How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $4,348 - $12,482
Building a deck costs $8,159 on average, and ranges from $4,348 to $12,482—but you'll pay more for upgraded designs and high-end lumber.
What better way to elevate your outdoor living than with a new deck? The average cost to build a deck is $8,159, but you could pay more or less depending on size, quality, design, and more.
From barbecues during the summer to cool fall mornings with a cup of coffee in your hand, decks can upgrade your space and lifestyle. Let’s take a look at all the costs of building a deck from start to finish.
- Average
- $8,159
- Low end
- $1,500
- high end
- $23,000
Building a Deck Cost Breakdown
There are many points to consider before you get the ball rolling on your dream deck project. By considering subcategories of how to build a deck, such as labor, deck material costs, and size, you can get an idea of the final price or where you might need to adjust your expectations. Below is a breakdown of the major components to factor into your plans to build a deck.
Just a note: Like every home, every project is unique. The costs below are a good place to start, but consulting a local pro will help you get a better understanding of what you'll pay.
Size
The deck cost per square foot is $30 to $60 per square foot. The higher end of that range represents deck projects built on second stories, building a deck with high-end wood, or customized designs.
See the table below for general estimates based on the size of your deck:
| Dimensions | Square Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10x10 | 100 | $4,000–$6,000 |
| 10x12 | 120 | $3,600–$7,200 |
| 12x12 | 144 | $5,760–$8,640 |
| 12x16 | 192 | $5,400–$10,800 |
| 12x20 | 240 | $9,600–$14,400 |
| 14x20 | 280 | $11,200–$16,800 |
| 12x24 | 288 | $11,520–$17,280 |
| 16x20 | 320 | $12,800–$19,200 |
| 20x20 | 400 | $16,000–$24,000 |
Materials
Your deck material costs will make up a large portion of your total budget, ranging from $2 to $45 per square foot. Less-expensive materials can be tempting, but they may result in extra expenses for maintenance and repair, which you’ll need to hire a local deck contractor to handle.
| Decking Material | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $2–$5 |
| Composite decking | $12–$22 |
| Ipe Wood | $10–$20 |
| Tigerwood | $7–$15 |
| Mahogany | $8–$11 |
| Redwood | $5–$35 |
| Bamboo | $3–$10 |
| Cedar | $3–$7 |
| Aluminum/Metal | $15–$20 |
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is a classic decking material that costs around $2 to $5 per square foot. This type of wood is chemically treated to resist rot, weather damage, and pest infestations. While it’s a durable material, it has higher upkeep needs and requires annual sealing.
Composite Decking
Most composite deck materials cost between $12 to $22 per square foot for materials only or $25 to $54 per square foot for an installed composite deck. Composite decking materials cost significantly more than their wooden counterparts but require no sealing or maintenance aside from occasional cleaning. They’re also mostly recycled materials and sometimes even plastic bags, so they’re a sustainable decking choice to boot.
Ipe Wood
Ipe wood decking costs around $10 to $20 per square foot on average. It’s a more expensive choice, but it’s extremely dense, durable, and long-lasting. It’s also more difficult to work with, so it could drive up your labor cost.
Tigerwood
Tigerwood is another exotic hardwood, and it often costs about $7 to $15 per square foot. This wood carries a beautiful and distinct striped pattern, making it some of the best wood for decks if you’re looking for an aesthetically appealing material at a relatively affordable price. However, like other hardwood varieties, it’s more difficult to install, so you’ll need to budget extra labor costs if you choose this option.
Mahogany
Mahogany deck prices are often around $8 to $11 per square foot. While this option is a moderately expensive choice, it has lower maintenance needs than pressure-treated wood and a gorgeous natural appearance.
Redwood
Redwood decking can cost anywhere from $5 to $35 per square foot. While it can get costly, it naturally repels pests and fades to a beautiful silvery gray over time. However, it is susceptible to mold and UV damage if you don’t keep up with yearly inspections and maintenance.
Bamboo
Bamboo decking material costs $3 to $10 per square foot on average. It’s strong, relatively inexpensive, and resists mold and rot, though it’s not ideal for northern climates. It can also be difficult to install and requires resealing every year. If you select this material for your deck, be sure it comes from a sustainable source, as some harvesting practices can damage natural habitats.
