The decking field guide

Decking cost calculator

Compare initial costs and recurring care using your own figures. See exactly what is included.

Compare your own project costs.

Illustration values only. Replace these with comparable local quotations. No contact details required.

Deck area (sq ft)Waste allowance (%)Planning horizon (years)

Option A

Material / quote labelBoards ($ / sq ft)All other initial costs ($)Annual care including labor ($)

Initial total $5,650

10-year scenario $7,650

Option B

Material / quote labelBoards ($ / sq ft)All other initial costs ($)Annual care including labor ($)

Initial total $6,970

10-year scenario $7,720

Formula: 300 sq ft × (1 + 10% waste) × board price + other initial costs + 10 × annual care. Includes no automatic replacement, inflation, financing, tax or discounting. Include applicable items in your inputs. The horizon is not a lifespan prediction. Inputs stay in this page and reset on reload.

Read the cost comparison guide →

Sources & reading context

These material summaries explain general selection tradeoffs. They are not laboratory ratings. Check current documents supplied with the exact product for installation, care and warranty requirements.

USDA Forest Service: wood-plastic composite research — background on material construction.
ICC-ES: evaluation reports — product-specific evaluation context.
Technical source register · Comparison methodology

Editorial review: November 3, 2026. Product lines and documents can change. Operated by Ipe Woods USA, a hardwood supplier.

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