{"id":2370,"date":"2022-06-23T11:44:23","date_gmt":"2022-06-23T15:44:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trexprotect.com\/uk\/?p=2370"},"modified":"2025-03-06T10:56:17","modified_gmt":"2025-03-06T15:56:17","slug":"cost-of-deck-installation-how-much-does-it-really-cost","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trexprotect.com\/uk\/blog\/cost-of-deck-installation-how-much-does-it-really-cost\/","title":{"rendered":"Cost of Deck Installation: How Much Does It Really Cost?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you have finally found your forever home or are planning to sell, installing a deck is a worthwhile home renovation. A garden deck enhances outdoor living space<\/span><\/a>\u2014making it more useable, welcoming, and aesthetically pleasing. Plus, it can add quite a bit of value to your home.<\/span><\/p>\n

While the exact value a deck adds depends on many factors such as size, materials, and design, home realtors say it adds anywhere from 5% to 10% to your home’s value. Bundled with outdoor remodelling projects like landscaping and other exterior home renovations<\/a>, this increase soars even higher\u2014up to 20%.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, even with proven returns, no home improvement project is one size fits all\u2014only you can decide if a new deck is the right investment. That’s why below, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed choice. In addition, we cover how much a new deck costs, decking material options (and prices), maintenance considerations, and much more!<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"Average Deck Cost Per Metre<\/h2>\n

The average cost to build a deck is \u00a35 – \u00a320 per metre <\/strong>(for decking materials only\u2014it does not include installation costs).<\/span><\/p>\n

Choosing softwood decking like spruce or cedar can drop your cost to as low as \u00a33 per meter. Contrastingly, high-quality hardwood like ipe or composite decking can cost upwards of \u00a320 per meter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Keep in mind the average cost above is per one-meter length board\u2014not a square meter. Square meter cost will vary depending on board width. Keep scrolling to see a breakdown of the cost per square meter for various materials.<\/span><\/p>\n

Average Cost to Build a Deck by Size<\/span><\/h3>\n

The average cost for garden decking is \u00a31,500<\/strong><\/a>, according to MyJobQuote. However, this price can significantly increase or decrease depending on deck materials, style of deck, labour, add-ons, and\u2014perhaps most tellingly\u2014size of the deck.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here is what to keep in mind when looking at prices for the deck sizes below:<\/span><\/p>\n

Labour:<\/span><\/strong> The costs include a labour estimation, but this can drastically range depending on where you live.<\/span><\/p>\n

Cost:<\/span><\/strong> A range for cost has been included since deck materials broadly impact price. Opting for more economical decking like softwood will bring you closer to the lower end. More luxurious deck materials like hardwoods and composite decking are at the higher end. Additionally, unique deck shapes<\/a>, such as those with rounded edges, will cost more than square decks or rectangular decks.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Deck Size<\/strong><\/td>\nAverage Cost Range<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
15 square metres<\/td>\n\u00a3800 \u2013 \u00a32,560<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
30 square metres<\/td>\n\u00a31,200 \u2013 \u00a34,720<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
60 square metres<\/td>\n\u00a31,600 \u2013 \u00a36,880<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
90 square metres<\/td>\n\u00a32,000 \u2013 \u00a39,040<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Labour Cost to Build a Deck<\/h2>\n

\"\"The average labour cost to build a deck is \u00a320 – \u00a350 per square metre<\/strong>. Deck materials that are lighter and easier to install, like softwoods, are cheaper. On the other end of the spectrum, heavy hardwoods like redwood and premium materials like composite will cost more.<\/span><\/p>\n

The best way to know what to expect for labour costs is to talk to neighbours with a deck installed within the past year. Alternatively, you can also find a contractor for a quote<\/a> or get an estimate from a website like Price Your Job<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Material Costs for Deck Building<\/h2>\n

There are more decking material options<\/a> available in today’s market than ever. The most common are composite, wood, PVC, and aluminium.<\/span><\/p>\n

