A deck is one of the better-returning home projects — but the return depends heavily on material and market. According to the annual Remodeling Cost vs. Value report, a wood deck recoups roughly 50–83% of its cost at resale, while a composite deck usually recoups a few points less.
Wood vs. composite at resale
Wood (typically pressure-treated) costs less to build and tends to show a higher percentage return simply because the denominator is smaller. Composite costs more upfront but needs almost no maintenance, which some buyers will pay for. Neither "adds more than it costs" in most markets — the value is in making the home easier to sell and more enjoyable while you live there.
Estimate your build first with the Deck Cost Calculator, then see how prices shift by location on our deck cost guide.
What drives a deck's return
- Size in proportion to the house. A deck that fits the home and yard returns better than an oversized one.
- Material and condition. A sturdy, well-built deck reads as an asset; a sagging one reads as a liability.
- Market and climate. Outdoor living space is worth more in regions with long warm seasons.
A worked example
Say you build a 320 sq ft pressure-treated deck for about $9,000. At a 70% recoup, you'd recover roughly $6,300 in resale value — plus years of use. A composite deck of the same size might cost $15,000 and recoup a similar dollar amount, so the extra you spent on composite is mostly buying maintenance-free enjoyment, not resale value.
Bottom line
Build a deck because you want to use it, sized sensibly for your home, and you'll likely get most of the cost back at sale. Don't over-build expecting a profit. Compare local pricing and get quotes before you commit.