What To Consider When Building A Deck (2)

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUILDING A DECK

Table of Contents
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    A deck is a great addition to any house, old or new. A deck can increase your home's value in some areas and with certain renovations. Just make it awesome! As one of the cheapest ways to improve your home's value, you should invest in doing it well. If you're thinking about building a deck, here are some things to think about first.

    A deck is a great addition to any house, but there are many different kinds. For instance, a deck is a practical addition to a home on a sloping property. The natural incline of the land makes for an elevated terrace, ideal for enjoying the scenery and providing for easy access to the ground below via stairs. As a result of the sloping terrain, many houses only appear to be one story from the street. Having a deck as an alternative to the front entrance and travelling around the house is a great way to improve the use of your home. Decks are a natural addition to homes with walk-out basements and garages with drive-under access.

    Looking for home deck services? Look no further! Hitch Property Constructions has you covered.

    Don't discount the idea of a deck just because your lot isn't particularly steep. An on-grade deck, which is a deck built at the same level as the ground, can provide the same sort of outdoor living space that modern homeowners appreciate. Clearing and excavating the area for drainage is essential, and in some cases, a sloped concrete slab may be needed to prevent water from collecting directly under the boards. Space for air to circulate is important for preventing decay.

    What To Consider When Building A Deck

    10 Things to Consider When Building a Deck

    There is a lot of planning and consideration that goes into designing and building a deck for outdoor use. It's important to plan ahead by deciding if you'll build the deck yourself or hire a professional, how large it will be, how much you're willing to spend, and what materials you'll use.

    Before you start planning, creating, and building that deck, make sure you think about these ten factors to help you avoid common pitfalls.

    The Deck's Purpose and Function

    If you are fortunate enough to live in a region where summers are long and mild, a deck may be just what you need to take full advantage of the outdoors for a longer period of the year. Thoughtfully contemplate the various deck-related uses that may occur to you. Once you have a clear notion of its function and purpose, the design process will go much more smoothly.

    The Deck's Location

    Sometimes there is no doubt about where a deck should go, but other times, there may be several viable options. As such, the optimum area for your deck will be determined by the specific purposes you have in mind for it.

    The Budget for Building a Deck

    The size, shape, and materials of your deck will be determined by your budget. Consider the price of permits and labour if you plan to hire a professional to handle the design and construction. The extras, such built-in seats, flower boxes, railings, and lighting, that you'd like to have on your decks should be considered as well.

    Can You Build It Yourself?

    DIY deck construction is a great way to cut costs. In addition to being simple in design, platform decks have an impression of pristine modernity. A simple platform may be built by anyone, but if you want anything fancier, this is a job for seasoned DIYers. Hitch Property Constructions offers a comprehensive selection of decking services throughout the Melbourne area.

    One option is to hire a professional deck builder, but if you have the time and inclination, building the deck yourself may be a better choice. Think long and hard about whether you want to spend your free time sawing and nailing wood, or whether you would rather hire a contractor or subcontractor to do the work for you.

    Know Deck Material Options

    It's not necessary to use wood for a deck; there are alternative materials available. If you want a low-maintenance deck, but wood is too expensive or too much of a hassle, you now have more options. For decking, you can use wood, plastic, or even metal.

    • Pine, cedar, and redwood are all examples of pressure-treated woods that are noted for their traditional, cosy aesthetic because of the wood and preservatives they contain for weather protection.
    • Some of the hardest and longest lasting wood comes from Brazil, including teak, ipe, and other species.
    • Easy-care composite decking manufactured from recycled wood fibres and polymers is more expensive than traditional wood but requires less upkeep.
    • Plastic or PVC planks won't rot or warp, but they can be pricey, uncomfortable to walk on, and scorching hot in the heat.
    • Aluminum decking is highly slip-resistant and, thus, suitable for wet regions, but it is also quite pricey.

    Consider the Deck's Style

    The deck's style may be decided by the overall look of your home. A deck shouldn't try to outdo the style of your home; instead, it should serve to accentuate it. For instance, a deck that is circular or curved, complete with elaborately carved railings, may not work with some house designs, while it may look great with others. Make sure your outdoor area looks and feels like an organic extension of your home by taking into account the proportions, lines, and architecture of your building.

    Include Deck Lighting

    Deck lighting can take several forms. Deck lighting not only makes a space feel more secure and festive, but it also adds a touch of romance. The amount of lighting and the type of fixtures you select will have an effect on both the design of your deck and its final cost (for instance, wired or solar).

