Budget - Determines Deck Size and Materials

Calculating a construction budget is an equation with three variables:
1) Cost
2) Square Footage
3) Quality of Materials.
You can control two of these variables which will produce the third, but you can’t control all three simultaneously. A deck project can be a substantial investment. Most decking materials range from $15 to $30 per square foot. That means a basic, 320-square-foot cedar deck will run about $5,250 for materials or about $10,500 if you plan on using composite materials.
If you are experiencing sticker shock right now, you have discovered a design limitation in your deck design. A bigger deck isn’t always the best solution even with an unlimited budget. An intelligent, aesthetically pleasing design will give you more bang for your buck. It is a good idea to set a cost range that you are prepared to spend before getting too far along in your design.
The cost of decking materials will vary depending on the type and quality of material you choose, where you live and what type of lumberyard you buy from. The price of decking is a commodity just like gasoline.
Pressure-treated wood is an economic material, which is ideal for people working within a tight budget, but it doesn't always hold up as well over time. You can expect to pay between $3 and $6 per square foot for 5/4x6 ACQ-treated decking from a big box store. You should sort through the lumber bins to find the best boards. Home Depot and Lowes usually only stock short lengths of decking less than 12', which will leave your deck with more seams. If you go to a local lumberyard for contractors, you will find higher-grade materials with longer available lengths at a slightly higher price. Routine staining will help protect your deck, but it is not uncommon for pressure-treated decking to split, crack, warp and turn gray in a few years.
Cedar and redwood decking prices range from about $7 to $15 per square foot. Redwood is commonly available on the West Coast but is scarce in the eastern United States.
With over 100 brands to choose from, there is a wide range of prices for vinyl, composite and aluminum decking. A variety of attractive colors and textures can be combined in interesting ways, such as borders and inlays. Low-maintenance decking products should offer at least a 15-year warranty.
Exotic hardwood decking materials, such as ipe, tigerwood and Braziilian redwood are usually the most expensive options. You can expect to pay between $7 to $10 per linear foot. Exotic hardwoods are only available at higher-end lumberyards and are usually a special-order item. Exotic hardwoods usually require side-mounted hidden fastener clips, which will add to the total cost.
Ready to browse materials? Find a retailer here for all your decking needs.
10 Tips For Designing A Great Deck
This is an introduction to design. Start here to get some fresh ideas before designing your dream deck this year.
Deck Size
We offer some tips for determining the best size for your new deck design.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
IBC Requirements For Decks
The International Building Code (IBC) regulates deck additions attached to commercial buildings. Learn how IBC requirements may affect your project at Decks.com.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
From Swim to Sun: 5 Tips for Building a Deck Around Your In-Ground Pool
The pool-deck combo is the perfect outdoor layout for a relaxing, warm-weather hang. Check out these tips on how to design your space.
Deck Railing Designs
Learn about the newest and most stylish deck railings on the market. Browse pictures of wood, metal, glass, composite and cable rail systems.
How to Build a Floating Deck
Did you know that floating decks are much easier to build than standard decks? View step-by-step instructions for building a floating deck at Decks.com.
Contractor Problems? How to Communicate with Contractors and Handle Disputes
When working on a large construction project, there are bound to be bumps in the road. Learn how to handle disputes with a contractor with Decks.com.
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
How to Find & Choose a Deck Contractor
Finding a good contractor to build your deck doesn't have to be hard. Learn how to find a contractor and what to expect when working with one at Decks.com.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights