The True Cost of a 16x20 Deck: A 2025 Pro-Build Quote Guide
When you're looking to add a deck to your home, a 16x20 (320 sq. ft.) model is the gold standard for size and function. But when you receive a quote from a professional, licensed, and insured contractor, what should you expect to pay? The final price reflects not just wood and screws, but the expertise, warranty, and project management that ensure a high-quality, long-lasting build.
For a professionally managed 16x20 deck project, you should expect the total cost to be between $14,000 and $28,000+. This price includes high-quality materials, skilled labor, and the contractor's full service and warranty.
Let's break down what you get for that price.
Installed Price of a 16x20 Deck by Material
The price on your quote is an all-inclusive number for the finished product. Below are the typical price ranges a homeowner can expect to pay for a 16x20 deck, based on the primary material chosen.
MaterialFinal Price per Square Foot (Installed)Expected Quote for a 16x20 DeckPressure-Treated Wood$44 - $55$14,080 - $17,600Cedar Wood$54 - $68$17,280 - $21,760Mid-Range Composite$64 - $80$20,480 - $25,600Premium PVC/Composite$75 - $95+$24,000 - $30,400+
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Understanding Your Quote: What's Included in the Price?
A professional quote is more than just the sum of its parts. The price per square foot reflects the total cost of doing business and delivering a warrantied, code-compliant final product.
High-Quality Materials: This includes not just the decking boards but also the framing lumber, concrete for footings, hidden fasteners, hardware, and flashing to protect your home. A professional price accounts for sourcing and delivering these materials.
Skilled & Insured Labor: You are paying for a team of experienced carpenters who are fully insured with liability and workers' compensation coverage. This protects you from any liability during the construction process.
Project Management & Overhead: The price includes the project planning, scheduling, permit applications, site cleanup, and the general costs of running a legitimate business (e.g., vehicles, tools, insurance, office staff).
Workmanship Warranty: A reputable contractor stands behind their work. Part of the price is the peace of mind that comes with a warranty, guaranteeing that if any issues arise from the installation, the contractor will be there to fix them.
Common Add-Ons and How They Affect Your Quote
The base price is for the deck itself. Features that require additional materials and labor will be priced as separate line items on your quote. Expect these features to also include the contractor's full markup.
Railing System: A critical safety and design feature. Depending on the material (wood, aluminum, composite), a railing system can add $3,000 to $10,000+ to the final price.
Stairs: A standard set of stairs with a landing can add $1,500 to $4,000. More complex or longer staircases will cost more.
Old Deck Demolition: To remove and dispose of an existing structure, contractors will typically charge between $1,000 and $3,000.
Upgrades: Features like integrated lighting, picture-frame borders, built-in benches, or cocktail rails will all increase the final project cost.
Investing in Quality Pays Off
While the initial price on a professional quote might seem high compared to raw material costs, you are investing in a seamless process and a safe, durable, and beautiful final product. By choosing a professional contractor like Quality Carpentry WNC, you are buying peace of mind and a valuable addition to your home that you can enjoy for decades.
If you're in the Western North Carolina area and ready for a deck built to the highest standards, contact us for a detailed quote for your project.