Home renovations are the easiest way to make a cookie-cutter house feel like your dream home. If you’re considering renovating or adding new elements to your space, including building a deck, you’re not alone. In fact, more than 90 percent of homeowners plan to renovate or remodel their houses every year.
Building a deck is one of the best improvements you can make for your house. It adds usable space, increases your property value, and makes it easier for you and your family to enjoy the great outdoors.
Before you start building your deck, you need to consider these key factors if you want the project to go off without a hitch.
1. Figure Out Your Budget
Before you can start looking into different types of decks for your home, you need to think about how much money you’re willing to spend on the project. The cost of every deck varies based on the materials you choose, the permits you need, and how you build the deck itself.
Think about how much money you’re willing to spend on the project. If you have savings, consider how much you’re willing to use toward the deck build. If you’re financing the project, consider how much money your lender is willing to give you.
This number is your fixed budget. You’ll need to keep your costs at or below that amount if at all possible.
2. Identify How You’ll Use the Deck
Before you can start building your deck, think about how you’ll use the space. Are you planning on creating an outdoor living area to host gatherings? Or are you hoping to create a fully functional outdoor kitchen?
Once you know how you’ll use the deck, create a list of features you want the structure to include and support. This will help you better determine the types of materials you need and the overall layout of the project.
If you’re not sure where to start, look to your neighbors for guidance. See how they use their backyard deck and make note of the features you like about their design.
3. Think About Where You Want the Deck
Deck placement matters. Picking the right spot encourages you and your family to use the space while choosing the wrong location makes using it less enjoyable.
Think about where you want the deck built in the first place. Pay attention to the way the sun hits your yard at different times and choose a spot that works with the lighting. You want the space to be comfortable for as many hours of the day as possible.
Remember, you don’t have to attach the deck to the house unless you want to. You can build it wherever you get the best view or in the spot where you’ll use the deck most often.
4. Consider the Best Materials for the Project
There are dozens of different types of decking materials you can choose from and the best option for your home largely depends on what you want out of the deck.
Composite materials are long-lasting and durable, but they look synthetic and won’t add as much value to your property. Further, they’re harder to stain or paint if you ever want to refresh the look of your home’s exterior.
Natural hardwood materials like Ipe or Garapa wood last for decades with minimal maintenance. Since they’re natural wood planks, you’re able to stain, paint, and refinish them with ease anytime you want to refresh your deck’s appearance.
Keep in mind that natural hardwood can cost more upfront. But you’ll end up spending less on maintenance over the life of the deck. If you’re planning on staying in your home for several years, natural hardwood decking is the best choice.
5. Think About the Color You Want
No matter what materials you choose, you’ll need to figure out what color you want the deck to be. Think about how the deck will interact with your landscaping and your home’s design.
Many people choose to use a natural wood finish to give the deck a rustic feel. But that doesn’t mean you have to. You’re free to paint it whatever color you want if you think it will make the space work better with your home’s exterior.
As a general rule, avoid painting the deck the same color as your home’s siding. This way, it will be able to stand out and pop.
6. Find Out What Permits You Need
No matter what size of deck you build, you’ll need to secure building permits with your city or county. Without those permits in place, you risk costly fines and fees if you build the deck.
Take the time to research the types of permits you’ll need and any local building code restrictions you’ll need to be mindful of when construction starts. If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, make sure you find out about any restrictions they have in place before you start working, too.
The last thing any homeowner wants to deal with is having to take down a new deck because the HOA deems it unsightly.
7. Decide Between DIY and Professional Installation
Ultimately, you’ll need to figure out who will build the deck for your home. If you’re handy and confident that you can figure out how to build a deck yourself, you’re free to do so. However, if you’re not sure, it’s best to work with a professional.
Look for a general contractor that’s familiar with the building restrictions in your area and one that’s built several types of decks in the past. Review their portfolio in detail to make sure they’re able to bring your vision to life.
Building a Deck Is a Great Investment
If you’re looking for a simple way to add functionality and value to your home, building a deck is one of the best projects. Make sure you think about these key factors before you start construction and you’ll be able to get the best deck for your money.
Just make sure to invest in the highest quality materials possible. The better your decking is, the longer your deck will last.
Check out our selection of high-quality hardwood decking and don’t hesitate to reach out for advice or to place an order today.