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.

Redwood Decking vs. Other Materials

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 material only.

• Ipe decking costs $4–$12 per square foot

• Mahogany decking costs $8–$11 per square foot

• Tigerwood decking costs $7–$15 per square foot

• Cedar decking costs $3–$7 per square foot

• Composite decking costs $15–$36 per square foot

• Trex decking costs $5–$10 per square foot

DIY vs. Hiring a Decking Pro

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.

Cost to Build a Redwood Deck Yourself

You can save on labor costs by DIYing. However, you should only do so with experience or if you have confidence in your or a friend’s abilities. Still, expect to spend the same amount of money on materials as covered throughout this cost guide.