Square Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 8x10 | 80 | $1,200 – $2,800 |
| 10x10 | 100 | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| 10x12 | 120 | $1,800 – $4,200 |
| 12x12 | 144 | $2,160 – $5,040 |
| 12x20 | 240 | $3,600 – $8,400 |
| 14x20 | 280 | $4,200 – $9,800 |
| 16x16 | 256 | $3,840 – $8,960 |
| 20x20 | 400 | $6,000 – $14,000 |
Labor Cost To Build a Deck
The labor cost to build is deck makes up the bulk of the price at between $8 and $22 per square foot depending on the size, materials used, level built on, conditions of the area, and any extra options like built-in seating or stairs.
Cost Of Lumber To Build A Deck
For the most common woods used in decking, you can expect lumber costs to range from $6 to $8 per square foot. For premium hardwoods and composite materials, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $35 per square foot.
Cost To Build A Deck Yourself
Building a 10x10 foot ground-level deck yourself would cost about $700 for the materials versus paying a professional around $2,200 total. You could use pressure-treated lumber to build a 16x16 foot deck for $1,500 or hire a contractor to do the labor for you for about $6,400.
Using premium materials for your DIY deck such as Trex, Ipe, or Tigerwood to build a 16x16 foot deck yourself would run about $5,100. To hire a deck builder instead would cost a total of about $13,620 for both labor and materials.
Material Costs To Build A Deck
Material costs to build a deck range from $6 to $8 per square foot on average. The three most popular materials for the construction of outdoor decks in the US are pressure-treated wood, hardwood, and recycled composite.
| Deck Material | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Bamboo | $3 – $4 |
| Cedar | $4 – $8 |
| Pressure-Treated Wood | $5 – $8 |
| Redwood | $7 – $8 |
| Tigerwood | $6 – $15 |
| Ipe | $10 – $15 |
| Composite Decking | $10 – $15 |
| Trex Decking | $8 – $20 |
The cost of materials provided is an average from across the country, and depending on where you live, you may experience slightly more or slightly less per square foot for your project.
Pressure Treated Deck Cost
On average, a pressure treated wood deck costs $6 per square foot for materials, or between $12 and $18 per square foot installed. Pressure-treated wood (PT) is used on almost 75% of all decks in the US today. Chemically treated under pressure, it is fabricated to make the wood more resistant to mold, insects, and rot.
Disadvantages
- Pressure-treated wood is generally made from low-grade fir or pine that tends to warp and crack over the long haul, and that creates the ongoing need for a rigid maintenance schedule.
- When pressure-treated wood meets water, any metal used in the construction of the deck like aluminum flashing, galvanized nails and screws, fasteners, joists, and deck hangers will begin to corrode. If left without being repaired will cause dangerous structural instability in your deck.
- If you elect to have pressure-treated wood used in your deck, you are signing up for a regular maintenance schedule that includes sanding, sealing, and staining.
Wood Deck Costs
The materials cost to build a deck with natural wood is between $3 and $15 per square foot with most homeowners spending $6 to $8 per square foot on average. Wood decks are beautiful and a top-choice for homeowners, however, they require more maintenance such as staining and sealing regularly. Here are the most common woods used for decking:
- Cedar – At $4 to $8 per square foot, cedar is naturally resistant to weathering, insects, and rot. It requires yearly maintenance of sanding, sealing, and staining.
- Bamboo – Bamboo is the cheapest material used in decking at an average cost of $3 per square foot. Like cedar, it requires annual maintenance to keep it healthy.
- Redwood – Redwood decking costs $7 per square foot and is the most common wood used in deck building. Without regular maintenance, it can develop mold and get damaged by the sun.
- Ipe – Ipe is a Brazilian hardwood that costs between $10 and $15 per square foot on average. It typically lasts over 40 years and resistant to mold. However, it's by far the most expensive wood to use.
- Tigerwood – Tigerwood is one of the most expensive hardwoods used in decking at an average cost of $6 – $15 per square foot. Like Ipe, it lasts longer than 25 years, and special tools are needed to drill holes into for installation.
Redwood Deck Cost
The most common type of natural wood used in deck building is the redwood from California. A redwood deck costs between $15 and $21 per square foot installed, and around $7 per square foot for just the materials. Redwood is just a little more per square foot than pressure-treated wood.
Pros
- You avoid all the downside of infused copper and the corrosion.
- It is just under half the cost of recycled composite lumber.
- Redwood is excellent for either painting or staining.
- It is naturally resistant to pests and fire.
- It does not warp easily and is long lasting.
