How Much Does It Cost to Build a Redwood Deck?

Average Cost to Build a Redwood Deck

Redwood Deck Prices

Redwood prices depend on the type, size and grade, but it generally costs $5 to $35 per square foot for materials only. To build a 100-square-foot deck, expect to pay between $500 and $3,500 just for the material.

Redwood is one of the highest quality lumber types ranging in color, durability and price. Whether you use sapwood or heartwood (and its origins) also impacts how much you’ll pay.

Your local decking contractor can provide an accurate quote for your specific project.

Building a Redwood Deck Cost

To install a redwood deck, expect to pay $25 to $40 per square foot, with labor costs sitting anywhere between $15 to $35 per square foot. The price to install the deck will vary depending on the lumber grade, project complexity and the contractor’s licensing status.

Redwood Deck Installation Cost by Square Foot

The cost to install a redwood deck falls between $30 to $75 per square foot, including material, supplies, permits and labor.

Redwood Deck Building Cost Factors

Redwood decking costs $30 to $75 per square foot, including all the materials required (steps, railing and accessories), but many factors contribute to the deck's final cost.

The Quality of Redwood

The decking grade is the most significant factor in the materials cost, and better grades cost more.

The Design

Complex designs with not-so-common shapes or styles cost more to build than simple designs.

The Time of the Year

Lumber prices fluctuate all year long as well as the fees for deck builders, they may increase during peak season.

The Foundation

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.

Building Permit

Depending on your local regulations, you must obtain a permit at an additional cost. Most contractors will handle the permitting process, but homeowners will pay the fees.

Your Location

Redwood is native to the West Coast, making building a deck in some parts of California and Oregon less expensive than in Maryland because of transport costs.

Other Factors

The railing material, stairs, lighting and whether or not you’d like a hot tub add to the total cost of the deck.

Cost to Build a Redwood Deck Yourself

The cost to build a deck runs between $10,000 and $21,500. A decking contractor will charge between $4,000 to $10,000 to build a 300-square-foot redwood deck.

If you have carpentry skills and required tools, you can buy the lumber, DIY the deck and save 45% of the cost of hiring a deck builder.

Remember that costs can add up quickly if you’re not experienced and haven’t worked with redwood decking before.

Before building the redwood deck, be sure your project meets local codes and regulations and you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. You don’t want to pay extra for repairs down the road.

FAQs

What is redwood decking?

Redwood is a top-of-the-line wood material with rich color and beautiful straight grains that offer a warm appearance.

Redwood lumber comes from redwood trees native to California and Oregon. The timber has different grades, such as ‘heart’ or ‘common’ grades, and is considered a long-term investment in the overall value of your home.

What are the pros and cons of using redwood for your deck?

Pros of using redwood decking:

• Redwood decks are beautiful with rich and warm tones

• Redwood is durable and resists warping, twisting and shrinking

• It accepts stains and allows moisture sealers to penetrate deep into the wood

• Redwood resists weather and doesn't heat up in the sun like many other decking types

• Decks from heart-grade wood have a lifespan of 40 years or more with proper care; decks built with common-grade wood last 25 to 30 years when maintained.

• Redwood is rot-, insect- and water-resistant.

Cons of using redwood decking:

• Like many other lumber types, redwood requires consistent maintenance to prevent moisture damage

• Redwood is a softwood and relatively easy to dent

• Sapwood grade, which is an affordable grade of common redwood, is often susceptible to rotting if not sealed regularly

How can I maintain my redwood deck?

• Always check for dents and be proactive to make any repairs and budget for deck repair costs. Be sure to caulk where the deck meets the house.

• Power wash using water pressure less than 1,200 psi

• Budget for deck sealing costs and reseal every three years in dry climates and every one to two years in more humid climates