How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck in 2026?
Deck building cost guide for 2026. Compare pressure-treated wood, composite, and Ipe decking by cost per square foot. Includes permit costs and contractor vs DIY savings.
Deck Cost by Material (Installed, 2026)
- Pressure-Treated Wood: $20 – $35/sq ft installed ($8,000-$14,000 for 400 sq ft deck)
- Cedar or Redwood: $30 – $50/sq ft installed ($12,000-$20,000)
- Composite (Trex, TimberTech): $40 – $70/sq ft installed ($16,000-$28,000)
- PVC decking: $45 – $75/sq ft installed ($18,000-$30,000)
- Ipe (Brazilian Hardwood): $60 – $100/sq ft installed ($24,000-$40,000)
What's Included in These Prices
Installed costs typically include: concrete footings, posts, beams, joists, decking boards, fasteners, railings (basic), and stairs (1 set). Excludes: permits (varies, typically $200-$1,500), premium railing systems, built-in benches, pergola, lighting, or decorative features.
The 10-Year Cost Comparison
Pressure-treated wood requires staining/sealing every 2-3 years at $200-$500/application. Composite decking requires only occasional cleaning. Over 10 years:
- Pressure-treated $10,000 deck + $1,800 in maintenance = $11,800 total
- Composite $18,000 deck + $400 in cleaning = $18,400 total
The lifetime cost advantage shifts more to composite as years extend. Composite also dramatically retains appearance with minimal work — a significant quality-of-life benefit.
DIY Savings
A homeowner with carpentry skills can build a deck themselves, saving 40-50% on labor. A 400 sq ft pressure-treated deck might cost $4,000-$6,000 in materials (posts, lumber, fasteners, concrete) vs $12,000-$14,000 installed. Key DIY requirements: understanding frost depth for footings, joist span tables, ledger attachment to house, and local code compliance (permit required regardless).