What Does It Cost to Replace a Deck in 2026?

Deck replacement costs vary more than most homeowners expect - and the gap between a low quote and a realistic one usually comes down to what's actually included. Here's a quick orientation before you start collecting contractor bids.

The Ballpark Numbers

For most residential decks, total replacement runs $25-$60 per square foot installed. That puts a 12x12 deck somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000, and a 20x20 deck between $10,000 and $32,000 depending on material tier.

Material choice is the single biggest cost driver - bigger than deck size. A 300 sq ft pressure-treated deck costs roughly half what the same footprint in premium PVC would run.

What the Material Tiers Actually Cost

Entry-level capped composite (Trex Enhance, Fiberon Good Life, TimberTech Terrain) typically installs at $35-$50 per square foot. Mid-range composite lines push into the $50-$68 range. Premium PVC collections like TimberTech Vintage or Landmark run $60-$85 per square foot installed. Pressure-treated wood sits at the low end - $25-$40 - but carries ongoing maintenance costs that composite eliminates.

Board Replacement vs. Full Replacement

If the existing frame, posts, and footings are structurally sound, replacing only the surface boards is a legitimate option at $15-$35 per square foot. On a 12x12 that's roughly $2,200-$5,000 - significantly less than a full tear-down and rebuild. If joists are soft or the structure is undersized for its span, a full replacement is the smarter long-term call.

Don't Forget What Gets Added On

Railings, stairs, lighting, permits, and demolition are typically separate line items. Always ask for an itemized quote - single-number bids make it nearly impossible to compare contractors accurately.

Read the full Deck Replacement Cost Breakdown for 2026 here!