Things to Consider When Planning a New Deck
If you are building a new home or replacing a current patio with a deck there are a lot of things to consider. It is not enough to see a photo of a deck that you like and just try to duplicate it. You need to consider the land and environment, as well as how your deck will primarily be used.
Questions to Ask
Determine the answers to at least most of the following questions:
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Are there neighborhood or city restrictions?
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What styles are available, and which will best suit your needs?
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Is your property level or sloped?
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How accessible do you want the deck to be?
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Is there a finish you prefer?
What is the Purpose of the Deck?
Obviously, the main purpose is to be able to open your patio doors enjoy the outdoors, but a well-designed deck can also express your lifestyle. The deck’s size, style, and decorative details should be an extension of your personality and personal taste. For example, adorning the deck with glass could be a good way of portraying your modern taste. Moreover, a glass wall deck can provide you with privacy without compromising on style. But you have to ask this to yourself–will the deck be used mainly for the family to enjoy meals outdoors, or do you do a lot of entertaining?
The deck should also complement its environment. Therefore, trying to duplicate one you see in a magazine is not necessarily a good idea because it may look all wrong for your property, despite the fact that you love its style and finish.
You can install furniture as well on the deck to enjoy a quiet summer night outside with family or friends. If you have enough space, you can also convert the deck into an outdoor dining space. For that, you can buy a reclaimed wood dining table or furniture in other material. Perhaps, you may also install a barbecue grill to enjoy delicious food.
Consider Location
Contrary to popular belief, the deck does not have to be directly outside your back door. It is also perfectly acceptable to have a patio like those at Milwaukee Concrete Patio Installation, and other concrete companies, right outside the door, with a deck elsewhere on the property. There is nothing wrong with creating a walkway to the rear of your yard and building beneath those great big mature evergreens. However, when you build it right behind the house, you can take advantage of the exterior wall. This blocks wind and gives you the opportunity to decorate with outdoor canvas art, which you can find online at websites like SoothingCompany.com.
Existing vegetation, the slope of the grade, and climate will play roles in your decision. Pay attention to the terrain, as well. Loose, sandy soil is fabulous for gardening, but it may not provide the lasting stability you need without a lot of extra support. An area that receives direct sunlight in the hot afternoon will be uncomfortable, unless you are adding umbrellas.
Lastly, if you plan on decorating the deck or nearby gardens with trellises, benches, plants, or pavilions they may influence some of your deck’s design decisions.
