If you plan to make a composite decking, knowing how much a 20’x20 composite deck costs becomes necessary for budgeting it properly. This would be ideal for homeowners interested in spacious grounds for relaxing, entertaining visitors, or engaging in other outdoor activities. Costs could vary greatly depending on factors such as materials chosen, design complexity, and even area location.
For this reason, this article will examine the critical factors that affect the 20’x20 composite deck cost and give possible pricing breakdowns.
What is the Average Cost of a 20’x20 Composite Deck?
On average, a composite deck, roughly 20’x20, costs around $16,000-$32,000. All materials and installation are included in the cost. The price will eventually depend upon the quality of the material, design complexity, and contractor pricing in your area. For a typical 20×20 composite deck, raw materials range from roughly $6400-$10,800, and labor-wise, it is about $9600-$19,200.
Choosing the trendy composite decking material can also increase the price considerably. Stairs, lighting, and other elaborate decorative features will further add to the dollars, making the total a bit more expensive.
Price of Composite Decking
The average installation cost per composite deck size has now been broken down as:
Deck Size |
Material Cost ($16 – $32 per sq. ft.) |
Labour Cost ($24 – $48 per sq. ft.) |
Total Cost Range ($40 – $80 per sq. ft.) |
| 10′ x 10′ | $1,600 – $3,200 | $2,400 – $4,800 | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| 12′ x 12′ | $2,304 – $4,608 | $3,456 – $6,912 | $5,760 – $11,520 |
| 14′ x 14′ | $3,136 – $6,272 | $4,224 – $8,448 | $7,360 – $14,720 |
| 16′ x 16′ | $4,096 – $8,192 | $5,760 – $11,520 | $9,856 – $19,712 |
| 20′ x 20′ | $6,400 – $12,800 | $9,600 – $19,200 | $16,000 – $32,000 |
Those were a cost range from some materials and labor, including substructure, for various size decking. Pricing ranges depending on how good the materials are, how complicated the design will be, and your location.
The Different Prices for Types of Composite Decking
The price rate depending on different choices of composite decking may variance according to types of composite decking. Here are some details about some types of composite decking concerning their costs to install:
1:Ground-level or Platform Decking
This is the kind of decking that is above the ground in general between 30 to 36 inches and is often attached to the back entry of a house.
This kind of deck could include some deck rails where needed and is mainly used for very simple outdoor spaces. Generally, this kind of work ranges from $40 to $50 per square foot and depends on some features such as whether it has stairs to serve as access or foundation reinforcement.
2:Decks that Are Freestanding or Floating
Freestanding or floating decks are those that are not attached to a house but instead are held at the ends or around the perimeter by concrete blocks or by mud under most conditions, frequently without a need for deep footings.
Because they lack railings, steps, or a foundation below the frost line, they are very easy to install and less expensive. The installation cost is typically $30 to $40 per square foot in part due to its simpler structure and not being permanently connected to the home.
3:Decks Elevated
Elevated decks are built at least three feet above the ground, typically positioned beneath a second floor.
These decks often require a reinforced concrete base and must include deck rails in compliance with building codes. The installation cost for elevated decks generally ranges from $50 to $80 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the structure and additional support needed.
4:Second-Floor Deck
That’s what you get in a second-floor deck; these decks are constructed high up in the house to provide an enclosed porch or more outdoor space underneath. Strong supports like large columns and heavy-duty structural framing are required to withstand the loads imposed. The cost of installation for second-floor decks is usually between $80 and $100 per square foot, owing to the resistance that shall have to be compensated with extra, often complex structural requirements.
5:Deck with Multiple Levels
Multiple levels are decks that intend to cater to larger homes that mostly have ends that join each other to form several rooms outside. This complex feature requires advanced design complexity and structural support, which includes more framing, additional stairs, and railings. It then ranges between $90 and $130 in price per square foot as the major costs involved include labor, materials, and engineering accounted for the multiple degrees.
