20×16 Deck Cost in Arkansas
A 20×16 (320 sqft) deck in Arkansas costs $14,720-$23,680 in mid-tier composite with the state's 0.92× labor multiplier (South). A 16×20 deck (320 sqft) is the canonical 'mid-large' deck — fits a full sectional, a 6-seat dining table, and a grill island. Arkansas labor 0.92× national — among the cheapest in the US. Decent value for big projects.
5 finish tiers — 20×16 in Arkansas
National $/sqft × Arkansas's 0.92× labor multiplier × 320 sqft = total installed cost. Materials + labor + standard railing included.
Excludes permit ($105-$259 typical in Arkansas), demolition (if replacing), and exceptional framing for 12″ frost depth. Most AR jurisdictions modest fees ($120-180). Some small towns require no permit at all.
20×16 framing notes for Arkansas
Arkansas considerations
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FAQ — 20×16 deck in Arkansas
How much does a 20×16 deck cost in Arkansas?▾
In Arkansas, a 20×16 (320 sqft) deck costs $7,360-$11,840 in pressure-treated, $14,720-$23,680 in mid-range composite (Trex Transcend / Fiberon Sanctuary), and $22,080-$32,320 in luxury composite/PVC (TimberTech AZEK / Trex Signature). Numbers reflect Arkansas's 0.92× labor multiplier on 2026-Q1 retail.
What's the cheapest way to build a 20×16 deck in Arkansas?▾
Cheapest = ground-level pressure-treated pine with no railings (where exempt under 30″ height) — ~$5,888-$8,832 in Arkansas. Add stairs + railings + above-grade framing and the build goes to ~$8,243-$11,776. DIY saves 30-50% on labor but requires permit + inspection coordination yourself.
How long does it take to build a 20×16 deck in Arkansas?▾
Permit timeline in Arkansas: 2-6 weeks depending on jurisdiction. Construction time for a 20×16: pro crew = 5-8 days for framing + boards + railings + stairs. DIY = 3-5 weekends for experienced DIYer. Allow extra time for permit approval + inspections.
What framing do I need for a 20×16 deck in Arkansas?▾
IRC R507-compliant framing for a 20×16 deck typically uses 2×8 joists at 16″ OC for spans up to 12 ft, 2×10 joists for spans 12-16 ft. Arkansas's frost depth is 12″ — footings must extend below that per IRC R403.1.4. Sonotube 10-12″ diameter at 12″ depth is typical. Verify with your local building department.
Is composite worth it for a 20×16 deck in Arkansas?▾
Over 25 years in Arkansas: PT pine = ~$8,832 install + ~$18,400 maintenance (stain every 2-3 yr) = $27,232 total. Mid composite = ~$17,075 install + $0 maintenance = $17,075 total. Composite wins by 59-81% over 25-yr lifecycle PLUS better resale value in Arkansas's market.