Deck building in Houston
Level outdoor space over sloped yards, pool surrounds and raised slabs. We build pressure-treated, cedar and composite decks with the footings, flashing and fasteners that Houston’s humidity and clay soil demand.
Quick answer: A new deck in Houston usually costs $35–$55 per square foot in pressure-treated pine and $55–$85 per square foot in composite, built by a full-service contractor with permits. A typical 16-by-20-foot deck runs about $11,000–$27,000 and takes 1–3 weeks to build. Composite costs more up front but doesn’t rot, splinter or need staining in Houston’s humidity.
What’s included
- Layout, framing plan and permit drawings
- Footings sized for Houston clay soil
- Ledger attached and flashed to the house framing
- Ground-contact rated framing and coated fasteners
- Guards and stairs built to code
- Optional lighting, built-in benches and a pergola above
Decks projects we build
Composite decks
Capped composite boards resist moisture, mold and fading. Choose lighter colors: dark boards get hot underfoot in Houston sun.
Pressure-treated and cedar decks
Southern yellow pine is the budget choice and cedar the classic one. Both need sealing every 1–2 years to stand up to Houston humidity.
Pool decks
Slip-resistant, cool-to-the-touch surfaces and drainage that sends water away from the pool and the house.
Raised and second-story decks
Decks more than 30 inches above grade need guards. Raised decks also need engineered posts, footings and bracing.
Wood or composite in Houston?
| Pressure-treated pine | Cedar | Composite | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Lowest | Medium | Highest |
| Upkeep | Seal every 1–2 years | Seal every 1–2 years | Wash once or twice a year |
| Humidity and rot | Treated, but can warp and split | Naturally resistant | Doesn’t rot |
| Heat underfoot | Moderate | Stays cooler | Dark colors get hot |
| Lifespan with care | 10–15 years | 15–20 years | 25+ years |
What makes a deck safe
- Ledger: most deck collapses start where the deck meets the house. We bolt the ledger to the house framing and flash it so water can’t rot it.
- Guards: walking surfaces more than 30 inches above the ground need a guard at least 36 inches high, with openings small enough that a 4-inch sphere can’t pass.
- Footings: Houston’s clay swells and shrinks, so posts sit on proper footings rather than blocks on the ground.
- Hardware: hot-dipped galvanized or stainless fasteners and connectors, since treated lumber corrodes plain steel.
Decks cost in Houston
Typical ranges for full-service work in Greater Houston, reviewed every year.
| Deck type | What it usually includes | Typical Houston range |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated pine | Framing, decking, footings, stairs | $35–$55 per sq ft |
| Cedar | Cedar decking over treated framing | $45–$65 per sq ft |
| Composite | Capped composite over treated framing, hidden fasteners | $55–$85 per sq ft |
Ranges are for full-service work in Greater Houston, including design, permits, licensed trades and cleanup. They are based on 2025–2026 Houston data from Remodeling’s Cost vs Value report, Angi and Block Renovation, plus our own pricing. Your written estimate is itemized for your home.
Permits
Inside the City of Houston, a new deck generally needs a permit, and the city builds to the 2021 International Residential Code, which sets the rules for footings, ledgers, guards and stairs. Lots in a floodplain also get floodplain review. We draw the deck, pull the permit and schedule inspections.
Questions about decks
How much does a deck cost in Houston?
A full-service deck usually costs $35–$55 per square foot in pressure-treated pine and $55–$85 in composite. A 16-by-20-foot deck runs about $11,000–$27,000 depending on material, height and stairs.
Is composite decking good for Houston?
Yes. Capped composite doesn’t rot or need staining in humidity. Pick a lighter color, because dark composite gets hot in direct summer sun.
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Houston?
Generally yes inside the City of Houston, and decks must meet the residential code for footings, ledgers and guards. Lots in a floodplain also need floodplain review. We handle the permit.
When does a deck need a railing?
Under the 2021 residential code, any walking surface more than 30 inches above the ground needs a guard at least 36 inches high.
How long does a wood deck last in Houston?
A pressure-treated deck lasts about 10–15 years with regular sealing; cedar a bit longer. Composite decks commonly last 25 years or more.
Where we work
Related services
Patios & pavers
Concrete, stamped concrete and paver patios.
Learn morePergolas
Cedar, aluminum and louvered-roof pergolas.
Learn morePatio covers
Attached gable, hip and insulated patio covers.
Learn moreHelpful guides
Do you need a permit for a patio cover in Houston?
Patio cover, pergola, porch and deck permits in Houston and Harris County: when you need one, what the city reviews in a floodplain, HOA approval and timelines.
Read the guideComposite vs. wood decks in Houston
Composite or wood deck for a Houston backyard? Compare cost per square foot, heat underfoot, humidity, upkeep and lifespan, plus 2025 resale data for Houston.
Read the guideReady to talk about your deck project?
Free in-home estimate with a written scope, price and schedule.
Or call (346) 456-5310