A deck rebuild involves a full tear-down and replacement, making the total expense closer to the cost of new construction than simple resurfacing. Project costs are highly variable, depending on the deck’s total square footage, the specific materials chosen, and regional labor rates. When estimating the total investment, it is helpful to consider the project in phases, from removal of the old structure to installation of the new one. Costs for a complete rebuild often range from $30 to $55 per square foot installed, though higher-end projects may exceed this range due to premium materials or complex designs.
Demolition and Disposal Expenses
The first expense is dismantling the old structure and removing the debris, a cost often overlooked in initial budgeting. Professional deck removal typically costs between $5 and $15 per square foot, varying based on the existing deck’s material and complexity. A small, simple, ground-level wooden deck might cost $600 to $1,000 for professional removal. Large, multi-level structures with built-in features could cost $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
The primary cost drivers are the labor time required for tear-down and the associated disposal fees. Contractors often rent a dumpster or use a specialized hauling service to transport the old lumber and materials to a waste facility. Materials like older pressure-treated wood, which may be heavier or contain chemicals, can sometimes incur higher disposal fees. Homeowners managing the demolition themselves must still budget for dumpster rental and local landfill or transfer station fees.
Material Cost Comparison
The decking surface material is the largest variable expense, determining the project’s total cost and long-term maintenance needs. Surface material costs alone range from $2 to $19 per square foot, excluding the substructure or labor. The initial investment should be balanced against future maintenance, as cheaper materials typically require more frequent upkeep.
Pressure-treated lumber, usually pine, is the most economical choice, costing $2 to $8 per square foot. This wood is chemically treated to resist rot and insects, but it requires regular sealing or staining every few years to maintain its appearance and structural integrity. Natural woods like cedar or redwood are a mid-range option, costing $4 to $9 per square foot. They are prized for their natural pest resistance and aesthetic appeal, but still require periodic maintenance to prevent weathering and graying.
Composite and PVC decking materials represent the highest upfront investment, typically costing $8 to $16 per square foot, with premium options exceeding this range. Composite boards blend wood fibers and recycled plastic, while PVC is entirely plastic. These manufactured materials are highly resistant to moisture, insects, and fading, offering significant savings in long-term maintenance costs since they do not require staining or sealing.
Regardless of the surface material chosen, the underlying structure requires framing components like joists, posts, and beams, which are typically made from pressure-treated lumber. Substructure materials generally contribute significantly to the total material budget, even though they are not visible in the finished deck. Fasteners, such as screws, hidden clips, and brackets, must also be chosen to be compatible with the decking material. Specialized systems like hidden fasteners for composite boards can increase the overall material cost. The total material budget must also account for railing systems, with options ranging from simple pressure-treated wood to more expensive materials like composite, aluminum, or cable railing, which can significantly alter the final price.
Professional Labor and Permits
Professional labor is a substantial part of the total rebuild cost, with contractors typically charging between $11 and $25 per square foot for installation alone. This fee covers the physical construction, contractor overhead, insurance, and the expertise needed to ensure the deck is built to code. Labor costs are often calculated based on the project’s square footage, but complexity is a major factor that increases the per-square-foot rate.
Design elements requiring intricate cutting or specialized installation techniques will increase total labor hours. Features such as multi-level designs, curved borders, built-in seating, or complex railing systems add considerable time and skill to the project. Installation of specific materials also influences labor rates; for example, some composite decking systems require specialized hidden fastening clips that take longer to install than traditional surface screws.
Nearly all deck rebuilds require obtaining local building permits and undergoing inspections to ensure compliance with safety and structural regulations. Permit fees generally range from $50 to $500, depending on the municipality and the project’s valuation, sometimes calculated as a percentage of the total construction value. The process involves mandatory inspections by local authorities, including checking foundation footings, framing, and the final completed structure. Work that fails an inspection may require re-inspection fees, adding unexpected expenses to the budget. Compliance with these regulations is necessary for homeowner safety and maintaining the property’s value.