2026-02-04
Deck Building Costs Across Canada (2026)
Deck Building Cost Overview
Building a deck in Canada costs between $5,000 and $35,000+ in 2026, depending on material, size, height, and features. The average 12x16 ft deck costs $8,000-$18,000 installed. A deck is one of the best outdoor investments, extending your living space and boosting curb appeal.
Material choice is the single biggest cost driver. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable, while composite decking costs 2-3x more upfront but requires virtually no maintenance. Use our deck building calculator for a personalized estimate.
Cost by Material
| Material | Cost per sq ft (installed) | Lifespan | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $25-$40 | 15-20 years | Stain/seal every 2-3 years |
| Cedar | $35-$55 | 20-25 years | Oil/stain every 2-3 years |
| Composite (Trex, TimberTech) | $45-$75 | 25-50 years | Minimal (soap + water) |
| PVC/Cellular | $55-$85 | 30-50 years | None required |
| Ipe (tropical hardwood) | $65-$100 | 40-75 years | Oil annually or let grey |
When comparing materials, factor in lifetime cost. A pressure-treated deck needs $200-$500 in stain every 2-3 years, while composite needs nothing. Over 25 years, composite often costs less overall.
Cost by Deck Size
| Deck Size | Pressure-Treated | Cedar | Composite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (10x10 / 100 sq ft) | $2,500 - $4,000 | $3,500 - $5,500 | $4,500 - $7,500 |
| Medium (12x16 / 192 sq ft) | $4,800 - $7,700 | $6,700 - $10,600 | $8,600 - $14,400 |
| Large (16x20 / 320 sq ft) | $8,000 - $12,800 | $11,200 - $17,600 | $14,400 - $24,000 |
| XL (20x24 / 480 sq ft) | $12,000 - $19,200 | $16,800 - $26,400 | $21,600 - $36,000 |
Cost by Canadian City
| City | Cost Index | 12x16 Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | 1.20x | $10,300 - $17,300 |
| Vancouver | 1.25x | $10,750 - $18,000 |
| Montreal | 1.05x | $9,000 - $15,100 |
| Calgary | 1.10x | $9,500 - $15,800 |
| Winnipeg | 0.90x | $7,700 - $13,000 |
Explore all cities on our costs by city page.
Features and Add-Ons
| Feature | Cost |
|---|---|
| Railings (wood) | $1,000 - $2,500 |
| Railings (glass/aluminum) | $3,000 - $8,000 |
| Stairs (4-8 steps) | $800 - $2,500 |
| Built-in lighting | $500 - $2,500 |
| Pergola | $3,000 - $12,000 |
| Hot tub pad | $1,000 - $3,000 (reinforced framing) |
| Building permit | $200 - $500 |
DIY vs. Contractor
A deck is one of the most popular DIY projects. If you're handy, building a ground-level deck can save 40-60% on labour:
- DIY savings: $3,000-$8,000 on a medium deck
- What you need: Circular saw, drill, level, post-hole digger, basic framing skills
- Hire a pro for: Elevated decks (4+ feet high), structural engineering, permit drawings
- Timeline DIY: 2-4 weekends for a medium deck
Long-Term Maintenance Costs
| Material | Annual Maintenance Cost | 25-Year Total |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated | $100-$250/year | $2,500-$6,250 |
| Cedar | $100-$200/year | $2,500-$5,000 |
| Composite | $0-$50/year | $0-$1,250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Canada?
Most municipalities require a permit for decks over 2 feet above grade or larger than 100 sq ft. Permit costs are $200-$500. Ground-level decks under 2 ft may be exempt. Check our permits guide.
Is composite decking worth the extra cost?
Yes, for most homeowners. While 2-3x the upfront cost of pressure-treated, composite requires zero staining, won't splinter, and lasts 25-50 years. It typically breaks even on total cost within 8-10 years.
How long does it take to build a deck?
A professional crew can build a medium deck in 3-5 days. A DIY build typically takes 2-4 weekends. Add 2-4 weeks for permit approval.
What is the cheapest deck material?
Pressure-treated wood at $25-$40/sq ft installed is the most affordable option. It's strong and widely available but requires regular staining to prevent rot and greying.