The 6 Most Important Technical Indicators of WPC Decking
When you approach the building materials market or browse e-commerce platforms, faced with hundreds or thousands of WPC decking (compos...
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ToggleTypical costs for a composite deck range from $5,400 for a small area to $32,000 for a large deck project, with most owners choosing to install a composite deck project averaging $8,500. In fact, if you have higher quality requirements, your required budget will be higher, and labor costs will usually account for more than 65% of the cost of your composite deck project.
While enjoying summer barbecues and parties on the deck, relax on the comfortable, clean deck chairs and enjoy the perfect outdoor space. You’ll feel like the composite deck has changed your life and it’s all worth it.
This article will calculate the numbers for you so that you can choose your budget to enjoy the premium outdoor composite deck space.
The total cost of building a 20’x20′ (400 square feet) composite deck is about $16,000 to $32,000.
This is the sum of materials and labor costs, etc., which is the overall cost of the entire project, including materials, labor and substructure.
Table 1 shows the total cost comparison of the WPC deck material project:
Item | Low-End Cost (USD) | High-End Cost (USD) |
Material Cost | $6,400 | $12,800 |
Labor Cost | $9,600 | $19,200 |
Total Cost | $16,000 | $32,000 |
*If you plan to install a composite deck project, at least keep your budget within this range.
Here is a detailed cost analysis:
Materials typically account for 35% or less of the total cost. Material prices for composite decks vary by brand and quality (such as the market price of Trex or Ecoxplank or Fiberon), with material costs around $16 to $32 per square foot. Especially for the composite deck of the high-end product line.
Low-end material cost: 400 sqft x $16 = $6,400
High-end material cost: 400 sqft x $32 = $12,800
Total labor cost:
Low-end labor cost: 400 sqft x $24 = $9,600
High end labor cost: 400 sqft x $48 = $19,200
20’x20’WPC deck project cost pie chart:
Installation costs of $40 to $80 per square foot per composite deck:
Table 2 – Estimated Average Cost of various composite decks:
Deck Size (ft) | Total Area (sq ft) | Total Cost Range (USD) | Material Cost Range (USD) | Labor Cost Range (USD) |
---|---|---|---|---|
8×8 | 64 | $1,600 – $5,120 | $640 – $2,048 | $960 – $3,072 |
8×10 | 80 | $2,000 – $6,400 | $800 – $2,560 | $1,200 – $3,840 |
8×12 | 96 | $2,400 – $7,680 | $960 – $3,072 | $1,440 – $4,608 |
10×10 | 100 | $2,500 – $8,000 | $1,000 – $3,200 | $1,500 – $4,800 |
10×15 | 150 | $3,750 – $12,000 | $1,500 – $4,800 | $2,250 – $7,200 |
10×20 | 200 | $5,000 – $16,000 | $2,000 – $6,400 | $3,000 – $9,600 |
12×12 | 144 | $3,600 – $11,520 | $1,440 – $4,608 | $2,160 – $6,912 |
12×16 | 192 | $4,800 – $15,360 | $1,920 – $6,144 | $2,880 – $9,216 |
12×20 | 240 | $6,000 – $19,200 | $2,400 – $7,680 | $3,600 – $11,520 |
14×14 | 196 | $4,900 – $15,680 | $1,960 – $6,272 | $2,940 – $9,408 |
15×15 | 225 | $5,625 – $18,000 | $2,250 – $7,200 | $3,375 – $10,800 |
15×20 | 300 | $7,500 – $24,000 | $3,000 – $9,600 | $4,500 – $14,400 |
20×20 | 400 | $10,000 – $32,000 | $4,000 – $12,800 | $6,000 – $19,200 |
* Suitable for connecting ground and elevated composite decks
Deck Design Type | Installation Cost per Square Foot |
---|---|
Ground/Platform | $40–$50 |
Detached/Floating (Standalone, No Rails, No Stairs) | $30–$40 |
Elevated | $50–$80 |
Second Story | $80–$100 |
Multi-Level | $90–$130 |
* Price includes substructure and deck surface.
