Deck Material Calculator
Estimate materials and costs for your deck project
Safety Notice: Deck construction requires proper permits and professional knowledge of local building codes. This calculator provides estimates only.
Tip: Measure your deck area carefully and add 10-15% for waste when ordering materials.
Deck Dimensions
Decking Material
Framing Options
Material Estimate
Decking Materials
Total Deck Area:- sq ft
Deck Boards Needed:-
Linear Feet:- ft
Fasteners Needed:-
Framing Materials
Joists Needed:-
Beams Needed:-
Posts Needed:-
Concrete (for footings):- bags
Cost Estimate
Decking:
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Framing:
-
Railing:
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Estimated Total Cost:
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(Does not include labor or permits)
Shopping List
Decking Material Comparison Guide
Pressure-Treated Wood
- Most affordable option ($1.50-$3.50/sq ft)
- Easy to work with using standard tools
- Lasts 10-15 years with proper maintenance
- Accepts stains and paints well
Considerations
- Requires annual maintenance (cleaning, sealing)
- May warp, crack or splinter over time
- Contains chemicals (use proper safety gear when cutting)
Composite Decking
- 25-30 year lifespan with minimal maintenance
- Won't rot, splinter or warp
- Many color options available
- More slip-resistant than wood when wet
Considerations
- Higher upfront cost ($4-$12/sq ft)
- Can get hot in direct sunlight
- Requires specific fasteners and installation techniques
PVC Decking
- Most durable option (30+ year lifespan)
- Completely waterproof and resistant to stains
- Lightweight and easy to install
- No sealing or painting required
Considerations
- Most expensive option ($8-$15/sq ft)
- Can expand/contract more than other materials
- Plastic appearance may not appeal to all
Hardwood (Ipe, Tigerwood)
- Premium natural appearance
- Extremely durable (25-40 year lifespan)
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- Adds value to your home
Considerations
- Very expensive ($10-$20/sq ft)
- Requires pre-drilling for fasteners
- Needs regular oiling to maintain color
- Extremely dense and heavy
"Composite decking now accounts for over 40% of new deck installations due to its combination of durability and low maintenance."
Deck Construction Cost Factors
Deck Height
Elevated decks require more structural materials (posts, beams, footings) and railings. Ground-level decks cost 20-40% less than elevated decks of the same size.
Design Complexity
Multi-level decks, curves, built-in seating, or custom railings can increase costs by 30-60%. Simple rectangular decks are most cost-effective.
Climate Factors
Frost footings in cold climates, hurricane ties in coastal areas, or special fasteners for high-wind zones can add 10-25% to material costs.
Budget Tip: Using standard 16" joist spacing (rather than 12") can reduce framing lumber costs by 25% with minimal impact on deck performance for most materials.
Deck Building FAQs
How much does a typical deck cost?
A basic 16x20 ft pressure-treated wood deck costs $3,000-$6,000 in materials. The same size in composite runs $5,000-$10,000. Add 50-100% for professional installation. Costs vary by region and design complexity.
Do I need a permit to build a deck?
Most jurisdictions require permits for any deck over 30" high. Ground-level decks may be exempt, but always check local building codes. Permits typically cost $100-$500 depending on deck size and location.
How many footings do I need for my deck?
Footing requirements depend on deck height and local frost depth. As a rule of thumb, support posts should be spaced no more than 8' apart. A 12x16 ft deck typically needs 6-9 footings.
What's better: hidden fasteners or face screws?
Hidden fasteners provide a cleaner look but cost 2-3x more than screws. Some composite materials require specific fasteners to maintain warranty. For wood decks, stainless steel screws offer the best longevity.
How much should I budget for deck maintenance?
Pressure-treated wood needs cleaning and sealing every 1-3 years ($200-$500 per treatment). Composite requires occasional cleaning ($50-$100/year). PVC and hardwood need the least maintenance - just occasional cleaning.