We are a trusted deck builder in Toronto, Richmond Hill, Markham, and other nearby areas.
Building a deck in Toronto involves more variables than most homeowners realize, and if you can get a handle on these factors, you might save yourself thousands—and a lot of stress. We’ve built decks all over the GTA for years, and honestly, most folks are caught off guard by costs they never saw coming: permit fees, tricky site prep, the odd surprise lurking under the surface.
The total cost to build a custom deck in Toronto usually falls between $6,000 and $20,000+, depending on materials, size, site conditions, and the features you want. You’ll see plenty of rough estimates online, but every property throws its own curveballs, and those can make a real dent in your budget.
It’s not just the obvious stuff like lumber and labour that push costs up. Hidden things—like tough soil, awkward access, city permits, and long-term upkeep—can really sneak up on you. Let’s dig into what actually shapes your deck-building bill, so you can plan smart and dodge some nasty surprises.
Key Takeaways
- Material choice drives costs the most. Pressure-treated wood is cheapest, while composite decking usually wins for long-term value.
- Site prep, permits, and tough-to-access yards often tack on costs you won’t see in quick quotes.
- Custom extras can double your budget fast, but a good plan helps you focus on what really matters for your home.
Key Factors That Drive Deck Building Cost in Toronto
A lot of things work together to decide your final deck price—size, materials, labour, and how fancy (or not) you get with the design. Knowing what matters most can help you make smarter choices.
Deck Size and Layout Considerations
Deck size is the big one. We usually see costs from $30 to $60 per square foot for a basic job.
A straightforward 12×16 foot deck (192 square feet) might run you $5,760 to $11,520. Go bigger—a 20×20 (400 square feet)—and you’re looking at $12,000 to $24,000.
Layout matters, too:
- Simple rectangles are the cheapest.
- Multi-level decks need extra supports.
- Curves or angles mean more wasted material and extra work.
Elevated decks that need serious foundation work can bump your cost by $2,000–$5,000. If you’re close to the ground, it’s usually less expensive since the structure is simpler.
Material Selection and Its Impact
Materials make a huge difference, both upfront and over time. We mostly work with three types:
Pressure-treated lumber: $15–$25 per square foot installed. It’s the budget pick, but you’ll be out there staining or sealing every couple years.
Cedar decking: $25–$35 per square foot. It looks great and lasts longer than pressure-treated, but it costs more.
Composite: $35–$50 per square foot. Pricey at first, but it comes with a 25-year warranty and you can basically forget about maintenance.
Don’t forget railings, hardware, and all the bits you don’t see—they usually add $8–$15 per square foot. We always push for good-quality fasteners and brackets, especially with Toronto’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Design Complexity and Custom Features
A basic deck is just a platform you can trust. Add custom features or get fancy with the design, and you’ll see both materials and labour costs go up.
Some common extras:
- Built-in benches ($200–$500 per linear foot)
- Pergolas or shade ($1,500–$4,000)
- Lighting systems ($800–$2,500)
If you want stairs or multiple levels, you’ll need extra engineering and permits. We see these jobs cost 30–50% more than a simple, single-level deck.
Things like privacy screens, planters, and unique railings look fantastic, but they eat into your budget. Every custom feature means more planning, more materials, and more skilled hands.
Labour and Professional Deck Builders
Labour usually makes up 40–60% of your total. Good builders make sure you get a safe, code-compliant deck that’s covered by warranty.
In Toronto, skilled carpenters charge $25–$40 per hour. If your project’s tricky, expect to pay more.
Thinking of DIY?
- You still need permits ($200–$500)
- Tool rentals ($300–$800)
- Materials delivery ($150–$400)
- No warranty if something goes sideways
Licensed pros bring insurance, handle permits, and know the code. We’ve fixed plenty of DIY decks that ended up costing more than if the homeowner hired us in the first place.
Prices climb in spring and summer—peak season—by about 10–15% compared to fall.
Decking Materials: How Your Choice Changes the Price
Your deck’s material is the biggest cost after size. Around Toronto, pressure-treated lumber starts at $27 per square foot, while top-end PVC decking can hit $60 per square foot.
Pressure-Treated Wood Decks in Toronto
Pressure-treated lumber is still the go-to for budget-minded projects, at $27–$37 per square foot with labour. It’s treated to resist rot and bugs.