Deck Type | Key Features | Ideal Scenarios | Considerations |
Ground-Level Deck | Height below 30-36 inches, simple design, optional railings. | Small backyards, budget-friendly projects, casual leisure spaces. | May require additional foundation for uneven ground; added steps or railings increase costs. |
Detached Deck | Not attached to the home, requires no railings, supported by gravel/concrete blocks. | Garden relaxation areas, flexible outdoor setups, low-budget installations. | Stability depends on gravel/concrete base; not suitable for extreme winds or soft ground. |
Elevated Deck | At least 3 feet above ground, reinforced concrete base, requires railings. | Enhanced views, drainage avoidance, long-term structural stability. | Requires solid base; high views may block neighbor visibility, needs careful planning. |
Second-Story Deck | Located outside the second story, creates a covered porch underneath, needs strong pillars. | Multi-story homes, additional shaded spaces, high-traffic areas. | Foundation strength and railing compliance with local codes; rainwater drainage required. |
Multi-Level Deck | Most complex, multiple connected levels, separate zones for dining and lounging. | Luxury residences, maximized outdoor space, multi-functional zones. | Extended construction time; significant budget needed for structural supports. |
The labor cost of building a composite deck is higher than that of a wooden deck, because the composite requires additional parts to be assembled more carefully.
Cost Factor | Cost per Square Foot | Description and Value |
---|---|---|
Material Cost | $15 – $30 | Material costs include composite decking, support systems, and fasteners. High-end materials offer better moisture resistance and UV protection. |
Labor Cost | $20 – $45 | Professional installation ensures quality construction, including substructure assembly, decking installation, and fastener tightening. |
Substructure and Support | $10 – $20 | Includes joist structures, support posts, and foundational materials to ensure the deck is stable and meets safety standards. |
Additional Costs | $5 – $10 | Includes cleanup, waste removal, transportation, and tool rental fees. |
Total Installation Cost | $40 – $75 | The total cost is below the market average, ensuring high cost-effectiveness and construction quality, with precise quotes based on actual project needs. |
Cost variance:
Covered material: $25-$32/ sq ft
Materials without cover: $16-$20/ sq. ft
Cost variance:
Solid board: $20-$28/ sq ft
Hollow panel: $15-$22/ sq. ft
Fastener type – The hidden fasteners of today’s deck are more convenient and faster (refer to the best hidden firmware), and make the deck surface cleaner and safer. The cost of metal fasteners is higher than that of plastic fasteners, which can almost be ignored in the total cost.
Cost variance:
Traditional fasteners: $1-$2/ sq. ft
Hidden fasteners: $3-$5/ sq. ft
Foundation and drainage systems— in rainy areas, priority is given to installing drainage systems to protect deck structures.
Surface deck drainage system: Installation cost $1,000-$4,000, can effectively prevent moisture accumulation, avoid deck support structure rot.
Elevated deck drainage system: Increase the drainage and downpipe system under the deck, suitable for the second deck, the cost is higher.
Gravel base — Cost range: $0.85-$2.80 per square foot (including installation and material costs). Function: Prevent weed growth and promote rainwater drainage, suitable for elevated and second deck. Suitable for ground and elevated deck, long-term protection effect is good.
WPC deck foundation treatment in cold climates— Site survey before construction to accurately locate frost lines and reduce rework risks.
Concrete feet: In cold areas, support columns must be installed below the frost line to ensure structural stability and prevent foundation movement.
Cost impact: Increased excavation and concrete filling costs.
Add railings – Add wood railings or vinyl railings to the deck. It costs $20 to $60 per linear foot.
Installing stairs— Cost range: $20-$30/ linear feet (stairs themselves) + $80-$160 (concrete foundation). Length and complexity of stairs: Longer or guardrail stairs cost more. Purchase stairs together with deck materials to save transportation costs.
Foundation preparation and cost— Cost range: $500-$1,000 per yard/area.
Mainly affected by land smoothness slope, ground or soft soil areas need additional reinforcement and filling work. There are also support systems: elevated or two-story decks require additional concrete or steel support structures. It is recommended to hire a professional installation team for on-site investigation to reduce the cost of later changes.
