How much does it cost to build a deck yourself?
About $3,400 in materials for a 20 x 12 ft attached deck, 3 ft off the ground.
Estimate only, computed from the deck calculator's default inputs and prices. Your sizes and local prices will change it.
Do it yourself (materials)
$3,400
Hire it out
Not modelled
Worked example: a 20 x 12 ft attached deck, 3 ft off the ground
| Item | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Decking | $1,060 |
| Framing | $800 |
| Foundation | $430 |
| Railing | $1,100 |
| Total | $3,400 |
Assumptions
- Pressure-treated decking, 16 in joist spacing, 4 footings
- Railing on three sides (44 ft), no stairs
- The same deck in cedar is about $4,940 and in composite about $6,180
- US average unit prices, the calculator's defaults; permit and tools not included
What changes the price
- Most places require a permit for an attached deck or one more than 30 in off the ground. Budget for it and the inspection.
- The ledger connection to the house is the part that fails. Flashing and lag screws are in the estimate for that reason.
- Composite costs much more up front and less every year after, since it never needs stain or sealer.
Price your own project
Enter your measurements and local prices in the free deck calculator for a full materials list and cost.
Open the deck calculatorAlso useful: Deck footing size calculator, Deck beam span calculator
FAQ
How much does it cost to build a deck yourself?
About $3,400 in materials for a 20 x 12 ft attached deck, 3 ft off the ground. These are estimates from the deck calculator's default prices; enter your own sizes and prices there for your project.
Where do these numbers come from?
From the same math the deck calculator runs, fed its default inputs and unit prices. They are rough US averages, not quotes, and local prices vary.
More DIY cost estimates: cost to install gutters yourself, cost to paint a room yourself, cost to drywall a room yourself, cost to tile a floor yourself, cost to build a fence yourself.