A new deck typically costs $4,000 to $20,000 installed, depending on size, material, and design. Pressure-treated wood decks run about $15 to $25 per square foot, while composite and premium hardwood decks run $30 to $60 per square foot. A standard 300-square-foot deck usually lands between $5,000 and $12,000. Material choice and elevation are the biggest cost drivers in New Orleans.
Detailed Explanation
A deck extends your living space outdoors, and the cost depends mostly on the material you pick and the size you build. Here is how prices break down for New Orleans homeowners.
Pressure-treated wood is the most economical choice at roughly $15 to $25 per square foot installed. It looks great and performs well when sealed and maintained, though it needs regular upkeep in our humid climate.
Composite decking costs more upfront, around $30 to $50 per square foot, but it resists rot, fading, and insects with very little maintenance. Many New Orleans homeowners choose composite specifically because our heat and humidity are hard on wood.
Premium hardwoods like ipe or mahogany run $40 to $60 per square foot or higher. They are stunning and durable, but they sit at the top of the range.
Size scales the total directly. A small 200-square-foot deck might run $4,000 to $6,000 in pressure-treated wood, while a large 500-square-foot composite deck with railings and stairs can reach $18,000 to $25,000. Add features like built-in benches, lighting, or multiple levels and the price climbs further.
Important Considerations
A few New Orleans realities shape what your deck will cost and how it should be built.
Elevation and footings. Many homes in our area sit on raised foundations or in flood-prone zones. A raised deck needs taller posts and stronger footings, which adds labor and material. Building correctly here protects your investment and keeps the deck safe.
Humidity and rot. Wood decks in the Gulf South face constant moisture. Proper sealing, drainage, and material choice are essential. We guide homeowners toward materials and finishes that hold up to our climate, and we cover upkeep in our guide on how to maintain a wooden deck in humid weather.
Storm season. Hurricane and storm season tests every outdoor structure. Decks must be anchored and built to handle wind and rain. We construct to local conditions, not just to a generic plan.
Permits. Most decks require a permit, especially raised or attached structures. We help you sort out what your parish requires before we start. See our guide on permits for decks and pergolas.
At TurnKey Lawn Care, we provide transparent quotes with no hidden charges. Every estimate spells out materials, labor, and timeline so there are no surprises. We offer competitive pricing, customized plans, and a satisfaction guarantee on our work. To learn more about the build, visit our deck construction and repair guide and our landscaping and outdoor projects page.
What to Do Next
The most accurate way to price your deck is a free, on-site estimate. We will measure your space, walk through material options, and give you a clear written quote with fair pricing and no hidden charges. Our 5-star rated team serves New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Slidell, Mandeville, Covington, and the surrounding metro.
Call TurnKey Lawn Care today at (504) 386-5468 to schedule your free deck estimate. We are your friendly neighborhood lawn care partner, and we are ready to help you build an outdoor space that fits your home and lasts for years.