Is Building a Deck Worth It in South Jersey? Here’s the Real ROI

Finished composite deck with white vinyl railings built by C-JAM Construction in South Jersey, featuring clean lines and low-maintenance materials.

If you’re wondering whether building a new deck is actually worth the money, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners across South Jersey — and it’s a fair one.

Here’s the honest answer:

A well-built deck is one of the highest-return outdoor projects you can add to your home — both financially and in everyday use.

Let’s break it down using real data and what we see firsthand working on decks throughout South Jersey.

📊 The ROI of Building a Deck (Real Numbers)

According to the most recent Cost vs. Value Report published by Remodeling Magazine, decks continue to rank among the top exterior projects for return on investment nationwide.

Wood Deck Addition

• Average Cost: ~$17,500–$18,000

• Average Resale Value: ~$14,500–$15,000

• Estimated ROI: ~80%+

Composite Deck Addition

• Average Cost: ~$24,000–$25,000

• Average Resale Value: ~$16,000–$17,000

• Estimated ROI: ~65–70%

💡 If you spend around $18,000 on a properly built wood deck, you’re likely adding close to $15,000 in resale value — and that doesn’t even account for the years you get to enjoy it.

Composite decks typically cost more upfront, but many homeowners still choose them for their durability, low maintenance, and long lifespan — which can matter just as much as resale numbers.

🏡 Decks Add Livable Space — Without the Full Remodel Hassle

From a buyer’s perspective, a finished deck is often viewed as an extension of the home’s living space — especially when it’s clean, functional, and thoughtfully designed.

In South Jersey, where we get six or more months of usable outdoor weather, that extra space makes a noticeable difference. You get the feel of added square footage without the cost, disruption, or permitting complexity of a full addition.

If you’re curious how long modern decks actually last, especially composite systems, we break that down in detail in our blog post How Long Do Composite Decks Really Last?

📍 Why Decks Pay Off Especially Well in South Jersey

Many homes in our area were built with:

• small concrete patios

• aging decks from the ’90s

• or no usable outdoor living space at all

Adding a new deck instantly:

• improves curb appeal

• adds functional outdoor space

• makes the home feel larger and more modern

In competitive local markets like Haddonfield, Mullica Hill, Cherry Hill, and surrounding towns, a clean, well-built deck can absolutely be the feature that helps a home stand out.

You can see examples of decks we’ve built locally on our South Jersey deck builder page.

🔨 What Actually Adds Value to a Deck Project?

From experience — and feedback from buyers and appraisers — here’s what consistently drives stronger ROI:

✅ Quality Framing

We frame decks using 2×10 joists, 2×12 beams, and 6×6 posts where appropriate. Strong framing matters more than the boards you see on top.

✅ Low-Maintenance Railings

Vinyl and composite railing systems are popular with buyers because they stay clean and don’t require painting or staining.

✅ Premium Decking Materials

Composite decking like Trex resists fading, warping, and splintering — which is a big selling point for long-term ownership.

✅ Functional Design

Wide steps, comfortable circulation, lighting, and space for furniture or a grill all help the deck feel like a true outdoor room, not an afterthought.

👷‍♂️ Bottom Line: Is a Deck Worth It?

A deck isn’t just something that looks nice.

It’s a real investment in:

• 🏠 home value

• 🛠️ function and flow

• 👁️ curb appeal

• 😌 everyday quality of life

When it’s built correctly, a deck pays you back in more ways than one.

✅ Thinking About Building a Deck?

If you’re planning a deck and want clear answers on pricing, materials, layout, and timelines, C-JAM Construction works with homeowners across South Jersey to build decks that make sense — structurally, financially, and practically.

• Learn more about our approach on our homepage

• Explore materials and layouts on our deck building services page

• See local projects in towns like Haddonfield, Mullica Hill, and Cherry Hill

No pressure. No sales pitch. Just straightforward information and solid construction.