The short answer
New decks we build in Durham Region start from about $4,500. The final price depends on size, height, decking material, railings, stairs and extras like lighting. Most decks are built in days to a few weeks once materials are ready.
What drives the cost of a new deck
- Height and access. A second-storey deck needs taller posts, more bracing and longer stairs, and faces more code requirements than one near the ground.
- Decking material. Composite and PVC cost far more than pressure-treated wood, but need much less upkeep.
- Size and shape. More square feet, multiple levels and angled or curved edges mean more framing and cutting.
- Railings and stairs. Glass and aluminum railings, wide stairs and landings take a big share of the budget.
- Footings and ground. Footings must go below the frost line, and clay, rock, roots or slopes make digging harder.
Where the money goes in a deck build
| Where the money goes in a deck build | Typical share |
|---|---|
| Framing and footings | 30% |
| Decking surface | 25% |
| Railings | 15% |
| Stairs | 8% |
| Site prep and disposal | 8% |
| Lighting and extras | 7% |
| Permits and design | 7% |
Pressure-treated, cedar, composite or PVC?
| Material | Cost | Upkeep | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated | Lowest | Stain or seal every 2 to 3 years | Budget-friendly decks and large areas |
| Cedar | Lower-mid | Stain to hold the colour | A natural, warm look |
| Composite | Higher | Soap and water, no staining | Low-maintenance family decks |
| PVC | Highest | Lowest upkeep | Wet, shady or poolside decks |
Our deck materials comparison adds durability ratings and expected lifespan for each, plus railing options.
Do you need a permit for a deck?
Usually, if the deck is attached to the house or raised off the ground. The thresholds differ by municipality:
| Municipality | Deck permit rule |
|---|---|
| Oshawa | New or replacement decks need a permit; decks at houses with no roof and no more than 600 mm (24 in) above ground are exempt |
| Whitby | Permit for decks more than 24 in above grade |
| Clarington (Courtice, Bowmanville, Newcastle) | Permit for attached decks more than 0.6 m (2 ft) above grade, and any deck over 10 m² (108 sq ft) |
| Scugog (Port Perry) | Decks and porches are listed as permit projects; permit for structures over 15 m² (161 sq ft) |
| Ajax | Decks and porches are a minor-construction permit; check the Town’s decks guide |
Zoning setbacks apply to every deck, even when no permit is needed. We confirm the current rules for your property.
Smart ways to spend less on a deck
- Keep the shape simple. A clean rectangle uses lumber efficiently.
- Match material to your priorities. Pressure-treated costs less up front if you don’t mind staining; use composite where you want low upkeep.
- Keep it lower. A lower deck needs shorter posts, fewer stairs and simpler railings.
