Outdoor composite decks are getting more and more attention from homeowners. It has become the perfect outdoor living spot for entertaining and relaxing. This innovative building and ornamental material provides homeowners with greater ease and is among the greatest substitutes for wood decking. So, you may be wondering how much does a 20 x 20 composite decking cost?

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1. The Price of Composite Decking

Materials for composite decking boards range in price from $16 to $32 per square foot. The labor cost per square foot for installing composite decking varies from $24 to $48. As a result, installing composite decking will cost between $40 and $80 per square foot, including the substructure.

In the end, the cost of building a 20′ by 20′ composite deck might range from $16,000 to $32,000. The table below shows the average installation costs for different sizes of composite decks:

Deck size (feet)	Square feet	Average cost installed
8’x10′	80	$3,200 – $6,400
10’x10′	100	$4,000 – $8,000
10’x12′	120	$4,800 – $9,600
12’x12′	144	$5,750 – $11,500
12’x14′	168	$6,700 – $13,450
12’x16′	192	$7,680 – $15,350
12’x18′	216	$8,650 – $17,280
12’x20′	240	$9,600 – $19,200
14’x20′	280	$11,200 – $22,400
16’x16′	256	$10,250 – $20,480
20’x20′	400	$16,000 – $32,000
20’x24′	480	$19,200 – $38,400
24’x24′	576	$23,000 – $46,000

2. The Price of Various Composite Decking Types

The cost of different types of composite decking varies, even for the same size. Next, let’s take a look at the installation costs of different types and features of composite decking.

2.1 Ground-level or Platform decking

Typically, this kind of outdoor deck is between 30 and 36 inches high. They can have deck rails installed if needed, and they are fastened to the house at the back entrance.

The cost of installing a deck might increase depending on the number of stairs and whether reinforcement is required for the foundation. The cost per square foot of installation for this type of deck is between $40 and $50.

2.2 Decks That Are Freestanding or Floating

Railings, steps, and deep page feet below the frost line are not necessary for freestanding or floating decks. These thin decks are frequently only held up by concrete blocks and mud.

These kinds of decks don’t always need a permit because they aren’t fixed to the house. Freestanding decks and floating decks typically cost $30 to $40 per square foot to install.

2.3 Decks that are elevated

Elevated decks are located below the second story and at least three feet above the ground. This kind of deck often has a reinforced concrete base, and deck rails must be installed per building requirements. Elevated decks typically cost $50 to $80 per square foot to install.

2.4 Second-story Deck

The fact that this kind of outdoor deck generates a covered porch underneath makes it popular. This kind of deck needs strong support and huge columns. Second-story decks typically cost $80 to $100 per square foot to install.

2.5 Deck with Many Levels

This is the most expensive outside deck as well, and houses with two stories or more tend to use it. More outdoor leisure spaces can be connected with many levels of interconnected decks. Multi-level decks typically cost $90 to $130 per square foot to install.

3. Factors Influencing Composite Decking Installation Cost

Because composite decks have more parts, they require more care when assembled. As a result, the labor cost to install them may be higher than wood decks. Composite decking installation labor typically costs between $24 and $48 per square foot.

In addition to this, there are many other factors that can affect the cost of composite decking installation. The following is a list of pertinent cost factors:

3.1 Design Proposal

The decking surface’s color and texture have an impact on project expenses. The most expensive composite decking is those with complex pattern designs and wood-like textures. The cost is lowest for those who select the most straightforward hues and designs.

3.2 Composite Decking: Capped or Uncapped

3.3 Composite Decking: Solid and Hollow

For the majority of uses, hollow composite decking is sturdy enough. Solid composite decking is stronger and more expensive. Choose the right composite deck for your needs.

3.4 Fastener Types

Hidden fasteners can make a deck look better, but require more installation time and money. Traditional fasteners, on the other hand, are quicker and cheaper to install. Of course, it can also make your deck look a little blemished.

3.5 Systems for Deck Drainage

A new drainage system installation will set you back between $1,000 and $4,000. It is vital to install a yard drainage system to prevent standing water from corroding the deck supports.

