How Much Does a Vinyl Deck Cost to Build? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $400 - $5,200
Installing a vinyl deck costs on average $3,600, but can be more depending on the size and features added.
The average vinyl deck cost is around $3,600, with prices ranging from $400 to $5,200 for a deck size of up to 400 square feet. Vinyl is a relatively inexpensive decking material, with longevity and minimal maintenance requirements that make it a solid material choice. Here’s how to budget for building a vinyl deck.
- Average
- $3,600
- Low end
- $300
- high end
- $7,500
The average vinyl deck cost is around $3,600, with prices ranging from $400 to $5,200 for a deck size of up to 400 square feet. Vinyl is a relatively inexpensive decking material, with longevity and minimal maintenance requirements that make it a solid material choice. Here’s how to budget for building a vinyl deck.
| Low Cost | Average Cost | High Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $400 | $3,600 | $5,200 |
Vinyl Deck Cost Factors
Your vinyl deck cost depends on several factors, including the deck’s size and the state of the land it’s built on. Here’s how these cost factors could play into your deck-building budget.
Deck Size
The average vinyl deck cost is $5 to $13 per square foot. Consider the average costs for these common deck sizes.
| Deck Size | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 8’x10’ (80 square feet) | $400–$1,040 |
| 10’x10’ (100 square feet) | $500–$1,300 |
| 10’x12’ (120 square feet) | $600–$1,560 |
| 12’x12’ (144 square feet) | $720–$1,880 |
| 12’x16’ (180 square feet) | $900–$2,340 |
| 12’x20’ (240 square feet) | $1,200–$3,120 |
| 6’x16’ (256 square feet) | $1,400–$3,640 |
| 14’x20’ (280 square feet) | $1,600–$4,160 |
| 12’x24’ (288 square feet) | $1,280–$3,330 |
| 16’x20’ (320 square feet) | $1,440–$3,800 |
| 19’x19’ (361 square feet) | $1,805–$4,693 |
| 20’x20’ (400 square feet) | $2,000–$5,200 |
| 20’x24’ (480 square feet) | $2,400–$6,240 |
| 23’x23’ (529 square feet) | $2,645–$6,880 |
| 20’x29’ (580 square feet) | $2,900–$7,540 |
Land Prep
If you have a sloped yard or extensive vegetation, you may need to factor in a few different prep costs prior to building a vinyl deck. The cost to level a lawn for a deck ranges from $500 to $4,500, depending on the size of the deck and the current slope of the land. In addition, the cost to clear the land is $250 to $2,800 per half-acre. You’ll need to hire a land-clearing service if you have another structure, such as a shed or greenhouse, currently occupying the build site. If you need to remove trees in that area, cutting down a tree costs anywhere from $200 to $2,000 based on the size and density of the tree.
Labor
The labor for a local deck builder will account for roughly 35% of your total vinyl deck cost. Most contractors will charge between $15 to $35 per square foot. However, the cost of hiring a team of professional deck builders, specifically ones who specialize in vinyl decking, is worth the investment. These pros have the skills, tools, and experience to work efficiently and safely while flagging any potential issues before they start the building process.
Deck Frame
Framing for a deck typically costs between $9 and $12 per square foot. Typically, the deck frame will be constructed from lumber to create a solid foundation for the vinyl decking boards.
Deck Type
The type of vinyl deck in your construction plans will determine the overall cost. Building a complex type of deck, such as a wraparound or rooftop deck, will cost more than constructing a first-floor, walk-out deck because it requires additional materials, labor, and prep work.
If your vision is to install a second-story deck, it will cost more to install due to increased material and labor expenses. Here’s how estimated costs differ between first- and second-story decks:
10’x10’ first-story deck: $3,000–$6,000
10’x10’ second-story deck: $3,800–$8,000
Vinyl Deck Ongoing Expenses
A few additional costs will occur after building your vinyl deck. Here are a few examples of the ongoing costs to consider for this decking project.