Most people go this route because it’s easy to find, simple to work with, and gives you that classic deck look without emptying your wallet.
It fits in with most Toronto homes, and you can stain or paint it—or just let it weather to a silvery grey.
But you’ll need to clean and re-stain every 2–3 years to keep it looking sharp and protected.
Cedar Decks: Warmth, Beauty, and Cost
Cedar decks run $29–$40 per square foot in Toronto. We honestly love cedar for its natural bug resistance and that rich reddish colour.
Cedar’s oils make it tougher than pressure-treated, and it smells great. Left alone, it weathers to a lovely silver.
You won’t need to fuss with it as often—just a clean and the occasional oiling.
You’ll pay more upfront, but you’ll probably save on maintenance, and cedar usually looks cleaner and has fewer knots.
Composite Decking: Is It Worth the Investment?
Composite decks cost $32–$55 per square foot, depending on the brand. These boards mix wood fibers and recycled plastic, so you get a low-maintenance deck.
We install a lot of composite because people love not having to stain or worry about splinters. They stand up well to fading, cracking, and moisture.
There are tons of colours and wood-look options now—sometimes you can’t even tell it’s not real wood until you touch it.
You pay more up front, but you save on stains, sealers, and repairs over the years.
PVC and Other Premium Decking Options
PVC decking sits at the top, at $39–$60 per square foot. It’s all synthetic, so it’s about as tough and low-maintenance as you can get.
We suggest PVC if you want a deck that holds up with almost zero effort. It won’t rot, warp, or attract bugs, and you can clean it with soap and water.
PVC comes in a bunch of wood-look finishes and solid colours. It also stays cooler than composite in the sun and doesn’t fade.
Yes, it’s pricey, but you probably won’t need to replace or do major repairs if it’s installed right.
Site Preparation and Foundation Work
Site prep and foundation work in Toronto can swing a project’s cost quite a bit, depending on your property and the soil. Getting the site ready and putting in the right foundation often decides whether you stick to your budget or start going over.
Assessing and Preparing the Site
We always start with a site check to spot any headaches before we dig. Toronto’s got everything from heavy clay near the lake to more stable ground up north.
Slope and drainage are big concerns. If your yard slopes toward the house, we’ll need to fix drainage before we build—sometimes that means regrading or adding drains.
Getting materials in can be a pain, too. Tight side yards or tough access points mean more hours. Sometimes we’re hauling boards by hand or using special gear.
Utility lines can’t be ignored. We call Ontario One Call before digging to find gas, water, and electrical lines. Where those sit can change your whole deck plan.
Existing trees, landscaping, or patios might need to go. Removing or working around them can add $500–$3,000, depending on what’s in the way.
Foundation Types and Structural Needs
Toronto’s codes set the rules for foundations—depends on your deck’s height, how it attaches, and the soil.
Concrete footings are the standard for attached decks. We dig below the frost line (about 4 feet), pour concrete, and set the main posts. Works for most soil here.
Helical piers are great for tricky soil or tight spaces. We screw these steel piers deep until they hit stable ground—no big holes needed. They’re especially handy for elevated or sloped decks.
Precast concrete piers are okay for small, low decks. They’re cheaper, but only suit certain situations.
Your foundation choice affects both your timeline and your budget. Concrete footings need 2–3 days to cure, while helical piers let us start building right away. Costs run $150–$400 per support, depending on what you need.
Building Permits and Local Regulations
Most deck projects in Toronto need a building permit, starting at $206.53. Whether you need one depends on your deck’s size, height, and if it’s attached to the house.
Do You Need a Permit for Your Deck?
A lot of people get tripped up by Toronto’s permit rules, but they’re not too complicated.
You’ll need a permit if your deck is:
- Over 600 mm (2 feet) above ground and attached to your house
- Bigger than 10 square metres (108 square feet)
- An addition or change to an existing deck
Some detached decks don’t need permits, but it’s always smart to double-check with the city. It’s way better than dealing with an inspector after the fact.
Permits make sure your deck meets the Ontario Building Code for safety and structure. We’ve seen plenty of projects fail inspection because someone skipped this.
Toronto wants things done right. You’ll need detailed drawings—footings, beams, guards, stairs. We handle all the city paperwork for our clients.
