How Much Does Composite Decking Cost in 2025?
Composite decking costs an average of $8,500
Average composite decking costs range from $5,400 to $11,500, with an average of $8,500.
Cost factors include deck size, site preparation, materials, and labor.
The per-square-foot cost of composite decking is $14 to $32.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Composite or PVC decking offers a low-maintenance, durable option for extending your outdoor living space. On average, composite decking costs between $5,400 and $11,500, with most homeowners spending an average of $8,500. Factors like deck size, material type, labor, and additional features will influence the total cost. With thoughtful budgeting and the help of a professional, you can create a beautiful deck that adds value to your home and enhances your outdoor enjoyment.
Composite Decking Cost Factors
A 144-square-foot composite deck costs an average of $2,200 to $4,600, but your final price will hinge on deck size, material choice, prep work, and local labor rates.
Project Size
Deck size is one of the biggest cost drivers. Expect to spend $15 to $32 per square foot, depending on how much space you want to cover. A 100-square-foot deck might cost as little as $1,500 to install, while a 400-square-foot deck can cost up to $12,800.
| Deck Dimensions (Feet) | Total Sq. Ft. | Average Cost (All-In) |
|---|---|---|
| 10x10 | 100 | $1,500–$3,200 |
| 12x12 | 144 | $2,200–$4,600 |
| 16x16 | 256 | $3,800–$8,200 |
| 16x20 | 320 | $4,800–$10,200 |
| 18x20 | 360 | $5,400–$11,500 |
| 20x20 | 400 | $6,000–$12,800 |
| 20x24 | 480 | $7,200–$15,400 |
| 23x23 | 529 | $7,900–$17,000 |
Materials
Materials alone run $5 to $18 per square foot, with the exact number tied to the type of composite you pick.
| Material | Average Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|
| Wood plastic composite | $10–$18 |
| PVC (vinyl) | $5–$15 |
| Mineral-based composite | $6–$15 |
Labor
Labor adds another $10 to $14 per square foot, while stairs average $25 per square foot. Here are the pros you’ll likely hire:
Carpenters: Responsible for framing and construction
Deck builders: Specialize in deck installation
Labor costs may vary based on your region and current market rates.
Demolition and Prep
Replacing an old deck? Plan on an extra $5 to $15 per square foot to tear out and haul away the existing structure. If you have an existing deck that needs replacing, these additional costs can increase the price to anywhere from $20 to $47 per square foot. This amounts to a grand total of $7,200 to $17,000 for your average-sized deck.
If you need to hire someone to haul away demolition debris, junk removal costs an average of $250. While tackling the demolition yourself can save money, it requires time and effort.
Permits
A deck permit costs between $225 and $500, depending on where you live. Many areas require permits for deck construction to ensure safety standards are met. Working with a professional contractor can simplify this process—they'll handle the paperwork and make sure everything is up to code.
Additional Components
Keep in mind that the decking boards are just one part of the overall cost. You'll also need to budget for railings, substructures, posts, and hardware. Here’s how these costs break down.
| Deck Component | Average Cost (per 360 Sq. Ft.) |
|---|---|
| Railing | $875–$2,800 |
| Substructure | $1,900–$3,100 |
| Posts | $750–$1,900 |
| Hardware | $250–$500 |
Ongoing Maintenance
Composite decks are popular because they are low maintenance, especially compared to natural wood decks. Just sweep it and hose it down as needed. Otherwise, you won’t need to worry about composite deck maintenance costs, saving you time and money in the long run.
Does Composite Decking Increase Home Value?
Absolutely, installing a composite deck can significantly boost your home's value. On average, deck additions recoup 82.9% of their cost, or $14,600, when it’s time to sell. A composite deck doesn't just expand your living space; it also appeals to potential buyers seeking low-maintenance, durable outdoor areas.
Composite decks resist rot, fading, and warping, so future owners won't have to worry about costly repairs. By enhancing your home's functionality and curb appeal, a well-designed composite deck makes your property stand out and can even help it sell faster.
Budgeting for Composite Decking
Looking to build your dream deck without breaking the bank? Here are some smart strategies to help you save money without sacrificing quality:
Stick to standard sizes: To reduce material and labor costs, opt for a standard deck size instead of custom dimensions.
DIY demolition: If you're replacing an old deck, handling the demolition and disposal yourself can cut down on labor fees.
Limit the extras: Keep your design simple by avoiding unnecessary add-ons like extra railings, elaborate stairs, or complex layouts.
Shop around: Get quotes from at least three local deck builders to find the most competitive price.
Choose the right timing: Schedule your installation during the off-season when contractors may offer reduced labor rates.
Select budget-friendly materials: Pick cost-effective decking materials that still provide durability and low maintenance.
DIY vs. Hiring a Composite Decking Pro
Without the right skills, you might run into challenges like cutting boards to precise lengths, ensuring a level foundation, or navigating obstacles like trees and uneven terrain. Mistakes can be costly and may affect your deck's safety and longevity.
Hiring a professional composite deck builder ensures your deck is installed correctly and complies with local codes. While it adds $10 to $14 per square foot in labor costs, you'll benefit from their expertise, efficient work, and often a warranty on their craftsmanship. In the long run, a pro can save you time and prevent potential headaches, giving you peace of mind and a beautiful deck that stands the test of time.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Composite decking stands up to weather, insects, and daily wear without the yearly sanding and staining that wood needs. The boards keep their color, resist splintering, and won’t warp in the sun, so you can spend more time relaxing and less time on upkeep. Over its 25- to 50-year life span, that durability can easily offset the slightly higher upfront price.
Yes, you can install composite decking on a rooftop, but the structure must handle the added weight and have the right slope for drainage. A structural engineer or experienced deck builder will confirm load limits, recommend specialized fasteners, and design a ventilation layer that keeps moisture from collecting under the boards. Those extra steps protect both the roof and your new deck for decades.
Building a composite deck starts with permits and a solid foundation of footings and framing. Next, installers lay joists, secure hidden fasteners, and place the deck boards, followed by railings and stairs if you need them. The job wraps up with a final inspection and thorough cleanup, leaving you with a ready-to-enjoy outdoor space.
Most composite decks last 25 to 50 years—far longer than many wood options. Plastic binders shield the wood fibers from moisture, while built-in UV inhibitors keep colors from fading. Combine that durability with the absence of splinters and decay, and you get a deck that looks fresh season after season with minimal upkeep.
Timeline depends on deck size, site prep, and crew experience, but most residential projects wrap up in a few days to a couple of weeks. Simple ground-level platforms go fastest, while multi-level designs or sites that need excavation add time. A seasoned pro will give you a clear schedule and keep you informed if weather delays pop up.
Composite isn’t your only choice. For classic warmth, you can choose pressure-treated or naturally rot-resistant woods or aluminum for a lightweight, water-resistant surface. Each material has its own maintenance routine, price point, and style, so weigh the look you want against how much time you’re willing to spend on upkeep.
Get our Angi-powered app
