Yes, a deck increases your home’s value. According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a wood deck addition costs an average of $17,615 and has a resale value of $14,596 — meaning homeowners recoup about 82.9% of their investment. That’s a strong return compared to most home upgrades.
But how much value you actually gain depends on your materials, location, and design. This article breaks down the real numbers, what affects your ROI, and how to get the most out of a deck investment.
How Much Value Does a Deck Add?
According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, deck additions are in the top 10 home improvements for ROI. That’s saying something — there are hundreds of ways to spend money on a home.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what the numbers look like:
| Deck Type | Avg. Cost | Avg. ROI |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Deck | ~$17,615 | ~82.9% |
| Composite Deck | ~$24,206 | ~68.2% |
While wood decks tend to have a higher ROI due to lower upfront costs, composite decks typically add more overall dollar value. The average wood deck adds $8,559 in value, while composite adds $9,325.
So wood gives you a better percentage back. Composite gives you more dollars back. Both are solid choices.
What About the Joy Factor?
Money isn’t everything. The National Association of Realtors assigns a “joy” score of 9.8 out of 10 to adding a deck. 74% of homeowners reported a greater desire to be home after completing the project, and 71% have an increased sense of enjoyment.
That’s a number you can’t put on a spreadsheet — but it matters.
What Affects Your Deck’s ROI?
Not every deck adds the same value. A few key things make a big difference.
Location, Location, Location
In the Pacific region, a wood deck can recoup as much as 111% of its cost. Composite decks in that same region have an ROI of around 88%. Warmer climates simply place more value on outdoor living space.
In Pennsylvania and Maryland — where West Shire Decks builds — buyers expect outdoor space and are willing to pay for it. A well-built deck in this region is a real selling point.
Material Choice
Wood costs less upfront and earns a higher ROI percentage. Composite decking, on the other hand, can last up to 50 years, compared to 10–30 years for wood under the same conditions. Long lifespan means less maintenance cost over time — and that appeals to buyers too.
If you want low upkeep and long life, explore composite decking as your material. If you love the look of natural wood, wood decking delivers classic appeal at a lower entry cost.
Size and Design
Decks should cover 10% to 15% of the home’s square footage for the best aesthetic value. Too small and it looks tacked on. Too large and it can overwhelm the yard and the budget.
A well-built professional structure with deck lights, polished designs, and nice landscaping adds more value than a simple DIY platform deck. Details matter when buyers are walking through.
Deck Condition at Time of Sale
An old, worn-out deck can actually hurt your sale price. Buyers see rot and peeling boards and immediately start thinking about repair costs. A fresh deck resurfacing or deck upgrade before listing can make a real difference in how buyers perceive the home.
Wood vs. Composite: Which Adds More Value?
This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask. Here’s the honest answer: it depends on your goals.
Although composite decking’s upfront ROI is slightly lower, many homebuyers prefer composite decks due to their sustainability, contemporary aesthetics, and reduced long-term maintenance costs.
Think about who will be buying your home. Young families often want something easy to maintain. Buyers who love the outdoors often want something that looks premium. Either can be the right call.
What’s not debatable is this: many potential buyers actively look for homes with decks already built, to avoid the hassle of installation themselves. Having a deck — in good shape — puts you ahead of competing listings.
Does a Deck Beat Other Home Improvements?
It holds up well. A mid-range kitchen remodel has an 86% ROI, and window replacement comes in at 61%. Deck installation easily matches or beats window replacement and competes with kitchen renovations — at a fraction of the disruption.
A kitchen remodel is messy, expensive, and takes weeks. A deck adds living space and curb appeal without tearing apart the inside of your home.
Tips to Maximize Your Deck’s Value
Getting the most out of your investment comes down to a few smart choices:
- Build the right size — match the deck to your home and yard, not just your wish list
- Choose durable materials — especially in PA and MD where weather puts real stress on outdoor structures
- Add lighting — deck lighting makes a deck feel finished and extends usable hours
- Keep it maintained — a clean, solid deck signals a well-cared-for home to every buyer
Final Thoughts
Yes, a deck increases your home’s value — and the data backs it up. Wood decks recoup roughly 83% at resale. Composite decks add more total dollar value and last longer. Either way, buyers want outdoor space, and a well-built deck delivers it.
The key is building it right, choosing good materials, and keeping it in solid shape. If you’re ready to add real value to your home, contact West Shire Decks or explore our deck installation services to get started. Your backyard — and your home’s value — will thank you.