If there's one thing I've learned from years of working with homeowners with small spaces, it's that sometimes the most impactful additions come in modest packages. A 10' x 10' deck might sound unassuming, but this versatile outdoor platform can completely transform how you experience your home—without breaking the bank or requiring professional contractors.

At just 100 square feet, this "Goldilocks" deck size is just right: substantial enough to create a true outdoor room but small enough to be a manageable DIY project.

Let’s talk about the best materials for building a deck, compare costs, how easy each material is to work with, and how long a deck will last when maintained.

Here’s everything you need to know about creating your perfect outdoor extension!

Choosing Your Deck Material: The Foundation of Success

Before you pick up a single tool, you need to make perhaps the most critical decision of your deck project: what material to use. This choice affects not just your upfront costs, but also how your deck will look, feel, and perform for years.

Wood Options: The Classic Choice

Pressure-Treated Lumber

Cost: $2-$5 per square foot

Pros:

Most budget-friendly option (saving $300-600 compared to cedar on a 10x10 deck)

Widely available at any home center or lumber yard

Accepts stain and paint easily for customizable appearance

Strong structural properties for supporting furniture and foot traffic

Chemical treatment provides good resistance to insects and fungal decay

Cons:

Requires annual cleaning and sealing to maintain appearance and prevent moisture damage

Can warp, crack, and splinter over time, particularly in extreme climate shifts

Often feels rougher underfoot than other options (not ideal for barefoot traffic)

Contains chemical preservatives that some homeowners prefer to avoid

Tends to shrink and expand more noticeably with humidity changes

Lifespan: 15-20 years with proper maintenance

Cedar

Cost: $4-$8 per square foot

Pros:

Contains natural oils that resist rot, decay, and insect damage without chemical treatment

Beautiful rich color and grain pattern that creates a premium, natural appearance

Minimal warping and checking compared to pressure-treated lumber

Feels smoother underfoot and doesn't splinter as readily as pressure-treated wood

Lightweight and easy to cut and handle during installation

Pleasant natural aroma that many homeowners enjoy

Cons:

Significantly higher cost than pressure-treated lumber

Will fade to a silvery gray without UV protection treatments

Requires refinishing every 1-2 years to maintain original color

Softer wood that can dent and scratch more easily than other options

Not as readily available in all regions, which can impact pricing further

Lifespan: 20-25 years with proper care

Redwood

• Cost: $7-$10 per square foot

• Pros:

Superior natural beauty with rich, distinctive reddish-brown tones

Exceptional dimensional stability with minimal warping even in changing climates

Highest natural resistance to decay and insects among common wood options

Dense grain pattern resists scratches and dents better than cedar

Less prone to surface checking and cracking than other woods

Premium appearance that adds significant resale value to your home

Cons:

Premium price point (a 10x10 deck can cost $700-1000 in materials alone)

Limited availability in many regions, especially East Coast and Midwest

Still requires annual maintenance to preserve color and appearance

Despite natural resistance, still vulnerable to surface weathering and UV damage

Sustainably sourced options are increasingly difficult to find and more expensive

Lifespan: 25-30 years with proper maintenance

Just like choosing fabric for outdoor furniture, selecting wood for your deck means balancing appearance with practicality. That gorgeous redwood might be calling your name, but if you live in a climate with harsh winters and high humidity, you might find yourself spending more time maintaining it than enjoying it.

Non-Wood Options: The Low-Maintenance Alternative

Composite Decking

Cost: $7-$12 per square foot

Pros:

Requires virtually no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning with soap and water

Never needs staining, sealing, or refinishing throughout its lifetime

No splinters, making it ideal for families with children or for barefoot use

Available in dozens of colors and textures to mimic various wood species

Consistent quality without knots, splits, or defects found in natural wood

Most brands include warranties of 25+ years, providing peace of mind

Resists fading, staining, and scratching far better than natural wood

Cons:

Can retain heat in direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable to walk on during peak summer days

Surface cannot be refinished if damaged or if you want to change the color

Premium brands cost significantly more than pressure-treated lumber

May look obviously synthetic, especially with less expensive products

Heavier than wood, making it more challenging for DIY installation

Can develop mold in shaded, damp areas if not properly ventilated

Lifespan: 25-30 years

PVC Decking

Cost: $8-$13 per square foot

Pros:

100% synthetic material is completely impervious to water, making it ideal for pool surrounds or very wet climates

Extremely resistant to staining from food, drinks, and sunscreen

Lightest weight of all decking materials, making installation easier

Won't support mold or mildew growth, even in consistently damp environments

Available in slip-resistant textures for safety around water features

Never absorbs moisture, so no expansion/contraction issues with seasonal changes

Often includes the longest warranties in the industry (30+ years)