Composite Decking Cost<\/span><\/h3>\n

\u00a380 – \u00a3200 per square metre (materials only) <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"This type of decking is made from a mix of wood, plastic, and bonding agents to give it the aesthetic of wood but with enhanced durability. It never splinters or rots, comes in various colours and requires very little maintenance\u2014mainly just a semi-annual deck cleaning<\/a>. <\/u><\/span><\/p>\n

Composite materials are more expensive than other options. However, something to consider is that it also tends to last longer\u201430 to 50 years\u2014which can save you repair and replacement costs down the road (deck repairs tend to cost around \u00a3150 to \u00a3400). Additionally, many companies that offer this decking also provide a warranty. For example, Trex offers a 25-year warranty, while many other companies also give 10 – 25 years.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wood Decking Cost<\/span><\/h3>\n

\u00a315 – \u00a3100 per square metre (materials only) <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"hose<\/p>\n

Natural wood decks are a classic that naturally blends with most home exteriors and can be stained or painted in any colour. However, most wood types will need regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. This includes cleaning, sanding, oiling, and re-staining.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wood decking includes softwoods like cedar and pine and hardwoods like teak and Brazilian walnut (ipe). Cost varies depending on the type of wood\u2014softwood is cheaper than hardwood\u2014as well as the thickness. For example, while a square metre of 19mm timber costs on average \u00a335, 28mm timber costs more than double at \u00a380.<\/span><\/p>\n

Below are some of the most popular deck woods<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pressure Treated Wood \u2013<\/span><\/strong> A chemically treated wood to better withstand weathering, rot, and bug infestations. Regular maintenance is required, but it is a cheaper option.<\/span><\/p>\n

Cedar \u2013<\/span><\/strong> A popular choice for building decks due to its low price point, lower install price, and resistance to rot and termite damage. It is easy to work with but will need a fair bit of maintenance, including sanding, staining, and sealing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pine \u2013<\/span><\/strong> Another popular softwood decking material. Pine is widely available and easy to stain but will need regular maintenance. In addition, it is not long-lasting, especially compared to hardwoods or composite.<\/span><\/p>\n

Teak \u2013<\/span><\/strong> Many early decks used this classic hardwood that is moisture resistant and sports a beautiful finish. However, it has fallen out of favour recently due to its high price and more decking material options than ever.<\/span><\/p>\n

Iroko \u2013 <\/span><\/strong>An African hardwood that is heavy and dark with a rich oily finish and irregular grain. <\/strong>Great for wetter climates since it naturally repels bugs and moisture (to some degree) thanks to its natural oils and resins. Due to its slow-growing nature and being an imported wood, it is on the higher end of the price scale. Note that it also changes colour over time, much like teak does.  <\/span><\/p>\n

Redwood \u2013 <\/span><\/strong>A hardwood commonly used in decking due to its cheaper price point and that it doesn’t warp easily. Maintenance is an absolute must as this wood is susceptible to sun damage and rot without proper care.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ipe \u2013 <\/span><\/strong>This high-end hardwood (pronounced ee-pay) is durable, heavy, and hard. It is one of the longest-lasting (and expensive) wood decking materials. In addition, its fire resistance is comparable to steel or concrete.<\/span><\/p>\n

PVC Decking Cost<\/span><\/h3>\n

\u00a330 – \u00a380 per square metre (materials only) <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

This decking is all plastic and contains zero wood (unlike composite decking, which is a mix of resin and wood). It requires virtually no maintenance and is a more affordable decking material, but many types look cheap.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aluminium Decking Cost<\/span><\/h3>\n

\u00a340 – \u00a390 per square metre (materials only) <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

This long-lasting decking material has an impressive lifespan of 60-100 years. It requires little maintenance and is highly resistant to bugs and rot. However, many find it less aesthetically pleasing than wood and composite alternatives. It is also worth noting that it has a very different underfoot feel.<\/span><\/p>\n

Decking Prices and Deck Design<\/h2>\n

While size and type of material are major factors when determining decking prices, deck design also plays into the equation. Here are a few points to keep in mind:<\/span><\/p>\n