Calculate the Cost to Build a Deck in 2024

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Deck?

Deck Material Costs

The costs to build a deck can vary based on the type of material you use, as well as the square footage of the deck with those materials. For instance, pressure-treated pine is the least expensive option among your choices for natural wood decking, with a cost of approximately $3 to $6 per square foot. More exotic hardwoods – such as Ipe can range between $10 to $15 per square foot. Composite decking, such as Trex, can cost between $5 to $13 per square foot, however, it requires less upkeep than most types of natural wood.

• Pressure-treated wood ($3 - $6 per sq. ft.)
• Pros: Affordable and widely available. Resistant to insect damage and rot.
• Cons: Requires regular maintenance, including sealing and staining, to prevent warping and cracking.
• Composite decking ($5 - $13 per sq. ft.)
• Pros: Low-maintenance and highly durable. Resistant to fading, staining, and mold.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost compared to some wood options. May feel artificial to some.
• Exotic hardwoods like Ipe ($10 - $15 per sq. ft.)
• Pros: Superior durability and a longer lifespan than pressure-treated wood.
• Cons: Very high cost and challenging to work with due to its density.
• Redwood ($7 - $12 per sq. ft.)
• Pros: Naturally resistant to insects and decay. Lightweight and easy to work with.
• Cons: Can be pricey and may require periodic maintenance to maintain color.
• Cedar ($4 - $8 per sq. ft.)
• Pros: Naturally resistant to rot and insects. Lightweight and easy to install.
• Cons: Not as durable as some harder woods and may require regular maintenance.
• Bamboo ($3 - $10 per sq. ft.)
• Pros: Eco-friendly and renewable resources. Attractive appearance and is easy to install.
• Cons: Susceptible to moisture and may not be as durable as traditional hardwoods.
• Aluminum ($15 - $20 per sq. ft.)
• Pros: Extremely durable, resistant to weather, pests, and fire. Minimal maintenance is required.
• Cons: Very high cost and may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as natural wood

Labor Cost to Build a Deck

Labor costs significantly impact the overall cost of building a deck, often accounting for a substantial portion of the budget beyond the materials. Depending on location, contractor experience, and the project's complexity, labor costs to build a deck per sq ft can range from $8 to $22. Several factors influence this variation:

• Deck Design Complexity: Intricate designs with multiple levels, stairs, or custom features require more time and skill, leading to increased labor costs.
• Contractor Expertise: More experienced contractors might charge higher rates, but their proficiency can ensure a more reliable and aesthetically pleasing outcome.
• Seasonal Demand: Labor costs to build a deck can fluctuate with seasonal demand, with higher rates often seen during the peak building seasons in spring and summer.
• Permit and Inspection Fees: Some areas require permits and inspections, which can add to the labor cost as contractors handle the paperwork and compliance aspects.
• Access to the Building Site: Sites that are difficult to access or have limited space can require more time and effort, thus increasing labor costs

Cost to Build a Deck by Size

Costs for materials for a deck range according to a number of factors, including:

• Square footage of your deck plan
• Height, width, and depth of your planned structure
• How elaborate your design is (for example, is there enough room in the budget for a shed roof?)
• The type of materials you plan to use and how much they cost within your particular region of the country

Whether you’re wondering how much does a 14x20 deck costs, or if you want a smaller deck, such as a 10x10 deck, below are the average costs of materials to build a deck, depending on the square footage and type of material you plan to use. Please keep in mind that this does not include labor cost to build a deck and only takes into consideration the cost of materials, without railing.

Deck Cost per Square Foot

This chart provides an estimate of the costs for decking materials alone, excluding framing and labor expenses.

Please keep in mind that these costs can vary according to a number of the factors we’ve mentioned before, as well as whether you plan to use those materials to build the deck yourself, or if you prefer to hire a contractor.

Use Our Free Deck Design Software

Design the deck of your dreams with our new deck design software. Drop-in octagons, make a multi-level deck, add a staircase and or wrap around stairs, and get a plan to submit for permits. See your deck in 3D then get a plan and suggested material list for your project.

You will be designing in no time. Don’t be intimidated. This is a simple and fun experience designing a new deck.

DESIGN YOUR DECK