Cons:

Most artificial appearance among decking options

Limited color options compared to composite decking

Can become brittle and noisy in extremely cold climates

Prone to static electricity buildup in dry conditions

Difficult to repair if damaged - often requires replacing entire boards

Higher expansion/contraction rate with temperature changes

Less environmentally friendly as it's a petroleum-based product

Lifespan: 25-30 years

Aluminum Decking

Cost: $15-$20 per square foot

Pros:

o Extremely durable - will not rot, rust, warp, splinter, crack, or fade

Completely fireproof, providing safety advantages for homes in wildfire-prone areas

Surprisingly cool to the touch even in direct sunlight due to heat dissipation properties

Powder-coated finishes available in various colors that never need repainting

100% recyclable and often made from recycled materials

Interlocking systems create waterproof surfaces, protecting areas underneath

Highest strength-to-weight ratio of any decking material

Impervious to insects, mold, and mildew

Cons:

Highest initial cost of all decking materials (typically 2-3x the cost of pressure-treated lumber)

Creates noise during rain or hailstorms unless properly insulated

Industrial appearance doesn't appeal to all homeowners

Specialized fastening systems can make DIY installation challenging

Can feel cold underfoot in cooler weather

Scratches and dents cannot be sanded out like wood can

Limited design flexibility compared to wood products

Lifespan: 40+ years

For those of you who cringe at the thought of power washing and staining a deck every couple of years, these modern alternatives might be worth the higher upfront cost. They require a bigger investment now in exchange for years of worry-free enjoyment later.

Climate Considerations: What Works Where You Live

Four Season Climates If you experience freezing winters and hot summers (like many of my readers in the Northeast and Midwest), composite or PVC decking offers the most consistent performance. For wood lovers, pressure-treated lumber actually performs quite well in these conditions—just be prepared for annual maintenance.

Humid Climates In areas with high humidity and rainfall, cedar and redwood naturally resist the moisture that causes other woods to rot. Composite and PVC are also excellent choices, as they won't absorb moisture or support mold growth.

Hot, Dry Climates In Southwest regions, wood decking can dry out and crack without regular sealing. Composite decking can get quite hot underfoot but won't suffer the same drying and cracking issues.

Building Your 10' x 10' Deck: Breaking It Down

Now that you've selected your material, let's get into the actual building process. I've designed this as a ground-level or low-elevation deck that sits no more than 30" above ground—perfect for most small backyards and patios.

Materials Shopping List

Structure Materials:

Concrete deck blocks or post anchors (9)

2x8 pressure-treated lumber for rim joists (4 boards at 10' length)

2x8 pressure-treated lumber for interior joists (7 boards at 10' length)

Joist hangers (14)

3" exterior deck screws (5 lbs)

½" galvanized bolts, washers, and nuts (optional, for connecting beams)

Decking Materials:

Decking boards in your chosen material (roughly 110 square feet to account for waste)

Hidden fastener system (if using grooved decking)

2½" deck screws (for face-mounting boards if not using hidden fasteners)

Finishing Materials:

Deck sealer or stain (for wood decking)

Paint brushes or rollers for application

Tools You'll Need

Measuring tape (25' minimum)

Carpenter's square

Line level and string

Power drill with driver bits

Circular saw or miter saw

Jigsaw (for cutting around obstacles)

Level (2' or longer)

Hammer

Shovel and rake (for ground preparation)

Safety glasses and work gloves

Step-by-Step Weekend Warrior Guide

Day 1: Ground Prep and Frame Layout (3-4 hours)

1. Mark your deck perimeter using stakes and string, ensuring corners are square using the 3-4-5 method.

2. Remove any grass or vegetation from the deck area and level the ground as much as possible.

3. Position your concrete deck blocks or post anchors in a 3x3 grid pattern, spaced approximately 5' apart.

4. Use a long level and string to ensure the tops of all blocks/anchors are level with each other.

Day 2: Building the Frame (4-5 hours)

1. Create your outer frame by connecting four 10' rim joists in a square, securing the corners with screws.

2. Place the frame on your support blocks/anchors and verify it's level in all directions.

3. Install your interior joists, spacing them 16" on center using joist hangers.

4. Double-check that the entire frame is level and square before proceeding.

Day 3: Installing Decking (5-6 hours)

1. Start laying decking boards perpendicular to your joists from one edge of the deck.

2. Leave a ⅛" gap between boards to allow for drainage and expansion.

3. Secure each board using your chosen fastening system.

4. Use a chalk line to ensure your boards remain straight as you progress.

5. Cut the final board to fit using a circular saw or jigsaw.

Day 4: Finishing (2-3 hours)

1. Sand any rough edges or splinters (for wood decking).

2. Apply sealer or stain according to manufacturer directions (for wood decking).

3. Allow adequate drying time before placing furniture or heavy items on the deck.

This timeline assumes you're working solo—grab a friend or family member, and you could potentially complete this project in a weekend!