Factors That Determine the Cost to Install Composite Decking Installation
These are some of the factors that determine the installation cost of composite deck flooring in addition to labor, which ranges between $24 to $48 per sq. ft. for composite decking:
1:Material Quality
Composite decking is available in various forms, from the most simple to premium, high-durability. Quality composite deck materials can range in cost from $50-$70 per square foot. The least expensive prices start around $20-$38 per square foot.
2:Design Complexity
Simple rectangular decks are generally less expensive than custom-designed decks, multi-leveled decks, or curved-deck designs. If it’s a deck with complicated shapes, built-in features, or intricate patterns, then all that extra labor and added material will make the price of the 20×20 composite deck increase considerably.
3:Location
Installation costs can vary from one location to another. Labor costs and material costs in certain regions might be higher than elsewhere, raising the cost of a 20’x20 composite deck. Furthermore, distant locations or those that are inaccessible might have increased installation costs due to transport or equipment requirements.
4:Additional Features
Built-in benches, railings, stairs, lighting, or outdoor kitchens may add 20’x20′ to the total cost of your composite deck. Outdoor lighting will cost some $80 to $300 for each light supplied, and terraforming the ground will probably run between $1,000 and $1,500 in price added to the overall cost.
5:Permits and Codes
In some places, decking can even include having a permit to build elevated construction with railings or stairs. So, this cost may come as an addition to the 20’x20 composite deck cost. Check with your municipality before building.
The Additional Features and Personalization
When your composite deck incorporates extra features to enhance outdoor living, additional costs may also include:
Outdoor Chairs: $500 to $1,500, depending on the quality and design.
Outdoor Lights: $80 to $300 each, for installation and materials.
Exterior Plug: $180 to $350, for installation and wiring.
Deck Hot Tub: $3,000 to $10,000, depending on size and features.
Ceiling Fan: $150 to $400, for installation and the fan unit.
Outdoor Fireplaces: $1,500 to $9,000, depending on design, materials, and installation requirements (check local codes for safety).
Awnings: $200 to $6,000, depending on whether they are temporary or permanent.
Concrete Sidewalks: $7 to $17 per square foot, for installation of walkways.
Gravel Paths: $16 to $35 per square foot, for gravel path installation.
Built-in Wood Benches: $1,000 to $1,500, depending on deck size and bench design.
Covered Deck: $10 to $60 per square foot, for the addition of a roof to the deck.
Shade Gazebo: $4,300 to $10,000, depending on design and materials.
Pergola: $1,450 to $5,570, for a partial shade structure.
Outdoor Kitchen: $3,000 to $10,000, for a built-in grill and other kitchen features.
Different Types of Composite Decking
The cost of the 20’x20 composite deck also depends on the type of composite decking you choose. There are several different types of composite boards, and each type has its pricing structure. Here is a rundown:
- Polyethylene (HDPE) Decking: This type mirrors the natural wood and yet is low-cost- almost $4-$16 per sq. ft.- ideal for customers who want wood with the longevity of plastic.
- Vinyl Decking: Vinyl decking generally offers a glassy, plastic look but still needs the least amount of maintenance. Susceptible to mold, it is not great for climbing areas.
- Polypropylene Decking: Polypropylene is less tolerant of extremes in temperature or moisture. It is considered even more resistant to wear, but in very low temperatures, can be quite brittle.
Conclusion
A 20’x20′ composite deck can cost anywhere from $16,000 and go up to $32,000. This has a bearing on what you utilize regarding materials, how you want it designed, and labor costs. Then some extras like railings and stairs will add extra pennies to your pockets to get more precise estimates you will have to think about what kind of composite decking you will like with any special customization. Labor costs, location, and additional features like lighting or furniture will make a difference as well in your overall price. Always secure a quotation from many contractors before the project begins.
FAQS
What are the advantages of composite decking?
Composite decking is durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to the weather. It also has different colors and styles.
Is Composite Decking Worth the Price?
Yes, it lasts longer than wood and less maintenance too. In the long run, it will save one money on the maintenance aspect.
How Long Does Installation Take?
It takes 1 to 2 weeks on average for installation. Of course, it depends on the deck size and how complex the installation is going to be.
Is Composite Decking Eco-Friendly?
Generally, most composite decking is from recycled material. It’s a rather green and environmentally friendly solution.
