CostPrism
Home Improvement Updated June 2026

Deck Building Cost Calculator

Get a 2026 deck cost estimate by deck size, material, and features — from a basic pressure-treated wood deck to a full composite deck with railings.

National avg: $8,500
Range: $4,000 – $22,000
Used by 14,820 people

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What Affects the Cost?

1. Material Choice

Pressure-treated lumber is the cheapest at $15–$25/sqft installed and lasts 15–20 years with annual sealing. Composite decking (Trex, TimberTech) runs $25–$45/sqft installed but lasts 25–50 years with minimal maintenance. Cedar costs $20–$35/sqft. Tropical hardwood (Ipe, Tigerwood) runs $35–$60/sqft.

2. Deck Size & Configuration

A small deck (100–200 sqft) costs $4,000–$8,000. A mid-size deck (200–400 sqft) runs $8,000–$16,000. Large decks (400–600 sqft) cost $15,000–$25,000+. Multi-level decks add 20–35% to single-level pricing.

3. Railings & Stairs

Railings add $150–$600/linear foot depending on material. Basic pressure-treated wood railings cost $150–$250/linear foot. Aluminum balusters run $250–$400. Cable railings are $400–$600/linear foot. Each set of stairs adds $500–$1,500.

2026 Cost Reference Table

Type / Option Typical Cost Range
Pressure-treated wood (per sqft installed) $15 – $25
Cedar (per sqft installed) $20 – $35
Composite (Trex, TimberTech) $25 – $45
Tropical hardwood (Ipe) $35 – $60
Small deck (200 sqft) — composite $6,000 – $10,000
Large deck (400 sqft) — composite $12,000 – $20,000

Frequently Asked Questions

The national average deck cost is $8,500 for a mid-size pressure-treated deck. Composite decks cost $12,000–$18,000 for the same size. Material choice is the biggest cost driver — composite costs 50–80% more than pressure-treated but requires almost no ongoing maintenance.

Pressure-treated lumber decks last 15–20 years with annual staining/sealing. Cedar lasts 20–30 years. Composite decks last 25–50 years with minimal maintenance. Tropical hardwood (Ipe) lasts 40–75 years. Most composite manufacturers offer 25–50 year warranties.

Get 3 Free Deck Builder Quotes

Compare local deck builders. Most homeowners save $1,000–$3,000 by getting 3 bids.

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Tips Before You Start

  • ✓ Composite decking costs more upfront but saves $500+/year on maintenance
  • ✓ Most decks over 30 inches above grade require a permit ($200–$500)
  • ✓ Attached decks may require structural assessment of your home's ledger board
  • ✓ Composite decking from Trex or TimberTech has 25–50 year warranties
  • ✓ Get quotes in early spring — deck builders are busiest May through August

Cost by State — 2026

Based on national average pricing adjusted for local labor and material costs.