Skip to content INTRODUCTION
Your backyard should be more than a patch of grass—it should be a place where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy time outdoors on a beautiful new deck. If your current deck is showing its age or you’re dreaming of a more polished outdoor living space, composite decking offers a durable, low-maintenance way to make that vision a reality. Of course, one of the first questions homeowners ask is What is the cost to install a composite deck?”
The cost to install a composite deck in Cherry Hill, NJ, typically ranges from $35 to $75 per square foot, including materials, labor, framing, footings, and standard installation. That puts a typical 12×12 composite deck at roughly $5,000 to $10,800, while a larger 20×20 deck can cost $14,000 to $30,000 or more.
The final cost of a composite deck depends on several factors, including the decking brand and grade, composite decking cost per sq ft, deck size and layout, framing requirements, site conditions, stairs and railings, permits, and labor. Higher-end materials and more complex designs can push the project toward the upper end of the range.
How Much Does Composite Decking Cost -At A Glance
| Deck Size / Option | Typical Installed Cost | What It Means |
| 12×12 composite deck | $5,000–$10,800 | Good estimate for a standard 144-sq.-ft. deck |
| 20×20 composite deck | $14,000–$30,000+ | Larger footprint with greater material and labor costs |
| Composite decking | $35–$75/sq. ft. installed | Includes materials, labor, framing, and footings |
| Wood decking | Generally less upfront | Lower initial cost but typically requires more ongoing maintenance |
Quick takeaway: Composite decking costs more upfront than pressure-treated wood, but the comparison should go beyond the initial price. Homeowners should consider the cost of a composite deck vs. a wood deck over the life of the deck, including staining, sealing, repairs, board replacement, and routine maintenance.
For homeowners building a composite deck in Cherry Hill or elsewhere in Camden County, getting a project-specific cost estimate for a composite deck is the best way to understand what you’ll actually pay. Local site conditions, structural requirements, material selections, and municipal requirements can all affect the final price.
In this guide, we’ll break down how much composite decking costs, what you’ll pay for materials and installation, how composite compares with wood, and which factors have the biggest impact on your final project price. We’ll also look at what to expect from local deck building estimates and what to consider when choosing local decking experts in Camden County.
WHAT DRIVES THE COST TO INSTALL A COMPOSITE DECK IN CHERRY HILL
The cost to install a composite deck is not determined solely by the decking boards. Composite decking material cost in New Jersey can vary and is just part of the overall cost to get a finished deck installed for your home. Your final price includes the cost of composite decking material in New Jersey, structural framing, labor, permits, site preparation, and the design features you choose.
Composite Deck Cost Drivers at a Glance
| Cost Factor | Typical Cost | Biggest Price Variables |
| Composite decking | $3–$16+/linear ft. | Brand, collection, color, quality |
| Pressure-treated framing | $8–$15/sq. ft. installed | Deck size and structural requirements |
| Hidden fasteners | +$1–$2/sq. ft. | Fastener system and decking type |
| Labor | $15–$30/sq. ft. | Height, stairs, layout, complexity |
| Permits | $150–$500 | Local municipality and project scope |
| Site preparation | $500–$2,500+ | Demolition, grading, access, site conditions |
The biggest takeaway: Choosing a premium composite board can increase your material costs substantially, but the deck’s size, structure, height, stairs, site conditions, and installation requirements can have an equally significant effect on your final cost estimate for a composite deck.
1. Material Tier Selection
One of the first decisions you’ll make is which composite decking tier fits your budget and expectations. Composite decking cost per sq ft varies considerably by brand and product line, with entry-level boards costing substantially less than premium capped composites.
| Material Tier | Approx. Board Cost | Best For |
| Entry-level | $3–$6/linear ft. | Budget-conscious projects |
| Mid-range | $6–$10/linear ft. | Best balance of price and performance |
| Premium | $10–$16+/linear ft. | High-end appearance and maximum durability |
Entry-level: Products such as Trex Select and TimberTech Terrain generally offer good durability at a lower price, although they typically have fewer color and finish options than premium lines.
Mid-range: Products such as Trex Enhance and AZEK Harvest provide a balance of appearance, durability, and price. For many homeowners, this can be the sweet spot between performance and value.
