Building An Outside Deck
One of the most beautiful additions to any home is a deck. Not
only does it add beauty, a deck also adds value to your home.
But there is much to think of when preparing to build a deck. A
poorly built deck can be a disaster. Following are 10 things to
consider before you build your deck.
1. Purpose
First of all, what is going to be the primary purpose of your
deck? Entertaining guests -- you'll need to consider how many
guests you want the deck to hold, because more guests equal more
weight. A play area for small children -- safety is essential.
Whatever your intended purpose, think it all the way through
before starting to build.
2. Location, Location, Location
The next thing to consider is the location. Landscaping issues
may crop up exactly where you think you should place your deck.
You should consider entrances and exits to your home. Access to
your deck is essential -- if you can't get there, you can't
enjoy it.
3. Deck Plan
You will need to have a deck plan, which will serve as a guide
for the entire project. It doesn't require a professional
work-up, but you should be thorough.
4. Attaching Deck To Your Home
There are many ways that a deck can be attached to your home.
Although the deck can be freestanding, it is not very practical
or safe. If you decide to attach your deck to the house, you
will need to decide how you will cut away the siding at the
joining point. You will also need to determine if the framing of
your home is strong enough for the deck.
5. Deck Supports
Deck supports are an important part of this process, so you will
need to decide exactly how many footings and posts you will
need, and where to place them.
6. Decking Material
What type of decking material do you plan to use? Composite
decking materials are a good choice because they have been
chemically engineered to avoid the problems of traditional wood.
However, if wood is your choice, redwood, cedar and pressure
treated pine are all popular because they resist rot and decay.
If you choose another wood decking material, you will often need
to provide protectant and sealant material.
7. Permits
Remember, different areas have different zoning laws and
requirements so it is important to find out what permits will be
required to build your deck in your area. While some areas
require an official building permit, others will require only a
periodic site inspection. Some require both. Check with your
city government to decide what actions you need to take.
8. Tool Time
Make sure you have all the tools on hand that you will need for
the project. There may be additional expenses added to the
project to buy these tools. If you do not have this kind of
experience, you should consider the next point very carefully.
9. Professional Help
Decking is a big project to undertake if you are a weekend
handyman. If you have little construction experience, decking is
not a good beginning learning project. Poorly built decks are
very dangerous. If you cannot handle the project, it needs to be
in the hands of a professional.
10. Extras
The final thing to consider is any extras you might want to
build into and onto your deck. You might add a decorative
handrail or you might want flower boxes on each corner, or
perhaps built-in seating for your guests. Whatever extras you
choose will personalize your deck.
All Decked Out
Although building an outside deck can be a huge undertaking, it
is a great place for many activities -- sunbathing, barbecues
with friends, a safe place for the children to play, or a hot
tub. To name a few.
About the author:
Visit Build
Deck to learn more. Ron King is a full-time researcher,
writer, and web developer, visit his website at Articles for
authors
Copyright 2006 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the
resource box is left intact and the links live.
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