How Much Does it Really Cost to Build a Deck (or Patio) in 2023?

Considering adding a deck or patio to your outdoor space? You’re in the right place.

In this article, we’ll discuss all of the costs associated with decks and patios, depending on the size and materials used. However, to get the most accurate estimate, we recommend asking contractors in your area.

But, in the meantime, the expert insights below are a good place to start.

The Cost of Building a Deck In 2023

Remodeling Magazine suggests that the average cost to build a wooden deck is $14,360 and a composite deck is $19,856. Bear in mind that if you want to undertake a second-story install, or if you want to build your deck to a unique or esoteric design, this will increase the cost. In general, you can expect this type of project to add between $8 and $20 per square foot.

The following can help to give you a rough idea of what you can expect to pay for different sizes:

• A deck of up to 200 square feet cost between $4,000 and $14,000. $7,000 on average.
• A deck of between 200 and 500 square feet cost between $7,000 and $35,000. $15,000 on average.
• A deck of more than 500 square feet cost between $15,000 and $45,000. $24,000 on average.

If you’re considering building a deck in 2023, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure a successful project:

1. Material options: There is a wide range of materials available for building a deck, including traditional wood, composite decking, and aluminum. Each material has its own pros and cons in terms of cost, maintenance, and durability, so it’s important to research and compare your options before making a decision. We have detailed the average cost of deck materials for you below
2. Design and layout: The design and layout of your deck should be carefully planned to ensure that it meets your needs and fits your space. Consider factors such as the size of your yard, the intended use of the deck, and any specific features you want to include, such as built-in seating or a hot tub.
3. Building codes and permits: Before beginning any construction, be sure to check your local building codes and obtain any necessary building permits to avoid penalties. Building codes can vary widely by region and may dictate factors such as the height of your deck, the size of your footings, and the type of railing required.
4. Budget and Financing: Building a deck can be a significant investment, so it’s important to set a realistic budget and stick to it. Be sure to factor in the cost of materials, labor, and any additional features or upgrades you want to include when budgeting. Be sure to consider low-interest and low down-payment deck financing options.
5. Contractor selection: If you plan to hire a contractor to build your deck, it’s important to choose a reputable and experienced professional. Get recommendations from friends and family, check online reviews, and make sure you know how to work with contractors beforehand.

By considering these factors and doing your research, you can ensure that your deck project is a success and provides a beautiful and functional outdoor living space for years to come.

Composite Deck Cost and Plastic Deck Cost

Composite deck costs tend to be substantially more expensive than their wooden counterparts because of the more specialized manufacturing and processing techniques that are required before the material is ready for installation.

In general, plastic or composite decks cost between $12 and $22 per square foot. If you include other components, such as moorings, railings, hardware, and framework, the cost increases to between $30 and $40 per square foot (not including installation). This makes composite materials around 40% more expensive than wood on average.

For an average-size plastic or composite deck (320 square feet), expect to pay between $9,600 and $12,800 plus labor.

In some instances, however, composite materials can turn out to be cheaper than wood. Some wooden materials, such as Ipe and Tigerwood, can be very difficult to work with, which will generally increase the labor costs associated with their installation. In these cases, a composite option may be cheaper when costs are factored across the whole project.

Wood Deck Costs

If you’re considering a wood deck for your outdoor living space, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to wood deck costs. First, the cost of wood decking materials can vary widely depending on the type of wood used, with pressure-treated lumber being the most affordable option and tropical hardwoods like ipe and teak being the most expensive.

Labor costs are another factor to consider, and can vary depending on the size and complexity of the deck as well as the local labor market. It’s also important to factor in maintenance costs, as wood decks require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. While wood decks can add value to your home and provide a classic, natural look, they may not be as long-lasting as other decking materials like composite or aluminum, and may require more maintenance. Weighing the costs and benefits of wood decking against other options can help you determine which is the best choice for your needs and budget.

Here’s a look at the average costs of different options:

Pressure Treated Deck Cost

During pressure-treating, wood is processed in a depressurized tank. The air within the wood is removed and a preservative is added in order to avoid insect infestation and weather-related rotting and decomposition. While pressure-treating is highly effective in both of these aspects, the wood will still be prone to weathering and corrosion, so further coatings and treatment will be required.

On average, pressure-treated wood decking materials cost between $15 and $20 per square foot. For an average-sized decking structure of 320 square feet, the cost will typically be between $4,800 and $6,500 plus labor.

Redwood

Redwood comes in a variety of different grades and boards. Typically, the lowest grade of Redwood will cost around $5 per square foot, while higher-grade boards will cost around $30 for the same area. This means a 320-square-foot deck will cost anywhere from around $6,400 to $12,800.

Mahogany

Typically, Mahogany boards cost between $8 and $11 per square foot. However, it is important to bear in mind that mahogany is not used for decking frameworks or posts, and you will have to use other materials for these structural elements. This makes the total material cost highly variable.

Ipe

Ipe is a tropical hardwood that can be difficult to source, which pushes costs up. On average, Ipe cost between $10 and $20 per square foot for materials. It’s also very, very strong — which is a good thing, but this can also make labor more expensive.

Tigerwood

Tigerwood is another tropical hardwood, usually sourced from Brazil or Africa. It tends to be a little cheaper than Ipe but is similarly strong and tough, which means labor costs will also be more expensive than they would be for other types of material. The cheapest Tigerwood boards cost around $7 per square foot, although you can expect to pay up to $15 per square foot for some Tigerwood decking boards.

Bamboo

Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that provides a tough building material once it is mature. If you source your bamboo boards from a reputable provider, this is a renewable option for your decking. The materials themselves are relatively inexpensive, but installation can be tricky, which may increase the cost of labor. On average, Bamboo costs between $3 and $10 per square foot.

