As more and more people grasp the perks, homeowners and potential homebuyers realize the popularity of constructing practical outdoor living spaces.
A deck is one of the most common additions to a residence since it offers a flexible and welcoming area for entertaining or relaxing outdoors. But before beginning this fascinating work, it’s essential to know how much a deck typically costs to build. The entire cost of installing a deck is influenced by a number of factors, including labor costs and material selections.
In this in-depth guide, we will examine several factors that affect the total cost of building a deck. We will also provide you with the knowledge you need to begin designing your dream outdoor retreat. So, let’s get started.
What is the Average Price to Construct a Deck?
Although the typical price to build a deck is about 7,500 dollars, the actual price of a new deck will mostly come from manpower and deck material costs, much like with other building projects.
- On the cheap end, a modest, entry-level deck may cost you more than four thousand dollars.
- That being said, you may have to pay up to 45 thousand dollars for an elite outdoor area that is spacious, has premium wood, and has additional conveniences like built-ins.
- Although it might be expensive, building a deck is a beautiful way to turn your outdoor space into a place of peace.
Key Factors that Influence Deck Construction Costs
When planning to build a deck, understanding the key factors that influence construction costs is crucial. So, let’s discuss each factor in detail.
| Factor | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 1. Price per Square Foot | $30 – $60 per square foot |
| 2. Deck Size | Dependent on square footage (e.g., 200 sq. ft. deck: $6,000 – $12,000) |
| 3. Cost of Labor | $15 – $40 per square foot |
| 4. Cost of Materials | $2 – $54 per square foot (depending on material choice) |
| 5. Deck Placement | Variable (additional costs for complex placement) |
Factor 1: Price per Square Foot
Deck construction typically costs between $30 and $60 per square foot. This covers the cost of decking material, labor, and optional items such as equipment, beams, and balusters.
Labor can account for between 50% and 70% of the total cost. It is advisable to seek advice from your local deck pros, as prices may differ in your location.
We advise choosing common lumber options, including cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber, if you want to control the price of materials. That said, feel free to use your favorite wood if you’re inclined to the exotic beauty of woods, including tigerwood or hardwoods like Ipe, redwood, and mahogany.
Be ready for the price increase, though: Costs for decking can often reach fifty dollars per square foot or higher when using higher-end materials.
Factor 2: Deck Building Cost Broken Down by Size
The materials used for the deck, labor costs, extra features, the size and design of the deck, and supply and demand in the market can all have an enormous effect on the final costs.
You can get the most accurate estimate of cost by comparing the average pricing for different deck sizes, as deck projects generally cost per square foot. It should come as no surprise that a deck with more square footage costs more money.
Factor 3: Cost of Labor
The average labor cost to create a deck is 15 to 40 dollars per square foot. However, these expenses may differ depending on several variables, such as:
1. Location
Labor expenses may change based on your place of residence and the going prices for building work in your area.
2. Complexity of the Structure
Building a second-story deck, adding customized add-ons, or constructing a more complex deck might demand more time and expertise, increasing labor expenses.
3. Regulations and Permits
If your community needs permits to construct decks, obtaining these approvals could drive up the cost of labor overall.
4. Schedule & Seasonality
Labor expenses may be impacted when building a deck at the busiest times of year for construction. When comparing high-demand times to off-season tasks, contractors could charge extra during these times.
5. Destruction of Existing Structures
The cost of demolition will be included in the total labor expenditures if an old or existing deck needs to be taken down to make room for a new deck.
Factor 4: Cost of materials
The materials and their associated expenses are broken down here.
1. Pressure-Treated Wood
It costs $2 – $5 per square foot.
- Pros: Affordable, durable.
- Cons: Requires more maintenance.
2. Composite Decking
Composite deck cost $12 – $22 per square foot (raw materials); $25 – $54 per square foot (finished deck).
- Pros: Eco-friendly, low maintenance.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost.
3. Ipe Wood
Ipe wood costs about $10 – $20 per square foot.
- Pros: Extremely durable.
- Cons: Difficult to work with, higher cost.
4. Tigerwood
This wood costs $7 – $15 per square foot.
- Pros: Beautiful, unique striped appearance.
- Cons: Expensive.
5. Mahogany
Mahogany is about $8 – $11 per square foot.
- Pros: Low maintenance, attractive.
- Cons: Higher cost than some alternatives.
6. Redwood
It costs $5 – $35 per square foot.
- Pros: Naturally pest-resistant.
- Cons: Varies greatly in cost.
7. Bamboo
Bamboo prices are $3 – $10 per square foot.
- Pros: Sturdy, resistant to decay and mold.
- Cons: Best suited for warmer climates.
8. Cedar
Cedar is $3 – $7 per square foot.
- Pros: Naturally resistant to UV rays, moisture, and insects.
- Cons: Requires occasional maintenance.
9. Aluminum/Metal Decking
This decking material costs $15 – $20 per square foot.
- Pros: Low maintenance, lightweight, waterproof.
- Cons: Higher cost than wood options.
Factor 5: Deck Placement
Your deck’s location may affect project costs. Slope construction requires more planning and higher labor costs.
The additional difficulty in transporting the materials may result in higher costs from contractors if your deck is not in a conveniently accessible place.
Your location affects the total cost of building a deck. Labor costs are higher for residents of big towns with a high price of living than for residents of rural locations.
The availability of supplies and permissions are two more location-based cost factors.
Ways to Reduce the Cost of Deck Construction
The following advice will help you reduce the price of your deck:
1. DIY installation
You can save money on DIY deck installation if you’re confident in your abilities and the difficulty of the project. If you’re doubtful, paying another person to do it well is worthwhile.
2. Professional Help
Even if you plan to do some work yourself, consult with a professional for specific tasks like design, structural planning, or specialized construction. This can prevent costly errors and ensure your deck is safe and durable.
3. Prepare in advance
Planning is crucial to designing a deck that makes the most of standard-sized materials to reduce waste and material costs.
4. Obtain several quotes
The first thing you should do if you’re building a deck is compare prices. Various quotations will help you get the best deal on your installation or materials.
If you’re looking for professional help, we recommend Smart Remodeling LLC, a Houston-based company that won the Best of Houzz Award in 2024.
They specialize in deck construction and remodeling, delivering top-quality work to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget. Whether you need help with design, material selection, or full-service installation, Smart Remodeling LLC offers personalized solutions to fit your needs.
The Bottom Line
Building a deck is an excellent remodeling project that raises the value and enjoyment of your house. The space provided by your new deck is ideal for hosting guests, working out, enjoying the sun, or spending some alone time. Given that a well-constructed and maintained wood deck can endure for 20 years, you’ll have many chances to entertain friends and family in your new area!
