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Deck cost in 2026: price per square foot by material and size
A pro-built deck costs about $30–$60 per sq ft: $4,300–$8,600 for 12x12 and $9,600–$19,200 for 16x20. Wood vs composite, add-on costs, permits, upkeep and ROI.
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Quick answer: A professionally built deck typically costs about $30–$60 per square foot, all-in. That's roughly $4,300–$8,600 for a 12×12 deck and $9,600–$19,200 for a 16×20 deck. Pressure-treated wood is cheapest upfront; composite costs more but needs far less upkeep and lasts longer. Permits usually add $225–$500, and railings, stairs and height add a lot.
Key takeaways
- Materials are only part of the cost — framing, footings, railings and labor make up most of the bill.
- Composite costs roughly 1.5–2× more than pressure-treated wood but saves on staining for 25+ years.
- Elevated and second-storey decks cost much more than ground-level decks.
- A wood deck recouped about 78% of its cost at resale in the 2024 Cost vs. Value report.
- Always pull a permit — unpermitted decks can cause problems when selling and with insurance.
A deck adds outdoor living space for less than most room additions. This guide shows realistic 2026 prices by size and material, the add-ons that change the quote, how to compare wood and composite over time, and how to plan the project.
Deck cost by size
At about $30–$60 per sq ft installed:
| Deck size | Area | Typical installed cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10×10 | 100 sq ft | $3,000–$6,000 |
| 10×12 | 120 sq ft | $3,600–$7,200 |
| 12×12 | 144 sq ft | $4,300–$8,600 |
| 12×16 | 192 sq ft | $5,800–$11,500 |
| 16×20 | 320 sq ft | $9,600–$19,200 |
| 20×20 | 400 sq ft | $12,000–$24,000 |
Lower numbers are for simple, low, rectangular pressure-treated decks; higher for composite, multiple levels, built-in benches or elevated designs.
Cost by decking material
| Material | Decking boards (materials, per sq ft) | Typical lifespan | Upkeep |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated pine | $3–$6 | 15–20 years | Stain or seal every 2–3 years |
| Cedar | $8–$15 | 15–25 years | Regular sealing; naturally rot-resistant |
| Redwood | $9–$15 | 20–30 years | Regular sealing |
| Composite (Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon) | $5–$12+ | 25–50 years | Occasional washing |
| PVC (capped polymer) | $8–$15 | 30–50 years | Washing only; lightest and most moisture-proof |
| Tropical hardwood (ipe) | $12–$25 | 40+ years | Oil to keep colour (optional) |
The frame underneath is usually pressure-treated lumber regardless of the decking. Steel or aluminium framing costs more but resists rot.
Wood vs composite: cost over 20 years
Example: 16×20 deck (320 sq ft)
- Pressure-treated: built for about $11,000. Staining every 2–3 years costs ~$700–$1,000 if hired → roughly $6,000 over 20 years, plus board replacement. Total ≈ $17,000+
- Composite: built for about $17,000. Washing once or twice a year ≈ $100 a year → $2,000. Total ≈ $19,000
Over 20 years the costs are close — composite wins on time, splinters and looks; wood wins on upfront price.
What adds to the cost
| Feature | Typical added cost |
|---|---|
| Railings — wood | $20–$60 per linear ft |
| Railings — composite or aluminium | $50–$150 per linear ft |
| Railings — cable or glass | $100–$300+ per linear ft |
| Stairs | $1,000–$3,000+ per flight |
| Elevated / second-storey deck | +$10–$25 per sq ft or more (posts, bracing, footings) |
| Built-in benches or planters | $500–$2,500 |
| Pergola | $3,000–$12,000 |
| Lighting (stair and post lights) | $500–$2,500 |
| Hidden fasteners | $1–$3 per sq ft |
| Removal of old deck | $1,500–$5,000 |
| Permit | $225–$500 (varies by city) |
| Site prep / sloped yard | $500–$3,000 |
Permits and codes
Most cities require a permit for decks that are attached to the house, higher than about 30 inches, or larger than a set size (often 200 sq ft). Codes cover:
- Footing depth (below the frost line in cold climates)
- Ledger attachment to the house with flashing and proper fasteners — the #1 cause of deck collapses
- Joist spacing and size
- Railings: usually required if the deck is 30+ inches above the ground, at least 36" high, with gaps under 4"
- Stair rise, run and handrails
An inspector checks the work at set stages. Unpermitted decks can delay a home sale or affect an insurance claim.
Planning your deck
- Decide the use: dining, lounging, grilling, hot tub (needs extra structure).
- Size it right: a dining table for 6 needs about 12×12 ft; add 4–6 ft for walking around.
- Think about sun and privacy: orientation, trees, neighbours.
- Check setbacks and HOA rules.
- Get 3 quotes with the same materials and drawings.
- Book early: spring and summer are peak season — fall and winter can be cheaper.
DIY or hire a pro?
| Cost | Materials + tools: roughly 40–60% of a pro price | Full price |
|---|---|---|
| Time | Several weekends | 1–3 weeks |
| Skills | Framing, footings, ledger flashing, permits | Done for you |
| Best for | Simple, low, freestanding decks | Attached, elevated or multi-level decks |
A freestanding, ground-level platform deck is a reasonable DIY project. Attached and elevated decks carry real safety risks if built wrong.
Maintenance tips
- Wood: clean and re-stain every 2–3 years; check for loose boards and protruding nails.
- Composite: wash with soap and water; avoid metal shovels for snow.
- Every year: check the ledger, posts, railings and stairs for movement or rot.
- Keep leaves and planters from trapping moisture on boards.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 12×12 deck cost?
About $4,300–$8,600 professionally built, depending on materials and height.
Is composite decking worth the cost?
If you want low maintenance and long life, usually yes. Over 20 years, total costs are often close to wood once staining is included.
How long does it take to build a deck?
Usually 1–3 weeks for a professional, after permits are approved.
Do I need a permit to build a deck?
Usually yes for attached decks or decks over about 30 inches high. Check your local building department.
Does a deck add value to a home?
Yes. A wood deck recouped about 78% of its cost at resale in the 2024 Cost vs. Value report.
What's the cheapest way to build a deck?
A simple, low, rectangular pressure-treated deck with basic wood railings — or a DIY freestanding platform.
How long does a deck last?
Pressure-treated wood decks often last 15–20 years; composite and PVC 25–50 years.