Cedar

Cedar is a softwood that is grown in the United States, making it relatively inexpensive to source. Typically, Cedar cost between $3 and $7 per square foot for your cedar decking boards, which makes the material only marginally more expensive than pressure-treated wood.

Alternatives to Wooden Decking Materials

When considering alternatives to wooden decking materials, you should consider several factors such as durability, cost, appearance, maintenance, and environmental impact. Decking materials vary widely in these areas, and it’s important to select the material that matches your needs and budget. For example, composite or PVC decking can be more durable and require less maintenance than traditional wooden decking, but may be more expensive.

Aluminum

Aluminum decking boards are made entirely of aluminum, which is a lightweight and durable metal that is resistant to rust and corrosion. While aluminum decking can sometimes have a wood-like appearance or texture, it does not contain any wood fibers or particles. Aluminum decking is a low-maintenance and long-lasting alternative to traditional wood decking. Aluminum will cost between $15 and $20 per square foot, significantly more than many wood options, because it is a lightweight and robust decking material.

Fiberglass and composites

Fiberglass and composite decking materials are made from a blend of natural fibers and synthetic materials like Vinyl, fiberglass, and PVC. Alternatives to wood decking materials range from around $12 to $22 per square foot (cost can vary significantly based on material blends). Overall, fiberglass and composite decking materials are good options for homeowners who want a low-maintenance, long-lasting, and durable decking material, but are willing to pay a higher upfront cost.

The Cost Of Building an Elevated Concrete Deck

The cost of an elevated concrete deck is determined by a number of primary factors, chiefly, the conditions of the site, the area of the decking slab, and the materials and techniques you use for finishing. On average, this type of deck will cost you between $30 and $75 per square foot, meaning that an average-sized build will set you back between $9,600 and $24,000. 

There are several different options you can choose for finishing. In most cases, a simple covering of protective paint will be the cheapest finishing option but other types of finish include stamped concrete and tiling.

Remember that you will also need a licensed engineer to design the structure for your elevated concrete deck and this can cost you between $300 and $700 for a reputable, licensed practitioner.

2023 Labor Cost to Build a Deck (per square foot)

When you consider building a deck, labor costs are an important factor to consider. Labor costs per square foot can vary widely depending on the size and complexity of the deck, as well as the local labor market.

According to Inch Calculator, the labor cost to build a deck per square foot is between $20 and $50 (including materials) in 2023. This range reflects the various factors that can impact labor costs, such as the skill level of the workers, the materials used, and the design of the deck.

In general, more complex designs and features, such as multiple levels or built-in benches, will increase labor costs per square foot. Similarly, using higher-end materials like tropical hardwoods or composite decking can also increase labor costs due to the additional time and effort required to install these materials.

It’s important to get several quotes from reputable contractors and to compare their labor costs carefully. Be sure to ask for references and to check online reviews before hiring a contractor to ensure that they are experienced and reliable. By doing your research and understanding the factors that can impact labor costs, you can better budget for your deck project and ensure that you get a fair price for the work.

The Cost to Replace Deck Boards

On average, you can expect to pay between $5 and $15 per square foot to remove wood deck boards. Typically, the cost to replace wood boards is $2 – $19 per square foot for material and $45 – $90 per hour for labor. However, the cost can be higher for larger decks or for decks that require significant repairs or reinforcement.

If you’re considering replacing deck boards, there are several factors to keep in mind that can impact the cost:

1. Size and scope of the project: The size and scope of the project will impact the cost of replacing deck boards. Larger decks will require more materials and labor, which can increase the cost.
2. Type of decking material: The type of decking material you choose will also impact the cost. Pressure-treated lumber is typically the most affordable option, while exotic hardwoods and composite decking can be more expensive.
3. Condition of the existing deck: The condition of your existing deck will impact the cost of replacement. If the deck is in poor condition and requires significant repairs or reinforcement, this will add to the overall cost.
4. Labor costs: Labor costs can vary depending on the complexity of the project, the local labor market, and the experience level of the contractor.
5. Additional features or upgrades: If you want to add additional features or upgrades to your deck, such as new railings or built-in seating, this will increase the overall cost.

Does a Deck Add Value To Your Home?

One of the questions that is often asked by owners who are considering building a deck is whether this project will add value to their home.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2020 Cost vs Value Report, you can expect an average ROI of 72.1% of the cost of a wooden deck and 66.8% of the cost of a composite deck.

But while it’s important to consider the value that a deck will add to your home (and remember this when looking at financing options that let you borrow based on the future value), for most homeowners, it’s about more than this.

A deck creates the perfect space for friends and family to gather together and enjoy each other’s company, socialize, and eat together.

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Patio?

The cost of building a patio can vary hugely, with an average-sized build costing around $1,850 and topping out at around $5,140. A typically sized concrete patio, on average, will set you back around $3,450.

However, a number of different factors contribute to the cost, with size being the main one. As a bare minimum, you can expect a very small patio installation to cost around $800, with larger-scale installation running well beyond $10,000. It’s important to properly scope out the project and size to be able to determine the budget you’re going to need. 

And this is before you even start considering more luxurious materials. Once you start to look at other options on the high end, the estimated costs will be even higher. In fact, Lucy Middaugh, an exterior designer based in California, confirmed to us that “any kind of stone decking or tiled patios will average within the $30,000 to $50,000 range.”

The two basic components of patio installation costs are labor and materials. Labor is likely to cost between $5 and $15 per square foot, while materials can range anywhere from $5 to $35 per square foot, depending on the kind of patio you are looking for.