Making the Most of Your 100 Square Feet

Now comes the fun part—turning your blank canvas into an outdoor oasis that feels intentional and inviting. With just 100 square feet to work with, every inch needs to pull its weight, but that doesn't mean sacrificing style or comfort.

Layout Option 1: The Intimate Conversation Nook

Perfect for couples or small families who primarily want a space for morning coffee, evening cocktails, or casual conversation.

A small outdoor loveseat (4' wide) positioned against one edge

Two compact armchairs (24" x 24") facing the loveseat

A 24" round coffee table in the center

Potted plants in the corners to soften the edges

String lights overhead for ambient evening lighting

This arrangement leaves pathways clear while creating a natural conversation circle that feels cozy rather than cramped.

Layout Option 2: The Al Fresco Dining Deck

Ideal for those who love outdoor meals or working from home with a view.

A 48" round table in the center (seats 4 comfortably)

Four compact dining chairs around the table

A narrow console table (10" deep) against one edge for serving or display

Lanterns or candle holders on the table for evening ambiance

Hanging plants from pergola posts or shepherd's hooks to add greenery without using floor space

Similar to what I discussed in my article about round tables for patios, the curved edges of a round table make movement around the deck much easier than with a rectangular table of similar capacity.

Layout Option 3: The Multi-Purpose Retreat

For those who want their deck to serve multiple functions throughout the day.

A 3' x 6' bench along one edge that doubles as storage

Two Ottoman seats (18" x 18") that can function as extra seating or side tables

A fold-down wall table mounted to the house that can be raised for dining or projects

Floor cushions that can be brought out for additional casual seating

A rolling bar cart that can be moved as needed

The key to this layout is furniture that can be easily moved, stored, or transformed as your needs change from morning to evening.

Styling Your Deck: The Finishing Touches

Just as with indoor spaces, these final layers are what turn a basic deck into a true extension of your home:

An outdoor rug (8' x 8') to define the space and add comfort underfoot

Weather-resistant throw pillows to add color and comfort to seating

Solar-powered or LED string lights overhead for evening ambiance

Potted plants of varying heights (place larger plants in corners, smaller ones on tables)

A small fire bowl or tabletop fireplace for extending the season into cooler months

Remember that outdoor spaces need the same design thinking as indoor rooms—consider your color scheme, texture variation, and visual balance just as you would for your living room.

Keeping Your Deck Looking Fresh: Seasonal Maintenance Tips

A small deck requires less maintenance than a large one (another win!), but regular care will ensure your investment looks great for years to come.

Spring Cleaning

1. Remove all furniture and accessories

2. Sweep thoroughly to remove debris

3. Wash with appropriate cleaner for your decking material

4. Check for loose boards or hardware and tighten as needed

5. Inspect for any winter damage and address before it worsens

Summer Care

1. Rinse regularly to remove pollen and dust

2. Keep plants in saucers to prevent water staining

3. Reposition furniture occasionally to prevent uneven weathering

4. Apply sunscreen or UV protectant to wood or composite decking as needed

Fall Preparation

1. Clear leaves regularly to prevent staining and moisture buildup

2. Clean and cover or store furniture for winter

3. Trim back any vegetation touching the deck to prevent moisture issues

4. Re-seal wood decking before winter weather hits (every 2-3 years)

Winter Protection

1. Remove snow promptly using a plastic shovel (metal can damage decking)

2. Keep weight loads in mind during heavy snow (remove accumulation before it gets too deep)

3. Avoid using salt or harsh ice melters on any decking material

Your Perfect Outdoor Room Awaits

A 10' x 10' deck might seem modest compared to the expansive outdoor spaces you see in magazines, but don't underestimate the impact these 100 square feet can have on your daily life and home enjoyment. For those of us with limited outdoor space, this "just right" deck size offers the perfect balance of function, affordability, and manageable DIY execution.

Remember that, just like any room in your home, your deck should reflect your personality and serve your specific needs. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat for morning coffee, a space for intimate gatherings, or an outdoor dining spot for family meals, this versatile addition can be customized to become your favorite "room" in the house—one that just happens to have the sky as its ceiling.

Have you tackled a DIY deck project? I'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!