Deck Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost to build a deck by material and size. Compare wood, composite, and PVC per square foot including railing and stairs.
Last updated 2026-08-21
What Is a Deck Cost Calculator?
A deck cost calculator estimates the total price of building a deck from its area and the material and labor cost per square foot. It gives you a quick installed cost for wood, composite, or PVC decking before you factor in extras like railings and stairs. Use it to compare materials and set a realistic budget for the project.
How It Works
Cost = Deck area × (Material per sq ft + Labor per sq ft).
Example
A 200 sq ft deck at $15 + $10 per sq ft = $5,000.
How to Calculate
- Enter the deck area, for example 200 sq ft, and choose a material. Wood runs about $15 per sq ft while composite runs higher.
- Add a labor rate per square foot, commonly around $10 for standard installation.
- The tool multiplies the area by the combined material and labor cost, so 200 sq ft at $15 plus $10 per sq ft gives $5,000.
- Add separate line items for footings, posts, railings, and stairs, since this estimate covers the deck surface and basic framing only.
Typical deck cost per square foot
| Decking material | Material per sq ft | Installed per sq ft |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure treated pine | $4 to $8 | $20 to $30 |
| Cedar | $6 to $10 | $25 to $35 |
| Ipe and hardwoods | $12 to $18 | $35 to $60 |
| Composite | $10 to $16 | $35 to $60 |
| PVC | $12 to $18 | $40 to $65 |
Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a deck cost per square foot?
Wood decks run $20–$40/sq ft and composite $35–$60/sq ft installed.
Does this include footings and posts?
No — foundation work and framing extras are usually separate.
Should I add a railing estimate?
Yes — railings add several dollars per linear foot and are often quoted separately.
or browse Deck Calculators