Cedar
Cedar decking costs $3 to $7 per square foot on average. This environmentally friendly softwood is relatively inexpensive and naturally resists bugs, moisture, and UV rays. However, it demands consistent maintenance and can get damaged easily.
Aluminum/Metal
Metal or aluminum deck material costs $15 to $20 per square foot. These decking materials are lightweight, long-lasting, waterproof, and low maintenance. Plus, if it’s on your second story, it doubles as a seamless roof for your outdoor living space below.
Deck Type
Simply put, the more complex your deck build is, the more it will cost. Complicated types of decks like wraparound decks, multi-tier decks, and rooftop decks all require greater accessibility, additional prep work, and often more materials.
For example, if you want to build a floating deck, it will likely cost about $20 to $60 per square foot. These decks don’t actually float—they’re just not attached to your home. Because of this, they’ll need a few more support posts to keep them structurally sound.
Labor
Professional labor costs to build a deck are $15 to $35 per square foot on average. While it's tempting to cut costs by considering a DIY install, this route may end up costing you more in the long run if you don't have experience.
Deck Location
In most cases, the location of your deck may impact the project cost. For example, if you’re building it on a slope, this requires additional planning and will increase your labor expenses. Also, if your deck isn’t in an easily accessible location, your contractors may charge more to account for the extra difficulty in hauling the materials.
Your geographical location also impacts your overall cost to build a deck. For example, if you live in a big city with a high cost of living, you can expect to pay more in labor than you would in a suburban or rural area. There are other location-based cost factors, as well, including permitting and availability of materials.
Local Climate
Depending on the climate in your area, certain decking materials might work better than others. Plastic-based materials (like composite and PVC decking) hold up better than natural wood in places with harsh winter weather and high snowfall. On the other hand, some types of bamboo aren’t great in extra-cold climates.
First- vs. Second-Story Decks
The type of deck you build will likely go hand in hand with where it’s installed. A second-story deck (which some contractors might deem a balcony) will cost more to build because it’s harder to install. The most common place to install a deck, which is also likely the most cost-effective, is on the first floor attached to the backside of your home.
Here’s one example of how the cost average might differ:
10x10 first-story deck: $1,000–$2,000
10x10 second-story deck: $4,000–$5,000
Framing
Framing a deck, which sets the joints of the unit to be structurally safe and sound, costs $9 to $12 for labor per square foot. The lumber or materials needed to frame your deck accounts for about 1/4 to 1/3 of the lumber you’ll need.
Flooring
Some homeowners choose to install flooring over a wood deck. Composite is a material option that works well, while more elegant choices like porcelain or ceramic could add thousands (or tens of thousands, depending on the deck’s size) to your price tag.
The average cost ranges from $20 to $45 per square foot, depending on the material. Pressure-treated lumber will cost between $15 and $25 per square foot.
Ongoing Expenses After Building a Deck
Decks also come with a few ongoing expenses. For the most part, your deck upkeep costs will depend on your decking material since some types require more maintenance than others.
Deck Repairs
Wear and tear can take its toll on your deck over time, so you may need to budget for the cost of deck repair in the future. Deck repairs range from minor fixes, costing about $270, to major structural problems, which cost up to $7,500 to replace. Common deck repairs include repairing railings, replacing deck boards, and treating the deck for termites, mildew, and rot.
Just like with installing a deck, it's important to do your research to hire a vetted pro to install your deck and not go off of price alone.
Deck Cleaning
No matter what type of deck you have, it’s important to clean it at least once per year (ideally in the spring). An annual cleaning gets rid of mold, dirt, and debris, making your deck look better and last longer. Cleaning your deck is a straightforward DIY project, but if you’d rather hand it off to a professional, you can expect to pay between $30 and $60 per hour for labor.
Deck Painting or Staining
Wooden decks require painting or staining to protect them from moisture, UV rays, and harsh weather. If you hire a pro, the cost of staining a deck ranges from $550 to $1,250, while painting a deck costs between $500 and $2,000. You'll need a new coat of stain every two or three years, but paint can last up to 10 years.
Deck Sealing
If your deck is made from natural materials (like pressure-treated wood or bamboo), you should reseal it at least every other year to prevent water and UV damage. Sealing a deck costs $550 to $1,330 when done by a professional.
