How Does Bamboo Decking Cost to Install in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Known for its all-weather strength and natural beauty, bamboo decking lets you extend your living space outdoors. You’ll spend $6,200 to $250,000, or $12,800 on average, for a professionally built bamboo deck. Create a realistic budget and hire a qualified decking professional to ensure the finished deck is safe, code-compliant, and built to last.

Bamboo Deck Installation Cost Factors

Bamboo deck size and challenging terrain drive up the cost the fastest, but design extras, finishes, built-in features, and permits also significantly impact the price.

Size

The average cost of a bamboo deck per square foot ranges from $18 to $40, totaling $7,200 to $16,000 for materials and labor for a standard-size deck. Decking boards cost between $4 and $10 per square foot for materials alone, with labor accounting for the remainder of the cost.

Labor

Decking professionals often charge by the hour, ranging from $35 to $70, depending on your location and the level of involvement required for the project. Because most builders also set a minimum project fee or base their quote on deck size, the 15- to 100-hour build time translates to $525 to $7,000 in labor costs.

Style

The cost of bamboo decks varies by deck style, with floating and second-story bamboo decks often being more expensive.

Floating Bamboo Deck

Floating bamboo decks follow the overall cost of bamboo decking. Floating desks cost between $9,000 and $20,000 or $18 to $40 per square foot, depending on factors such as deck size, design, and any additional support requirements. 

Ground-Level Bamboo Deck

Ground-level decks are the budget pick. At $18 per square foot, you’re looking at $7,200 for a 400-square-foot build. You save on labor costs because the installer doesn’t need to set deep footings or add railings.

Shape and Design

Non-standard deck shapes bump up the total budget. Basic square, rectangular, or L-shaped layouts fall within the averages, while a wraparound or multilevel deck can run 50% to 80% more.

Deck Treatment

Confirm with your contractor whether staining and sealing are rolled into the cost to build a deck. If they’re not, remember that waterproofing and sealing can add a noticeable line item to the final bill.

Building Permits

Most cities and states require permits for decks, which can cost from $150 to $500. However, freestanding ground-level decks are sometimes exempt because they don't adjoin and can't compromise an existing structure.

DIY vs. Hiring a Bamboo Deck Pro

Time is the real expense when you tackle a bamboo deck build on your own. Skipping labor can trim 50% to 70% from the total price, but bamboo decking isn’t a beginner project. 

A seasoned pro finishes the deck far faster and takes care of ordering, delivering, and storing the boards so they stay in top shape.

Just as important, a local pro knows the permit rules and local code. If the deck isn’t flashed or fastened correctly, it can become a safety hazard—or worse, force you to tear it down. To minimize headaches, connect with a qualified deck builder near you.

Budgeting Tips for Bamboo Decking Installation

Save money on your bamboo deck project without sacrificing quality with these smart strategies:

• Consider a simpler design with straight lines and standard shapes to reduce labor costs.

• Install a ground-level deck to eliminate the expenses associated with deep footings and railings.

• Purchase materials during off-season sales or in bulk to take advantage of potential discounts.

• Handle basic prep work yourself, like clearing the site or staining boards.

• Get multiple quotes from qualified contractors to ensure competitive pricing.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.