Cost of Deck Installation: How Much Does It Actually Cost?

Creating functional outdoor living spaces has become increasingly popular, with homeowners and prospective buyers alike recognizing the value. From my own experience, I’ve witnessed how the right deck can not only meet this growing demand but also enhance the overall style and functionality of a home. Moreover, decks offer an excellent return on investment—89% according to The Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors.

If you’re wondering about the initial investment, I’ll break down new deck costs and compare various types of decks and decking materials below. Whether you want a deck to entertain, lounge, or simply add value to your home, I’ll fill you in on everything you need to know to budget for this lucrative home renovation!

Average Deck Cost Per Square Foot

The average cost to build a deck is $30 – $60 per square foot. This includes your decking material, extras like hardware, beams, and balusters, and labor costs—with anywhere from half to seventy percent of the expense coming from the latter. Prices may vary in your area, so be sure to consult with your local deck professionals.

If you want to keep material prices in check, I recommend opting for popular lumber choices like cedar, redwood or pressure-treated lumber. However, if you’re drawn to the beauty of exotic woods like tigerwood or hardwood like ipe, redwood, and mahogany, go ahead and indulge in the wood you love. Just be prepared for the increase in pricing: Higher-end materials will typically raise decking costs to $50 per square foot or more.

Average Cost to Build a Deck by Size

The national average deck price is $8,157, according to HomeAdvisor, with a range of $4,348 to $12,479. This price can be significantly influenced by factors such as deck materials, labor rates, additional features, and the size and style of the deck–as well as market supply and demand.

Since deck projects are generally charged per square foot, looking at the average price for various deck sizes will give you the best idea of cost. But, no surprise: More square footage equals a more expensive deck.

Keep the following in mind when looking at prices for the deck sizes below:

Labor: The costs include a labor estimation, but labor expenses can differ drastically, depending on what state you live in. For a more precise deck cost quotes, I advise homeowners to take advantage of a handy online deck cost calculator that factors in your location.

Cost: Instead of just giving you one number, we’ve included a range. This is because deck materials largely impact the price. At the lower end are decks made with more economical materials, such as pressure-treated wood. At the higher end are more luxurious deck materials, like exotic woods and composite decking.

*Prices may vary in your area.

Labor Cost to Build a Deck

The labor cost to build a deck runs, on average, $15 – $35 per square foot. Deck materials that are easier to install, like cedar and bamboo, are cheaper. Heavy and inconsistent tigerwood will cost more on the other end of the spectrum.

Wondering how to find a good deck contractor? I suggest asking friends or neighbors for recommendations. Additionally, you can double-check builders’ reviews and ratings online on Yelp, Google reviews, the builder’s social media pages, and the Better Business Bureau. And if you spot a deck you love, don’t hesitate to ask the homeowner; they’re often happy to share information.

Material Costs for Deck Building

While many decking material options are available in today’s market, they are generally broken down into two categories: wood decking and composite decking.

Composite Decking Cost

$12 – $22 per square foot (materials only) 

Composite decking is more expensive than the majority of wood decking. However, the homeowners I work with like its durability and longevity—30 to 50 years—that saves on repair and replacement costs down the road. Since composite materials are often made from recycled plastic like polyethylene and PVC, they never splinter or rot and come in a variety of colors. Plus, they require very little maintenance—mainly just a semi-annual deck cleaning.

Wood Decking Cost

$3 – $35 per square foot (materials only) 

Wood decking cost varies heavily depending on the type of wood used. Natural wood decks can be stained or painted any color, and some varieties like tigerwood have stunning natural variegation. However, as I always tell prospective deck owners, most wood types will need regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.

Below are the average prices for some of the most popular deck woods.

Pressure Treated Wood – ($2 -$5 per sq. ft) This wood is chemically treated to better withstand weathering, rot, and bug infestations. Must be maintained regularly.

Bamboo – ($3 –$10 per sq. ft) This cheaper wood won’t break the bank, but it does require annual maintenance to keep it healthy and strong.

Cedar – ($3 -$7 per sq. ft) Comes in various grades and is often sold untreated to retain its natural ability to resist bugs and rot. This softwood dents easier than hardwoods and requires yearly maintenance, but it is very easy to stain and seal.

Redwood – ($5 – $35 per sq. ft) Redwood decking is beautiful and durable, with cost varying widely depending on the grade. Maintenance is an absolute must as this wood is susceptible to sun damage and rot without proper care.

Ipe – ($10 – $20 per sq. ft) – This South American hardwood (pronounced ee-pay) is durable, heavy, and hard. It is one of the longest-lasting wood decking materials.

Tigerwood – ($7 -$15 per sq. ft) Another South American hardwood that is heavy and durable. The differing color and grain make it a visual delight; however, it can be challenging to install due to its inconsistent hardness.

Decking Prices by Foundation Type

While material and size are huge factors when determining a deck’s cost, foundation type also plays into the equation.

Floating Decks

$20 – $60 per sq. ft

These decks generally cost three to five times more than standard ground-level decks. They are called floating or freestanding decks because they aren’t attached to any building—a great option for those who don’t have space for a deck directly beside their home.

Elevated Concrete Decks

$30 – $75 per sq. ft

Raised concrete decks are durable and weather-resistant. Additionally, they offer a contemporary aesthetic. Maintenance consists of hosing down or pressure washing.