Cost variance:
– Urban areas: Cost range: $50-$150 (depending on project size and regional policy).
– Rural areas: Low demand, low labor costs, about $20-$35/ hour.
Function | Cost Range | Description and Value |
---|---|---|
Outdoor Furniture | $500 – $1,500/set | Purchase a high-quality set of outdoor furniture suitable for relaxation, gatherings, and dining scenes. |
Outdoor Lighting | $80 – $300/light | Provides functional lighting and ambient illumination. LED lights are recommended for energy savings and extended lifespan. |
Ceiling Fan | $150 – $400/unit | Install ceiling fans in shaded areas to ensure cool and comfortable air circulation. |
Outdoor Outlets | $180 – $350/unit | Convenient for charging devices or connecting lighting, barbecue equipment, and other electrical appliances. |
Hot Tub | $3,000 – $10,000 | Offers a luxurious outdoor relaxation experience. Installation costs range from $150 – $500. |
Built-in Bench Seating | $1,000 – $1,500 | Aesthetic and practical seating option, saving space while providing additional storage functionality. |
Function | Cost Range | Description and Value |
---|---|---|
Awning | $200 – $6,000 | Includes seasonal, manual, and retractable awnings, providing flexible shading solutions for decks. |
Prefabricated Pergola (Partial Shade) | $1,450 – $5,570 | Simple structure providing partial shade, suitable for users with a moderate budget. |
Deck Cover (Permanent Roof) | $10 – $60/sq ft | Based on materials (e.g., metal, PVC, or wood), it offers complete shading and protection functionality. |
Permanent Patio Cover | $4,300 – $10,000 | Provides long-term protection, suitable for users requiring year-round deck usage. |
Function | Cost Range | Description and Value |
---|---|---|
Outdoor Fireplace | $1,500 – $9,000 | Provides warmth and a gathering center, ensuring compliance with local building codes for safety. |
Outdoor Kitchen | $3,000 – $10,000 | Installs built-in grills and sinks to meet high-end outdoor cooking needs. |
Concrete Walkway | $7 – $17/sq ft | Durable and practical walkway connecting the deck to the yard or garden. |
Stone Walkway | $16 – $35/sq ft | Aesthetic and elegant walkway that enhances the overall luxury feel of outdoor design. |
Function | Cost Range | Description and Value |
---|---|---|
Landscape Designer (Custom Service) | $50 – $100/hour | Professional designers provide customized solutions to maximize deck functionality and aesthetics. |
Structural Engineer | $100 – $220/hour | Provides structural evaluations and professional design drawings to ensure large projects are safe and compliant. |
The price of composite decks includes not only surface materials, but also additional costs such as lower structures, stairs, railings and fasteners.
The following are the base cost ranges:
Deck Type | Material Price per Square Foot | Features and Advantages | Suitable Scenarios |
Polyethylene (PE/HDPE) | $3 – $11 | – Texture close to real wood, natural and aesthetic appearance. | Suitable for areas seeking a wood-like appearance, moderate budget, and limited sunlight. |
– Easy to maintain but prone to heat retention under high temperatures. | |||
– Surface is relatively susceptible to scratches and abrasions. | |||
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) | $5 – $13 | – Wide range of colors, low maintenance cost, and good moisture resistance. | Suitable for users in humid environments and with low maintenance needs. |
– Prone to swelling and shrinking; caution is advised in areas with large temperature differences. | |||
– Susceptible to mold growth. | |||
Polypropylene (PP) | $5 – $21 | – Surface offers a glossy effect, excellent high-temperature resistance. | Suitable for decks in extremely high-temperature regions and dry climates. |
– Does not deform easily, but can become brittle in cold climates. |
1. The pursuit of authentic wood appearance:
2. Wet or rainy areas:
3. Extreme heat or sun areas:
This table is for brands of composite deck materials, of which Ecoxplank is the source deck manufacturer.
