Columbus, OH 43215
Building a deck costs$3,059 - $14,659
National average fixed price
- Most common low price:$3,059
- Most common high price:$14,659
How much does it cost to build a deck?
By Thumbtack Staff
Last updated Mon, Jun 23
Cost to build a deck:
| National average cost | $6,700 |
|---|---|
| Low-end average cost | $3,059 |
| High-end average cost | $14,659 |
Table of Contents
What affects the cost of building a deck?
Square footage: Obviously, the bigger the deck, the more it costs. A large structure takes longer to build and requires more decking, posts, piers, joists, and screws. Some deck contractors charge by the square foot as well, so if your budget is tight, lose some square footage from the design.
Elevation: How high off the ground will the deck be? Taller decks require stairs and railings. Stairs and railings add complexity – and material costs – to your project.
Labor: Deck installation contractors either charge by the hour or by the square-foot. Hourly rates include time spent including time spent sourcing materials, job set-up and break-down, etc.
Demolish an old deck: If there's an existing structure already in place, you'll have to factor some demolition costs into your new deck budget, or simply opt for a refinish. The cost to remove an old deck ranges anywhere from $500 to $2,000.
Permits: If you're building a new deck, you may need a permit. Your contractor can do this for you (for a fee) or you can apply yourself before the project begins. The average cost of a general building permit starts around $500, but can go much higher. Permitting fees vary from region to region and will depend upon the size and scale and value of the project.
Design extras: This is where it gets fun. Expensive, but fun. Go crazy. Add a hot tub. Or a pergola. Some garden boxes, a fire pit, grilling area, built-in seating – all of it will cost you but remember, you can potentially recoup up to 70% of those costs in home resale value.
Cost to build a deck by size.
| Project | Size | National average high-to-low price |
|---|---|---|
| Ground-level deck with railing | 144 sq. ft. | $3,564-$10,750 |
| Raised or 2nd story deck with railing | 144 sq. ft. | $5,647-$14,663 |
| Deck flashing | 15 lin. ft. | $167-$286 |
| Deck stairs | 5 stairs | $635-$1,732 |
| Paint and prime deck | 100 sq. ft. | $174-$359 |
How much do deck materials cost (and what are my options)?
| Material | What is it? |
|---|---|
| Pressure treated wood | Affordable and widely available, pressure treated wood is coated with preservatives to help it resist weather, termite and fungal damage. Treating the wood involves saturating it, which makes it prone to warping and splintering when it first dries. But if maintained properly once it's installed, it'll last you 20+ years. |
| Plastic | Bugs and weather generally won't be a problem with vinyl decking, but it can get hot in the summer and some people don't like the look. Vinyl also might not be the bargain you'd expect. Plastic decking is in the middle, price-wise. The real advantage is you don't have to do much to maintain them. They're UV-resistant, require no sealers or finishes, and are free of splinters and cracks. |
| Softwood | When most people say “wood deck," they mean redwood or cedar. Both of these are considered softwood, but they're actually pretty durable considering how lightweight and easy they are to work with. They're also workable and stable, meaning they generally don't shrink or expand much due to weather. |
| Hardwood | True to its name, tropical hardwood is denser than other woods and far more resistant to pests and decay. For example, ipe (pronounced “e-pay") can last 40+ years. But you'll pay extra for that durability. Hardwood comes from trees that tend to grow slowly and often has to be imported. Mahogany, teak and oak are all hardwoods. |
| Composite wood | Wood fiber, plastic and a binding agent come together to form composite, a virtually indestructible mixed material that has pros and cons. It resists the elements well and requires less maintenance. But it also tends to be expensive, and some people find the look to be a bit, well, plastic. |
How can I save money on a new deck?
Railings: Cable railings are much more affordable than wood. They also improve visibility and look very modern.
Lumber lengths: Using standard dimensions (8', 10', 12' and 16' lengths) eliminates waste… and wasted money.
Protective coating: Saves money over time, preventing situations that require repairs.
What are the benefits of adding a deck?
It's a lot cheaper than an addition. Adding a deck expands your living area at a lower cost per square foot than a structural addition.
It increases your home value. Decks are consistently one of the improvements you can add to your home that will increase its value. Some homeowners will recoup 60-70% of their investment, when they choose to sell.
You get to enjoy it. Maybe even a hot tub too.
How do you choose a deck builder?
Your existing design plans (or if you need help with the design)
The materials you want
The scope of the work
How soon you need the beck built
Do you have references?
What licenses or credentials do you have?
How long have you been in business?
How long would it take to build a deck?
Can you help me with the design?
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