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Deck Cost Calculator
Decks add livable outdoor space; material drives long-term maintenance.
Total cost
$16,550
Decking
$13,500
All-in $/sf
$55
How the math works
Decking = sq ft × $/sf. Total = decking × (1 + stairs/rails) + permit.
300 × $45 = $13,500 × 1.20 = $16,200 + $350 = $16,550 deck cost.
How to Use
- Enter deck sq ft.
- Enter per sq ft installed.
- Enter stairs + rails premium %.
- Enter permit fee.
- Read total cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deck material costs?
Pressure-treated pine: $15–35/sf installed. Cedar: $25–45/sf. Redwood: $35–60/sf. Composite (Trex, TimberTech): $35–80/sf. PVC (Azek): $50–100/sf. Aluminum: $40–80/sf. Stairs/railings: 15–30% premium. Multi-level/elevated: 50–100% premium. Concrete piers: $300–800 per pier. Permit + inspection: $200–1,500. Average deck: 200–500 sf. Maintenance: PT $200–500/yr (stain), composite $50–100/yr (clean), PVC near-zero.
How accurate is this estimate?
Material and labor estimates are accurate to ±15% with reasonable inputs but local market conditions vary. Major markets cost 30–60% more than rural. Labor rates regional (union vs non-union, prevailing wage). Material prices fluctuate with commodity cycles. Get 3 contractor bids for any work over $5k. This calculator is a sanity check, not a substitute for actual quotes.
DIY vs contractor?
DIY savings: 40–70% of contractor cost on labor. Realistic skill threshold: painting, basic plumbing, simple electrical, drywall, flooring. Pro required: structural, gas, complex electrical, HVAC, roofing (warranty + insurance), permits. Permitted work without license risks insurance and resale. Time: hobby DIYers 3–5x slower than pro. Tools and learning curve real.
Permit and code compliance?
Permits required for: structural changes, additions, electrical service changes, plumbing rough-in, HVAC replacement, roof replacement (varies), fence (varies). Cost: $50–2,000+ depending on scope. Skipping permit risks: stop work order, fines, forced removal, insurance denial, resale title issues. Always pull permit; cost is small relative to compliance friction.
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