Brand | Material Price per Square Foot | Features and Advantages | Suitable Scenarios |
Ecoplank | $1.28 – $1.61 | Factory-direct sales, no middleman price difference, high cost-effectiveness, economical. OEM manufacturer for major brands. | Suitable for large projects, direct export pricing, focusing on stable quality. |
Berg | $7 – $9 | Mid-range price, excellent value for money. High material quality, easy maintenance, suitable for most climates. | Suitable for mid-range budgets and households focusing on design aesthetics. |
Decorators | $5 – $9 | Offers a variety of color and texture options with an attractive appearance. Low maintenance cost, long-term durability. | Suitable for users seeking cost-effectiveness and diverse choices. |
Envision | $5 – $16 | Covers the premium market, providing superior wood texture. Adapts well to hot and humid climates. | Suitable for users demanding high-quality, high-performance outdoor spaces. |
Fiberon | $7 – $14 | Industry leader; materials offer excellent anti-scratch properties. Provides long-term warranty services. | Suitable for the premium market and projects with higher quality requirements. |
Genovations | $4 – $7 | Low price, lightweight, and easy to install. | Suitable for projects with limited budgets and basic functional design. |
Moosewood | $6 – $12 | Offers strong water resistance and durability for long-term use. Adapts to high-temperature environments. | Suitable for coastal and humid environments. |
Sun Deck | $3 – $8 | Budget-friendly option, lightweight, and easy to install. Low maintenance cost. | Suitable for low-budget, simple outdoor decking projects. |
TimberTech | $6 – $13 | Rich wood grain appearance with excellent durability. Provides long-term warranty services with high customer satisfaction. | Suitable for general applications, targeting users with long-term durability needs. |
Trex Decking | $5 – $15 | Industry leader, premium material production, low maintenance costs. Provides multiple product tier options. | Suitable for high-end applications, users seeking branded and durable products. |
If you are considering the long-term value of a deck, you must choose a WPC deck.
Composite decks initially cost $40 to $80 per square foot to install, and wooden decks cost $25 to $50 per square foot. But we can’t just look at the initial cost, we have to look at the service life and maintenance costs to make a comprehensive comparison.
Feature | Description and Advantages |
---|---|
Installation Cost | The installation cost per square foot is $40 – $80. While the initial cost is relatively high, composite decking requires minimal maintenance, significantly reducing long-term costs. |
Lifespan | The lifespan reaches 25 – 50 years, with no need for replacement or resealing. |
Maintenance Requirements | Low maintenance: no need for polishing, staining, or anti-rot treatment, requiring only periodic cleaning to maintain its appearance. |
Appearance Options | Offers a variety of colors and textures, with a wood-like appearance suitable for various design needs. |
Durability | Resistant to corrosion, moisture, and cracking, making it ideal for outdoor environments with high humidity or extreme temperatures. |
Color Stability | Difficult to repaint, but the color remains long-lasting and does not easily fade. |
Feature | Description and Advantages |
---|---|
Installation Cost | The installation cost per square foot is $25 – $50, with relatively low initial investment. |
Lifespan | The lifespan is 5 – 15 years, depending on maintenance frequency and material type. |
Maintenance Requirements | Requires regular maintenance, including polishing, staining, and waterproof sealing, leading to higher long-term costs. |
Appearance Options | Natural wood appearance with a warm texture; colors can be changed through staining or oiling. |
Durability | Prone to cracking, warping, and rotting, especially in high-humidity or extreme climates. |
Long-term Cost | Maintenance costs increase over time, and board replacement may be necessary. |
Comparison Factors | Composite Decking | Wood Decking |
---|---|---|
Initial Installation Cost | $40 – $80/sq ft | $25 – $50/sq ft |
Long-term Maintenance Cost | Extremely low, only requires cleaning | High, requires regular polishing, sealing, and staining |
Lifespan | 25 – 50 years | 5 – 15 years |
Durability | Resistant to rot, moisture, and UV rays | Prone to rot, cracking, and insect damage |
Maintenance Requirements | No additional maintenance required | Requires frequent maintenance |
Appearance and Color | Realistic wood-like appearance, stable color retention | Natural wood grain, color can be changed |
1. Budget and long-term costs:
2. Maintenance requirements:
3. Climate and Environment:
Although the initial installation costs of the WPC deck are higher, its low maintenance requirements, extremely long service life and durability make it the first choice for modern home and commercial projects.
