What is the Average Cost of a Deck? A Detailed Breakdown

Building a deck is one of the best ways to enhance outdoor space. Whether you want a cozy spot for morning coffee or a place to entertain friends, a deck can transform your backyard into something special.

If you’re considering this project, it’s important to know that the average cost of a deck typically ranges from $20 to $120 per square foot, depending on various factors.

Some of the key factors that influence deck costs include:

The type of materials you choose (wood, composite, premium options)
The size and design of the deck
Extra features like railings, stairs, and lighting
Whether you build it yourself or hire a professional

In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about deck costs. From basic wood decks to high-end custom designs, we’ll give you a clear picture of what to expect.

Our goal is to help you make smart, informed decisions, so you can get the deck of your dreams—without any surprise expenses.

Design and Build the Deck You’ve Always Wanted!

At Perimeter Remodeling, we know that your deck should be as unique as your home. That’s why we specialize in creating custom decks tailored to your style, needs, and budget. From design to construction, we handle every detail so you can enjoy a beautiful outdoor space for years to come.

Ready to start building? Get in touch with us for a free consultation and let’s bring your vision to life.

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Factors that Influence the Average Cost of a Deck

The cost of building a deck can vary widely, and it depends on several key factors.

The materials you choose, the size and design of the deck, its height, and any additional features or upgrades all play a role in determining the final price.

Material Selection

The type of material you choose is one of the biggest factors affecting the overall cost of your deck. Different materials come with their own price ranges, maintenance requirements, and lifespans.

Wood (e.g., pressure-treated lumber, cedar)

Pros: Wood is often the most affordable material and gives a natural, classic look. Pressure-treated lumber is widely available and affordable, while cedar offers better resistance to rot and insects.
Cons: Requires regular maintenance (staining and sealing) to prevent weather damage.
Cost: Typically $15–$35 per square foot, depending on the type of wood.

Composite Decking (e.g., Trex, Azek)

Pros: Low maintenance and durable, composite decking resists rot, mold, and insects. It’s available in a variety of colors and textures that mimic real wood.
Cons: More expensive than wood. Can fade over time if exposed to direct sunlight.
Cost: Around $30–$45 per square foot.

Premium Options (e.g., IPE, other high-grade hardwoods)

Pros: Premium hardwoods like IPE are extremely durable, long-lasting, and visually stunning. They’re resistant to rot, insects, and weather damage.
Cons: The most expensive option and can be difficult to install.
Cost: $40–$80+ per square foot.

Deck Size and Design

The size and design of your deck directly impact the overall cost. Larger decks use more materials and require more labor, while more complex designs add to the price.

Small Deck (10×10 or less)

Overview: Ideal for small backyards or as a cozy outdoor space.
Cost: Around $2,000–$5,000 depending on materials and features.

Medium-Sized Deck (12×20 as an example)

Overview: A common size for entertaining, providing ample space for outdoor furniture.
Cost: Typically $5,000–$10,000, depending on materials and design complexity.

Large and Custom Decks (multiple levels, expansive layouts)

Overview: Larger decks or those with multiple levels are great for big backyards and complex outdoor living spaces.
Cost: $10,000+ depending on the size, materials, and added features.

Single-Level Decks vs. Multi-Level Decks

Single-Level: Easier to build, less labor, and fewer materials.
Multi-Level: More complex and expensive due to the need for additional support, footings, and design work.

Additional Design Elements

Custom features like wrap-around decks, curved decks, and built-in seating can significantly raise costs, as they require specialized labor and more materials.

Height of the Deck

The height of your deck also affects the price. Higher decks require more structural support, which adds to the material and labor costs.

Lower Decks: Easier to build, require fewer materials like posts and footings.
Higher Decks: Need additional footings, posts, and support beams to stay stable and safe. This can raise the overall cost by $15–$25 per square foot.

Additional Features and Upgrades

Certain features and upgrades can make your deck more functional and visually appealing but will also add to the total cost.

Railings

Materials: Wood, metal, glass, or composite railings each come with their own price tags. Wood is the cheapest, while glass and custom metal railings are more expensive.
Cost: $20–$50 per linear foot, depending on the material.

