A new deck typically costs $15–$60 per square foot installed. Pressure-treated runs about $15–$35, cedar $20–$45, and composite $30–$60 per square foot—driven by size, material, railing type, and whether stairs or a pergola are included.
| Material | Typical installed range | What it's best for |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated | $15–$35 / sq ft | Lowest upfront cost; needs regular sealing. |
| Cedar | $20–$45 / sq ft | Natural wood look at a mid-tier price. |
| Entry composite | $30–$48 / sq ft | Low maintenance, solid value. |
| Premium composite | $40–$60 / sq ft | Best looks, fade & stain warranties. |
Typical installed ranges. Verify before publishing.
Every part you can price—in plain English.
A deck is more than boards. These are the pieces our estimator lets you add or leave out—each one nudges the number.
Decking material
Treated, cedar, or composite boards—drives most of the cost.
Railing & infill
Tuscany aluminum, cable, glass panel, or square picket.
Stairs & landings
Steps down to grade and any mid-level landings.
Joist flashing tape
Protects framing from water—extends the deck’s life.
Under-deck drainage
A roof system that keeps the space below dry.
Pergola
Open lattice, louvered, or solid roof for shade.
Skirting & post wraps
Aluminum, vinyl, or stone-veneer wraps that finish the base.
Built-in seating
Benches and a privacy screen along one edge.
Deck lighting
Recessed stair and post-cap lights for evenings.
Which decking material is right for you?
Composite costs the most upfront but lasts longest with the least upkeep—why it’s our most-recommended pick.
Composite
Cedar
Pressure-treated
Five things move the number most.
Before you get a quote, it helps to know where the money goes. These are the biggest levers—adjust any one and your estimate shifts.
Square footage
The single biggest factor—every extra foot adds material and labor.
Decking material
Treated, cedar, or composite—a 3× spread per square foot.
Railing type
Cable and glass cost more than aluminum or picket.
Stairs & height
Taller decks need more structure; each stair run adds labor.
Add-ons
Pergola, lighting, skirting, and built-in seating stack on top.
What different deck sizes typically cost.
| Deck size | Square feet | Treated | Composite |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 × 10 | 100 sq ft | $1,500–$3,500 | $3,000–$6,000 |
| 12 × 16 | 192 sq ft | $2,900–$6,700 | $5,800–$11,500 |
| 16 × 20 | 320 sq ft | $4,800–$11,200 | $9,600–$19,200 |
| 20 × 24 | 480 sq ft | $7,200–$16,800 | $14,400–$28,800 |
Typical installed ranges; verify before publishing. Prices vary by region.
