How much does it cost to build a deck in Maryland?

Deck costs in Anne Arundel and Howard County typically range from $15,000-$25,000 for a basic 12x16 pressure-treated wood deck to $40,000-$80,000+ for larger composite or PVC decks with features like built-in seating, pergolas, or multi-level design. Material choice significantly impacts cost—we'll help you find the right balance of budget and longevity.

What's the difference between wood and composite decking?

Pressure-treated wood costs less upfront ($15-$25/sq ft installed) but requires annual maintenance (cleaning, sealing/staining) and lasts 15-20 years. Composite decking (Trex, TimberTech) costs more ($30-$50/sq ft installed) but is virtually maintenance-free, won't splinter or rot, and lasts 25-30+ years. Over 20 years, total cost is often similar.

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Anne Arundel County?

Yes. Anne Arundel County requires building permits for new deck construction. You'll need to submit plans showing deck size, height, attachment method, footing locations, and railing details. Inspections are required for footings, framing, and final completion. We handle the entire permit process including plan preparation and inspection scheduling.

What size deck do I need?

Consider your intended use. For a dining table and 6 chairs, plan at least 12x12 feet. Add a grill area plus seating: 14x16 feet or larger. Hot tubs need additional structural support and typically a dedicated 10x10 section. For multiple zones (dining, lounging, grilling), 400-600 square feet provides comfortable space.

Can you add a roof or pergola to my deck?

Yes. Options include pergolas (partial shade, architectural interest), solid roof extensions matching your house, retractable awnings, and screen enclosures. Each requires proper structural support—we often upgrade deck framing to handle additional loads. Covered spaces require permits. We design covered areas that complement your home's architecture.

Decks & Porches in Ellicott City, MD

Expert decks and porches in Ellicott City, MD. Licensed & insured. Free estimates. Call PRG Home Improvement at 443-856-5379.

Call 443-856-5379 for a free estimate. Licensed & insured contractor.

Outdoor living space adds usable square footage and real value to your Maryland home. PRG builds custom decks, screened porches, and covered outdoor areas using pressure-treated lumber, composite, and PVC materials suited to the local climate.

What We Offer

Custom deck design and construction in wood or composite
Screened porches and three-season rooms
Covered porches with roofing that matches your home
Multi-level decks with stairs, landings, and built-in seating
Pergolas, arbors, and shade structures
Deck replacement and resurfacing of aging structures

Our Process

We design your deck around how you plan to use it — dining, entertaining, relaxing, or all three. We prepare permit-ready plans showing footings, framing, and railing details, handle the Anne Arundel or Howard County permit application, and build to code with inspections at every stage.

Decks & Porches for Ellicott City Homes

Ellicott City combines historic charm with suburban convenience. Old Ellicott City homes may have stone foundations and preservation requirements, while neighborhoods like Dunloggin and Worthington commonly need kitchen and bathroom updates in 1970s-1990s homes. New luxury communities like Westmount and Patapsco Crossing attract buyers who discover their builder-standard homes lack custom decks, quality cabinetry, and built-in storage. PRG handles the full range—from historic renovations to personalizing new construction with the finishes and outdoor living space builders don't include.

Local Housing

Ellicott City ranges from historic stone and brick buildings in Old Ellicott City to 1970s-1990s colonials in neighborhoods like Dunloggin and Worthington, and newer construction in the western corridor.

Neighborhoods We Serve

We serve homeowners in Old Ellicott City, Dunloggin, Worthington, Fontana Village, Montgomery Meadows, Turf Valley, Westmount, Bethany Glen, Patapsco Crossing, and areas along Route 40 and Route 29.

Local Considerations

Properties in Old Ellicott City's historic district have specific preservation requirements. The 2016 and 2018 floods highlighted the importance of proper water management in lower Ellicott City. Homes throughout the area benefit from basement waterproofing and moisture-resistant materials in lower-level remodels.

Popular Projects

Kitchen and bathroom remodels in 1980s colonials, basement finishing with moisture management systems, and custom carpentry for homes with unique historic character.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to build a deck in Maryland?: Deck costs in Anne Arundel and Howard County typically range from $15,000-$25,000 for a basic 12x16 pressure-treated wood deck to $40,000-$80,000+ for larger composite or PVC decks with features like built-in seating, pergolas, or multi-level design. Material choice significantly impacts cost—we'll help you find the right balance of budget and longevity.
What's the difference between wood and composite decking?: Pressure-treated wood costs less upfront ($15-$25/sq ft installed) but requires annual maintenance (cleaning, sealing/staining) and lasts 15-20 years. Composite decking (Trex, TimberTech) costs more ($30-$50/sq ft installed) but is virtually maintenance-free, won't splinter or rot, and lasts 25-30+ years. Over 20 years, total cost is often similar.
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Anne Arundel County?: Yes. Anne Arundel County requires building permits for new deck construction. You'll need to submit plans showing deck size, height, attachment method, footing locations, and railing details. Inspections are required for footings, framing, and final completion. We handle the entire permit process including plan preparation and inspection scheduling.
What size deck do I need?: Consider your intended use. For a dining table and 6 chairs, plan at least 12x12 feet. Add a grill area plus seating: 14x16 feet or larger. Hot tubs need additional structural support and typically a dedicated 10x10 section. For multiple zones (dining, lounging, grilling), 400-600 square feet provides comfortable space.
Can you add a roof or pergola to my deck?: Yes. Options include pergolas (partial shade, architectural interest), solid roof extensions matching your house, retractable awnings, and screen enclosures. Each requires proper structural support—we often upgrade deck framing to handle additional loads. Covered spaces require permits. We design covered areas that complement your home's architecture.