How Much Does It Cost to Install Bamboo Decking?

Average Cost to Build a Bamboo Deck

Bamboo Deck Material Price

With the cost of decking boards for a 400-square-foot bamboo deck falling between $3 to $10 per square foot, the cost for materials when building a bamboo deck averages $2,600.

Bamboo Deck Installation Cost

Most contractors price labor at $15 to $30 per square foot of decking for an average labor cost of $8,800. Almost all local deck builders charge by deck size.

Others charge an hourly rate. A deck can take 15 to 100 hours of building time. The average hourly rate for a contractor is $35, so this works out to $530 to $3,500.

Bamboo Deck Cost by Style

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

Floating Bamboo Deck

Floating bamboo decks range in price from $30 to $70 per square foot for materials and labor, with an average cost of $12,000 to $28,000 for a 400-square-foot deck. While the general build is similar to an attached deck, contractors add extra support posts under the freestanding structure.

Ground-Level Bamboo Deck

A ground-level bamboo deck typically costs $18 per square foot and is the least expensive option, with an average cost of $7,200 for a 400-square-foot deck. The cost savings come from reduced prep time and the lack of stakes and rails.

Second-Story Bamboo Deck

Higher decks cost at least $40 per square foot for a minimum of $16,000 for a 400-square-foot deck. Expect higher costs if you're building a deck for views in hilly, rocky, or complicated terrain.

Bamboo Deck Installation Cost by Square Foot

The average cost of a bamboo deck per square foot is $18 to $40, or $7,200 to $16,000 total for materials and labor for a standard-size deck. 

Some contractors apply a premium of $1 to $4 per square foot if you request plans for a jumbo deck that’s over 400 square feet. For example, the total cost for a 600-square-foot deck will be $11,400 to $26,400. 

Bamboo Deck Installation Cost Factors

The deck size and terrain complexity are the two biggest factors that can add to your overall costs. However, unique designs, staining and sealing, deck features, and building permits can also impact the total price. 

Shape and Design

The project cost will increase for non-standard shapes. Average costs cover basic square, L-shaped, and rectangular decks, so expect to add 50% to 80% on top of the average deck installation cost for complicated or custom designs, like wraparound decks and multilevel decks.

Deck Treatment

Ask your contractor if staining and sealing are included in the cost to build a deck. Waterproofing and sealing a deck costs $550 to $1,300, while staining a deck costs $550 to $1,050.

Deck Features

While the cost to add an awning will run $800 to $1,200, adding a roof to cover your deck can cost $3,000 to $10,000. Adding stairs to a bamboo deck costs $15 to $25 per square foot.

Building Permits

Most cities and states require permits for decks, which can total from $400 to $500. However, freestanding ground-level decks are sometimes exempt from permits because they don't adjoin and can't compromise an existing structure.

DIY vs. Hire a Bamboo Deck Pro

The biggest cost factor when building your own bamboo deck is time. Building a DIY bamboo deck can slash your project cost by 50% to 70% because labor accounts for roughly half the cost to build one. However, it's not a job for someone without building experience. 

A pro can build a deck in a fraction of the time and handle sourcing and installing bamboo, managing materials and delivery, and properly storing decking materials. 

Most importantly, a local deck pro will know whether you need a permit, as well as how to build your bamboo deck to code. A deck installed improperly may need to be torn down because it will create safety hazards. Additionally, failing to handle flashing properly when attaching a deck to your home could create rot issues on your home exterior. We recommend you hire a deck builder near you to manage your project. 

FAQs

How long does a bamboo deck last?

An adequately maintained bamboo deck can last for up to 25 years.

How should I care for a bamboo deck? 

Clean with soap and water as necessary, ensure the spaces between boards are free from leaves and debris and apply a bamboo decking oil once a year. 

Do all carpenters build bamboo decks?

While bamboo decks are becoming popular, not all contractors and carpenters have experience with this material. Ask to see samples of finished projects when taking bids from deck builders.

Are bamboo decks more expensive than other hardwood decks?

This depends on the quality of the bamboo chosen. In many cases, bamboo is a few dollars less per square foot than comparable hardwood. Perform a cost comparison by asking for quotes for your deck using both materials.