Maintenance
Vinyl is one of the best decking materials to choose if you’re looking for something low maintenance—it hardly requires any maintenance, aside from the occasional cleaning. You may want to budget around $0.10 to $0.50 per square foot annually to cover the cost of pressure washing, or you can rent one for around $75 per day.
Property Taxes
Depending on your locality, there may be additional property taxes to plan for when you build a vinyl deck. Refer to your local tax and building codes to gauge what your potential tax increase could look like before starting the building process.
Insurance
A new addition to your home, such as a deck, can potentially increase your homeowner’s insurance rates, as you’re adding an additional asset. Consult with your insurance provider to learn the specifics of your current plan to determine the estimated monthly increase to your bill.
Repairs
As your deck ages, you may need to budget for potential repairs, such as repairing railings or replacing compromised boards. The average cost of deck repairs is around $2,100, but your cost will vary depending on the nature and extent of the damage. Here are some common deck repairs and their projected costs:
Replace deck railing: $35 to $210 per linear foot
Repair loose stairs: $100–$300
Remove mildew and rot: $200–$500
Deck board replacement: $500–$4,000
DIY Vinyl Deck Cost vs. Hiring a Pro
Building your own vinyl deck can save you roughly 35% off your total cost. However, learning how to build a deck isn’t easy if you don’t have prior carpentry experience. Missteps can lead to costly repairs, structural issues, and a deck that doesn’t last nearly as long as its professionally constructed counterpart. Purchasing tools like a post-hole digger or auger, reciprocating saw, circular saw, and tamper can also eat into your cost savings.
If you lack the proper tools and experience, it’s best to leave this project to a local deck builder to ensure you get a beautiful vinyl deck that will last for years to come. Deck building professionals will walk you through every step of the process, from choosing the right vinyl material to designing a deck that complements your home and property.
Cost of Common Vinyl Deck Add-Ons
Here are a few add-ons to consider for this project and their average costs:
Cost to build a pergola: $2,100–$6,000
Desk staircase cost: $15–$25 per square foot
Cost to install an outdoor outlet: $130–$300 per outlet
Outdoor lighting fixture prices: $8–$30 each
Patio heater costs: $100–$300
Retractable deck awning costs: $1,500–$3,500
Gazebo costs: $2,800–$9,900
Outdoor misting system: $1,800–$3,100
Propane fireplace: $300–$700
Concrete walkway costs: $1,200–$2,400
Ways You Can Save Money on Your Vinyl Deck Cost
Want to cut down on costs for your deck-building project? Consider these money-saving tips:
Compare quotes from at least three different contractors to find the best deal.
Consider building during off-peak months for seasonal discounts.
Keep the deck size small to reduce costs for materials and labor.
If you have carpentry skills, consider DIY prep or partial installation.
Complete preparatory tasks like clearing the area, removing old structures, or site preparation to reduce labor costs.
Perform routine inspections to spot structural issues before they require expensive repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the type of wood. The average cost to build a deck out of pressure-treated lumber is $15 to $25 per square foot, but more affordable varieties such as bamboo and cedar cost less at around $3 to $10 per square foot. However, when comparing the cost of vinyl decking versus wood decking, it’s important to also consider ongoing maintenance costs. For example, most woods require regular sealing to keep them protected against weather and rot.
The time to build a vinyl deck varies based on factors like size, the complexity of the design, and weather conditions. Generally, a straightforward project might take a few days to a couple of weeks for preparation, installation, and any necessary inspections. However, larger or more intricate designs may extend the timeline. Timely acquisition of permits, efficient planning, and coordination with contractors will all help to make the construction process as smooth and quick as possible.
With proper installation and maintenance, a vinyl deck can last up to 30 years. Factors like regular cleaning, minimal wear and tear, proper installation, and the use of higher-grade materials can extend its durability. However, extreme weather conditions or neglecting maintenance might shorten its lifespan. Adhering to manufacturer recommendations for care and occasional inspections can significantly prolong a vinyl deck's longevity.