Cons
- If your redwood deck isn’t maintained regularly with staining and sealing, it can develop mold and get damaged by the sun.
Cedar Decking Cost
Cedar decking costs between $4 and $8 per square foot for the materials depending on the grade selected. Cedar is a natural softwood that's offered as treated or untreated. Most of the time cedar planks are left untreated because of its natural resistance to weathering and rot.
Pros
- Cedar is one of the most cost-effective materials used in decking.
- Naturally resistant to weathering, rot, and wood-destroying insects such as termites.
- Cedar is easy to stain, seal, and will not warp from aging.
Cons
- Cedar boards are not as strong as other hardwoods which produce scratches and dents easily.
- Requires regularly yearly maintenance of sanding, staining, and sealing.
Ipe Decking Cost
Ipe, also know as Ironwood, is a Brazilian hardwood that costs between $10 and $15 per square foot on average.
Pros
- Ipe has a life expectancy of over 40 years.
- Ipe is three times harder than oak and won't scratch or dent like other kinds of wood.
- Ipe requires little maintenance, other than applying oil yearly.
Cons
- It requires special tools to drill holes into the wood and install
- Ipe can cost as much as three times as much as standard pressure-treated wood.
Composite Decking Cost
The average cost of composite decking ranges from $23 to $38 per square foot installed, and between $10 and $15 per square foot for just the materials. Most homeowners spend between $5,821 and $10,826 to install a 12’ x 24’ composite deck with railings.
Recycled composite is fabricated to look like real wood, and it's growing in popularity deck building material. It’s made from recycled plastic with two of the most common options including polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride or PVC.
Pros
- It is generally one of the most expensive options.
- Will require very little maintenance
- Never splinters or rots
- Has no chemicals in it that will corrode metal fasteners
- Available in a range of colors
- Does not need to be stained or sealed
- Some composites are available as “hollow core” planks which allow for either electrical or audio cable to be run through the core.
Cons
- If the product gets dinged, it is not as easy to restore to its former glory as wood is because it cannot be sanded.
- In very high temperatures, it may be a warmer surface underfoot when compared to wood.
Trex Decking Cost
A typical 24’ x 12’ deck built with Trex decking costs between $4,244 and $10,826 for materials and installation. Trex decking materials cost between $8 to $20 per square foot on average.
Pros
- Trex boards are naturally resistant to fading and staining, as well as mildew, mold, and even termites. Also, Trex boards won’t warp, rot, crack, split, or splinter.
- Trex offers a 25-year warranty on the product and its ability to remain stain and fade-free.
- There is no need to treat your deck for insects, stain, seal, or to waterproof it.
Cons
- Trex boards cannot be refinished or recolored.
- Like most composite solutions for decks, materials are more expensive.
Additional Decking Options & Construction Costs
Decks can be customized to your exact preferences. Here's an average breakdown of costs to add bells and whistles to your deck:
| Deck Feature | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Portable Heaters | $100 – $500 |
| Fire Pit | $200, Custom built: $2,700 – $6,000 |
| Outdoor Fireplace | $1,500 – $6,500 |
| Railing | $26/linear foot |
| Privacy Screen | $20 per panel |
| Custom Screened In Deck | $600 – $3,500 |
| Patio Enclosures | $8,112 – $18,748 |
| Flooring | $2.50/sqft – $14/sqft |
| Stain and Seal | $0.40/sqft |
| Pre-manufactured Seating | $350 – $1,100 |
| Custom Seating | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Stairs & Steps | $210 – $290 |
| Planter Boxes | $120 each |
| Hot Tub | $4,000 – $15,000 |
| Sauna | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Outdoor Shower | $800 – $1,000 ($4,000 with privacy enclosure) |
| Outdoor Kitchen w/ Sink | $1500 and up |
| Roofing / Pergola Framing | $0.70 – $1.30/sqft |
| Cover | $1,000 manual, $1,700 motorized |
| Deck Skirting | $30/sqft |
| Deck painting cost | $2 to $5 per square foot |
Cost To Build Deck Stairs
Adding stairs to your deck costs $150 more on average depending on the number of steps required. A rough rule of thumb to calculate your final price is $40 per step. The addition of some steps will make a nice transition from the yard onto the deck. Depending on the size of the yard, one set may be sufficient, although you may choose to add the steps on either side of the deck.
| Number of Steps | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 2 Steps | $110 – $165 |
| 3 Steps | $100 – $140 |
| 4 Steps | $140 – $190 |
The variance in cost depends on whether you want an open vertical space between each step or if you’d instead close it up with a matching riser. Also, concrete footing for each set of steps for support (excluding excavation) is $50.
