Hiring a deck contractor
A deck is structural work: footings sized to soil and frost depth, ledger attachment that keeps the deck on the house, and framing that meets span tables — which is why a dedicated deck builder usually beats a general handyman for anything above grade. Many of the best are NADRA members or manufacturer-certified installers for composite lines like Trex and TimberTech, and most jurisdictions require a permit and inspection for decks above a certain height.
Budget-wise, pressure-treated wood typically runs $30–$50 per square foot installed and composite $50–$85, with railings, stairs, and multi-level designs adding cost. Get the footing plan and ledger detail in writing, ask who pulls the permit, and check that the contractor carries liability and workers comp before anyone digs.
How much does a new deck cost?
Rough installed ranges: $30–$50 per square foot for pressure-treated wood, $50–$85 for composite with aluminum or composite railing. A typical 300 sq ft composite deck lands in the $15,000–$25,000 range in most markets.
Do I need a permit for a deck?
Almost always yes for attached or elevated decks — permits cover footing depth, ledger attachment, and railing height. A builder who suggests skipping the permit is a red flag; failed ledgers are the most common cause of deck collapses.
Wood or composite?
Wood costs less up front but wants cleaning and re-staining every couple of years. Composite costs more but is largely wash-and-go, with 25–50 year fade and stain warranties from the major brands. Framing is pressure-treated lumber either way.