Whether you’re a DIY-er with a penchant for adventure or you’re looking to hire some deck builders for your project, you’ll find some useful tips here. This summer is going to be beautiful and you’re going to love spending some quality time outdoors with your family. What better way to enjoy the summer weather in the comfort of your own backyard than with a brand new deck! There are some really fun deck trends going on this season. In this article, we’ll be discussing plans for a deck, some great deck designs, how to use composite decking materials in your design and how to build a deck. Here are some helpful tips to get you off on the right foot with your deck:
Deck Plans and Deck Design
When you’re making plans for a deck, you should consider what you currently do in your yard and how you feel a deck would enhance those activities or encourage new ones. What kind of space do you have in your yard to accommodate your new deck? Will you have easy access to the deck? What views would you like to see?
When you design a deck, be sure to think about the particular opportunities and limitations that your property has first, then check out some resources for visual inspiration. There are great places to find pictures of decks that you like on the web and at the bookstore, and to really pinpoint exactly what kinds of deck features you’re looking for. I recommend “Deck Ideas You Can Use” by Chris Peterson.
There are so many beautiful deck designs (nicely shown on Decks.com) to choose from such as:
- Contemporary decks with sleek lines and simple decking materials.
- Symmetrical colonial designs with white deck railings and post caps.
- Traditional deck designs usually constructed as octagons are reminiscent of country homes and have a comfortable feel.
- Rustic Mountain style decks have the attitude of a log cabin in the woods.
- Gray composite decking is common in coastal deck design to blend into the ocean landscape.
It’s all about your space and your lifestyle that will determine what kind of deck is right for you. Deck design is also a great way for you to think outside the box and show your creativity through your home.
Deck Composite Materials
You may notice that composite decking materials (made of both plastic and wood fiber) are popular in just about all of these deck designs because there are a wide variety of different types you can buy. According to an article on PopularMechanics.com, “Composite decking and its cousin, plastic lumber, represent the fastest-growing decking materials sold today.” Composite decking is a great strategy to make your deck last as long as possible with little maintenance (not no maintenance because mold and mildew can still grow on these surfaces made with wood fibers). Be sure to visit Decks.com to find out about recommended brands for composite decking material.
How to Build a Deck
Building a deck is one of the best DIY building projects because it’s not as difficult as many other building projects, but it is a challenge. Take a look at this in-depth guide to building an On-Grade Deck we found on This Old House if you’re ready to take the plunge, but be prepared… You will need some common equipment from your toolbox (which you can find under “Tools List” at that link), and lots of extra time and energy.
Thank you for reading and good luck to you!
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