Cost To Install Deck Railing
Depending on the material used in building your deck, the average cost to install deck railing is $20 per linear foot. Normally a railing will not be on all four sides of the deck because one of the sides of the deck will be along the house. For a 42”-high handrail, one 2’ x 4’ horizontal top rail, and one 2’ x 6’ placed on the edge directly below the top rail, prices with balusters are:
| Deck Railing Material | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Pine, pressure treated | $15 per linear foot |
| Redwood, select heart | $19 per linear foot |
| Recycled composite lumber | $36 per linear foot |
Deck Fireplace & Fire Pit Cost
To add a fireplace or a fire pit to your deck, you can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for a store-bought heater, or between $2,700 and $6,500 for a custom built-in solution. There are many options to choose from, including the following:
| Heating Solution | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Tall Butane Heaters | $100 – $500 |
| Fire Pit | $200+ |
| Custom Fire Pit | $2,700 – $6,000 |
| Outdoor Fireplace | $1,500+ |
| Custom Outdoor Fireplace | $6,500+ |
- Fireplace options start with a small, wood-fired, self-enclosed metal structure with metal-mesh side panels that allow the heat to escape on all four sides.
- At around $1,000 for a firebox–which is like an indoor fireplace and only allows the heat out through the front.
- From between $1,400 and $6,500 for products typically mounted in a tall, vertical structure similar to an interior fireplace complete with its own chimney. These products are also available as wood-burning or gas-fired fireplaces.
Patio Enclosures Cost
The average cost of a patio enclosure is $900 for a pre-built kit or between $8,112 and $18,748 to enclose a deck or create a custom sunroom. At around $70 per square foot, you can either partially enclose or fully enclose your deck.
Screened In Deck Cost
The average cost to build a screened in porch on an existing deck is about $4.50 per square foot. This would bring you to a total of $600 for a small porch with basic materials up to $3,510 for a large wrap-around porch with high-end materials.
As a budget alternative, you can also choose to install a privacy netting screen. This is available to the consumer in 15’ x 3’ lengths and is almost 3 feet high. Generally, each panel will run around $20, will still need deck posts to tie to at each end, and will typically be attached to a top rail with screws and washers through grommets.
Deck Flooring Costs
Once your deck is built, you can add flooring at an average cost of between $2.50 and $4.00 per square foot installed, and even pay $1.00/SF extra to add diagonal pattern decking. Prices below are based on a deck with 200 square feet of area.
| Flooring Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Pine, 5/4” x 6” thick, pressure-treated deck flooring | $2.50/sqft |
| Redwood, 2” x 8” thick, select heart deck flooring | $4/sqft |
| Recycled, 5/4” x 6” thick, composite lumber decking | $8/sqft |
| Recycled composite lumber decking 2” x 8” thick | $14/sqft |
| Add for stain with sealer finish | $0.40/sqft |
Additional cost for diagonal pattern decking
| Deck Flooring Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Pine decking, pressure treated | $0.40/sqft |
| Redwood decking | $0.70/sqft |
| Recycled composite lumber decking 5/4” x 6” thick | $1.00/sqft |
| Recycled composite lumber decking 2” x 8” thick | $1.90/sqft |
Built-In Deck Seating
Depending on your desire to go upscale with some unique custom designed seating designed and built by your installer, or to add your own bench style options, there will be something for every budget.
On the lower end of the spectrum, you can expect to pay:
- $350 to $1,100 to add premanufactured, waterproof bench-style seating
- $2,000 to $5,000 or more to have an L-shaped bench built and installed
Deck Planter Boxes
The average cost to add deck planter boxes is between $80 and $150 each depending on the type of materials. Wide, narrow, rectangular planter boxes are available in wood, metal, and a range of plastic composites. Taller, deeper planter boxes which hold less are also available for roughly 15% less than the rectangular options.
- From $80 for wood
- From $120 for plastic
- From $150 for metal
Cost To Add Hot Tub To Deck
The average cost to install a hot tub to a deck is $4,000 and $15,000 depending on the size, features, and model. Depending on the number of people you want to accommodate in the hot tub; the number of jets; how long you want the product to last; the type of inner shell; and features like drink holders, colored LED lighting, etc., you will see a range of prices:
| Hot Tub Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Mid Level | $5,000 – $8,000 |
| High End | $9,000 – $12,000 |
| Luxury | $13,000 – $15,000 |
For the hot tub installation, you can simply set the hot tub right on top of the deck, or, if you have a slightly raised portion of the deck, it can be set down into a cutout. If the hot tub is going to be recessed, then some form of entry will need to be created to provide access for any maintenance that the hot tub pumps or electrical setup might need.