Premium: Higher-end collections such as Trex Transcend, AZEK Arbor, and TimberTech Legacy typically offer more realistic wood-grain textures, expanded color options, stronger protective layers, and longer warranties. They’re particularly appealing when appearance and long-term performance are priorities.
2. Substructure and Framing
The decking boards are only one part of the cost of a composite deck. Underneath them is the structural system that supports the entire deck, including joists, beams, posts, and ledger boards.
Pressure-treated lumber is the most common framing material and typically costs $8–$15 per square foot installed. A hidden fastener system can add another $1–$2 per square foot, depending on the decking system.
Some homeowners are also considering aluminum or composite framing systems. These options generally cost more initially but can reduce concerns about moisture-related deterioration and wood rot beneath the deck.
3. Labor, Permits, and Site Preparation
Installation labor in the Cherry Hill area typically adds $15–$30 per square foot, though the final cost depends heavily on the project’s complexity.
A simple ground-level deck with easy site access will generally cost less to install than an elevated deck that requires engineered footings, multiple stair runs, railings, or a more complex attachment to the home.
Don’t forget the costs that happen before construction begins:
- Building permits: Approximately $150–$500, depending on the municipality and project.
- Old deck removal: Additional cost when an existing structure must be demolished and hauled away.
- Site preparation: Approximately $500–$ 2,500 for grading, clearing, and demolition; additional costs for difficult access.
- Structural requirements: Elevated or unusually designed decks may require additional engineering, footings, or inspections.
For homeowners building a composite deck in Cherry Hill, these local factors can significantly affect the final price. That’s why a general online calculator can provide only a starting point; local deck building estimates based on your property and design are much more useful when budgeting for the project.
COMPOSITE DECK COST BY SIZE: REAL NUMBERS FOR SOUTH JERSEY HOMEOWNERS
One of the easiest ways to create a preliminary cost estimate for a composite deck is to start with its square footage. The larger the deck, the more you’ll typically spend on decking materials, framing, footings, and labor—but size isn’t the only factor. Elevation, stairs, railings, site access, and design complexity can all increase the final price.
Composite Deck Cost by Size at a Glance
| Deck Size | Square Feet | Typical Installed Cost* | Best For |
| 12×12 | 144 sq. ft. | $5,000–$10,800 | Small patios and rear-door landings |
| 12×16 | 192 sq. ft. | $6,700–$14,400 | Dining + seating areas |
| 14×20 | 280 sq. ft. | $9,800–$21,000 | Larger outdoor living spaces |
| 20×20 | 400 sq. ft. | $14,000–$30,000+ | Full outdoor entertaining areas |
*Ranges represent approximate installed costs in Cherry Hill and Camden County, including composite decking, standard framing, footings, and labor. Optional features such as upgraded railings, lighting, pergolas, and built-in seating can increase the total.
How Much Does a 12×12 Composite Deck Cost?
A 12×12 composite deck provides 144 square feet of outdoor space and works well for smaller South Jersey yards or as a landing area outside a rear door. Expect an installed price of approximately $5,000 to $10,800.
Entry-level composite decking and a simple ground-level design will generally fall toward the lower end of the range. Premium boards, upgraded railings, stairs, or more complicated site conditions can push the project toward or above $10,000.
How Much Does a 12×16 Composite Deck Cost?
At 192 square feet, a 12×16 deck provides enough room for a dining table, grill, and separate seating area without requiring an especially large backyard. A typical composite deck cost for this size is approximately $6,700 to $14,400 installed.
This size can be a practical choice for homeowners who want more usable outdoor living space without making the deck disproportionately large for the property.
How Much Does a 14×20 Composite Deck Cost?
A 14×20 deck provides 280 square feet of outdoor living space and begins to function more like an outdoor room. Homeowners can comfortably incorporate dining, lounge seating, grilling areas, and other features.
The typical cost to install a composite deck of this size is approximately $9,800 to $21,000. Larger decks also provide more opportunities for upgrades such as built-in benches, multiple levels, pergolas, lighting, and expanded stair systems—all of which can affect the final price.
How Much Does a 20×20 Composite Deck Cost?
A 20×20 composite deck covers 400 square feet and represents a substantial outdoor living investment. In Cherry Hill and surrounding South Jersey communities, expect approximately $14,000 to $30,000 or more for a standard installation.
