The exterior of your home should be as carefully constructed and decorated as the interior when it comes to remodeling your living space. One of the most essential spaces to think about is the deck. Its design often goes beyond the typical aesthetic requirements for your residential property since the style of this particular area can either clash with or complement your interiors. Choosing the right design that can suit both your personal preferences and functional must-haves is an important step to carry out before building your deck.
Determining the Purpose of the Deck
There are plenty of sensible reasons to build a decked area in your exterior space, and most of them emphasize the functionality and practicality of the addition. For example, a roomy, ground-level platform deck is perfect for outdoor entertaining. If you are a person who frequently hosts parties in the neighborhood, you will need sufficient room for a number of guests, a grill, built-in seats and, perhaps, a bar as well. Adding stairs that lead down to the backyard will also allow the celebration to spread out.
A deck also provides the seamless transition from the interior to the exterior, giving you an outside-in feeling while quietly relaxing and appreciating the cool garden breeze. In addition, the appropriate functionality of the deck railing can be determined by your family dynamics. For families with young children, a glass railing is safer and may be more suitable for decked areas over a certain height from the ground like on raised terraces or balconies.
Creating the Space
Most of the time, deck designs are ideal for creating extra space for the residents. If you already have a garden with substantial square footage, a composite decking can complement your lush, green piece of land with a sophisticated design. For smaller exteriors, on the other hand, a deck installation can create the illusion of bigger space in the garden. Areas that are a bit smaller in size can also greatly benefit from natural-looking decks that fit well with the flourishing surroundings. It is a smart move to complement the design with a deck railing system that is not obtrusive to make sure the area does not appear restricted or cramped.
Prioritizing Privacy
Is privacy the main priority of your residential property? If you fail to install a fence, hedge or another sort of barrier between your backyard and the rest of the neighborhood, it may be difficult to find privacy – especially when you want to freely relax on your own well-decorated deck. But the good news is that there are numerous ways you can transform the structure into a more subdued and exclusive sanctuary. Consider a raised deck built off the second level of the house. The construction will not only make you a little more secluded, but also reward you with better, more gorgeous views. Some of the most popular installations that can be incorporated into the deck to increase the levels of peace and quiet include latticework panels and privacy fences.
Factoring Sun Exposure
It is important to consider how much sun you would like your deck to receive during the day. A southern exposure usually guarantees optimal sunlight in the U.S. But if you live in a region that constantly experiences sweltering temperatures during the summer months, you may want to limit the amount of sunshine your deck receives. Keep in mind that shade patterns are simply seasonal. Make sure to examine the levels of sun and shade in your backyard during specific hours of the day when you will most likely be using your deck. If the building site seems too bright and sunny, you may want to relocate to a spot where the house or trees cast a few shadows. If this route is not possible, adding an umbrella or awning over the deck is an attractive and cost-effective way to shun the uncomfortable glare and heat of the sun.
Choosing Materials
When it comes to selecting the best materials for your deck, it is important to think about the required maintenance and future replacement costs. Since these expenses can mount up over time, choosing low-maintenance materials can help save a lot of time and money in the long run. There is a range of choices that offer pristine quality and can serve as one of the finishing touches to the architectural style of your property at the same time. For instance, a well-made railing system is a great way to combine practical materials and good design. Stainless steel is a pretty common material for a railing system since it is corrosion-resistant, durable and easy to clean, making it an excellent choice for deck builds.
Complementing Your Exterior and Interior Styles
A great technique to complement your residential space is to pick matching architectural style and aesthetic elements. A deck that coordinates well with your property results in nice-looking and functional design ideas. If you desire to create a traditional setting, try incorporating a deck railing built from natural wood into a garden or landscaped area. If you wish to opt for a modern or contemporary style, pairing a stainless steel cable railing or glass railing will create a sleek, industrial look to your exterior.
Admiring the View
Building a deck is often a sensible choice for properties that feature spectacular, grand views. The use of a railing system offers unrestricted access and generates a remarkable fluidity between the living space and surroundings. Many professionals prefer cable and glass for the railing system because both materials can complement a range of decking areas. Ultimately, the nature of a well-designed deck railing paired with its sturdy and secure structure creates a safe space for the residents without having to worry about feeling confined.
Choosing the Deck Height
Many backyard decks are low to the ground while others are raised to provide easy second-story access or accommodate a steep yard. Here are your deck building height options:
- Platform decks – Built low to the ground, platform decks are usually expansive and able to accommodate a large number of people. A ground-level platform deck may also be the best style for parents of young children.
- Raised decks – If you have a steep backyard, a raised deck may be the ideal option for you. It is also the obvious choice for a deck installation attached to the second floor. If your residential lot is flat, it is possible to add an under-deck patio to maximize your available space. A reliable railing system is a top priority when it comes to a raised deck because you want to ensure your outdoor space remains sturdy for many years to come.
- Multi-level decks – Multiple platform decks located at different levels can be connected with steps to create a more inviting outdoor living space. Different levels can even be dedicated to unique aspects of an outdoor experience, such as mingling, grilling and playing board games.
Let The Deck Store Help Achieve Your Dream Exterior
When it is time to breathe new life into the exterior of your home, turn to The Deck Store, a professional deck construction company that specializes in custom-built deck and patio installation. Our top-rated team is committed to providing the comfort and efficiency every client needs through industry-leading products and outstanding customer service. Call us at (701) 248-7655, or fill out our contact form to request a free, no-obligation estimate. We work with homeowners in Bismarck, ND, and surrounding areas.