What to Consider Before Building a Deck at Home

Written by Posted On Friday, 23 June 2017 14:27

Cedar DeckingBuilding a deck is an excellent idea! With the wooden platform stretching your home into the yard, you automatically have hundreds of reasons for spending more time outdoors. Think about it! Your house won't only be your friends' favorite go-to place but also kind of bigger. When the weather starts warming up, you can spend time outdoors either with the family or alone. You can decorate it the way you want, have dinner, enjoy a party, read the paper – you name it. Not to mention that property value goes up. There are only benefits when it comes to deck builder toronto.

BUT… it seems to always have a ‘but’ in the equation. Here the main concern is your safety. On top of that, there are matters associated with the structure. Building an outdoor decking is not just about making a frame and throwing it in the garden. And not all decks are built in the yard. You might decide to build a roof deck. So, you need to consider several factors before you start such projects – just to be sure they are done correctly.


IMG 02324 things to consider before deck building

1. Location
There are three ways to approach the ‘location’ concern before building a deck. And they are all very important.
a. The first consideration is the actual location of the deck. Will it be a yard or roof deck construction? It's important to consider abnormalities, frost level, or sloped areas in the landscape. As for the roof, it's vital to consider matters related to engineering to avoid floods and thus leaks in the house.
b. When it comes to garden decks, you need to consider the space which is available. The good news is that your deck doesn't have to be attached to the house. You can install it anywhere in the garden. But you need to measure well and consider if there are veg gardens, trees, etc. in the way.
c. Having custom decks at home is nice. Having decks with a view is great. So make sure you choose the right angle and the most convenient part of the yard to build a deck. With that said, don't forget to consider sun exposure and other elements that will take a toll on your deck.

2. Material
Choosing the right deck material is important to the aesthetics, durability, and maintenance. But it also has to do with your budget. Ideally and traditionally for that matter, decks are made of wood. Your options range between soft and hardwood.
• Spruce, pine, and cedar deck building fall into the category of softwood. They are usually pressure treated and need annual maintenance.
• Hardwood, like oak, mahogany, and ipe decking, is more durable and thus needs care every few years. But they are more expensive.
• Your last choice will be composite decking. These are a mix of plastic resin and wood fibers and give the impression of real wood. They are more resistant and thus more expensive.

3. Budget
Money always gets in the way. Doesn't it? Consider your budget and remember that the material of the deck is not the only factor, which will determine the cost. The final price will change based on deck size, design, whether this is a DIY project or you hire a deck contractor, and extras, like if you also do any other woodwork (pergolas, railings etc.)
4. Building codes
There are building codes in each region and must be followed to the letter. Actually, you need to get a permit before building a deck. But then again, this ensures your safety.

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