How to build a Deck in 2025: Tools, Materials & Costs
- cwarner60
- Jul 22
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 24
Adding a deck is one of the best ways to upgrade your home's living space. To improve your outdoor space, knowing how to build a deck and what it costs is important. We’ll help you plan your deck, pick materials, see what it costs, and build steps - whether you're doing it yourself or getting help.
Deck Planning & Design
Every decking project starts with good planning. Your deck design should fit, reflect how you’ll use the deck, and meet local code requirements.
Key planning decisions include:
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t forget extras like railings, stairs, or even a pergola - especially if you’re upgrading an old deck.
Start by measuring your yard and sketching your deck layout, considering sun exposure, privacy, and access points. Use graph paper or a digital tool to visualize size and shape. Don’t forget to check local setback rules and where the utility lines are.
Best Tools for Building a Deck
Having the right tools makes your project safer, faster, and more precise. Here are essentials for building a deck:
Circular Saw or Miter Saw: Use a carbide-tipped blade for clean cuts on composite or wood
Jigsaw: For cutting around posts or angled cuts
Power Drill/Impact Driver: For installing screws and fasteners
Measuring Tape & Chalk Line: For accurate measurements and straight lines
Level: To ensure framing and decking are even
Post Hole Digger or Auger: For digging footings
Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, dust mask, and hearing protection
Speed Square: For marking precise angles and cuts
💡 Pro Tip: Always inspect your tools before use and replace worn blades or bits to ensure clean cuts and safe operation.
Understanding Blueprints & Your Deck Frame
Once your layout is set, it’s time to plan your deck frame. This includes joists, beams, posts, and footings, which must follow local code requirements. Even with DIY decks, things like bad spacing or shallow footings can cause problems later - especially during inspections. A proper blueprint helps you build safely and efficiently.
How to Build a Deck - Step-by-Step
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how to build a deck:
Mark your layout with string and stakes
Dig footings and pour concrete
Attach the ledger board to your house (if applicable)
Frame the deck with beams and joists
Install composite decking or wood planks
Add fascia, railings, stairs, and skirting
Seal or stain the deck (if using wood)
*Ground-level decks may use deck blocks or shorter footings instead of deep holes.
How to Build Steps for a Deck
Adding stairs to your deck means measuring and planning carefully to keep it safe and follow local rules.
Measure the total height from the ground to the deck surface. This is your total rise.
Learn how many steps you need by dividing the total height by the height of each step (usually about 7 inches).
Calculate the run or depth of each step (typically around 10–12 inches).
Cut your stringers to match these rise and run measurements, ensuring they are sturdy and uniform.
Use pressure-treated wood or composite materials that stand up to weather and won’t rot.
Attach the stairs securely to the deck frame, using bolts and metal brackets if possible for extra strength.
Install handrails when your deck is over 30 inches off the ground - local codes usually require them for safety.
Think about adding non-slip grips to your steps, especially if your area gets wet or icy.
💡 Pro Tip: Pre-cut stringers can save time, but custom-cut stringers ensure a perfect fit for your specific deck height.
Deck Building Materials: Which One to Choose?
Choosing the right materials ensures your deck lasts and looks great. Here’s an overview of common options:
Pressure Treated Wood
Lower upfront cost ($15 - $25 per sq. ft.).
Needs regular staining and sealing to protect against rot and warping.
Prone to splinters and insect damage.
Composite Decking
Made from recycled plastics and wood fibers.
Low maintenance - no staining or sealing needed.
Durable and resistant to rot, warping, and insects.
Available in premium lines like Trex Signature®. Transcend®, Enhance®, or Select®.
Higher initial cost but saves money long-term on upkeep.
PVC Decking
100% synthetic, very low maintenance.
Resistant to mold, mildew, and stains.
Typically higher cost, ideal for extreme weather.
Fasteners and Finishes
Use corrosion-resistant fasteners like stainless steel or Trex’s Hideaway® hidden fasteners.
Choose stains or sealers suited for your material if using wood.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck in 2025?
One of the most common questions is how much to build a deck. How much it costs to build a deck depends on the materials, size, labor, and how complex the design is.
Here’s a 2025 cost breakdown for a 12x16 deck:
Material Type | Cost Per Square Foot | Estimated Total |
Pressure Treated Wood | $15 – $25 | $2,800 – $4,800 |
Composite Decking | $30 – $60 | $5,700 – $11,500 |
Premium/PVC Decking | $60+ | $11,500+ |
Other factors that affect cost:
Labor expenses: $20–$35 per sq. ft.
Permit and inspection fees
Complex deck design or elevated builds
Demo of an existing deck
Regional labor costs (which vary depending on location)
💡 Costs can vary based on elevation, framing type, material selections, and stairs.
DIY Deck or Hire a Pro?
Building your own deck can save on labor costs, but you’ll need the right tools, time, and know-how. Common DIY mistakes involve footing depth, framing errors, or failing to leave room for board expansion.
DIY Pros:
Lower upfront cost per square foot
Full control of timeline
DIY Cons:
No warranty or workmanship coverage
May fail inspection if code requirements aren't met
Can take 2–4x longer
Why Choose Warner’s Decking?
TrexPRO® Platinum Certified
Over 35 years of deck building experience
All permits, blueprints, and inspections handled
Turnkey service from design to final install
Based in Naperville, proudly serving Chicago suburbs.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to build a deck, which materials to pick, and how much it costs in 2025 will help you make smart choices for your home. Whether you build the deck yourself or hire a pro, good planning will make sure your outdoor space lasts. Warner's Decking is serving Naperville, Downers Grove, St. Charles, and Chicagoland with high-performance Trex decking and expert craftsmanship.
FAQs
How much does it cost to build a deck?
Deck pricing ranges from $15 to $60+ per sq. ft. depending on materials. A 12x16 composite deck typically costs $5,700 - $11,500.
How to build steps for a deck?
First, measure the rise (height) and run (depth) of each step. Then cut the stringers to fit these measurements. To make things easier, you can buy pre-cut stringers at most lumber stores. Don’t forget to add railings if your deck is over 30 inches high to keep it safe and meet building codes.
Does composite decking need maintenance?
Composite decking requires little maintenance compared to wood. You just need to clean it occasionally - usually with soap, water, and a soft brush or a gentle pressure wash. Unlike wood decks, composite doesn’t need staining, sealing, or painting, so it saves you time and money.
Also resistant to rot, warping, and insect damage, which means it stays looking good for years with minimal effort. Just be sure to remove leaves and debris regularly to prevent stains or mold buildup.
Can I reuse the frame from my existing deck?
You can only reuse it if the frame is strong and meets local building codes. Most deck remodels end up replacing the frame to be safe and up to standard.
Do permits apply to low decks?
In most Illinois towns, you must get a permit if you build a deck attached to your house or higher than 30 inches off the ground. Even for low-profile decks, local building codes may still apply—especially if you're adding features like stairs or railings. Always check with your city or village building department before starting your project to avoid delays or fines.
