How Long Does It Take to Build a Deck: Factors and Timelines

The time it takes to build a deck heavily varies based on deck size, design, decking materials, weather conditions, and the workers’ experience/pace. While a small and simple deck can take as little as a couple of weeks to pull together, multilevel decks or custom decks can take 6+ months from the design stage to the final build.

While there is no magic number for how long it takes to build a deck, we designed the guide below to give you a rough estimate. It breaks down the deck-building process step-by-step to help you calculate how long it will take to build your deck.

Factors That Affect a Deck-Building Timeline

Hiring Deck Builders

Estimated Time: 0 – 10 weeks

If you plan on building a DIY deck, this won’t affect you. However, homeowners planning to hire deck contractors need to consider the wait time before your hire can take on your job.

While finding the right deck builder can take as little as a few days, they may:

1. Not be able to take on your project right away.
2. Be able to do preliminary work like the deck design. But then have a multi-week wait until they can start the construction process.

Our customers, who are highly in-demand contractors, tend to have the longest wait times, sometimes stretching beyond our upper estimate of 10 weeks. The time before a contractor can take on a project heavily varies depending on your location, project needs, and the season—deck building is the most popular in the spring and summer.

Designing the Deck

The size and complexity of your deck design are key factors in your deck timeline. Here’s what to consider.

Estimated Time: 2 days – 8 weeks

Size of the Deck

A small deck—such as a simple 10×10—is quick to plan and design. However, most decks tend to be larger, around 300 to 400 square feet. With more square footage, more material and structural considerations, such as increased support posts or beams, come into play.

Complexity of the Deck

Decks with unique shapes, multiple levels, or integrated features will take more time to design and may require specialized materials or construction techniques. Stairs, hot tubs, pergolas, and built-in seating also add to the design complexity, increasing planning time. Consider consulting a professional if your deck has an intricate design or faces challenging landscaping. They can ensure your design meets building codes, suits your property, and maintains structural integrity—while providing valuable guidance to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your deck.

Getting Construction Permits

Estimated Time: 1 day – 4 weeks

Getting the necessary permits for construction is essential. Without them, you may be subject to hefty fines, and your project can be shut down. Most take only a few business days to process. However, some can take up to a month if your build location needs a physical inspection or the permit office is backed up.

Contact your city or county office for information on building permits specific to your area. 

Weather Conditions

While temperature extremes and precipitation may influence your deck design, they can delay your project, too. Rain can prevent construction activities, such as pouring concrete or installing wood decking, and extreme heat can delay application or affect the drying times of your finishes. Allow extra time for unexpected weather delays.

Land Conditions

Soil type, slope, and drainage can all affect your deck project. For instance, sandy soils might need extra support, while clay soils may require drainage solutions. A steep slope may necessitate retaining walls or stairs. Consider how vegetation, root systems, or rocky terrain could also impact the deck foundation. I always stress the importance of a thorough site assessment to plan for necessary accommodations.

Laying the Foundation & Framing

Estimated Time: 2 days – 4 months

This is the first step in the actual deck-building process. This preliminary deck construction may include digging post holes, pouring concrete, installing deck footings, and framing the deck.

Again, this step heavily depends on deck size and design. The bigger and more complex the deck, the longer the foundation and frame will take. Plan extra time if your deck-to-be is on a slope or other difficult terrain.

Adding Decking Boards

Estimated Time: 1 day – 3 weeks

Beyond size and design, adding deck boards can affect your timeline with:

Mistakes

Laying deck boards is often touted as the quick and easy portion of deck building. Because of this, it has been my experience that beginner builders tend to get overconfident and rush. This results in mistakes, specifically in gaping or measurements. Both of these can set you back quite a bit.

Type of Decking

Popular wood deck boards like Ipe and pressure-treated lumber are durable and easy to stain but tend to have natural irregularities that complicate cutting and fitting. Additionally, some wood types, like tropical hardwoods, need time to acclimate before installation. Composite decking offers a uniform, predictable installation while also requiring no staining or sealing, saving time during installation—and in future maintenance.

Finishing Touches

Estimated Time: 1 day – 4 weeks

This includes features like stairs and railing, outdoor décor, and home improvement projects tied to your deck (outdoor kitchens, under-deck storage, etc.)

Outdoor Decor

Items like landscaping and hardwired deck lighting will add a few weeks to your deck project. Alternatively, you can include cozy decor items like patio furniture, twinkle lights, and outdoor rugs that can be incorporated in an hour or so. These items are easy to add and can make a big visual impact!