Deck & Patio Cost Calculator (US 2026)

A new deck in 2026 costs $7,000–$30,000 for most homeowners, depending on size, material, and whether it's ground-level or elevated. A 240 sq ft ground-level pressure-treated deck runs $4,000–$9,000 installed. The same size in composite (Trex Enhance or similar) costs $10,000–$17,000. Add railing, stairs, and a pergola and a mid-size composite deck can easily reach $20,000–$35,000. Per square foot: $15–$35/sqft for pressure-treated, $35–$60/sqft for entry composite, $65–$110/sqft for premium PVC/capped composite. Prices are national averages — expect 40–60% higher in the Northeast and California.

A concrete patio costs $1,500–$5,000 for a 250 sq ft basic slab (broom finish, $6–$12/sqft). Stamped concrete runs $3,000–$7,500 for the same size ($12–$25/sqft). Concrete or brick pavers cost $4,500–$12,000 ($15–$40/sqft), and natural stone (flagstone, bluestone) $7,000–$17,000+ ($25–$55/sqft). The choice of material dramatically affects both cost and maintenance requirements. Concrete is cheapest but may crack over time; pavers are more durable and allow easy repairs since individual units can be replaced; natural stone is the premium option with the best aesthetic longevity.

Composite costs 2–3× more upfront but has a much lower total cost of ownership over 20–30 years. A 300 sq ft pressure-treated deck costs roughly $6,000–$12,000 installed but requires staining or sealing every 2–3 years ($300–$600 per treatment), board replacement as boards split and warp, and occasional structural repairs. Over 25 years, maintenance adds $5,000–$10,000. A composite deck (Trex, TimberTech) costs $15,000–$25,000 installed but is virtually maintenance-free — annual washing with soap and water. Most composite warranties are 25–50 years. If you plan to stay in your home 10+ years, composite usually wins on total cost. If you're renovating to sell, pressure-treated maximizes short-term ROI (Remodeling Magazine 2025: wood deck addition ~83% ROI vs. composite ~68%).

Almost certainly yes, with a few exceptions. Most jurisdictions require a building permit for any deck that is: (1) 30 inches or more above grade, (2) attached to the house (ledger-connected), or (3) over a certain square footage (often 200 sq ft). Even ground-level freestanding decks sometimes require permits. The permit process involves submittal of a site plan and framing plan, structural review (footings, beam sizing, ledger connection), and inspections at footings and framing stages. Permits cost $200–$800 in most counties. Decks built without permits can create serious problems at resale — title companies and buyers' agents increasingly flag unpermitted structures. Never skip the permit for an attached elevated deck.

Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value 2025 report shows: wood deck addition averages about 83% ROI (spent ~$16k, recoup ~$13k at resale) and composite deck addition averages about 68% ROI (spent ~$24k, recoup ~$16k). These are national averages — ROI varies significantly by market. In warm-climate markets (FL, AZ, TX) and high-value housing markets (CA, NY, MA), outdoor living space is prized and ROI is higher. In cold climates with short outdoor seasons, ROI is lower. A deck also improves livability and daily enjoyment — the most consistent "return" on a deck is the years of use you get before selling.

Pressure-treated (Southern Yellow Pine) decks last 15–25 years with proper maintenance, but the decking boards themselves often need replacement at 10–15 years as they check, split, and cup. The structural framing (posts, beams, joists) typically lasts longer since it uses heavier stock and is less exposed to UV. Cedar and redwood decks last 20–30 years. Composite decks last 25–35 years — the leading brands (Trex, TimberTech, Azek) offer warranties of 25–50 years against fading, staining, and structural failure. PVC/capped composite (Azek Vintage, Fiberon Paramount) is the most durable, often warrantied 50 years. All composite warranties require installation per manufacturer specs and proper ventilation.

Both are popular patio options, but they differ significantly in repairability and durability. Stamped concrete is a monolithic slab — if it cracks (common in freeze-thaw climates), the crack runs through the pattern and is nearly impossible to repair invisibly. Resealing every 2–3 years is required to maintain color and protect the surface. Pavers are individual units: if one cracks, settles, or stains, you replace only that unit. Pavers handle freeze-thaw cycles better because joints allow for movement. The cost difference is moderate: stamped concrete is $12–$25/sqft vs. pavers at $15–$40/sqft. In cold climates (zones 5–7), pavers generally hold up better long-term. In warm, stable climates, stamped concrete is a cost-effective and attractive option.

A 240 sq ft ground-level pressure-treated deck takes 3–5 days for an experienced crew after permit approval. Add railing and stairs and you're at 5–8 days. A composite deck of the same size takes 5–8 days (more careful installation to avoid gapping/warping). An elevated deck adds 1–3 days for footings and framing. Permit lead times add 1–3 weeks before work can begin in most jurisdictions. Patio timeline: a basic concrete slab takes 2–3 days (pour + cure time). Stamped concrete adds 1 day. Paver patios take 4–8 days depending on size and base prep. Natural stone patios are the most labor-intensive: 6–12 days for 250 sq ft.

Watch for these common omissions in contractor bids: (1) Permit fees ($200–$800) — some contractors include them, many don't. Ask explicitly. (2) Utility locating — you must call 811 (Dig Safe) before any excavation; it's free but required. (3) Structural engineering fees for elevated second-story decks or load-bearing pergolas ($500–$2,000). (4) Outdoor lighting, ceiling fans, or electrical outlets — these require separate electrical work ($400–$2,500). (5) Landscaping remediation after construction — footings and grading disturb the yard. (6) Furniture, planters, umbrellas. (7) The 10–15% contingency that every project needs — hidden rot, poor soil conditions, and undiscovered utility lines are common.