Deck Cost Calculator
Example: Deck area: 320 sq ft · Material cost per sq ft: 18 $ · Labor cost per sq ft: 20 $
| Total deck cost | $12,160 |
| Material cost | $5,760 |
| Labor cost | $6,400 |
Worked example
A 16 by 20 foot deck is 320 square feet. At $18 per square foot for material and $20 per square foot for labor, material is 320 x 18 = $5,760, labor is 320 x 20 = $6,400, and the total is $12,160. Building it yourself zeroes out the labor line and drops the total to $5,760, which is the trade-off that makes a DIY deck attractive if you have the time and skill.
Frequently asked questions
What material cost per square foot should I use?
Pressure-treated pine decking is often around $10 to $18 per square foot of finished deck when you include framing and hardware, cedar and redwood run higher, and composite or PVC can reach $20 to $35 or more. Use a number that reflects your chosen decking, railings, and framing.
Does this include the railing and stairs?
It can, if you fold their cost into your per-square-foot material and labor figures. Railings and stairs are labor-heavy relative to their material, so a deck with lots of railing or multiple stair runs should use higher per-square-foot inputs than a simple ground-level platform.
How much do I save building it myself?
Labor is often roughly half the cost of a contractor-built deck, so doing it yourself can cut the total nearly in half, as the worked example shows. Weigh that against the time, the tools, and the risk of mistakes on structural connections that a permit inspector will check.
Do I need a permit for a deck?
Most jurisdictions require a building permit for an attached deck or one above a certain height, and it must meet code for footings, ledger attachment, and railing. Permit and inspection fees are separate from the build cost here, so budget for them on top.