How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck in 2026?
The average cost to build a deck is $15 to $35 per square foot. Here is what drives that range, the best decking materials for the money, and what permits you need.
A deck is one of the most popular home additions and for good reason. It extends your living space outdoors, increases home value, and provides an immediate improvement in daily enjoyment of your home. The average cost to build a deck runs $15 to $35 per square foot, or $6,000 to $14,000 for a 400 square foot deck.
Average Cost to Build a Deck in 2026
| Decking Material | Cost per Square Foot Installed |
|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $15 to $25 |
| Cedar or redwood | $20 to $35 |
| Composite decking (mid-range) | $25 to $45 |
| Composite decking (premium) | $35 to $60 |
| Hardwood (ipe, teak) | $30 to $60 |
Pressure-Treated Wood vs Composite
Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable option and lasts 15 to 25 years with proper maintenance including annual sealing or staining.
Composite decking costs more upfront but requires virtually no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and lasts 25 to 30 years. For most homeowners the extra upfront cost is justified by the elimination of annual maintenance.
The Right Fasteners Make a Difference
If you are building or repairing a deck yourself, using the correct fasteners is critical. Composite decking screws are specifically designed for composite materials with self-countersinking heads that sit flush without cracking the board surface and coating that resists corrosion in outdoor conditions. Using standard screws in composite decking causes surface cracking, corrosion staining, and fastener backing out over time. Purpose-made composite screws are worth every penny for the cleaner result and longer lifespan.
What You Are Paying For
Materials account for 40 to 50% of deck construction cost. The rest is labor. A deck build requires permits, footings, framing, decking boards, stairs, railings, and finishing. Footings alone cost $100 to $200 each and a typical deck needs 6 to 12.
What Drives the Cost Up
Height is a major cost driver. A ground-level deck costs significantly less than an elevated deck requiring stairs and safety railings. Code-required railings on decks over 30 inches off the ground add $30 to $60 per linear foot.
Stairs cost $100 to $300 per step depending on material and complexity.
Built-in features like benches, pergolas, or lighting add $500 to $5,000.
Permits Are Not Optional
Virtually every municipality requires a permit for deck construction. Unpermitted decks create problems at resale. Never hire a contractor who suggests skipping permits.
Bottom Line
Budget $20 to $35 per square foot for a quality composite deck professionally built. For a 400 square foot deck that is $8,000 to $14,000 all in. Get three quotes, pull permits, and seriously consider composite over wood for the maintenance savings.
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