Stairs

Cost: Basic stairs start at $150 per step. More elaborate stairs with custom railings or lighting can cost much more.

Underdecking and Drainage Systems

Overview: Underdecking creates a dry space below your deck, ideal for outdoor storage or living areas.
Cost: $4–$8 per square foot.

Lighting and Electrical Features

Cost: Basic deck lighting starts at $50 per fixture. High-end options like built-in lighting and ceiling fans can add $1,000–$3,000 to your project.

Check out our detailed post on choosing the right deck for your needs.

The Cost Breakdown: Labor vs. Materials

When planning your deck project, it’s crucial to understand how costs are typically divided between materials and labor.

Generally, the total cost of a deck project is split fairly evenly between these two main components, though the exact ratio can vary depending on several factors.

Let’s break down each of these elements to give you a clearer picture of what you might expect to pay.

Material Costs

The materials you choose for your deck play a significant role in determining the overall cost. The quality and type of materials can cause prices to vary widely.

For example, premium composite decking materials can cost significantly more than traditional pressure-treated lumber. However, they often offer better longevity and lower maintenance requirements.

Here’s a general cost range for different decking materials per square foot:

Pressure-treated wood: $5 – $8
Cedar or redwood: $8 – $12
Composite decking: $12 – $22
Premium hardwoods (like Ipe): $20 – $30+

Remember, these costs are just for the decking boards. You’ll also need to factor in costs for the substructure (joists, beams, posts), hardware, and any additional features like railings or stairs.

Labor Costs

When it comes to labor, you have two main options: hiring a professional deck builder or going the DIY route. Each has its pros and cons, which we’ll explore more in a later section.

If you’re hiring a professional, you can expect to pay between $10 to $20 per square foot for labor alone. This means for a 240 square-foot deck (12′ x 20′), labor costs could range from $2,400 to $4,800.

Several factors can push labor costs towards the higher end of this range or even beyond:

Custom designs: Unique or complex deck layouts require more time and expertise.
Premium materials: Some high-end materials require special tools or techniques to install properly.
Specialized equipment: If your property requires the use of special equipment (like for a high deck or difficult terrain), this will increase costs.
Site preparation: If extensive groundwork is needed before the building can start, this adds to labor time and cost.

It’s worth noting that while DIY can save you money on labor, it requires significant time, skill, and effort. Plus, mistakes can end up costing you more in the long run. Always weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding to tackle a deck project on your own.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: Pros and Cons

When it comes to building a deck, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to tackle the project yourself or hire a professional.

Both approaches have their merits and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your skills, budget, and time constraints.

Pros of Hiring a Professional

Quality work: Professional deck builders bring years of experience and expertise to your project. They understand the intricacies of deck construction and can ensure that your deck is built to last.
Proper permits and compliance: Professionals are well-versed in local building codes and regulations. They can handle the permitting process and ensure that your deck meets all safety standards.
Licensing and insurance: Reputable deck builders are licensed and insured, providing you with protection in case of accidents or issues during construction.
Faster project completion: With their experience and dedicated time, professionals can complete your deck much faster than most DIY enthusiasts.
Long-term durability: A professionally built deck is less likely to experience issues like warping, sagging, or structural problems down the line, potentially saving you money on repairs.

Cons of Hiring a Professional

Higher upfront costs: The primary drawback of hiring a professional is the cost. Labor can significantly increase your project budget.
Premium pricing for custom work: For complex or customized designs, costs can escalate quickly. High-end custom decks can sometimes exceed $120 per square foot when you factor in premium materials and specialized labor.

Pros of DIY Deck Building

Significant cost savings: By doing the work yourself, you can save substantially on labor costs. DIY builders often report savings of 50% or more on their total project costs.
Full control over the project: When you build your own deck, you have complete control over every aspect of the design and construction process. You can take your time to get things exactly how you want them.
Satisfaction of a job well done: There’s a unique sense of pride and accomplishment that comes from building something with your own hands.

