Cost
- National Average: $4,800–$8,000.
- Low-End: $1,500 for small ground-level decks.
- High-End: $14,400 for multi-level or large decks.
Cost by Deck Size
| Deck Size (ft.) | Average Cost Range |
|---------------------------|-------------------------|
| 10 x 10 (100 sq. ft.) | $1,500–$2,500 |
| 12 x 12 (144 sq. ft.) | $2,200–$3,600 |
| 14 x 20 (280 sq. ft.) | $4,200–$7,000 |
| 20 x 20 (400 sq. ft.) | $6,000–$10,000 |
| 24 x 24 (576 sq. ft.) | $8,640–$14,400 |
Cost by Deck Type
| Deck Type | Cost per Sq. Ft. | Notes |
|-----------------------|----------------------|-------------------------------------------|
| Ground-Level | $15–$25 | Simple, attached to the house. |
| Floating (Freestanding)| $20–$60 | Requires extra framing for stability. |
| Second-Story (Raised) | $40–$50 | Includes foundation and support posts. |
| Multi-Level | $30–$75 | Complex designs, stairs, and materials. |
Key Factors Affecting Costs
- Materials:
- Pressure-treated wood costs $15–$25 per square foot.
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Premium grades increase material costs by ~30%.
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Labor:
- Labor accounts for 70% of the total cost.
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Expect $15–$35 per square foot for professional installation.
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Preparation:
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Foundation costs: $25–$300 per post, depending on deck type.
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Location:
- Raised decks or those in areas with challenging terrain or high labor costs can increase prices.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Maintenance:
- Sealing: $0.75–$4 per sq. ft. every 1–2 years.
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Regular cleaning and inspections can prevent costly repairs.
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Repairs:
- Average: $800–$3,200.
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Replacement boards: $10–$20 per sq. ft..
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Insurance:
- A new deck may raise your homeowner’s insurance premium—check with your provider.
Cost to DIY vs. Hire a Contractor
- DIY Savings:
- Avoid 70% labor costs, saving $1,750–$7,000 depending on deck size.
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Risks include incorrect installations or safety hazards.
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Hiring a Pro:
- Ensures adherence to local building codes and quality craftsmanship.
- Average labor rates: $15–$35 per square foot.
Popular Add-Ons and Their Costs
| Add-On | Cost Range |
|---------------------------|-------------------------|
| Deck Stairs (per step) | $100–$200 |
| Landscape Lighting | $2,000–$6,000 |
| Fire Pit | $200–$3,000 |
| Outdoor Furniture | $200–$1,800 |
| Retractable Awning | $2,000–$3,500 |
10 Ways to Save on Your Deck Project
- Build a smaller deck.
- Use lower-grade wood for low-traffic areas.
- Opt for ground-level designs to minimize structural needs.
- Use standard board lengths to reduce waste.
- Compare multiple installation quotes.
- DIY some or all of the project (if skilled).
- Buy materials in bulk.
- Watch for seasonal sales.
- Build during the off-season (e.g., late fall).
- Maintain your deck to avoid costly future repairs.
Pro Tip: A pressure-treated deck combines affordability and durability, lasting 40–50 years with proper maintenance.
