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Planning a Deck
What Key Features and Attributes to Consider
when Planning Your Deck Addition Project
By Mark J. Donovan
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A deck is an extension of your home’s living space. Consequently prior to
planning a deck it is important to first figure out how you anticipate using
it. For example, will it be used frequently for entertaining and/or will it
include a barbeque area for grilling? Or instead, do you envision it more as
a sanctuary in the middle of a garden area. Also, do you expect to use it in
the evening hours and/or will it include a hot tub? All of these types of
questions affect your deck plans and deck construction costs. Answering
these questions ahead of time will help in the deck design and establishing
a budget. |
When planning a deck it is also important to consider the size and shape
of it. It goes without saying that the larger the deck is the more expensive
it will be. Another related consideration is whether or not the deck will
reside directly off of the home or it will be located somewhere else in your
yard. Even if the deck is expected to be situated directly off of the home
you will also want to decide if it should be complete freestanding or
attached directly to the home. A freestanding deck costs a bit more, however
there are less concerns of water damage to the home.
Deck design is another key element in the deck planning stage. There are a
plethora of places to get deck design ideas including magazines and online
websites. Basic elements of any deck design include the size and shape of
it, the deck building materials, railing systems, and stairs. Other elements
to consider in more elaborate deck plans include integrated lighting,
multi-level decks, built in benches, and built in deck/patio heating
systems.
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When it comes to deck building materials composite
decking is the material of choice with today’s high end homes. Composite
decking costs quite a bit more however your deck will last much longer
and require a lot less maintenance, which are two very important
benefits. Pressure treated decking material is still used extensively as
it is more affordable, however it will crack and split and will need
constant maintenance to mitigate these concerns. Mahogany decking is
another excellent alternative, however it too is expensive and requires
significant maintenance as well. |
In regards to the deck framing members use pressure treated lumber.
Depending upon the size of the deck you may need to use 4x4 or 6x6 pressure
treated posts. Also, the posts should be placed on concrete footings or
pre-manufactured concrete deck piers that penetrate into the ground below
the frost line for your local area. Check with your local building inspector
to determine the appropriate depth for digging your concrete footings.
Also, when planning a deck it is important to have your plans approved by
the local building inspector and pull the necessary construction permits.
Otherwise you could be fined and possibly even be told to tear the deck
down. The building inspector will evaluate the deck plans for the size and
location of the deck, its elevation above the ground, the railing system and
egress, the type of framing construction, and the method of construction to
the home.
Once your deck plans have been approved you can begin the real work of
building the deck. Keep in mind that during the construction you will most
likely need to call the building inspect out to review the construction. He
will also need to inspect the deck when it is complete.
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For more help on building a new Deck, see HomeAdditionPlus.com's
Deck Installation Bid Sheet.
The
Deck Installation Bid Sheet
will teach your how to hire the right deck contractor, and help to ensure that your
deck project is completed on time and budget.
How to Finance your Deck Project -
can help provide funds for your new home improvement project if financing is
required.
Related Information
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