How Much Does Composite Decking Cost?
Key Points
- The average cost of a composite deck, including both labor and materials, is around $9,000.
- Your final cost will vary based on factors like the deck’s size, design, shape, location, brand, and labor rates.
- Composite decking lasts 25 to 50 years with minimal maintenance, unlike wood, which requires frequent staining and sealing.
What are the Average Costs to Build a Composite Deck in 2024?
When planning to build a composite deck, it’s important to understand the potential costs. Factors such as material choice, deck size, and labor can influence the overall expense. Let’s take a look at them below.
Deck Size
The larger your deck, the more you’ll spend on materials and labor, increasing your overall costs.
Complex designs or extra features like stairs and railings will also add to the expense, so both the size and design complexity affect the final price.
Here are the average costs for common deck sizes:
Design
Simple deck shapes are more affordable, while complex designs like multi-level decks or custom features (e.g., built-in seating) can raise costs by up to 20%.
Additional elements such as stairs, railings, or intricate layouts also need more materials and labor, which further increases expenses. Plus, the framing and structural support for these more elaborate designs adds to the total cost as well.
Materials
Composite decking is typically made from materials like polyethylene, polypropylene, or PVC.
Polyethylene-based decking is the most budget-friendly, ranging from $4 to $11 per square foot, but it tends to retain heat and can scratch more easily.
PVC decking boards, priced between $5 and $12 per square foot, are highly resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, making them durable and low-maintenance.
Polypropylene composite decking is the priciest, costing $5 to $16 per square foot. However, it offers excellent heat resistance and durability, making it a great choice for hot climates.
Type of Composite Decking
The type of composite decking you choose impacts the overall cost. There are two main types: capped and uncapped composites.
Capped decking has a protective layer that resists moisture and fading, making it more expensive, typically ranging from $30 to $60 per square foot.
Uncapped composite decking is more affordable, costing between $20 and $40 per square foot, but it’s more vulnerable to mold, staining, and fading since it lacks the protective cap.
Framing
The frame supporting the decking boards needs to be strong and durable to handle the heavier weight of composite materials compared to traditional wood.
Pressure-treated wood is the most common framing material, costing between $1.50 and $3.50 per linear foot. For greater durability and less maintenance, metal or aluminum framing is another option, with prices ranging from $3 to $7 per linear foot.
Fastener Type
The type of fasteners you choose impacts the cost of composite decking, affecting both materials and installation.
Hidden fasteners, often used with grooved boards, provide a cleaner, seamless look but tend to be pricier due to higher material costs and more complex installation.
On the other hand, top-down fasteners are more affordable and easier to install but leave visible screws, which can affect both the appearance and durability of the deck over time.
Brands
The brand you choose affects composite decking costs, as material quality, design, and warranties can vary.
In 2018, popular composite/PVC decking brands among U.S. construction firms included Trex, Azek Decks, TimberTech, and CertainTeed, according to Statista.
Premium brands like Trex and TimberTech offer top-notch durability and long-term value. For example, Trex decking cost per square foot can range between $5 and $15. Mid-range brands like Fiberon offer a good balance between cost and performance, while budget-friendly options like Veranda are more affordable but may not last as long.
Labor
Labor plays a major role in composite decking costs, making up about 20-40% of the total price. Labor rates generally range from $7 to $15 per square foot, or between $35 and $75 per hour if billed hourly.
Complex designs, multi-level decks, and custom features like stairs or built-in seating can increase labor expenses due to the extra time and skill needed.
Additionally, decks built on slopes or elevated areas will require more work, raising costs. Labor rates are typically higher in urban areas with a higher cost of living.
Location
The composite decking prices can vary based on location due to factors like labor rates and material costs, which are generally higher in areas with a high cost of living. In remote areas, transportation fees may also increase costs.
The installation site impacts pricing as well – ground-level decks typically cost $40-$50 per square foot, while elevated or multi-level decks can range from $50 to $130 per square foot.
In regions with extreme weather, higher-quality, weather-resistant composite materials may be necessary, adding to the cost. For instance, polypropylene-based composites are often preferred in hot climates for their heat resistance.
Permits
Permits for building composite decking can increase costs by around $100 or more, depending on local regulations. Permit fees ensure that your deck complies with building codes, which may involve inspections and modifications. These added steps can increase both the time and labor costs of the project.
Additionally, contractors familiar with local permit requirements may charge more for handling the process, but they can help avoid delays or fines for non-compliance.
Additional Costs to Consider for Composite Decking
Warranties
Warranties affect composite decking costs by increasing the upfront price but offering long-term savings. Higher-end decking brands with extensive warranties, such as 25 to 50 years, cover structural integrity, fading, and staining, reducing future repair and replacement expenses.
Some warranties may also cover labor costs, but only if installed by certified professionals. Although decks with longer warranties cost more initially, they offer better protection and value over time by minimizing maintenance and ensuring durability.
