Building a deck can be an amazing addition to your home, providing you with a sophisticated space for outdoor entertainment and relaxation. It can also add significant value to your home too. However, before you begin construction, there are a number of important considerations to take into account in order to ensure the success of your project.
1. Why are you building a home deck?
First of all, if you’re wondering what to consider before building a deck, it is a good idea to start by thinking about what purpose you will be using your deck for the most. Will it be primarily used for entertaining guests, or will it serve as a relaxing space for you and your family? This will determine the size, shape, and layout of your deck, as well as the types of features that should be included, such as built-in seating or a grill area.
2. Where will you put it?
Next, you should consider the location of your deck. Will it be attached to your home, or will it be a freestanding structure? The location will also determine the type of foundation that is required. An attached deck may need to be anchored to your home’s existing structure, while a freestanding deck will require a more substantial foundation, such as concrete footings.
3. Which materials will you use?
Another important consideration is the materials that will be used to construct your deck. The most common materials used for decks are wood, composite, and PVC decking. Each material has its own set of pros and cons, so it is important to consider the durability, maintenance, and cost of each option before making a decision. Wood decks are the most traditional and affordable option, but require regular maintenance and staining to prevent rot and decay. Composite and PVC decks are more durable and require less maintenance, but they come with a higher price tag.
4. What are the local city regulations?
When planning your deck, you should also consider the local building codes and zoning regulations in your area. These codes and regulations will determine the size and height of your deck, as well as the distance that it must be set back from property lines. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in costly fines and the need to tear down your newly built deck.
5. Should You hire a deck contractor?
Once you have considered all of these factors, it is important to create a detailed plan for your deck. This plan should include the layout and dimensions of the deck, as well as the location of any built-in features or amenities. It is also a good idea to consider the flow of traffic on the deck, as well as the location of any steps or ramps.
If you have not built a deck before, and you are not exactly a whizz when it comes to DIY, this can be a difficult thing to achieve, and it might be worth hiring a contractor to do the work for you.
It is important to choose a reputable contractor to construct your deck if you are not going down the DIY route. A good contractor will have lots of experience building decks and will be able to help you navigate the local building codes and regulations. They will also be able to provide you with a detailed estimate of the costs associated with your project so that you can budget accordingly.
6. What style of deck would you prefer?
You are also going to want to consider the overall aesthetic of your deck. Good deck design includes the color and style of the decking material, as well as the design of any built-in features or amenities. You should also consider the landscaping around your deck and how it will integrate with the overall design of your home, as well as deck accessories like lighting, railings, furniture, and accessories like pool tables and projector screens that make spending time on the deck more fun.
Some decks are more enclosed, so they create an extra room feel to the year, while others are more open and spacious to allow you to experience the great outdoors in all its glory, and of course, there are lots of different color schemes you can use from laid-back Morrocan to classic country garden, depending on what you love the most.
As you can see, building a deck is a great way to add value and style to your home, while making the yard more useable for you and your family, but it is important to consider a number of important factors before beginning construction. By taking the time to consider the factors we have looked at above, you can ensure that your deck will be a beautiful and functional addition to your home for years to come.
If you would like the assistance of professional deck builders, the team here at LeBlanc Decks are always on hand to help you build the best possible deck for your home.
Contact us today at (865) 919-3470.