Guides & advice · Decks & Patios
Decks & Patios: costs, choices and hiring advice
More living space outside for grilling, dinners and weekends. Here is what to know before you get quotes.
What it costs
$4,339–$12,652
Deck prices depend on size, height and material. Raised and multi-level decks cost much more per square foot than ground-level decks.
- 12×12 ft. deck$5,760–$8,640
- 16×20 ft. deck$12,800–$19,200
- 12×12 ft. concrete patio$850–$2,300
Choices that change the price
- Deck or patioA patio sits on the ground, so it usually costs less per square foot, needs no railings and lasts a long time.
- Concrete or paversPoured concrete is the lowest-cost hard surface.
- Wood or composite deckingPressure-treated wood is the least expensive.
Problems and hidden costs to watch for
- Footings and ledgerHow a deck attaches to the house (the ledger) and how its footings are built matter for safety.
- Grading and drainagePatios need a compacted base and a slope away from the house.
- Stairs and railingsRaised decks need code-compliant stairs and railings, which can add thousands.
- PermitsMost decks need a permit and inspection.
Upkeep and lifespan
- Wood decksClean and reseal or stain wood decks regularly.
- Composite decksWash composite decking; it does not need staining or sealing.
- Concrete and paversSeal concrete every few years and refill paver joints with sand as needed.
Hiring and comparing quotes
- Is the price for decking only, or framing, footings, railings and stairs too?
- How will the deck attach to my house, and who handles the permit and inspections?
- For a patio: how deep is the base, and how will water drain away from the house?
- Is removal of the old deck or patio included?
All decks & patios guides
Costs, budgets and timelines
- Decks & Patios cost guideNational prices, example budgets and what each price covers
- Deck Railing Replacement Cost by MaterialRailings run $35–$210 per linear foot. Material options, stairs, posts, labor and the code basics that apply.
- Deck vs. Patio Cost: Which Is Right for Your Yard?A 12×12 ft. deck runs $5,760–$8,640 vs. $850–$2,300 for a concrete patio of the same size. When the extra cost of a deck makes sense.
Repair, replace or choose
- Deck Resurfacing vs. Full ReplacementNew boards on a sound frame cost far less than a new deck. Why the condition of the framing, ledger and footings decides.
Materials and methods
- Composite vs. Wood DeckingComposite boards cost several times more than pressure-treated wood but need far less upkeep. Cost, maintenance and heat compared.
- Concrete Patio vs. Pavers: Cost and Trade-OffsPlain concrete is the cheapest patio at $4–$7 per sq. ft.; pavers run $8–$15. How they compare on cracking, repairs and looks.
Hiring and comparing quotes
- How to Compare Contractor Estimates (With an Annotated Example)Line up scope, quantities, allowances, exclusions and warranty terms so you compare the same job, not just the bottom line.
- Questions to Ask Before Hiring a ContractorA practical checklist for the first call, the estimate visit and before you sign, plus links to project-specific questions.
- How to Verify a Contractor's License and InsuranceWhere to look up a license, how to confirm insurance with the insurer, and what each check does and does not tell you.
- Quote comparison worksheetLine up up to three quotes side by side
Budget tools
Cost figures are national ranges from the sources listed in the cost guide. They are not a quote from FixFinch or any contractor.