At this size, the structure itself becomes an increasingly important part of the budget. Elevated decks may require larger footings, additional framing, engineering, extensive stairs, and upgraded railings. Add premium composite boards, cable railings, integrated lighting, or other high-end features, and the project can exceed $35,000.
What Size Composite Deck Is Right for You?
The right deck size depends on more than how much space is available. Consider how you plan to use the deck, how many people you typically entertain, your backyard layout, and how much of your budget you want to allocate to features and materials.
As a general rule, 12×12 works well for basic seating and grilling, 12×16 offers more flexibility for dining and entertaining, and 14×20 or 20×20 provides enough space to create a complete outdoor living area. A local deck professional can help you balance usable space, property constraints, and your desired investment before construction begins.
COMPOSITE DECK VS WOOD COST: THE TRUE COMPARISON FOR CHERRY HILL HOMEOWNERS
Pressure-treated wood typically costs less upfront, with installed prices around $20–$35 per square foot compared with approximately $35–$75 per square foot for composite decking. However, comparing only the initial installation price can overlook the ongoing maintenance, lifespan, and warranty differences that affect the true cost of a composite deck vs. wood over time.
Composite Deck vs. Wood: Cost and Value Comparison
| Cost & Value Factor | Composite Decking | Pressure-Treated Wood |
| Typical installed cost | $35–$75/sq. ft. | $20–$35/sq. ft. |
| Upfront investment | Higher | Lower |
| Routine maintenance | Soap-and-water cleaning | Regular cleaning, sanding, staining, and sealing |
| Typical maintenance cycle | Minimal | Stain/seal approximately every 1–2 years |
| Estimated 25-year maintenance | Relatively low | ~$7,500–$20,000* |
| Weather resistance | High resistance to moisture, fading, and cracking | More vulnerable to moisture, warping, splitting, and mold |
| Typical warranty | Up to 25–30 years on premium products | No comparable weathering warranty |
| Expected service life | Often 25+ years with proper installation | Often 15–20 years before major repairs or replacement |
| Long-term value | Higher upfront cost with lower maintenance | Lower upfront cost with higher ongoing maintenance |
*Maintenance costs vary based on deck size, materials, whether the homeowner performs the work, and local conditions.
The Bottom Line
For Cherry Hill homeowners, wood usually wins on upfront price, while composite can win on long-term convenience and maintenance costs. South Jersey’s humid summers and freeze-thaw winters make durability an important consideration, so homeowners should compare the initial installation price with the expected maintenance and replacement costs over the deck’s life.
How Structural Requirements Can Affect Your Deck Cost
Your deck must meet local building and structural requirements, but the requirements themselves are not necessarily a separate cost. Instead, they can affect the amount of structural work needed for your project. Elevated decks, complex layouts, challenging site conditions, and decks attached to your home may require additional footings, framing, engineering, or other structural components.
Permits and inspections may also be required depending on the project and municipality. These requirements are part of building a safe, code-compliant deck and should be considered when estimating your total project cost.
For an accurate estimate, your deck builder should evaluate your property’s conditions, proposed deck design, and structural requirements before construction begins.
RETURN ON INVESTMENT: WHAT A COMPOSITE DECK ADDS TO YOUR CHERRY HILL HOME
A composite deck is more than a lifestyle upgrade. For Cherry Hill homeowners, it can also add meaningful value to a property by creating desirable outdoor living space while reducing the maintenance associated with traditional wood decking.
Property Value Impact in Camden County
National Cost vs. Value reports consistently show that deck additions can recoup a meaningful portion of their original investment at resale. However, the exact return varies by project, market conditions, and property. In Cherry Hill’s competitive real estate market, a professionally built deck can also improve a home’s outdoor appeal and help it stand out among comparable properties.
For example, if you invest $20,000 in a composite deck, even a partial return of that investment at resale can represent a significant amount of recovered value. The deck also provides years of usable outdoor space while you own the home—something that isn’t fully captured by resale calculations.
Lifestyle Value and a Longer Outdoor Season
The value of a composite deck isn’t limited to what you may recover when you sell. A well-designed outdoor living area gives Cherry Hill homeowners more usable space for dining, entertaining, relaxing, and spending time with family throughout the warmer months.
