Wood Deck Cost Calculator
A wood deck is the cheapest deck to build and the only one whose real cost keeps arriving after it is finished, because wood needs cleaning and a fresh coat of stain every two to three years. This prices the build by species, size and height, then adds the upkeep over 25 years so you can compare pressure-treated pine, cedar, redwood and ipe on what they actually cost you.
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Frequently asked questions
- How much does a wood deck cost?
- Pressure-treated pine runs about $20–$25 per square foot installed, so a 12×16 (192 sq ft) deck is roughly $3,800–$4,900. Cedar is about $29–$37 per square foot and ipe about $59–$75. Raised and second-storey decks cost 15–35% more for the extra structure.
- Is a wood deck cheaper than composite?
- To build, yes — pressure-treated pine costs roughly half as much installed as composite. Over 25 years the gap narrows, because wood needs cleaning and restaining every two to three years at $0.75–$1.25 per square foot each time, and composite does not.
- Which wood is best for a deck?
- Pressure-treated pine for budget and structure, cedar or redwood for looks and natural rot resistance, ipe for the longest life and hardest surface. Most decks — whatever the surface — are framed in pressure-treated lumber because it is rated for ground contact.
- How long does a wood deck last?
- Around 15–20 years for pressure-treated pine, 15–25 for cedar, 20–30 for redwood and 40 or more for ipe, provided it is kept clean, sealed and dry underneath.
