Hello, Seattle homeowners! As your trusted deck contractor in Seattle with over 15 years of experience, Knocking Wood Construction understands that homeowners seek clear answers about costs, timelines, and risks involved in deck building. Let's dive directly into the essential details you need to know before embarking on your deck project.
What’s the Real Cost of Building a Deck in Seattle?
Deck construction costs in Seattle vary significantly based on materials, size, and design complexity. Here's a straightforward breakdown based on the current pricing as I am writing this in May, 2025:
- Cedar Deck: $40–$50 per square foot
- Composite Decking: $40–$70 per square foot
- Hardwood/Ipe Deck: $50–$100 per square foot
Add-ons like stairs and railings also impact the total cost:
- Deck Railings: $40–$100 per linear foot, depending on material
- Stairs: $500–$2,000+, based on number of steps and design
A typical 200-square-foot cedar or composite deck in Seattle may cost between $8,000 and $14,000. With stairs and railings, expect the total project to range from $10,000 to $20,000+ depending on custom features.
How Long Does It Really Take to Build a Deck?
Deck building generally spans from 3 to 12 weeks:
- Planning and Permitting: This can be very time-consuming if you don't have the correct document and didn't know the process well.
- Construction: 1–4 weeks (simple) or 3–12 weeks (complex/stairs/railings)
- Final Inspections: 1 week
Permitting delays can occur, especially during spring/summer. At Knocking Wood Construction, we handle permits to avoid unnecessary hold-ups.
When You Do and Don’t Need a Permit in Seattle
In Seattle, permits are required for most decks. However, you may not need a permit if:
- The deck is less than 18 inches above grade
- It has no roof or cover
- It’s not attached to the house and not in a critical area (e.g. slope, shoreline)
Even low decks may still need approval in some zones or if utilities are nearby. Knocking Wood Construction handles these checks for you.
Pros and Cons of Popular Decking Materials
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to install
- Readily available
Cons:
- Needs yearly maintenance
- Shorter lifespan (15–20 years)
Cedar
Pros:
- Beautiful natural finish
- Resistant to rot/insects
- Locally sourced
Cons:
- Requires sealing every 2–3 years
- May weather unevenly
Composite Decking
Pros:
- Low maintenance
- Moisture/mold resistant
- Lasts 25+ years
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- May fade slightly
Hardwood/Ipe
Pros:
- Luxurious look and feel
- Extremely durable (40+ years)
- Excellent water resistance
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Challenging to install (hire a pro!)
Risks and Common Pitfalls
- Cheap bids: Often cut corners, leading to poor durability and costly repairs.
- DIY errors: Misplaced footings or bad framing can be dangerous and expensive to fix.
- Skipping maintenance: Even the best deck materials require upkeep in Seattle’s climate.
Why Seattle Homeowners Trust Knocking Wood Construction
As a premier Seattle deck contractor, Knocking Wood Construction brings you peace of mind. We provide transparent quotes, skilled craftsmanship, and guide you through permits and inspections. From Bellevue to Everett, we’re known for our quality, reliability, and service-first approach.