What to Know Before Building Your New Deck


 

Of course, people don't seem to get enough time outside after the winter. However, homeowners can make the most out of the hot weather by adding a deck to their home. Several studies have revealed the recent rise for the demand of decks. Here are some of the things to consider before adding a new deck to your home.

Deck Shape and Style

Only imagination and budget can limit your efforts to build a customized deck. With creativity, a homeowner can construct anything from more intricate designs to classic-style decks that come with features such as built-in seats, complex shape, and multiple levels. You can also incorporate a little ingenuity to design a multi-level deck that has a shade-bearing tree. The design of a house may also dictate the size and shape of a deck. For example, a deck that has carved railings may not fit onto a modern linear home. Following the architecture, proportions, and lines of the house can help construct an attractive deck. Of course, every homeowner wants a well-designed deck that can enhance the beauty of their property.

Deck Use

You need to know how you will use the deck before meeting with a contractor. The common uses of decks include a spa or pool entrance, dining, grilling, and entertainment. You could also build a deck as an extension for your indoor living space. A deck can also be an ideal option for people living in a region where there are several hot months in a year.

Location

Your landscape and lot size are the primary factors that dictate the position of a deck. However, people that are lucky to have more than one home can consider factors such as view, privacy, shade and sun exposure, and access before attaching a deck to their house. The best place to build a deck might be on the side or corner of the room where there is a scenic view. A deck is a meaningful addition to a property, and a deck with a view can increase the value of a property and its home warranty.

Decking Material

Wood and composite boards, which are a mix of plastic and fibers are today's common decking materials. However, no deck material option beats the beauty of natural wood. While wooden decks are less expensive to build, their maintenance might involve prevention of splintering, cracking, and drying. In contrast, composite decks require little maintenance, and as a result, their popularity is on the rise. Decks made of hardwood are naturally beautiful and resistant to decay and rot. A hardwood deck can cost more than other option, but it can last for up two decades without preservation.

Skills

It's possible for an ordinary homeowner to construct a freestanding platform deck, but this depends on the efforts put into the project. You might also require specific engineering, carpentry, and DIY experience and skills. For example, homeowners might need to learn to work with a circular saw. However, homeowners might need to hire a professional builder if they want their decks positioned on grounds such as unstable soil, over water, or in clay or mud. You could also want to build your multi-level deck on a high ground that requires specialized engineering skills. Homeowners that are doubtful as to whether their skills are adequate or not to construct a concrete deck on a questionable ground should seek the assistance of a professional builder.

Budget

Of course, money tends to stand in the way of almost everything. However, every practical adult is aware that it costs money to construct anything, and decks are no exception. You might need to consider factors such as intricacy of design, cost, and choice of lumber, and size before plunging into a project of constructing a deck. You can get creative by using loose or brick materials to cut down the cost of construction or add a deck next to a structure made of concrete.

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