You will have to put a lot more planning and consideration into the construction of a new deck than you could into the remodeling of your interior bathroom, for example. In addition to choosing between the elevated deck and a patio, you will also have to consider the materials you will need, the space you want to build and choose between handling the specifics of the project yourself or hiring a contractor to handle this project.
Function and Uses
Some top reasons to use a deck include:
• As a pool or spa surround
• Dining
• Entertaining
• Container gardening or growing a patio garden
• Privacy
Location, Location, Location
Most often, it is the size of the property and position of the building that sets the location of the deck. You may need to consider the following points when choosing location:
• Rain and snow
• Microclimates
• Size of lot
• Sun and shade
• Proximity to house
• Wind
• Privacy
• View
Budget
You will want to make sure you have the means to begin and finish this project before you get started. You will want to consider:
• Size of deck
• Who’s going to build it: you or a contractor
• Intricacy of design
• Choice of lumber and cost.
• Extras: built-in seating, grow beds, etc.
Do You Have DIY Skills Required for this Task?
Decks are not the easiest project to take on if you are a novice DIY technician. Are you planning to build your deck on potentially unstable ground like sand, mud, water or clay? Will you be building a deck off the ground and will it require special planning and engineering? Do you have the confidence and practice to work with concrete? If you are in doubt about any of these pointers, it would be best for you to contact a professional to help with the project.
Deck Design, Size and Shape
The size of your deck will be decided mainly by the location you intend to place it and your budget. The shape of the deck could be chosen to match the shape or contours of the home. Be sure to follow the flow, properties and architecture of your home for best results. This will result in a natural extension and seamless look that is greatly valued in these projects.
In addition to being a functional part of the home, a well-designed deck must also enhance the beauty of the property. Make sure the deck you choose:
• Complements rather than competes with a property architecture.
• Flows with the surrounding landscape design.
Extras: Railings, Roofs, Privacy Fencing and; Other Deck Structures
The simple platform deck is the easiest thing to build and clean and boasts a classic appeal. But, not always, if your deck is being built any higher than a few feet from the floor, you will need railings to keep people safe.
Building Codes and Legal Requirements
So that the project is legal, you will need to ensure that the blueprints are approved by the city building codes and requirements. The specifics of these laws are different from state to state and city to city, so you will need to check the local city council website to get specifics on building permits, codes and the list of other requirements for adding these structures to your home.
And, it would be a good idea for you to do this research before you get too far in your planning for material selection and other details of the projects.
Deck Lighting
If you plan on using your deck in the evening and the night, there are bountiful options for light fixtures that will greatly enhance the ambiance. In addition to safety, the right lighting will also add improved safety to your deck area. Make sure you know where you will need your lighting, the type of fixtures you will want and how much lighting you will require. There are many details to these projects, so if you aren’t an experienced electrician, you may need to get some help.
Types of lights you may consider for your deck include:
• Recessed stair or step lights
• Landscaping spotlights
• Path lights
• Overhead lights
• Wall or post-mounted lights
• Outdoor kitchen lighting
Storage, Seating and Planter Boxes
What will you need to store?
• Garden tools
• Children’s toys
• Outdoor patio cushions
• Outdoor furniture
A built-in bench is always a nice touch and can even serve as a railing. By using the same wood you applied in the construction of your deck you can give the entire thing a sleek seamless look. This also goes for grow beds and planter boxes that can make the entire location look sophisticated. This can also connect the deck with the garden and this always looks amazing.
Call UglyDeck today at 952-736-3308 or visit our online store at https://uglydeck.com/store/