Permit Costs and Application Process
The permit fee for a residential deck, porch, or carport is $206.53 as of January 2025. That’s a small price compared to fines or having to rebuild.
We apply online through Toronto Building’s Express portal, which lets us track everything from submission to approval.
You’ll need:
- A site plan (property lines, setbacks)
- Detailed construction drawings (footings, guards, stairs)
- Engineer’s seal if required
Approval usually takes 2–4 weeks. We submit everything as PDFs with proper dimensions and signatures.
And a tip: don’t put personal info on your plans—once submitted, they’re public record.
Popular Deck Features and Custom Upgrades
Adding custom features turns a plain deck into an outdoor hangout you’ll actually use. These extras can add $2,000–$15,000+ to your costs, but they’re what make a deck feel special.
Built-In Seating and Planters
Built-in seating costs $150–$300 per linear foot in Toronto, and it’s one of the most common custom touches we’re asked for. The price depends on whether you want a basic bench or something with storage.
We usually match the seating material to your deck. Pressure-treated is cheapest, but cedar or composite looks sharper.
Planters run another $200–$500 each, depending on size and design. They’re great for breaking up space, especially on multi-level decks.
Popular seating setups:
- Benches along the edges
- L-shaped corners
- Storage benches
- Curved seating around a fire pit
Built-ins make the most of your space. They won’t blow away in a storm, and you can size them exactly for your deck.
Outdoor Kitchens and Entertaining Spaces
Outdoor kitchens are easily the priciest deck upgrade—basic setups start at about $5,000, while a full-blown cooking station can run well over $15,000. We’ve tackled everything from simple counter space to setups with built-in grills, fridges, and sinks.
The main things driving up the cost? Gas lines, electrical, and plumbing. Honestly, just getting utilities to your deck often costs more than the kitchen itself.
Basic outdoor kitchen elements:
- Built-in grill station: $2,000-$4,000
- Prep counter with storage: $1,500-$3,000
- Mini fridge installation: $1,000-$2,000
- Sink with plumbing: $2,000-$4,000
Bar-height counters are great for casual hangs and usually cost $75-$150 per linear foot. We like pairing these with built-in benches for a natural spot to gather.
Don’t forget—outdoor kitchens need weather-resistant materials and good drainage. This is not the spot to cheap out on construction.
Pergolas, Privacy Screens, and Shade Solutions
Pergolas start at about $2,500 for something simple, but fancier designs (think integrated lighting or retractable canopies) can hit $8,000 or more. We mostly use cedar or pressure-treated wood, but composite is catching on.
Privacy screens run $75-$200 per linear foot, depending on what you want and how complex the design gets. They’re a lifesaver in Toronto’s tight neighbourhoods where houses are practically shoulder-to-shoulder.
Popular shade and privacy options:
- Classic wooden pergolas
- Metal pergolas with vines
- Horizontal slat privacy screens
- Lattice panels with planters built in
- Retractable awnings
Shade solutions make decks bearable during those sticky Toronto afternoons. We often design pergolas so you can hang curtains or let vines take over for a bit of flexible coverage.
Privacy screens can match your deck or stand out for contrast. They’re especially handy for ground-level decks where neighbours have a front-row seat.
Glass Railings and Railing Options
Glass railings are definitely a splurge at $150-$300 per linear foot, but nothing beats the view. We use tempered glass panels in aluminum or stainless frames that can handle Canadian weather.
Wooden railings are more affordable at $25-$75 per linear foot, and composite railings land between $50-$150 per linear foot. The choice usually comes down to how much maintenance you’re willing to do and what you want to spend.
Railing material comparison:
- Pressure-treated wood: Cheapest, but needs regular staining
- Cedar: Weather-resistant, moderate upkeep
- Composite: Low maintenance, consistent look
- Glass: Sleek, easy to clean, but pricey
Glass railings really shine on raised decks with a view, or if you want to keep an open feel. They’re also big for modern homes.
You’ll need to plan for glass railings from the start. The deck framing has to be beefy enough to support them—retrofitting often means extra reinforcement.
Deck Maintenance and Long-Term Value
Ongoing deck costs vary a lot depending on your materials, but usually, the investment pays off when it’s time to sell. Knowing what you’re getting into helps you make better choices.
