A well-built deck adds usable square footage and strong resale value. But deck costs vary enormously based on material choice and design complexity. Here's how to estimate your project accurately.
Cost by material
Pressure-treated wood: $15-$25/sq ft installed -- most affordable, needs annual sealing. Cedar or redwood: $25-$35/sq ft -- naturally rot-resistant, better appearance. Composite decking (Trex, TimberTech): $30-$50/sq ft -- high upfront cost, minimal maintenance. Hardwood (ipe, mahogany): $40-$60/sq ft -- premium look, extremely durable.
Total project cost by size
Small deck (100-200 sq ft): $3,000-$8,000. Medium deck (200-400 sq ft): $8,000-$16,000. Large deck (400-600 sq ft): $14,000-$25,000. Multi-level decks, built-in seating, pergolas, and lighting each add $2,000-$8,000.
Permits and inspections
Virtually all new decks require a building permit ($100-$500 depending on municipality). The permit ensures footings are properly sized and ledger connections meet code -- critical for safety. Always pull a permit. Unpermitted decks can prevent home sales and void homeowner's insurance.
Composite vs. wood over time
A pressure-treated wood deck needs staining or sealing every 1-3 years ($200-$500 each time). A composite deck requires only occasional cleaning. Over 20 years, composite often costs less despite higher upfront pricing when maintenance is factored in.
Bottom line
Budget $15-$30/sq ft for a standard wood deck, $30-$50/sq ft for composite. A 200 sq ft deck in composite -- a popular starter size -- runs $8,000-$12,000 all-in with permit.
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