    Consider Built-Ins

    A deck can be lit in numerous ways. There is a direct correlation between the amount of lighting on a deck and the feeling of both celebration and romance. The layout and budget of your deck will be affected positively or negatively by the amount of lighting and the style of lights you choose (for instance, wired or solar).

    Think About Privacy

    Building a deck is not always possible in the most perfect of places. Unfortunately, there will be occasions when you have to pick a spot that doesn't give you quite as much privacy as you'd want. If your deck overlooks your neighbours' yard or if you can see directly into their backyard, you may want to add privacy screening to block your view. When it comes to constructing a personal space barrier, you can get very inventive. One option for seclusion is to plant trees and shrubs to create a living fence, and another is to build a screen to instal above the deck.

    Know the Building Codes

    Before you start laying deck boards, it's a good idea to call your local municipality to find out the specific building codes and legal procedures that must be followed. The town's blessing may be required before construction may begin. The rules and permit requirements for residential structure expansions or remodelling projects might differ from city to city and state to state, so it is vital to do some research before selecting supplies for your deck's project. Professional deck designers and builders will be conversant with local ordinances and laws, as well as the necessary permits and paperwork, and will therefore be able to streamline the process for you.

    The Benefits of Building a Deck For Your House

    Putting in a deck may seem like a big project. Your options are limited by room, budget, and more. The addition of a deck seems unnecessary. Which is better, the pros or the cons? Decking in Melbourne, please see our page.

    To which only you know the answer. We can't advise you whether or not to build a deck, but we can explain why you would want to. Deck advantages, if any? They're pretty big.

    Here are eight good reasons to "add a deck" that we've listed. Many homes could benefit from having one built for them, depending on their budget, yard size, demands, and personal preferences.

    Decks Improve the Value of Your Home

    As a general rule, the value of your home will rise if you have an addition constructed on it that meets building codes and is completed by qualified professionals (if not a universal one). If you are considering selling your current residence, a deck addition is one of the best ways to maximise your investment. The extent to which this is true is proportional to both the deck's quality and the amount of area it occupies in your yard.

    Decks Add Functionality

    Outdoor living spaces like decks and patios increase the value of your house by giving you more area to enjoy the outdoors. Do you ever get a craving for grilled cuisine during the cooler months? This may prove challenging in the unlevel icy yard, but what about a covered deck or awning? Not at all!

    Decks Add Livable Space

    Adding a deck to your home will not only boost its functionality, but it will also provide you more usable square footage. You'll be able to keep more of your camping gear, and you'll have more room to work, play, and hang out with your loved ones in.

    Decks Improve Yard Aesthetics

    Gardening, constructing a gorgeous pergola, installing some privacy fencing, sodding the lawn, etc. are just a few of the many ways you can improve the visual appeal of your yard. However, the visual appeal of your backyard can be enhanced by building a deck. With some careful preparation, the visual appeal of a well-finished wood deck can elevate even the most modest backyard to the level of opulence.

    Decks are Low Maintenance

    Your deck, unlike most of your home's other rooms, should be low maintenance and take less work to keep looking beautiful. If you're planning on renovating your kitchen, for example, be aware that you may spend more time cleaning afterwards. On the other hand, you may find that you spend less time sweeping and washing the deck following the renovation. Other than that, they rarely require any sort of upkeep on your part. A lengthy service life is a must for any weatherproofing stain.

    Decks are Relatively Inexpensive

    When compared to the cost of other home improvements, building a deck may be done for relatively little money. The typical cost of a deck installation is above $7,200. To add on to or renovate a kitchen professionally will typically cost around $30,000.

    When compared to the average cost of $8000 to do the work yourself, this option is even more cost-effective. Some decks can be built for as low as $2,000, while larger, more elaborate decks might cost as much as $18,000.

    Decks Provide Peace and Quiet

    Everyone has experienced a time when they wished they could disappear, if only temporarily. Going outside onto a deck, patio, or porch for a while, releasing pent-up frustrations, and then returning inside to finish your stressful task is a great way to de-stress.

    There are more and more people who work from home, and many of them have found that a deck, on a lovely day, may also function as a peaceful and quiet outdoor office place. One of the most relaxing and productive ways to keep working is to take your laptop and a cup of iced tea outside.

    Decks are a Lot of Fun!

    Envision yourself sipping coffee on your deck while watching birds forage for bits of bread on the dewy grass below on a sunny summer morning. That might be enough to get some of you thinking about building a deck.