Wooden decks are suitable for users with a limited budget and a preference for natural texture, but require time and money to invest in long-term maintenance.
Laminate flooring is an environmentally friendly material that combines wood fiber with recycled plastic and is designed to replace traditional wooden decks. It combines the beauty of natural wood with the high durability of plastic, is resistant to moisture, rot and pests, and does not crack or deform easily.
The core advantages of laminate flooring are its low maintenance costs and long service life, making it ideal for outdoor terraces, pool decks and commercial Spaces.
Nails (such as fine nails) cannot be used to fix composite decks because they do not have enough holding power, are prone to bending or breaking, and cannot effectively withstand the weight and environmental changes of the deck.
Instead, it is recommended to use specially designed deck hiding firmware screws that have better holding force to secure the screws to the hiding firmware and nail them into the keel of the deck and better accommodate the expansion and contraction of the composite material, ensuring the safety and durability of the deck. It can be used for decades without screws loosening.
Composite decks require almost no complex cleaning, just ordinary surface cleaning and water gun flushing, or you can follow our detailed composite deck cleaning process.
Regular cleaning: To clean a composite deck, first empty the deck of furniture and items, and then use a broom to sweep away loose dust and debris. Next, rinse the deck surface with warm water to better remove dirt. Then, mix warm water and mild dish soap in a bucket and use a soft brush to gently scrub the deck, making sure to clean along the grain to avoid scratching the surface.
For stubborn stains, a mixture of vinegar and water can be applied topically. Finally, rinse the deck thoroughly with water to ensure there is no residual soap and dirt to keep its appearance fresh.
Composite decks typically have a service life of between 25 and 50 years, depending on the quality and maintenance of the material. High quality composite decks, when properly maintained, are resistant to decay, deformation and insect infestation, far exceeding the 5 to 15 year service life of traditional wooden decks.
Manufacturers like the Trex even offer up to 50 year warranties, further proving its durability and low maintenance needs.
Ecoxplank is a famous professional deck manufacturer in China, we very much do not recommend to paint the composite deck, but this mainly depends on the type of deck. For older, unclad composite decks, coloring can be used. However, modern composite decks have PE cladding, a design that does not allow the stain to adhere effectively, and attempting to stain may void the warranty.
If you do plan to dye, it is recommended to use products designed for composite materials, such as ZAR Deck & Siding Solid Color Coating, which provide good adhesion and durability. Make sure to clean the deck thoroughly before dyeing for best results.
To install concealed fasteners on the composite board, all necessary materials should be gathered at the beginning, including the composite board, concealed fasteners, starting clips, and standard woodworking tools.
See how to install hidden firmware.
Not really. Much depends on the type of composite deck. Older generations with smooth surfaces are more likely to become smooth due to moisture, algae, and mold buildup, which can create dangerous conditions.
In contrast, second-generation composite paving products typically have textured surfaces and anti-slip properties that enhance grip and reduce slippage even in wet conditions. Ecoxplank has developed a third generation rubber coating, which is highly resistant to slip, and the wood grain is more realistic and durable.
Yes, you need a special saw blade to cut laminate flooring effectively. It is recommended to use a fine-toothed hard diamond saw blade, especially one with about 80 teeth, as this type provides a good balance of speed and accuracy while minimizing splitting.
A circular or miter saw is the ideal tool for this task, and the use of a blade designed for composite materials ensures a clean and precise cut. In addition, Ecoxplank manufacturers recommend using a specific size of blade with a dense number of teeth to achieve smooth cutting without damaging the material (for cutting sections over 20cm, Ecoxplank will use a PCD diamond saw blade with 120 teeth at a cost of $630 per piece).
Yes, installing a composite deck can significantly increase the resale value of a home and is a high-return investment. According to the latest market data, the return on investment of composite deck projects is as high as 85%, and the average value of the home is about $15,000.
When choosing a deck installation team, Avoid the underquote trap:
Often they use low-quality materials, hide extra costs during construction, or have workers who lack professional skills, leading to rework or delays. Be sure to follow these steps:
Step 1: Select the right composite deck installer
Step 2: Key questions to ask before hiring
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