Pressure-treated wood decking typically costs $15-$25 per square foot installed, while composite usually runs $25-$45 per square foot. For a 300-square-foot deck, that puts a basic project at roughly $4,500-$7,500 for pressure-treated wood or $7,500-$13,500 for composite, with framing, stairs, railings, access, and local labor driving the final quote.
Composite commonly costs 40%-80% more upfront, but needs less routine finishing. The figures below assume a straightforward ground-level deck and standard materials; replacing a deck or building a raised design can cost substantially more.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated deck, installed | $15/sq ft | $20/sq ft | $25/sq ft | Basic wood boards and standard framing |
| Composite deck, installed | $25/sq ft | $35/sq ft | $45/sq ft | Ranges vary by board line and installation |
| 300-sq-ft pressure-treated deck | $4,500 | $6,000 | $7,500 | Simple ground-level layout |
| 300-sq-ft composite deck | $7,500 | $10,500 | $13,500 | Standard composite boards |
Installed deck prices for 300 square feet
Pressure-treated decking costs about $3-$7 per square foot for boards and related basic materials, before installation. Composite decking boards commonly cost $8-$15 per square foot, though capped and premium products can exceed that range. These material figures exclude much of the supporting structure, which both deck types need.
For a typical 300-square-foot build, a practical midpoint is about $6,000 in pressure-treated wood versus $10,500 in composite. Those estimates assume a simple shape, code-compliant framing, ordinary site access, and no major demolition. Higher-cost metro areas, custom designs, and elevated decks can exceed the high estimates.
Assumptions: Standard materials, Midwest pricing, ground-level deck, normal access, and no major site repairs.
Which boards, framing, and labor shape the quote?
Deck quotes include more than the surface boards. Both options require a stable frame, fasteners, and installation labor; composite may also need product-specific clips or trim. The table shows typical installed-cost shares for a straightforward project. Actual contractor estimates may group these charges differently.
| Cost component | Pressure-treated wood | Composite | What changes the charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decking materials | $3-$7/sq ft | $8-$15/sq ft | Board grade, profile, and color |
| Framing and fasteners | $4-$8/sq ft | $4-$9/sq ft | Joist spacing, lumber, and fastening system |
| Installation labor | $7-$12/sq ft | $10-$18/sq ft | Layout, cutting, stairs, and crew rate |
| Railings and stairs | $20-$60/linear ft | $35-$100/linear ft | Material, height, and design |
Labor can be estimated as . Carpenter rates commonly run $50-$100 per hour, but many contractors quote a complete project rather than hourly labor. Composite installation can take longer when boards need hidden fasteners, precise spacing, or manufacturer-specific detailing.
How board grade and deck height change pricing
Pressure-treated lumber is sold in different grades and can vary in appearance, moisture, and defect level. Higher-quality boards often cost more and may reduce visible knots or imperfections. Composite pricing changes with cap protection, board thickness, texture, color, and warranty. Premium capped boards may add $3-$8 per square foot over entry-level composite.
Height and framing requirements can matter as much as the choice of surface board. A deck more than 2-3 feet above grade may require additional posts, bracing, stairs, and guardrails. Joists spaced at 12 inches rather than 16 inches on center may be required by some composite products, adding lumber and labor. Rot, uneven ground, or a ledger connection requiring repair can add hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Can planning the deck scope lower its cost?
A simple rectangular footprint uses boards efficiently and takes less time to frame than curves, picture-frame borders, or multiple levels. Keeping the deck near ground level and limiting stairs and railing length can also control the quote. Before approving an estimate, compare the same square footage, framing plan, railing scope, and disposal terms across bids.
Choosing a standard board color and profile usually saves more than trimming a small amount from the deck size. Ask whether the quote includes framing, fasteners, permits, hauling, and taxes. For pressure-treated wood, confirm whether staining or sealing is included; it is often a separate expense. Avoid paying for upgraded board features unless they solve a specific appearance, maintenance, or performance need.
Regional labor rates shift wood and composite quotes
Labor and delivery can push quotes away from national ranges. Dense urban markets and high-cost coastal areas may run 10%-25% above the estimates in the table, while some rural markets may be 5%-15% lower. These are broad comparisons, not guaranteed regional rates; local lumber availability and contractor demand can change the result.
Composite products may have fewer nearby suppliers in some areas, adding freight or limiting the selection. Pressure-treated lumber is widely available, but prices still move with lumber supply and delivery distance. Get local bids that specify product brands and quantities rather than relying only on a per-square-foot figure.
Removal, railings, and stairs add to the bill
Removing an existing deck can add about $5-$15 per square foot, depending on its construction, access, and disposal fees. Dump charges may be quoted separately. New stairs often add $500-$2,000 or more, while railing can add roughly $20-$100 per linear foot based on material and design.
Raised decks and complicated tear-outs are common reasons a low initial estimate grows. Ask contractors to itemize demolition, hauling, posts, stairs, railing, and any ledger or foundation repairs. Permit and inspection fees vary by location and project; a local building department can confirm whether the planned height or attachment requires approval.
Five-year upkeep changes the decking comparison
Pressure-treated wood usually needs cleaning and periodic sealing or staining to help limit moisture damage, fading, and surface wear. A professional cleaning and staining visit may cost about $1-$3 per square foot, depending on preparation and product. Composite generally needs routine washing, but can be harder to repair if a board is damaged or a matching replacement is unavailable.
Over five years, maintenance can narrow the gap in initial purchase price, but it does not make every composite deck cheaper. Upkeep costs depend on climate, sun exposure, product instructions, and whether the homeowner does the work. Compare the installed quote plus expected cleaning, coating, and repair expenses for the specific products under consideration.