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.