Yard Grading and Leveling
Preparing the site properly ensures a stable foundation, preventing structural issues like water pooling or uneven surfaces. Grading typically costs between $800 and $4,000, depending on the yard’s slope and the extent of work needed.
This adds to the total project cost but is necessary for long-term deck durability and functionality. Proper site preparation helps avoid future repairs, making it a vital part of the budget for composite decking installations.
Deck Base Construction
Land Clearing
Land clearing can significantly impact the overall cost of a composite decking project, especially if the site requires substantial preparation. For instance, the cost to clear a typical lot, such as removing trees, brush, and stumps, can range from $100 to $6,000, depending on the size and vegetation density.
More heavily wooded areas or larger lots can push this cost even higher, particularly when specialized equipment or additional labor is required.
Deck Stairs and Railing
Composite deck stairs usually cost between $15 and $40 per linear foot, depending on the material and design. Railings, which are key for safety and style, can run from $50 to $120 per linear foot. The overall cost varies based on the size, materials, and extras like lighting.
Material choice for both stairs and railings, whether wood, metal, or composite, also impacts the price. Composite tends to be more expensive upfront but saves on maintenance in the long run compared to wood.
Old Deck Removal
On average, removing an old deck costs between $4 and $15 per square foot, with the price depending on factors like the deck’s size, accessibility, and complexity. If the deck is elevated or made from heavier materials, removal costs can be higher, often reaching the top end of that range.
What are the Benefits of Choosing Composite?
Choosing composite decking offers several benefits compared to traditional wood decks:
Low Maintenance
Composite decking requires very little upkeep, unlike wood, which needs regular staining, sealing, or refinishing. Simply cleaning it with soap and water is enough to keep it in great condition.
Durability
Composite decks are highly durable and resistant to common issues like warping, splintering, and insect damage. Many come with warranties of 25 to 50 years, making them a long-term investment.
Environmentally Friendly
Made from recycled materials, such as plastic and wood fibers, composite decking is a more sustainable option, reducing the need for cutting down trees.
Variety of Colors and Textures
Composite decking is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it easier to customize the appearance of your deck to match your home without additional painting or staining.
Slip Resistance
Many composite decking options feature slip-resistant surfaces, which are ideal for decks near pools or in rainy climates.
Long-Term Cost Savings
While the upfront cost may be higher than wood, the reduced maintenance and increased lifespan make composite decking more cost-effective in the long run.
Composite Decking Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Installing composite decking yourself can save you 20-40% of the total project cost, but it requires solid carpentry skills and familiarity with the right tools and techniques.
For beginners, DIY projects can take longer and lead to mistakes, which might add to the costs of repairs or fixes. Safety is also a big concern since improper installation can cause structural problems or accidents.
On the other hand, hiring a professional offers expertise, speed, and quality workmanship. Professionals know how to build decks that meet local building codes, helping you avoid legal issues later. While hiring a contractor is pricier due to labor costs, the efficiency, durability, and peace of mind they provide often make it worth the extra expense.
If you’re considering hiring a pro, make sure to read online reviews, ask project-specific questions, and get quotes from several contractors.
You can also use a tool like HomeBuddy to help you find expert local contractors and even get free project estimates.
Cost of Composite Decking vs. Wood
Composite decking typically costs $25 to $45 per square foot, including installation, while wood decking ranges from $15 to $25 per square foot for pressure-treated wood and $4 to $9 for cedar or redwood.
Although composite decking has a higher upfront cost, it requires significantly less maintenance, saving on long-term expenses. Wood decks need regular maintenance, adding $1,000 per year on average, while composite decks can last up to 50 years with minimal upkeep.
Cost-Saving Tips for Installing Composite Decking
Conclusion
Composite decking typically runs between $25 to $45 per square foot, including installation, with an average total cost of around $9,000 for both labor and materials. However, the final price can vary based on factors like the deck’s size, design, shape, location, and brand.
Although you can save money on the labor cost of building a composite deck by DIYing, hiring a professional ensures the job is done right the first time, without the stress or risk of costly mistakes. You can use a tool like HomeBuddy to easily connect with an experienced local contractor, get a free estimate, and have all your questions answered.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Yes, composite decking is worth it for those seeking long-term durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Although initially more expensive than wood, it lasts longer, resists mold, and doesn’t require staining or sealing. It’s a cost-effective, hassle-free solution over time.
- Yes, composite decking can increase home value, recouping about 63% of its cost at resale. It also enhances curb appeal, durability, and low maintenance, making homes more attractive to buyers and potentially speeding up the sale process.
- Choosing between a wood and composite deck depends on your priorities. Wood offers natural beauty and a lower upfront cost but requires regular maintenance and has a shorter lifespan. Composite decks are more durable, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly, lasting up to 50 years but cost more initially.