Maintenance Costs by Material
Wood decks need the most TLC but cost less upfront. Plan to clean, sand, and stain or seal every 2-3 years. If you hire out, it’s about $3-5 per square foot.
Pressure-treated lumber needs regular checks for loose boards and nails. Cedar and other high-end woods last longer but still need consistent care to avoid weathering.
Composite decking makes maintenance a breeze. It resists fading, scratches, and warping much better than wood. Just clean it now and then with soap and water or a pressure washer.
Composite costs more upfront ($32-55 per square foot in Toronto), but you save over time with less upkeep. Most brands back their product with 25-year warranties.
PVC decking is the lowest maintenance of all. A quick rinse with the hose keeps it looking good—no staining or sealing, ever.
How Decks Impact Property Value
A well-built deck usually returns 65-80% of its cost in added home value. The exact number depends on your area, deck size, and what you build it with.
In Toronto, outdoor living space is a big deal. A good deck extends your living area and makes your home more appealing to buyers.
Premium materials like composite or hardwood tend to give you a better return than basic pressure-treated wood. Buyers love low-maintenance options and see them as real upgrades.
A neglected wood deck, though, can drag down your property value. Buyers see it as a safety risk or a costly project instead of a bonus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Toronto homeowners usually want to know about the same few things when planning a deck: materials, labour, size, and those sneaky extra costs. All of these shape your final bill.
How do material choices impact the overall cost of a deck in Toronto?
Your material choice has the biggest impact on your total cost. Pressure-treated lumber runs $27-37 per square foot installed—by far the most budget-friendly.
Cedar bumps it up to $29-40 per square foot. You get natural insect resistance and that rich colour. Lots of people go for cedar for its balance of price and looks.
Composite decking jumps to $32-55 per square foot. The higher upfront cost pays off with almost no maintenance over the years.
PVC is our top-shelf option at $39-60 per square foot. It’s all synthetic, super durable, and comes in wood-look patterns that fool most people.
Can you break down the typical labour costs associated with deck construction per square foot in the GTA?
Labour eats up 40-60% of your total project cost around Toronto. For a standard deck, expect $15-25 per square foot for labour.
Simple, rectangular decks with basic railings are cheaper. More complex builds—multi-levels, built-in seating, fancy railings—push the price up.
Our crews handle site prep, framing, deck boards, and railings. If your backyard is tough to access or sloped, labour costs go up.
What’s the average price range for building a mid-sized, pressure-treated deck in the city?
A 12×16 foot pressure-treated deck (192 sq ft) usually costs $5,200-7,100, materials and labour included. That’s for a simple rectangle with basic railings.
If you add stairs, skirting, or nicer railings, the price climbs. Most Toronto homeowners end up spending about $6,000 for a solid mid-sized deck.
Location matters too—projects downtown often cost 10-15% more because of access issues and extra permits.
Could you elaborate on how size and design complexity affect deck building costs?
Bigger decks aren’t just double the cost of smaller ones. For example, a 400 sq ft deck costs less per square foot than a 200 sq ft one because you spread out fixed costs.
Complexity is where budgets really get stretched. Multi-levels, curves, and built-in planters need extra engineering and skilled labour.
Stick with a simple rectangle and standard railings for the best value. Add-ons like benches, pergolas, or custom features can bump your costs by 25-50%.
What are some hidden expenses to keep in mind when budgeting for a new deck project?
Permits in Toronto run $150-400, depending on size and location. A lot of people forget about this when planning.
Site prep can get pricey fast if we run into underground utilities, bad soil, or old stuff that needs clearing out.
Electrical work—like adding lights or outlets—means hiring a licensed electrician. Figure on $500-1,500 for basic electrical.
If you want your pressure-treated deck stained or sealed right away, add $2-4 per square foot for that first coat.
How do seasonal factors influence deck building prices in our area?
Spring and early summer? That’s when everyone wants a new deck in Toronto. When demand jumps between April and July, prices can shoot up by 10-20%.
If you wait until fall, you might catch a break. Contractors are looking to fill their calendars before winter hits, so we can usually swing better rates from September through November.
Building in winter? It’s doable, but let’s be honest—weather slows everything down. Snow removal, heated tents, and keeping materials dry all make things trickier (and pricier).
Materials play the seasonal game too. Lumber prices tend to climb in spring as everyone across North America scrambles to build at the same time.