Let’s cut right to the chase – if you’re thinking about building a deck in Maryland, you’ve got a few choices to sort through. We’ll break down exactly what you’ll get for your money with each option. As experienced deck builders who’ve been building decks in Maryland for years, we’ll break down exactly what you’ll get for your money with each option.
Current Costs in Maryland for a 400sqft Deck, by Material:
According to HomeGuide, The cost for a new deck in Maryland, installed, can be anywhere from $25 per square foot for pressure-treated wood to $125 per square foot for aluminum decking.
Let’s break it down according to the average 400sqft deck, so you can easily see the price difference between these materials.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated pine and fir are the workhorses of deck building in Maryland – these lumber options are infused with protective chemicals to fight off rot, insects, and moisture, making them a time-tested and budget-friendly choice for local homeowners.
Total Average Project Cost for 400sqft Pressure Treated Deck, Labor Included: $10,000 – $20,000
Natural Alternatives (Hardwoods, Softwoods, and Bamboo)
Beyond pressure-treated lumber, nature offers some impressive decking options including cedar, redwood, ipe, and sustainable bamboo – each bringing character, durability, and environmental perks to your outdoor space. These materials weather nicely and offer excellent resistance to Maryland’s varied climate without chemical treatments.
Total Average Project Cost for 400sqft Natural Deck, Labor Included: $10,800 (Bamboo) – $28,000 (Ipe)
Composite (like Trex or TimberTech)
Modern composite decking, made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibers, has all but taken over the deck industry, led by the national brand Trex, as well as TimberTech, and AZEK. Composite decking is a virtually maintenance-free option that stands up to Maryland’s humid summers and freezing winters while maintaining its good looks year after year.
Total Average Project Cost for 400sqft Composite Deck, Labor Included: $16,000 – $32,000
Aluminum:
Aluminum decking represents the cutting edge – this premium, all-weather material offers unmatched durability and zero maintenance, with built-in slip resistance and cooling properties. While less common than other options, modern aluminum decking is gaining popularity among homeowners looking for a lifetime decking solution.
Average Project Cost for 400sqft Aluminum Deck, Labor Included: $40,000 – $50,000
*Source for costs: HomeGuide’s 2025 Deck Cost Guide
Pressure Treated Wood Decking:
Pros:
- Most affordable upfront cost
- Easy to find and readily available in Maryland
- Can be stained any color you want
- Natural wood look and feel
- Easy to repair or replace individual boards
- Any deck builder can work with it
- Good resale value when maintained
Cons:
- Requires yearly maintenance
- Must be power washed and sealed every 2-3 years
- Can warp, crack, and splinter over time
- Prone to mold and mildew in Maryland’s humidity
- 10-15 year lifespan with proper maintenance
- Will fade to gray if not maintained
- Not environmentally sustainable
Natural Wood and Bamboo
Pros:
- Premium natural appearance
- Each board has unique grain patterns
- Better resistance to rot and insects than pressure-treated
- Cedar and redwood contain natural preservatives
- Bamboo is highly sustainable and renewable
- Less prone to warping than pressure-treated
- 15-50 year lifespan, depending on the material
Cons:
- Higher cost than pressure-treated wood
- Still requires regular maintenance
- Possible limited availability in Maryland
- Can be difficult to match boards for repairs
- Some types can be very soft and show wear
- Cedar and redwood can be prone to scratching
- May need special fasteners and installation knowledge
Composite:
Pros:
- Minimal maintenance needed
- No staining or sealing required
- Longer lifespan (25+ years)
- Won’t splinter or crack
- Available in many colors and styles
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Can get hot in full sun
- May show wear in high-traffic areas
- Can’t be refinished like wood
Aluminum
- Longest-lasting deck material (50+ years)
- Zero maintenance required
- Completely waterproof
- Won’t rot, rust, warp, or crack
- Stays cooler than other materials in summer
- Slip-resistant even when wet
- Fire-resistant
- 100% recyclable
- Perfect for Maryland’s varying weather
Cons:
- Highest upfront cost
- Limited color options
- Can dent from heavy impacts
- May sound hollow when walked on
- Installation requires specialized knowledge
- Less traditional appearance
- A limited number of contractors experienced with installation
- May not appeal to future buyers who prefer traditional materials
Making the Right Choice For Your Home
Choose Pressure Treated Wood If:
- You’re working with a tighter budget
- You don’t mind annual maintenance
- You prefer the natural look
- You’re okay with replacing it sooner
Choose Natural Wood/Bamboo If:
- You want a premium, high-end natural look
- You’re environmentally conscious (especially with bamboo)
- You don’t mind some maintenance, but less than pressure-treated
- You want better natural resistance to insects and decay
- You’re looking for unique character
- You appreciate the craftsmanship of natural wood
- You’re willing to pay more for distinctive beauty
Choose Composite If:
- You want minimal maintenance
- You’re planning to stay in your home long-term
- You don’t want to deal with splinters
- You’re looking for the longest-lasting option
Choose Aluminum If:
- You want the absolute longest-lasting deck material
- You never want to deal with maintenance
- You have concerns about fire safety
- You want the most slip-resistant option
- You’re building in a wet or shaded area
- You don’t mind paying premium prices for lifetime durability
- You prefer modern, contemporary design
- You want the most weather-resistant option for Maryland’s climate
Ready to get Straight Answers about your Deck Project?
Give us a call at (301) 639-8418. We’ll help you figure out the best deck material for your budget and lifestyle – no sales pitch, just honest advice from people who know decks.
