Deck Construction Cost Guide
Outdoor LivingCustom deck building with pressure-treated wood, composite materials, or exotic hardwoods. Includes design, permits, foundation, framing, decking, railings, and stairs.
📊Showing National Average Pricing
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Basic deck with pressure-treated lumber
Typical Scope:
- ✓12x16 basic deck (192 sq ft)
- ✓Pressure-treated pine framing
- ✓Standard 5/4 decking boards
- ✓Simple design with stairs
- ✓Basic post & beam railings
- ✓No built-in features
Mid-size deck with composite or quality wood materials
Typical Scope:
- ✓16x20 elevated deck (320 sq ft)
- ✓Composite or cedar decking
- ✓Multi-level design possible
- ✓Decorative railing system
- ✓Built-in bench seating
- ✓Pergola or shade structure
Large custom deck with premium materials and features
Typical Scope:
- ✓500+ sq ft multi-level deck
- ✓Premium ipe or composite materials
- ✓Custom design with curves
- ✓Glass or metal cable railings
- ✓Built-in kitchen, lighting, planters
- ✓Covered areas & premium finishes
Cost by Material
| Material | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Pine | $15 | $25 | $20 |
| Cedar or Redwood | $25 | $40 | $33 |
| Composite Decking | $30 | $50 | $40 |
| PVC Decking | $35 | $60 | $48 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does deck building cost?
Deck building costs range from $2,500 for basic ground-level decks to $35,000+ for large multi-level designs. The average deck costs $12,500. Material choice and size are the biggest cost factors.
What's the best material for decking?
Pressure-treated lumber is most affordable. Composite offers low maintenance but higher upfront cost. Cedar provides natural beauty with moderate maintenance. Choose based on budget and maintenance preferences.
Do I need a permit for deck construction?
Most decks require permits, especially elevated decks over 24-30 inches high. Ground-level decks may not need permits in some areas. Check local building codes before starting.
How long does deck construction take?
Simple decks take 1-3 days. Standard elevated decks require 3-7 days. Complex multi-level decks with built-ins can take 2-3 weeks including permit approvals.
What maintenance does a deck require?
Wood decks need annual cleaning and staining every 2-3 years. Composite decks require minimal maintenance - just periodic cleaning. Regular inspection of railings and fasteners is important for all decks.
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