How to Plan a Deck
(Portions are applicable to porches & gazebos)
Most folks use a deck as the central gathering and entertainment focus
for their entire back yard. Therefore how the deck is designed becomes
critical. If planned correctly, your deck will custom fit your house,
your terrain, your lifestyle, and your budget. Plan your deck carefully
now and years down the road you will be glad you did!
Considerations, Problems & Pitfalls
Question: "What kinds of things should I be aware of as I plan
my new deck?"
Answer: How will you use your deck? For example, do you need lots of
room for entertaining large numbers of people? Will there be sunbathing?
If so, better insure a portion of the deck will be in the sun (dah).
Cooking on the deck? You might want to design a small area for grilling close
to the door (but not up against the house siding). Small children? Think about
minimizing the number of level changes and consider having a gate. And think
about not building benches beside railings to make it less likely a toddler
will climb over the railing. Will the deck lead to a pool? Definately have a
self-latching gate. Will a spa be
added
to the deck?
It must be properly reinforced. Will a
screen
porch be added
in
the
future?
Add the screening and substructure now... it will save you thousands
later. Will you want permanent seating? Flower boxes? If so, will you want flower
boxes on casters
to make
them moveable?
Need
privacy
from
neighbors?
A special place for your grill? How much do you hate maintenance (periodic
deck sealing)? Be sure to check out the latest on hi-tech,
lo-maint products.
Is the view from the house critical? If so, from which room(s)? Will you want
stairs?
If
so,
what
are the
traffic
patterns
from
the house to the yard to consider? Is your deck going to be high enough
that you will need an intermediate landing in the stairs? Will you need
additional lighting to illuminate stairs at night? Will a self-latching
gate be needed to keep pets in or out? Lots to think about, huh.
Better
to take the time and think it through now.
|