Adding features such as a pergola, a retractable awning, outdoor lighting, or comfortable seating can also make the space more enjoyable during the spring and fall shoulder seasons. That everyday enjoyment is a genuine part of the return on your investment, even though it doesn’t appear on a real estate valuation report.
EXPAND YOUR HOME’S VALUE WITH A COMPOSITE DECK TODAY
The cost to install a composite deck in Cherry Hill can vary considerably depending on the deck’s size, materials, framing, site conditions, and the features you choose. While composite decking requires a larger upfront investment than pressure-treated wood, its low maintenance, durability, and long-term usability can make it a worthwhile choice for South Jersey homeowners who want to enjoy their outdoor space for years to come.
If you’re considering building a composite deck in Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, Moorestown, Voorhees, or elsewhere in Camden County, the best place to start is with a project-specific estimate. A professional can evaluate your property, discuss your goals and material preferences, and help you understand where your budget will have the greatest impact.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Cherry Hill Deck Builders can help you take the next step with a free on-site design consultation and written estimate. We’ll review your space, talk through your ideas, explain your material and design options, and give you a clear understanding of the expected investment before construction begins.
There’s no obligation to move forward. If you’re simply exploring whether a composite deck makes sense for your home and budget, we’re happy to help you understand your options.
Contact Cherry Hill Deck Builders to schedule your free consultation and start planning a composite deck that fits your home, your lifestyle, and your budget. Let us show you how easy it can be to invest in your home’s future value while also getting the outdoor living space you have been dreaming of. Let our local decking experts in Camden County help you today!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the average cost to install a composite deck in Cherry Hill, NJ?
The cost to install a composite deck in Cherry Hill depends on the deck’s size, materials, structural requirements, site conditions, and design features. Local labor, permitting requirements, and the type of composite decking selected can also influence the final project cost.
How much does a 20×20 composite deck cost in South Jersey?
The cost of a 20×20 composite deck in South Jersey depends on more than square footage. The decking material, framing, footings, elevation, stairs, railings, site access, and additional features can all affect the final investment. A property-specific estimate provides the most reliable pricing.
Is composite decking worth the higher cost in New Jersey?
For many New Jersey homeowners, composite decking can be worth the higher upfront cost because it requires less maintenance than traditional wood decking. Its resistance to moisture, fading, and everyday wear can also make it a practical choice for South Jersey’s changing seasons.
Do you need a permit to build a composite deck in Cherry Hill, NJ?
Most deck projects in New Jersey are subject to local permitting and building requirements, although the specific requirements can vary by municipality and project. Cherry Hill homeowners should check zoning, setback, structural, footing, stair, and railing requirements before beginning construction.
How much does composite decking material cost per square foot?
Composite decking material costs vary significantly by manufacturer, collection, quality, finish, and performance features. Entry-level, mid-range, and premium products can have substantially different material costs. Homeowners should also account for framing, fasteners, footings, labor, and other components of a complete deck.
What factors affect the cost of a composite deck in Cherry Hill?
The cost of a composite deck in Cherry Hill can be affected by deck size, material selection, framing, height, stairs, railings, site preparation, accessibility, permitting, and overall design complexity. Features such as lighting, pergolas, built-in seating, and multiple levels can also increase the project scope.
How much does it cost to build a composite deck in New Jersey?
The cost to build a composite deck in New Jersey varies from project to project. Factors such as regional labor costs, property conditions, deck design, structural requirements, composite materials, permits, and optional features all contribute to the overall investment.
Is composite decking cheaper than wood in New Jersey?
Composite decking generally has a higher initial installation cost than pressure-treated wood. However, New Jersey homeowners should also consider the long-term maintenance requirements of wood, including cleaning, staining, sealing, and potential repairs, when comparing the overall value of each material.
How long does a composite deck last in New Jersey?
A properly installed composite deck can provide many years of outdoor use with relatively little maintenance. Its longevity depends on the product selected, installation quality, exposure, drainage, and routine care. Many major composite manufacturers also offer long-term warranties on their decking products.
How can I get an accurate composite deck cost estimate in Cherry Hill?
The best way to get an accurate composite deck cost estimate in Cherry Hill is to have the property and proposed design evaluated by a qualified local deck professional. An estimate should account for dimensions, materials, framing, footings, stairs, railings, permits, site conditions, labor, and desired upgrades.