Alternatively, building an outdoor sauna costs $5,500 to $34,000.
Outdoor Deck Shower Cost
Depending on the type of shower you want to install–allowing you and your family to rinse off after using the hot tub or pool–and the distance from the nearest water line, your costs will be:
- $800–$1,000 for a nice wall-mounted shower with a small 3’ by 3’ wood floor
- $4,000 or more if you want to install one with a privacy enclosure–like an interior shower
Outdoor Kitchen On Deck Costs
If you just want a sink cabinet and counter area that you place your grill next to, you are likely to spend:
- $600–$900 for an entry-level, medium-sized, mid-priced sink
- $1,500 and up for a larger sink with an exquisite faucet
- $7,000–$17,000 if you want to go all out and create a complete outdoor kitchen with a small fridge, counter space, and cabinets
Cost To Build Pergola or Roof Over Deck
The average price to build a roof over your deck, or add pergola framing is between $0.70 and $1.30/sqft. Include $40 to $50 for supporting posts and concrete, and an additional $2.60 per square foot for flat asphalt roof covering. Another option is a manual deck cover which costs $500 to $1,500 or $1,700 and up for a motorized cover.
Cost To Install Deck Skirting
The average cost to install deck skirting is between $25 and $30 per square foot. Adding a skirt can finish out the look of the deck from your walking surface down to the ground and protect that space from large rodents.
- Trellis - $25/sqft
- Privacy fence style - $30/sqft
The finished product will look like a privacy fence–with little to no gap between the boards–or it will be more like a trellis with the wood in either a diamond or square configuration. A complete absence of gaps will rule out the space becoming home to rodents or snakes, while the trellis option is more suited to being a visual addition.
Cost To Repair, Rebuild Or Replace Your Deck
With a natural wood deck, annual maintenance, repairs, and rebuilding is part of the game. With lots of upkeep, your wood decking can last 25 to 40 years before you need to replace. However, not maintaining your deck drastically reduces its lifetime down to 10 to 15 years.
Deck Repair Costs
Plan ahead for maintenance and deck repair costs, to include:
| Maintenance & Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Damaged deck boards | $1,280 |
| Loose deck stairs | $150 – $300 |
| Missing deck nails | $5 – $10 |
| Mold, mildew, and rot | $200 – $500 |
| Damaged deck railing | $400 – $500 |
| Termite and pest treatment | $100 – $300 |
| Stain and seal | $3.50/square foot |
Cost To Stain A Deck
The average cost to sand, stain, and seal a deck is $1 to $3 per square foot. If you only have a small area that needs to be repaired, you can buy the sealant and stain and complete that portion of the project in your own time.
- Stain – Available as an opaque or semi-opaque stain in acrylic latex, oil, or latex. Covers 400 square feet of wood surface and costs $30–$45 per gallon.
- Wood finish – Available as a transparent or waterproofing finish. Covers 400 square feet of wood surface and costs $16–$80 per gallon.
Cost To Seal A Deck
You should strive to reseal your deck annually. An average wood sealer costs about $20 per gallon and can easily be applied yourself.
- Wood water clear sealer – covers 225–325 square feet of sanded wood and 125 square feet for the initial coat on rough-sawn wood costs $16–$18 per gallon.
- Wood preservative – covers 100 to 300 square feet and costs $24–$29 per gallon.
Deck Removal Cost
On average, deck removal costs between $5 and $10 per square foot depending on the size and condition of the old deck. If you have a multi-level, built-in seating, or railing, removal prices will increase. An average 12x12 deck that consists of 144 square feet costs between $720 and $1,440 to remove.
Estimating The Cost Of Building Your Deck
If you’re tired of walking out your back door and having nothing decent outside to relax on, never mind host a BBQ or enjoy a stint in the hot tub, a deck can meet your outdoor living space needs.
Build one level, or include some raised portions; stretch it the full width of the back of the house or contain it to the area by the back door. No matter how large you go, make sure it meets your home improvement needs.
Deck Size
The main thing you need to choose before you start is the size of the deck. Standard advice is to make a deck a minimum 12’ by 12’ to make it a useable space for an average size family.
Many home builders will include an upgrade of a small 10’ x 10’ deck, but many people either regret going with one so little, or they upgrade before the home and deck are built.
You may elect to have one or two raised portions on the deck and possibly add a hot tub, which will increase the deck’s visual appeal, cost, and the overall value of your property. Another option is to continue the deck to a second floor.
