Cost Guide
Cost to Build a Deck: Materials, Boards, and Budget
How to estimate decking materials and cost, from board counts and linear feet to framing, fasteners, and the choice between wood and composite.
Updated June 1, 2026
A deck budget comes down to two questions: how many boards you need, and what those boards are made of. Get those right and the rest of the estimate falls into place.
Start with board count
Decking is sold by the board, but coverage depends on board width and the gap you leave for drainage and expansion. The Deck Board Calculator turns your deck dimensions into the number of rows, total linear feet, and an estimated material cost — including a waste allowance for cuts.
A few things that change the count:
- Board width — narrower boards mean more rows and more fasteners.
- Gap — a typical 1/8” to 1/4” gap adds up across a large deck.
- Board direction — diagonal or picture-frame layouts increase waste.
Wood vs. composite
This is the biggest cost lever:
- Pressure-treated wood is the cheapest upfront and easy to work with, but needs regular sealing and won’t last as long.
- Cedar and redwood look better and resist rot naturally at a higher price.
- Composite and PVC cost the most upfront but cut maintenance to near zero and last decades, which can win on total cost of ownership.
Don’t forget the structure
The visible boards are only part of the job. A complete deck budget also includes:
- Footings and posts — often concrete piers; estimate the concrete with the Concrete Slab Calculator.
- Framing — beams, joists, and hangers sized for your span and load.
- Fasteners — hidden clips or coated screws; these add up on large decks.
- Railings and stairs — frequently underestimated, and subject to code requirements.
Budgeting tips
- Price the decking and framing separately so you can compare material upgrades cleanly.
- Add 10% waste for cuts, and more for angled layouts.
- Check whether your project needs a permit — many decks above a certain height do.
- Get installed quotes if you’re not building it yourself; labor is a large share of the total.
Material estimates are a starting point. Span tables, footing requirements, and local code should be confirmed with a building professional before you order.