Pennsylvania cost guide
Deck building cost in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, deck building prices run above the national average — whether you're in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Allentown. Here's what a complete, permitted job should cost, and how to tell whether the quote in your hand is fair.
Typical Pennsylvania range
$8,400 – $33,600
Pressure-treated runs about $30–$60 per sq. ft.; composite $50–$95 per sq. ft.
Included at this price: Footings, framing, decking, railing, stairs, and permits.
Pennsylvania prices by project type
| Project | Pennsylvania range | Unit check |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood deck | $7,400 – $23,100 | Pressure-treated framing and decking runs about $30–$60 per sq. ft. |
| Composite or PVC deck | $12,600 – $42,000 | Composite decking commonly runs $50–$95 per sq. ft. installed. |
| Deck repair, resurface, or railing | $1,600 – $12,600 | Re-decking over sound framing commonly runs $20–$45 per sq. ft. |
| Patio or paver installation | $4,200 – $26,300 | Paver patios commonly run $15–$40 per sq. ft. installed. |
Reviewed 2026. Editorial benchmarks from public cost surveys (Zonda Media / Remodeling magazine, Houzz, Angi / HomeAdvisor), adjusted by a state construction-cost index. Not a bid, appraisal, or licensed estimating data.
What a common size costs in Pennsylvania
Pressure-treated lumber, installed: $30–$60 per sq. ft. of deck, adjusted for Pennsylvania construction costs.
| Size | Pennsylvania estimate |
|---|---|
| 12x12 (144 sq. ft.) | $4,500 – $9,100 |
| 12x24 (288 sq. ft.) | $9,100 – $18,100 |
| 16x20 (320 sq. ft.) | $10,100 – $20,200 |
| 20x20 (400 sq. ft.) | $12,600 – $25,200 |
Per-unit rate from the public cost guides cited above, multiplied by size and the Pennsylvania construction-cost index. Access, demolition, repairs, and permits can add to it — this is a benchmark, not a bid.
Red flags in Pennsylvania deck building quotes
- Footing depth, diameter, and frost-line compliance
- Ledger attachment method and flashing
- Joist size and spacing versus the decking material's requirement
- Hardware: hangers, fasteners, and corrosion rating
- Railing height, baluster spacing, and stair details
Commonly missing line items: ledger flashing, frost-depth footings, structural screws versus lag bolts, stair stringer spacing, grading and site restoration.
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