To get an idea of the size that fits your plan of use, look up the average sizes of furniture for the number of people you want to entertain. If you plan on having a dining section on the deck, then allow around 3’ around that table. Add square footage for any firepits, butane heaters, grills, or other accessories.
Ground Level Vs. Second Story Deck
In general, a deck will be built no more than two inches below the bottom of the door used to access the deck.
Types of decks:
- Low elevation deck - for houses built at ground level
- Mid-elevation deck – for raised houses
- High-elevation deck – for split-level homes
A high-elevation deck with a space under it less than eight feet tall could be used for storage for lawnmowers and yard equipment. If the space is at least eight feet high, then you could create an additional living area with a deck floor and ceiling leaving a balcony for the top, which will add an additional cost per square foot.
HOA & Neighborhood Restrictions
Check with your local governing authorities and homeowner’s association, to see what regulations and building codes you need to adhere to, and to see if you need a building permit. Some restrictions are created to regulate the minimum distance between your deck and a well, a septic tank or its drain field, and even a neighbor’s house.
Taxes
Because the deck will increase the value of the home, it will also raise your property taxes. That amount will depend on the total cost of the project and your local property tax rate. Have a tax assessor come and inspect the deck once it’s built. It is not uncommon to be notified of any changes in your tax estimate while they are at your property.
Insurance
Policies will already allow for coverage of an additional deck when it is attached to your home, just like it would cover damage to a garage or any other attached structure within the covered hazards portion of the policy. While there are some differences between states, according to the Insurance Information Institute, most homeowner insurance policies cover standard hazards from weather damage, fire, and other damage.
Deck Styles & Types
Size Options
- Dining Area Size – If your plans are more centered around eating on your deck, build your deck an average size of 12’ x 14’ to comfortably seat 6–8 people around a 48” round table and still have room around the table for foot traffic.
- Living Room Size – To replicate an average living room, build a deck of 16’ x 18’ or 12’ x 24’. With a deck of this size, you can furnish it with ample lounge chairs, a coffee table, and an outdoor sofa. Also, you could add an outdoor gas fireplace for the colder months. Alternatively, you could mix it up and have a love seat and table and chairs for four people.
Location Options
- Location relative to your house – The vast majority of decks will be constructed entirely against the house or via a connected patio.
- Intended deck use – Access to the deck from the back door is convenient and gives easy access to your indoor kitchen, but an additional extension to the deck could wrap around the side of the house–granting access via a door to the master bedroom and adding a separate quiet spot to relax in during the evening.
- Seclusion – While the back of the house is the most private location on your property to build a deck, some homes are built on alternating elevations that can put neighbors’ houses somewhat higher than yours. It should be possible to increase the degree of private space with the installation of a lattice trellis on one or more sides of your deck, adding an extra layer of privacy.
- Surrounding scenery – Consider adding an extension or elevated area if it will give you a chance to enjoy the view of nearby hills or woods.
- Direct sun exposure – If you live in a region that typically allows for more cold days than hot, then the ideal location for the deck is a spot where the sunlight falls for the majority of the day. Alternatively, if you live in a hotter region like Arizona or Texas, the typical preference would be a location with as much shade as possible during the day.
- Existing trees – Sometimes there could be one or more trees in the desired deck installation site. You may have to cut them down if that is permitted by local governing authorities. Depending on the maturity of the tree(s), though, it may be possible to incorporate the tree into the deck, resulting in a more organic relaxation zone.
- Wind – The most ideal location for your deck is one that has the least amount of wind regularly.
- Landscaping – If you were also planning to landscape the yard, schedule it at the same time as the deck design to make both the deck and the yard a fluid thing of beauty.
Hiring a Deck Builder
Return On Investment
Professionally installed decks will almost certainly increase the value of the home. No matter if the housing market is up or down, the addition of a deck generally translates to a higher sales price for your home. In a survey conducted in the Remodeling magazine:
- In the mid-Atlantic region of the US, a wood deck addition of approx. $10,350 will get back up to 70% of the cost when the home is sold.
- A composite deck which cost approx. $15,580 will get back 68% at the time the home is sold.
When picking your final choice, make sure the company you select has as many of the following criteria as possible:
- High ratings and reviews on HomeGuide
- The bid includes all setup and cleanup
- The bid consists of a start and end date
- Licensed, insured, and bonded
- Excellent BBB rating
- More than five years of experience building decks
- An extensive portfolio of past decks completed
- Offer a warranty on parts and labor
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