Building a redwood deck costs an average of $18,000
Average redwood deck costs run between $14,000 and $22,000, with an average total of $18,000.
Redwood deck costs range from $25 to $50 per square foot.
Labor accounts for 40% to 60% of your total project budget.
Durable and visually appealing, redwood often commands a higher price than other materials.
Local regulations, project complexity, and material quality can influence final pricing.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Redwood decks cost an average of $18,000 nationwide, with most projects landing between $14,000 and $22,000 on average. That works out to $25 to $50 per square foot, depending on the deck’s size, additional features, project complexity, permits, and labor.
Expect your redwood deck cost to shift with the grade you choose and your contractor’s experience. Redwood is one of the highest-quality lumber types, ranging in color, strength, and price. Thanks to its durability and natural charm, redwood is a go-to option when you want equal parts beauty and strength.
Deck installation costs vary depending on the materials and several other factors. While redwood isn’t the most commonly used material, it’s durable and beautiful. However, several factors will nudge your final price up or down. Here’s a closer look at how your total is determined.
Redwood decking costs $25 to $50 per square foot, including materials and labor. For a 144-square-foot deck, plan on spending $3,600 to $7,200. The larger the deck, the higher the price is to allow for additional materials and time spent building your deck.
Here are the average costs for common deck sizes:
Deck Size (Sq. Ft.) | Average Cost |
---|---|
144 | $3,600–$7,200 |
320 | $8,000–$16,000 |
600 | $15,000–$30,000 |
Labor costs make up 40% to 60% of the total project cost. Your local decking contractor can provide an accurate quote for your specific project. Hourly rates vary based on your local labor prices and your general contractor or deck installer’s experience level, but you can expect to pay between $40 and $100 per hour.
The material you choose for the foundation plays a key role in the overall price, including whether you stick with redwood or go with a less expensive material. Whichever material you select, you must treat it to withstand insects and the elements.
Depending on your local regulations, you may need to obtain a permit at an additional cost. Most contractors will handle the permitting process, but homeowners will pay the fees. Permit costs vary based on your municipality’s building codes and fees.
The deck railing material, number of stairs, outdoor lighting, and extras like installing a hot tub add to your total redwood deck cost. Each feature adds to your cost, but think about how you’ll use the space and which options work best for your budget and lifestyle.
Redwood is one of the most expensive decking materials out there. While it’s an attractive and durable material, you can potentially save by choosing a comparably priced decking alternative. All prices are for materials only.
Ipe decking costs $5–$35 per square foot.
Mahogany decking costs $8–$11 per square foot.
Tigerwood decking costs $13–$50 per square foot.
Cedar decking costs $4–$10 per square foot.
Composite decking costs $5–18 per square foot.
Trex decking costs $5–$12 per square foot.
Consider these cost-saving strategies to make your redwood decking project more wallet-friendly:
Compare quotes from multiple local redwood decking pros to ensure competitive pricing.
Use standard layouts instead of custom options when possible.
Schedule regular maintenance to prevent major repairs.
Consider a phased approach where you install upgraded features down the road and enjoy a more basic deck in the short term.
Building an average redwood deck runs $14,000 to $22,000. Hiring a decking contractor to construct it for you costs 40% to 60% of that total in labor, but you gain professional know-how and code-compliant construction
DIY will slash labor costs, but it’s only smart if you have solid carpentry skills and the right tools. Materials still cost the same, so weigh any savings against the time commitment and potential code issues.
Remember that costs can add up quickly if you’re inexperienced and haven’t worked with redwood decking before. You’ll need to ensure that your project meets local codes and regulations and that you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. You don’t want to pay extra for repairs down the road.
For best results, hiring a decking installation company ensures safe and durable results that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
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.