How to Build a Covered Deck

One way to improve the visual appeal and functionality of a home is to build a covered deck addition. With an outdoor covered deck, you can create more space to use outdoors for relaxing and entertaining. By implementing various covered deck ideas, Chicago homeowners can create the deck space they want or enhance an existing deck with various features and amenities. At UglyDeck, we offer products and services that help you achieve the deck design you desire for enhanced outdoor living.

The following is only a general explanation of some of the steps that may be employed in the building of a deck. These steps are not a substitute for a more detailed deck design and construction process that may be required for your deck building project.

1. Choose Your Decking Material

There are various options to consider when it comes to decking materials, including redwood, cedar, standard framing lumber, and man-made deck boards. Traditionally, redwood and cedar have been in-demand materials for deck building, although they are less common now due to their high cost. Man-made decking, such as composite boards are higher priced, but require no deck stain or other special maintenance. They are highly weather resistant without the need for staining or sealing.

2. Design the Deck

The design of the deck should include consideration for how the deck is to be used, whether for family use, entertaining guests, or both. The size and shape of the deck should be based on the purpose of the deck and the amenities you may want on the deck, such as an outdoor kitchen. There is various other design consideration to make, including style, lighting, and location of furniture. There are various covered deck ideas a homeowner can implement to enhance the design and appearance of a deck.

3. Build the Deck

The first step in building the deck is to install a concrete foundation from which you can then build the deck frame upon deck posts anchored into the concrete base. The decking may be constructed of single planks or alternatively shorter planks that meet and are connected to a support beam at each end.

The posts that support the cover (or roof) must be attached to the deck with metal anchors. Another design option is to use longer posts that support both the deck and the roof.

Installation of the rafters follows. The rafters must be supported properly while being connected to the structure.

Prior to adding the decking, any required framing for the deck railing should be completed. Stairs for the deck should be added after the decking is installed.

Possibilities for the deck cover include a ply or chipboard base covered with various possible materials including tiles or tarpaper to achieve the necessary waterproofing for the deck roof.

If you need covered deck ideas, look no further than our team at UglyDeck. For information about the deck products and services we offer, call us today at 331.300.3071 or complete our contact form to request a free quote.