    Also, a deck that looks well can make parties much more enjoyable. It's a beautiful day, and you and your loved ones are enjoying the outdoors by grilling some tasty food, listening to music, and playing card games, with all the comforts of your home conveniently close at hand. Isn't that, if I may paraphrase, the textbook definition of a good life?

    Should You Build a Deck Yourself, or Hire Pros?

    If you're thinking of adding a deck to your home because you enjoy spending time outdoors, you may be trying to decide whether it would be preferable to build the deck yourself or pay someone else to do it. To what extent you are knowledgeable and resourceful will be reflected in your answer to that question.

    In comparison to hiring experts, you can save a lot of money by building your own deck. It's best not to take on the challenge alone. Some of you reading this may be perfectly capable of finishing the task on your own without any help from the enticing home improvement shows on television or the online instructional videos that can be accessed on the internet.

    You should just know your limits and give some thought to whether or not this is the sort of low-risk activity that you excel at.

    Conclusion

    Any home, whether old or new, can benefit from the installation of a deck. Walk-out basements and garages are ideal places for decks. The same amount of outside space can be had with an on-grade deck, which is a deck that is built at the same level as the ground. Your spending limit will dictate how big your deck can be and what kind of materials you can use. You might save money and time by constructing the deck on your own.

    Plastic, aluminium, and low-maintenance composite decking are all viable alternatives to wooden decking. In wet areas, aluminium decking is a good choice because to its high slip resistance, although it may be fairly costly. Deck lighting improves safety, amps up the party vibe, and even adds a little romance to the mix. The style and cost of your deck will be impacted by the amount and type of lighting you instal. Reasons Why You Should Construct a Deck on Your Home.

    One of these may be a great addition to many houses. Raising the outdoor living space of your property might increase its resale value. One of the best methods to increase the value of your home before selling is to build a deck. As opposed to other outdoor living spaces, decks require minimal upkeep to retain their stunning appearance. Although more ornate decks can run upwards of $18,000, smaller, simpler decks can be built for as little as $2,000.

    Deck installation typically costs more than $7,200. You may be debating whether it's better to build the deck yourself or to hire a professional if you're considering adding a deck to your home so that you can spend more time outdoors. If you construct your own deck rather than paying a company to do it, you can save a lot of money.

    Content Summary

    • A deck is a great addition to any house, old or new.
    • A deck can increase your home's value in some areas and with certain renovations.
    • The size, shape, and materials of your deck will be determined by your budget.
    • Consider the price of permits and labour if you plan to hire a professional to handle the design and construction.
    • The deck's style may be decided by the overall look of your home.
    • The layout and budget of your deck will be affected positively or negatively by the amount of lighting and the style of lights you choose (for instance, wired or solar).
    • Building a deck is not always possible in the most perfect of places.
    • When it comes to constructing a personal space barrier, you can get very inventive.
    • Before you start laying deck boards, it's a good idea to call your local municipality to find out the specific building codes and legal procedures that must be followed.
    • The addition of a deck seems unnecessary.
    • Here are eight good reasons to "add a deck" that we've listed.
    • are just a few of the many ways you can improve the visual appeal of your yard.
    • However, the visual appeal of your backyard can be enhanced by building a deck.
    • If you're thinking of adding a deck to your home because you enjoy spending time outdoors, you may be trying to decide whether it would be preferable to build the deck yourself or pay someone else to do it.
    • In comparison to hiring experts, you can save a lot of money by building your own deck.

    FAQs About Building decks

    In a crawlspace under a house, the air moisture can easily be dominated by the soil moisture and is one reason that a vapor barrier is used. The tar paper over the joists and under the decking is a VERY GOOD idea and it is one of the best things that can be done to prevent decay of the joists.

    Make sure you build your deck high enough for ventilation so the ground can dry out. That way, your deck will last longer. Generally, if a deck is less than 12 inches above the ground, the perimeter of the deck must be open for free air to flow beneath the deck.

    Yes. It's possible to build a deck without digging holes. This type of deck is called a floating deck, and it sits right on top of the ground without any posts or support areas that you'd dig down into the ground [to secure].

    Now here are your two options for laying your decking. You can either build it directly on the ground or square the site and build it on top of risers as a floating deck. If you lay it directly on the ground, you may find that it's more susceptible to absorbing moisture and might need additional maintenance.

    A floating deck is a deck that isn't attached to a building and they “float” above the ground. Generally, floating decks are low to the ground and don't require handrails or even staircases. They are sometimes called “grade-level” or “freestanding” decks because they're built just above the ground level, or grade.

    Google Rating
    5.0
    Based on 12 reviews
    js_loader
    Scroll to Top