Deck Build Cost Calculator

Deck cost = sq ft × material rate. Pressure-treated, cedar, composite, and hardwood pricing built in.

Inputs

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How to use this calculator

  • Measure deck dimensions and multiply for ft².
  • Pick material tier.
  • Estimate railing in linear feet (perimeter not against house).
  • Add permits — required in most jurisdictions for attached decks.

About this calculator

Deck pricing is mostly material × area, but railing is the often-forgotten line item — at $50-100/LF installed, a 40 ft railing run easily exceeds $2,000. Pressure-treated is the budget default; composite (Trex, TimberTech) doubles the price but eliminates 90% of maintenance. Hardwood (IPE, mahogany) is luxury territory at $75-100/ft². Permits run $200-1,500 depending on jurisdiction; many cities require permits for any deck attached to a house.

Frequently asked

PT vs. composite — which is cheaper long-term?+
PT: $25/ft² + $200/year staining + replace boards in 15-20 years. Composite: $55/ft² but ~zero maintenance and 25-year lifespan. Composite wins past year ~10.
Do I need a permit?+
Almost always for decks attached to the house, often for freestanding decks above 30" tall. Check with your local building department.
Footings included?+
PT pricing here assumes standard concrete footings. Helical piers add $200-500 each.
How much for stairs?+
Stairs add ~$100-200/step including stringers, treads, and railing. Add as a separate line.
IPE worth it?+
IPE lasts 50+ years untreated and looks gorgeous. But it's heavy, hard on tools, and ecologically sourced supply matters — only buy FSC-certified.

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