Price your deck using flexible inputs and choices. See framing, rails, stairs, finishes, and labor. Export a neat report for clients anytime.
| Deck (ft) | Area (ft²) | Decking mode | Labor mode | Options | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 × 12 | 192 | Per ft² @ 8.00 | Per ft² @ 12.00 | Finish, railing | 5,900 – 7,300 |
| 20 × 14 | 280 | Per board @ 20.00 | Hourly (40h @ 35.00) | Posts, stairs | 9,200 – 12,000 |
| 12 × 10 | 120 | Per ft² @ 6.50 | Custom | Demo, finish | 3,100 – 4,200 |
This calculator builds a practical estimate for new deck projects by combining measured area with structural allowances and optional features. It supports early budgeting, client proposals, and comparison shopping. Inputs include decking, framing, fasteners, finishes, stairs, railing, permits, delivery, and labor. Values can be tuned for local markets, preferred brands, and the level of craftsmanship expected on site.
Area is calculated from length and width, with optional extra square footage. Waste is applied to reflect cuts, defects, and layout changes. Board quantity is estimated from board width, gap, deck width, and run length, then adjusted by waste. Joist quantity follows spacing along the deck length and multiplies by deck width to estimate total linear footage and framing weight.
Decking can be priced per square foot for packaged systems or per board for itemized purchasing. Framing costs use linear-foot rates for joists, rim boards, and optional beams. Fasteners and connectors are handled as unit allowances to keep estimates consistent across designs. Use the same project dimensions to compare treated lumber, composites, hidden fasteners, or premium railing packages with clear cost deltas.
Labor can be estimated per square foot, hourly, or as a fixed amount to match different quoting styles. Delivery and permit fields capture common “forgotten” expenses that impact the final number. Tax is applied to the subtotal when relevant. A contingency percentage is included to cover price swings, minor design changes, and site surprises such as uneven grades, difficult access, or relocation of utilities. Adjust contingency lower for repeatable builds and higher for complex details.
The results panel shows a total, cost per square foot, and an itemized breakdown so you can see where money is concentrated. If decking dominates, review unit price, waste, and board length selection. If labor dominates, verify access, height, and details like picture framing, fascia, and stair geometry. Export the report to share assumptions, then refine inputs as scope, drawings, and site conditions become final. Track revisions by saving each export with a dated filename.
Use per board when you buy individual boards and want quantity-based costing. Use per square foot for packaged systems, bundled pricing, or quick comparisons across material options.
For simple rectangles, 8–12% is common. For diagonal patterns, picture framing, or many cutouts, 12–20% is safer. Increase waste if board lengths are limited or defects are expected.
The layout estimate uses width, gap, and run length to count boards. The area estimate divides total area by board coverage. If they differ greatly, recheck board length, gap, and deck orientation.
Tighter spacing increases joist count and framing cost but can reduce bounce and improve durability. Match spacing to your decking type, span limits, and local requirements before finalizing quantities.
Add them when the deck is elevated, freestanding, or needs additional support beyond a ledger. Enter realistic beam length and footing pricing based on soil conditions, depth, and hardware requirements.
Contingency cushions unknowns like price changes, minor design revisions, and site complications. It is not a substitute for structural design. Reduce it for fixed scopes and increase it for uncertain conditions.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.