Cons of DIY Deck Building

Time-intensive: Building a deck is a significant undertaking that can take weeks or even months to complete, especially if you can only work on it during evenings and weekends.
Requires skill and knowledge: Deck building involves carpentry skills, an understanding of load-bearing structures, and familiarity with local building codes. Without this knowledge, you might struggle with the construction process.
Potential for costly mistakes: Errors in measurement, material selection, or construction can lead to expensive corrections or even the need to start over.
Safety concerns: Improper construction can lead to a deck that’s unsafe for use. This could result in injuries and liability issues down the line.
Tool investment: If you don’t already own them, you’ll need to purchase or rent specialized tools for deck building, which can add to your overall costs.

Ultimately, the choice between DIY and hiring a professional comes down to your circumstances. If you have the skills, time, and confidence to take on the project, DIY can be a rewarding and cost-effective option.

However, if you value peace of mind, quick completion, and expert craftsmanship, hiring a professional might be the better choice for you.

Tips for Saving Money on Deck Construction

Building a deck doesn’t have to break the bank. With some smart planning and strategic decisions, you can significantly reduce your costs without compromising on quality.

Here are some practical tips to help you save money on your deck construction project.

Choose Cost-Effective Materials

One of the most impactful ways to reduce your deck costs is by carefully selecting your materials.

While high-end options like composite decking or exotic hardwoods can be appealing, there are more budget-friendly alternatives that still offer durability and aesthetic appeal.

Pressure-treated lumber: This is one of the most economical decking materials available. It’s treated to resist rot, decay, and insect infestation, making it a durable choice for many climates. With proper maintenance, a pressure-treated wood deck can last 15-20 years.
Cedar: While slightly more expensive than pressure-treated wood, cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects. It’s a beautiful wood that can be left to weather naturally or sealed to maintain its color.
Mix and match: Consider using premium materials only for the parts of your deck that are most visible, like the decking boards and railings, while using more economical options for the underlying structure.

Remember, whichever material you choose, proper deck maintenance is key to longevity. Regular cleaning and sealing can extend the life of your deck and save you money in the long run.

Build During Off-Season

Timing your deck project strategically can lead to significant savings. Many deck builders have a busy season (typically spring and summer) and an off-season (fall and winter in many areas).

Lower labor costs: During the off-season, many contractors are looking for work and may offer discounted rates to keep their crews busy.
Faster scheduling: With fewer projects competing for attention, you might be able to get your deck built more quickly.
Material discounts: Some suppliers offer end-of-season sales on decking materials.

However, be aware that weather conditions in the off-season might affect construction time. Always discuss potential weather-related delays with your contractor before scheduling.

DIY Portions of the Build

Even if you’re not comfortable building the entire deck yourself, taking on some aspects of the project can help reduce labor costs. Here are some DIY-friendly tasks to consider:

Demolition: If you’re replacing an old deck, consider removing it yourself. Just be sure to check for any permits required for demolition.
Site preparation: Clearing the area, leveling the ground, and marking out the deck location are tasks many homeowners can handle.
Staining or sealing: Once the deck is built, you can save on labor by applying the stain or sealant yourself.
Adding railings: If you’re handy, installing deck railings can be a manageable DIY project.
Decorative elements: Adding built-in benches, planter boxes, or privacy screens are great DIY add-ons that can personalize your deck.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority. If you’re unsure about your ability to complete a DIY decking task safely, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

Build Your Dream Deck with Perimeter Remodeling

Building a deck is an exciting journey that can significantly enhance your home’s value and your quality of life.

As we’ve explored, deck costs can vary widely, typically ranging from $20 to $120 per square foot, depending on materials, size, and complexity. While it’s tempting to focus solely on cost, remember that quality and safety should never be compromised.

At Perimeter Remodeling, we’ve been turning Atlanta homeowners’ outdoor dreams into reality since 1999. We bring expertise, honesty, and compassion to every project, ensuring your deck meets your budget and exceeds expectations.

Why choose us?

20+ years of experience in Atlanta
Comprehensive, one-stop remodeling services
Personalized approach to meet your unique needs
Commitment to quality, safety, and satisfaction

Ready to start your deck project? Contact us today! Let’s create the perfect outdoor space that balances cost, quality, and your personal style.

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