Additional Costs When Building a Deck
Here are a few more potential costs to consider when budgeting for this project.
Deck Permits
Most decks require a permit, depending on your location and the size of your deck. In some places, your deck won't need a permit if it's small (less than 200 square feet), low to the ground, and not attached to your house. Permit prices vary, but you can expect to pay between $230 and $500 if you need one.
Property Taxes on Your New Deck Build
Yep, that’s right: You might need to punch extra property taxes into your deck cost calculator. What you pay, if anything, will vary based on the area you live in. Check your local tax and building codes to estimate what you’ll owe for your new deck build.
Deck Prices for Your Insurance
A deck is a prime way to enjoy outdoor living, but it’s also something people can trip on (or fall off of). On top of that, it’s an extra asset in case anything unthinkable happens, such as a fire or a tornado. For these reasons, your homeowners insurance premiums could increase to compensate for the extra liability. Talk to your provider to find out the details.
Cost to Build a Deck Yourself
Building a deck is complicated, and it could become a safety issue if the structural foundation of your deck isn’t up to par. DIYing a deck should only be tackled by someone who’s competent at handling all aspects of the build. This isn’t most average DIYers
The safest and best option is to hire a local deck builder to construct the deck of your dreams. That way, you can ensure it’s built correctly and in a timely manner. Plus, deck builders will be able to advise you on decisions like deck location, material, and size.
Cost of Common Deck Add-Ons
From adding stairs to adding overhead shade to giving yourself four-season usability, here are some other costs you might incur if you upgrade from a simple deck build. Remember, these costs can and will vary based on many different factors, so consider these a starting point before you talk to a pro.
Staircase cost: $25–$50 per stair
Electricity cost: $130–$300 per outdoor outlet
Outdoor lighting fixtures cost: $8–$30+ each
Heaters cost: $100–$300
Outdoor misting system cost: $2,100–$3,400
Sofa, chairs, and table cost: $500+
Outdoor fireplace cost: $1,500–$8,000
Retractable deck awning cost: $250–$3,500
3 Tips to Reduce Costs When Building a Deck
You can use your cost savings from building your deck to supply your future summer BBQ budget. Here are three ideas to help keep your new deck project costs down.
1. Choose a Simple Deck Design
Wraparound and multi-tier decks, as well as decks installed in tough locations to access, will always cost more than a simple rectangular design. Work with a local deck contractor to create a design that fits your aesthetic goals without going over your budget.
2. Opt for Cost-Conscious Lumber
Higher-end woods may look sleek, but you could pay twice as much for expensive lumber like redwood as you will for simple pressure-treated lumber.
Pressure-treated lumber costs more per square foot on the front end but will reduce the cost of maintenance compared to untreated wood once your deck is finished. Speaking of deck maintenance tasks, less-expensive materials, like wood, require a good amount of it. You’ll need to plan on spending around $700 to $1,600 per year to have your deck power washed and resealed.
3. Install Your Deck During the Offseason
Deck contractors with a waitlist have been known to drive up their prices to accommodate demand. If possible, build your deck in the winter or fall when demand for deck installations drops off so you can get the best price possible. As always, get quotes from multiple contractors and only work with licensed, insured, and bonded professionals.
Candance Nelson and Alison Kasch contributed to this piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deck repairs cost around $800 to $3,500. However, your cost depends on the type and severity of the repair, as well as the type of decking material you have. Other factors, like location and labor costs, impact the price, too. Boards and railings are the priciest parts of a deck to repair, while loose stairs are less expensive to fix.
Composite decking might cost more upfront, but it delivers value in terms of durability. Unlike wood, composite material resists common deck problems such as rotting, fading, warping, and all the other things you don’t want a deck to do. The extra processes lead to a higher price tag, but you’ll save big in maintenance costs down the road.
Adding a deck to your home will increase its overall value. Per Remodeling magazine's 2023 Cost vs. Value Report, building a deck is a top 15 home improvement task. Installing a wooden deck has an average return on investment (ROI) of 52%, while building a composite deck offers almost 40% ROI. The amount of value a deck adds to your home depends on deck size, type, material, age, and how well you maintain it.