If you’re dreaming about adding a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor space to your home, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is: “How much does decking cost per square foot?” It’s a great question—and one that deserves a clear, straightforward answer. Whether you're planning a full backyard makeover or just want to freshen up your current deck, understanding the cost per square foot helps you stay on budget and avoid surprises later.
In this guide, we’re going to walk you through everything you need to know about decking cost per square foot, why it varies, and how our composite decking gives you the best bang for your buck.
What’s the Average Decking Cost Per Square Foot?
When it comes to planning your deck, a good rule of thumb is this: the decking cost per square foot for materials alone usually ranges from $10 to $20. If you’re hiring a professional to install it, you’ll be looking at $30 to $60 per square foot total, including both materials and labor.But before we dive deeper into the numbers, let’s look at what actually drives up or brings down the decking cost per square foot.
1. Materials: The Foundation of Your Budget
Let’s start with what you’re building your deck with. The type of decking material you choose is the single biggest factor in how much you’ll pay per square foot.
Our composite decking is a popular choice for a reason. It’s built to last, looks amazing, and needs way less maintenance than traditional wood. You don’t have to deal with staining, sanding, or sealing year after year. Just a quick wash with some soap and water. This minimal upkeep might only set you back about $50 annually, while maintaining a wood deck can cost several hundred dollars annually in materials and labor.
With our products, the decking cost per square foot for materials typically ranges between $5 and $12, depending on the style, texture, and finish you choose. Higher-end boards offer added durability and a more premium look, but even our budget-friendly options offer long-term value.
Types of Composite Decking We Offer
Capped Composite Decking
This type includes a protective co-extrusion layer, making it more resistant to fading, staining, and scratching. It’s our most durable option.
Price range: $4 to $12 per square foot
✅ Great for high-traffic areas and long-term durability.
Uncapped Composite Decking
This is our more budget-friendly option. It doesn't have a protective layer, but still offers solid performance and low maintenance.
Price range: $3 to $7 per square foot
✅ A smart pick for smaller projects or lower traffic areas.
No matter which type you go with, our decking are built to last and backed by solid warranties. You’ll save money long-term thanks to low maintenance and zero need for constant repairs.
2. Labor: DIY or Pro?
Another big part of your budget will go toward installation. If you go the DIY route, you’ll save money on labor but might spend more on tools, hardware, and time. If you hire a professional, labor costs usually fall between $24 and $48 per square foot.
We make it easy to install our composite decking on your own, thanks to helpful guides, installation kits, and a support team ready to answer your questions. But if you’d rather kick back and let the pros handle it, we totally get that too!
3. Size and Shape: Simpler = Cheaper
The decking cost per square foot is also affected by your deck’s layout. A basic square or rectangle deck will cost less than one with curves, stairs, or multiple levels. It’s not just about the materials—you’re also paying for extra cutting, framing, and design work.
Just keep in mind—custom decks with multiple levels or unique shapes will cost more to install, since they take more time and effort.
Why Our Composite Decking Is a Smart Investment
When people see the upfront decking cost per square foot for composite materials, they sometimes pause. But let’s break down why our composite decking is totally worth the investment:
No yearly upkeep: Say goodbye to sanding, staining, and sealing.
Long-lasting beauty: Our boards resist fading, staining, and scratching.
Safe for families: No splinters, warping, or rotting—just smooth, comfy surfaces.
Eco-friendly: We use recycled materials to create decking that’s sustainable and tough.
Weather-resistant: Our boards handle everything from scorching sun to heavy rain.
So yeah, the price might be a little higher up front—but the money you save over the next 10–20 years makes up for it and then some.
How to Budget Like a Pro
Now that you know these basics, here are some tips to help you plan wisely:
✅ Start with measurements: Make a rough estimate of the total square footage needed for your deck construction to calculate approximate costs.
✅ Get multiple quotes: Compare prices from different suppliers to establish your budget.
✅ Allow for flexibility: Add a 10-15% buffer to your budget for unexpected expenses or upgrades.
Let’s Build Something Amazing Together
Ready to start building your dream deck? We’re here to help with easy quotes, design tools, and all the support you need. Check out our full line of composite decking and discover the right style, color, and size for your space.
Got questions? Reach out anytime. We love talking decks!