Cost $25,000Adds $16,500
Your estimate
Cost
$18,000
Adds at resale
$14,940
Recouped
83%
National planning figure: $18,000 cost, 83% recouped. Ranked #9 of 27 projects by ROI.
A 320-square-foot pressure-treated deck with a built-in bench, planter and simple railing adds usable outdoor living space for much less than an interior addition.
Why it scores where it does
- Adds living space per dollar far more cheaply than building walls and a roof.
- Outdoor space ranks high on buyer wish lists.
- Pressure-treated lumber is inexpensive and widely available.
Get the most from it
- A clean, freshly sealed deck matters more at sale than its size.
- Pull a permit: unpermitted decks can derail inspections.
- Ledger flashing and hidden joist hangers prevent the rot that inspectors look for.
Deck addition (wood) ROI by region
| Region | Cost | Value added | % recouped | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific | $21,600 | $19,123 | 89% | |
| Mountain | $18,000 | $15,836 | 88% | |
| South Atlantic | $17,100 | $14,342 | 84% | |
| New England | $20,160 | $16,434 | 82% | |
| West South Central | $16,560 | $12,998 | 78% | |
| East South Central | $16,200 | $12,550 | 77% | |
| Middle Atlantic | $19,800 | $15,239 | 77% | |
| West North Central | $17,640 | $13,147 | 75% | |
| East North Central | $17,820 | $12,848 | 72% |
Frequently asked questions
Does a deck add value to a house?
Yes. A wood deck typically recovers a large majority of its cost, and it can help a listing stand out in warm-weather markets.
Wood or composite deck for resale?
Wood usually recoups a higher percentage because it costs less. Composite costs more upfront, recoups a lower share, but needs far less upkeep while you live there.
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