Thinking About Building a Deck… But Not Sure What It’ll Cost?
You’ve probably been thinking about upgrading your backyard. Maybe your current deck is aging or you don’t have one at all. But before you move forward, there’s one big question: “How much does this deck cost?” Short Answer: Anywhere from $8,000-$30,000+ depending on the scope of the project. Or if you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional deck builder near you.
For most homeowners in Faribault, MN, deck pricing feels like a shot in the dark because it depends on so many variables—size, materials, design, and more. This guide breaks it all down so you can understand what to expect and budget your project with confidence.
Looking for Something In Particular?
- Average Deck Cost in Faribault, MN
- Deck Cost Per Square Foot
- Composite vs Cedar Deck Costs
- What Impacts the Price of a Deck
- Budgeting for Your Deck Project
- Should You Build a Deck Yourself or Hire a Professional?
- The Cost of Hiring a Professional Deck Builder in Minnesota
- Why Most Homeowners Hire Deck Builders in Minnesota
- How To Get a FREE Deck Estimate
Average Deck Cost in Faribault, MN
Deck costs can vary quite a bit depending on the scope of your project, but most homeowners in the Faribault area fall into a general range.
A typical deck project can cost anywhere from:
- $8,000 – $15,000 for smaller, basic decks
- $15,000 – $30,000 for mid-sized decks with upgraded materials
- $30,000+ for large, custom, or multi-level decks
The biggest factors that influence where your project lands are size, materials, and complexity.
Deck Cost Per Square Foot
Another way to think about pricing is cost per square foot.
In Faribault, MN, most decks fall within:
- $25 – $40 per sq ft for pressure-treated wood
- $40 – $70+ per sq ft for composite decking
For example:
- A 12×16 deck (192 sq ft) could range from $5,000 – $13,000+ depending on materials
- A larger 20×20 deck (400 sq ft) could range from $10,000 – $28,000+
These are rough estimates—but they give you a solid starting point.
Composite vs Cedar Deck Costs
Material choice is one of the biggest pricing decisions you’ll make.
Cedar Decking
Cedar is a popular natural wood option that offers a warm, classic look.
It’s typically more affordable upfront, but it requires regular maintenance like staining and sealing to keep it in good shape especially with Minnesota’s changing seasons.
Composite Decking
Composite decking costs more initially, but it’s designed to last longer with minimal maintenance.
You won’t need to stain or seal it, and it holds up well against moisture, fading, and wear over time.
What Most Homeowners Choose
Many homeowners in Minnesota are leaning toward composite because of the long-term convenience especially if they don’t want ongoing maintenance.
But if you’re working within a tighter budget and don’t mind upkeep, cedar can still be a great option.
What Impacts the Cost of a Deck?
Beyond size and material, several other factors affect the total cost of your project.
Design Complexity
Simple rectangular decks are more affordable. Custom shapes, multi-level layouts, and built-in features increase cost.
Railings and Stairs
Upgraded railings (metal, cable, composite) and additional stairs can significantly impact pricing.
Site Conditions
Sloped yards, poor soil, or limited access can require extra labor and structural work.
Permits and Codes
Local building requirements in Faribault may affect design and cost, especially for elevated decks.
Add-Ons
Features like:
- Built-in seating
- Lighting
- Pergolas or coverings
…can take your deck from basic to high-end quickly.
How to Budget for Your DIY Deck Project
The easiest way to approach your budget is by working backward from what matters most.
Start by asking yourself:
- How do I want to use this space?
- How important is low maintenance?
- What size deck actually fits my yard and lifestyle?
From there, it becomes easier to decide where to invest and where to keep things simple. It’s also smart to build in a small buffer (around 10–15%) for any unexpected adjustments during the project.
Should You Build a Deck Yourself or Hire a Professional?
At this point, many homeowners start asking a different question:
“Should I try to build this myself… or hire a professional?”
The Reality of DIY Deck Building
Building a deck yourself can seem like a way to save money upfront—but in Minnesota, it’s often more complicated than it looks.
Between permits, frost footings, structural requirements, and ensuring everything is up to code, there’s a lot that goes into doing it correctly.
Mistakes in areas like:
- Improper footings (especially with freeze/thaw cycles)
- Incorrect ledger board installation
- Poor structural support
…can lead to safety issues, failed inspections, or costly repairs down the line.
For smaller, ground-level decks, DIY might be manageable. But for most projects—especially elevated or custom decks—it quickly becomes overwhelming.
The Cost of Hiring a Professional Deck Builder in Minnesota
Hiring a professional deck builder typically costs more upfront, but it comes with a completely different level of quality and peace of mind.
In the Faribault area, professional deck construction is usually reflected in the ranges mentioned earlier:
- $25–$40 per sq ft for wood
- $40–$70+ per sq ft for composite
That pricing includes:
- Proper design and planning
- Code-compliant construction
- Permits and inspections
- Labor and materials
- Project management from start to finish
Why Most Homeowners Hire Deck Builders in Minnesota
For most homeowners, it’s about avoiding risk and getting a better end result.
Working with a professional means:
- Your deck is built to meet Minnesota building codes
- You avoid costly mistakes or rework
- The project gets done faster and more efficiently
- You get a finished product that lasts longer and adds value to your home
In a climate like Minnesota, where weather plays a big role in durability, having a properly built deck isn’t just a bonus, it’s essential.
Get a FREE Deck Estimate in Faribault, MN
Every deck project is different—which is why online estimates can only take you so far. The best way to get accurate pricing is by having a professional take a look at your space, understand your goals, and give you a clear breakdown of what your project will cost.
Decked Out MN offers free deck estimates for homeowners in Faribault and surrounding areas, helping you understand your options and move forward with confidence.
When you’re thinking about building a deck, here’s what to do next…
👉 Schedule your FREE estimate with Decked Out MN and get a clear, no-pressure quote for your project.