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📌 Key Takeaway: Decks typically cost $25-$80 per sq ft installed. A pressure-treated wood deck starts around $25-$40 per sq ft, while composite runs $35-$70 and PVC or tropical hardwood $55-$80+.
Decking Materials at a Glance
Pressure-Treated Wood
The most common deck material. Needs regular cleaning and staining or sealing.
Cedar
Naturally resists rot and insects better than pine, but still needs finishing.
Composite (e.g. Trex, TimberTech)
Low maintenance with no staining. Higher upfront cost than wood.
PVC & Tropical Hardwood
Capped PVC is very low maintenance; ipe and other hardwoods are extremely dense and durable.
2026 Deck Price Snapshot
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 120 sq ft pressure-treated, ground level | $3,000-$4,500 |
| 200 sq ft mid-range | $8,000-$14,000 |
| 300 sq ft composite, slightly raised | $13,000-$19,000 |
| Wood railing | $20-$70 per linear ft |
| Composite railing | $40-$110 per linear ft |
| One flight of stairs | $500-$2,500 |
| Permit | About $225-$500 |
| Old deck removal | $5-$15 per sq ft |
Resale Value
Decks are among the better-returning outdoor projects: wood deck additions recoup around 95% of their cost at resale and composite decks around 89%, according to 2025 national cost-vs-value data.
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Get Free Quotes →Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a deck?
Most towns require a permit for attached or raised decks. Raised decks may also need engineered drawings.
How long does a deck last?
A well-maintained pressure-treated frame can last decades; composite boards carry 25-50 year warranties depending on tier.
Is composite worth the extra cost?
If you want to avoid yearly staining and plan to stay, composite often pays off in saved maintenance.
🔎 How we research: The ServiCover Editorial Team compiles prices and guidance from published 2026 cost guides, manufacturer information and industry sources. Prices are national ranges and vary by location, home and provider, so always compare written quotes. We don't perform the work ourselves, and we may earn a commission when you request quotes through our partners — see our Advertiser Disclosure.