Ground Decks

$10 – $20 per sq. ft

These decks are one of the cheapest options since they don’t require posts, stairs, or railings. In addition, these tend to have easier accessibility than other decks since they are akin to a patio.

Costs of Building a Deck Yourself vs. Hiring a Professional

If you have carpentry skills, undertaking a DIY deck project can save you half or more of the cost. The easiest decks to build are small-foot decks and single-level decks. However, when it comes to more complex builds, such as second-story decks or floating decks, many homeowners feel hiring a deck builder or contractor is worthwhile. I have to agree: Building a deck is labor-intensive, and you’ll often find that the time and experience of a pro justifies the expense.

Pro Tip: DIY builders who want to make their decks last as long as possible should consider protecting their deck with a sealer and sealing joists and fasteners with butyl tape. Failing to do so may mean that the initial money saved on your DIY (plus some) gets spent a few years down the line to repair water damage.

Any Additional Costs and Considerations

Permits – In most municipalities, you will need to secure a building permit to build a deck. These range anywhere from a couple hundred to a few thousand. Small towns tend to have cheaper permits, whereas big cities are the most expensive.

Lifespan – While woods like cedar and bamboo are initially the cheapest, they have a shorter lifespan than ipe, tigerwood, and composite deck boards. Therefore, longer-lasting options can save you in the future since your deck will have a longer lifespan (many even come with a warranty). Whether you choose affordable decking or a high-end option, I always recommend protecting your deck substructure from mildew, warping, splintering, and other issues caused by moisture by applying Trex Protect deck flashing tape. It protects the joists and beams from moisture that can lead to wood rot and decay.

Upkeep – Maintaining a deck not only costs money, but it also costs time if you do it yourself. Therefore, you should carefully consider your decking materials before diving into your build. Cheaper materials tend to need more frequent maintenance.

Existing Deck – I find many homeowners overlook the additional costs associated with demolishing an old deck. If you have one that needs removal, expect a deck contractor to charge extra—usually between $600 and $1000. Rates are typically calculated per square foot and can vary based on your location, deck accessibility, and the amount of salvageable material.

Add-Ons – When considering deck prices, don’t forget to factor in add-ons when calculating the total cost for your project. These may include a pergola, hot tub, or creative under-deck additions. In addition, heaters or a fire pit can make chilly nights more enjoyable for an all-season deck. Want to go big? The Outdoor Living Trends Report by Fixr cites that outdoor kitchens are the most desired addition to outdoor living spaces. It’s a request I’ve been hearing more and more frequently from homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor living spaces.

How to Save money on the Cost to Build a Deck

Do It Yourself: Cutting out labor can reduce the cost of building a deck by half or more. If you can’t DIY the build, you can still save by demolishing your existing deck on your own.

Keep it Simple: Simple deck designs will cost less. But, if you’re worried about it looking lackluster, remember that you can always decorate your deck and get creative with landscaping to give it flair and personality!

Get Multiple Quotes: When looking for a deck contractor, get quotes from multiple places before hiring. I advise homeowners to be cautious of quotes that are too good to be true—always check a company’s reviews and references before making a final decision.

Build Off Season: This tip may not be for you if your home gets buried in snow. However, those with milder winters may be able to secure lower build prices since it is the off-season for contractors.

What Should I Do Before Estimating Deck Costs?

Read This Article: Check!

Pick a Type of Deck: Look at your outdoor space and see what type of deck fits best. For example, you may choose a raised concrete deck for its contemporary flair or a ground-level deck for its simplicity. Want to maximize your outdoor space? A multi-level deck may be for you.

Measure: Grab a measuring tape and measure where you want your deck to sit. I often use painters’ tape to mark out the new deck perimeter; it’s a great visual aid when deciding on size.

FAQs on Cost of Deck installation

How much does it cost to build a 20×20 deck?

A 20 x 20 deck installation costs approximately $20,000 on average. Using more economical materials like bamboo or cedar deck boards can knock the price down. In contrast, high-end decking materials like composite decking will increase the price.

What is the average cost to build a 16 x 16 deck?

On average, it costs $12,800 to build a 16 x 16 deck. But, again, materials will largely dictate the price. On the lower end, you may pay as little as $10,240, while high-end materials could shoot the cost up to $15,360 and beyond.

What is the cost for installing a deck around a pool?

Like other decks, a deck around your pool will typically cost between $30 and $60 per square foot installed, depending on the square footage, decking material, complexity, and your market. Additionally, you may find that the curved cuts required to border a rounded pool edge can increase the price of labor. Keep in mind that above-ground pool decks can cost 25% to 40% more than those for in-ground pools due to the need for stairs and railings.

How much does it cost to build a deck with stairs?

Adding average stairs of 8-16 steps to a deck will typically cost an additional $160 – $560. This cost will vary depending on the decking material you use. Sometimes my clients’ deck projects have unique stair designs or configurations that require custom stringers. This can increase the overall price as well. However, on average, each step typically costs between $25 and $50.

A deck is a fantastic home improvement project that adds both enjoyment and value to your home. Your new addition offers the perfect place to entertain, exercise, soak up some sun, or even spend a bit of alone time. After all, a well-built and properly maintained wood deck can last 20 or more years—and composite decks, even longer— so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to share your new space with friends and family!