3.6 Systems for Elevated Deck Drainage

Installing a drainage and runoff system beneath the second-story deck will raise the cost even more. But such expenditures are necessary.

3.7 Gravel Foundation

The cost of pea gravel per square foot varies from $0.85 to $2.80. The gravel beneath a raised deck or second-story deck facilitates water flow and keeps weeds from sprouting.

3.8 Railing

The cost of adding wood or vinyl railing to a composite deck varies from $20 to $60 per foot.

3.9 Steps

The cost to install deck steps is $20 to $30 per square foot, in addition to the $80 to $160 cost of the concrete foundation.

3.10 Leveling the Terrain

Before beginning an outdoor deck project, a yard needs to be leveled, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000.

3.11 Building Permits

Permit costs might vary from $50 to $150, depending on the size of the deck and local building laws.

3.12 Design Charge

The labor cost of a structural engineer who inspects the site and creates blueprints ranges from $100 to $220 per hour. A permit needs to be obtained with an engineer’s specialized design if the building plans are huge or complex.

4. Personalization and Additional Features

Additional costs apply for the installation of elements that enhance outdoor life, such as:

• A set of outdoor chairs may run you $500 to $1,500.
• The price of an outdoor light can range from $80 to $300.
• Installing an outdoor plug can cost between $180 and $350.
• The cost of a deck hot tub ranges from $3,000 to $10,000.
• The cost to install a ceiling fan might range from $150 to $400.
• The price range for outdoor fireplaces is $1,500 to $9,000. Make sure the fireplace is made to be safe to use on a deck by checking the construction codes in your area.
• Awnings that are temporary or that can be used all year round can be installed for $200 to $6,000.
• The price range for concrete sidewalks is $7–$17 per square foot.
• The cost per square foot of gravel walkways ranges from $16 to $35.
• The price of built-in wood benches can range from $1,000 to $1,500, based on the deck’s size.
• The price of a covered deck can range from $10 to $60 per square foot, contingent on the kind of deck roof.
• Building a shade gazebo might cost anywhere from $4,300 and $10,000.
• The cost to install a pergola providing partial shade might range from $1,450 to $5,570.
• The price range for constructing an outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill is $3,000 to $10,000.

5. Costs of Composite Decking Board Materials

5.1 Costs of Various Composite Decking Board Types

The price per square foot for composite decking planks can range from $4 to $16. Substructures, steps, railings, and footings will incur additional costs. Polyethylene material is used to make most composite decking.

5.2 HDPE (polyethylene) Decking

This composite decking looks most like solid wood decking. Light-colored composite decking is advised for sunny locations since PE and HDPE decking will retain more heat.

5.3 Vinyl Decking

Vinyl decking appears more plastic-like. There are several colors available for this material. Nevertheless, compared to polyethylene plastic decking, it is more prone to mold growth and expands and contracts with temperature.

5.4 Decks made of polypropylene (PP)

Compared to other composite decking options, polypropylene decking can withstand extremely high temperatures. Long-term wetness won’t cause this material to buckle, but freezing temperatures will cause it to shatter readily.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

6.1 What Is Composite Decking?

A decorative product made by combining plastic and wood fibers is called composite decking. It is a sturdy substitute for wood decking. While some composite decking is composed completely of plastic, others are longer-lasting and more UV-resistant because they contain more recyclable plastics and chemicals.

6.2 Is Purchasing Composite Decking Worth It?

For those looking for a low-maintenance deck, composite decking is an excellent choice. Additionally, composite decking materials are pest-resistant and won’t fade, scratch, or rot. They also won’t split or warp like decks made of wood.

6.3 What Is the Longlife of Composite Decking?

Composite deck boards usually last 25 to 50 years if properly cared for. The brand, installation, climate, and foot traffic all play a role in this. To prolong the life of your decking, regularly examine it for loose components and make sure it is dry and dirt-free.

6.4 Is Resale Value Increased by Composite Decking?

Because composite decking is both attractive and long-lasting, it can raise the value of your house. Buyers find this low-maintenance outdoor deck very appealing. This is because they can have a versatile outdoor living space without the need for regular maintenance and upkeep.

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