What Goes Into the Price of a Deck?
A deck is priced by the square foot, but the per-foot number depends on much more than size. The big drivers are material, height, railing, stairs, and site prep. Understanding these helps you compare quotes honestly and avoid surprises.
The Main Cost Factors
- Size — the biggest driver; more square footage means more material and labor
- Material — pressure-treated wood, cedar, and composite each sit at different price points
- Height — a ground-level deck costs less than a raised or second-story deck
- Railing — required on decks more than 30 inches off grade; material choice adds cost
- Stairs — each stair run adds framing, stringers, and labor
- Site prep — sloped yards, old deck removal, and tight access add labor time
- Permits — most decks require a permit; we handle that process for you
Typical Price Ranges by Material
These are national-style ranges — actual pricing varies by region and project. Use them to plan, not to finalize.
| Material | Typical Range (per sq ft, installed) |
|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $25 – $45 |
| Cedar | $40 – $65 |
| Composite (Trex) | $45 – $80 |
| PVC / capped polymer | $55 – $90 |
Size and Layout
A standard backyard deck runs 200 to 400 square feet. At midrange composite pricing, that's roughly $9,000 to $32,000 installed — a wide range because size, height, and railing choices move the number significantly.
The smart move is to design around how you'll use the space: a dining area needs room for a table and chairs, a lounging area needs less. We help you right-size the deck so you're not paying for square footage you won't use.
Height and Framing
- Ground-level (under 30") — simplest framing, lowest cost, railing often optional
- Raised (30" to 8') — requires posts, beams, and code-compliant railing
- Elevated / second-story — significant framing, stairs, and engineering; the highest cost tier
A ground-level pressure-treated deck is the most affordable entry point. A raised composite deck with stairs and railing sits at the higher end.
Railing
Railing is required on any deck surface more than 30 inches above grade. Your options:
- Pressure-treated wood railing — most affordable, paintable
- Composite railing — matches composite decking, low maintenance
- Aluminum railing — clean, modern, low maintenance, popular with composite decks
- Glass panel railing — premium, preserves views, highest cost
How to Budget
- Decide on size based on how you'll use the deck
- Pick a material — wood for lowest up-front cost, composite for lowest lifetime cost
- Account for height and stairs — raised decks cost more
- Include railing if your deck is over 30" off grade
- Get a free on-site estimate for a fixed, honest number
Wood vs. Composite: The Lifetime Math
A wood deck costs less on day one, but add up the stain, sealer, and board replacements over 15+ years and composite often wins on total cost of ownership. If you plan to stay in your home long-term, composite is usually the better investment. If up-front budget is the priority, pressure-treated wood is a proven, affordable choice.
Why a Free Estimate Beats Online Calculators
Online deck calculators give a rough number, but they can't see your slope, your soil, your access, or your home's existing framing. An on-site visit means your quote reflects reality — and there are no surprise charges later.
As a Trex Pro Platinum installer, we bring samples to your home so you can see and feel the material before deciding. Our estimate is free, fixed, and honest — and there's no obligation.
