Black painted brick home with a light tan deck and string lights overhead

Decking cost calculator

Learn everything you need to know about how much a deck costs.​

Decking cost calculator

Learn everything you need to know about how much a deck costs.

HomeDesignDecking Cost Calculator

Understanding the cost of a deck​

Building a deck is an exciting project – but with so many options, you may be unsure of how to budget for it. From the design complexity and structural requirements to the materials you use, there are a lot of factors to consider. Our Deck Material Cost Calculator below can help you determine the deck material cost which is only one component of the overall project cost. Here, we’ll breakdown the cost of a deck project, share the cost of an ”average” deck and walk you through the lifetime value of an investment in TimberTech over wood.​

Decking cost breakdown​

Highlighted section, "Decking material & fasteners" represents 20% of the cost to build a deck. Railing material represents 12% of the total cost, decking & railing labor represents 30% of the cost, and the substructure material and labor represents 38% of the cost.

Whether you’re building with composite, PVC or traditional wood decking, the cost breakdown generally remains the same with labor being a large portion of the total cost. However, if you choose wood decking you have to account for costly annual maintenance & repairs beyond the initial project cost.

Decking cost breakdown​

Whether you’re building with composite, PVC or traditional wood decking, the cost breakdown generally remains the same with labor and the substructure making up the majority of the total cost. However, if you choose wood decking you have to account for costly annual maintenance & repairs beyond the initial project cost.

The cost of an “average” deck​

There are a few factors that can drive the total project cost up or down – including the size and complexity of the deck, where you live, the contractor you choose, the landscape of your property, permit fees and the features included like stairs or lighting. Here, we provide a snapshot of the cost of an average 16x20ft deck for reference, but keep in mind that a more elaborate deck project can reach up to $100,000+.​

For example:

16×20 = 320 sq ft

Cost of an average size deck

Bar chart of average deck cost: "$2k-$6k | Deck Material & Fasteners*,
$8k | Substructure Material & Labor, Total Cost: $10k-$14k"

Cost of an average size deck with railing

Bar chart of average deck cost with rail: "$2k-$6k | Deck Material & Fasteners*,
$5k-$7k | Railing material & labor,  $8k | Substructure Material & Labor, Total Cost: $15k-$19k"

Cost of an average size deck with railing

Bar chart of average deck cost with rail: "$2k-$6k | Deck Material & Fasteners*,
$5k-$7k | Railing material & labor,  $8k | Substructure Material & Labor, Total Cost: $15k-$19k"

Cost of an average size deck

Bar chart of average deck cost: "$2k-$6k | Deck Material & Fasteners*,
$8k | Substructure Material & Labor, Total Cost: $10k-$14k"

*Cost of deck material varies by collection, see Deck material Cost Calculator below for details

Long Term Value

Wood vs. TimberTech: lifetime costs​

While a TimberTech deck may cost more upfront, the savings over time are substantial since it won’t require the same annual maintenance and repairs as a wood deck. The upgrade from a pressure treated wood deck to a composite or PVC deck can add as little as 15% to the total cost of your project even though the boards themselves typically cost 20-40% more. This is because the largest portion of your project, substructure and labor costs, remain the same regardless of the decking material you choose. And if you’re considering premium hardwoods like ipe or cedar, the cost of TimberTech Decking is comparable and often less.​

Wood

TimberTech

The bottom line

When deciding between composite and wood decking, consider both the short-term and long-term financial implications. Composite decking offers a higher initial investment but lower lifetime costs due to minimal maintenance and longer durability. Wood decking, while cheaper upfront, requires ongoing maintenance and may need to be replaced sooner, leading to higher costs over time. Your choice will depend on your budget, how much maintenance you’re willing to do, and how long you plan to stay in your home.​

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