A deck is a beautiful addition to your home, and it can also serve different purposes. You can use it for hosting gatherings for friends or family, or as a place where you can relax during weekends. Aside from added functionality, this addition will boost the value of your property as well. Whether you are living in your forever home or thinking about selling in the future, you can get a lot of benefits from this upgrade.
To ensure the success of your deck building project, proper planning is essential. Here are questions to ask yourself when getting a new deck.
What Is the Weather and Climate Like in My Location?
When choosing a deck material for your home, one of the first things you should consider is your location. What kinds of weather conditions will your new deck need to withstand? While there are different ways to weatherproof a deck, it is still important to consider the harsh conditions your new deck will be exposed to throughout the year. For instance, are you living in a place that gets intense sun in summer or somewhere that experiences a lot of hail and snow during winter?
Moreover, no matter where you live, it is essential to choose the best materials that meet your budget. Composite decking is something you should consider because it is appealing, durable and easy to maintain.
How Am I Planning to Use My New Deck?
Before building your deck, you need to determine how you are planning to use your new space. It would be easier to create a plan and think about the features or accessories your deck needs when you know its purpose.
If you want to use your deck for entertaining family and friends, consider a bigger deck with built-in seating. Want to utilize your outdoor living space for family dinners? A sheltered deck with screening will let you enjoy your favorite meals outdoors for more months of the year. Moreover, if you want it to be a place where you can unwind at the end of the day, you can incorporate multiple levels or separate areas into your decking during the designing process. Dividing your deck into separate areas will give space for family members to do their stuff.
What Are the Possible Access Points of My Deck?
You may be able to access your deck from below from a patio or finished basement, or above from the first or second story. Your deck’s access points depend on the design of your home and how it is positioned on your property. You can create a budget and plan your project easily if you already have access points, such as patio doors in the said areas. For instance, if you are thinking about using your deck for dining and entertaining, having an access point in the kitchen would be beneficial. Further, a skilled deck company can help determine the best access points from inside your home into your outdoor living spaces.
Which Color Should I Choose?
Choosing a deck color is not that easy with all the options available you have today. Aside from your basic hues, you would also need to consider different deck finishes. Another to think about is your future plans for your home. Are you planning to repaint your exterior soon? Make sure to select a deck color that complements the rest of your home.
Which Style Do I Choose?
Your deck should not only be appealing, but should also match the style of your home and landscape. For example, if your home has rounded elements, consider a deck with curved lines or rounded features. You can have an outdoor deck with sharper angles and features if you have a modern home style. When designing your deck, also consider if you have small kids or pets at home. If so, think about adding railings and stairs that can be enclosed to improve the safety of your outdoor space.
Who Should I Hire for My Deck Installation Project?
A deck building is a job that is best left in the hands of professionals. An experienced contractor knows the best materials to use and has the right tools to perform the job. Pros will be able to help you design your deck, recommend materials and even obtain the permits necessary for your project.
You can make the most of your investment by entrusting your project to a skilled professional. Mistakes during the installation can compromise the performance and longevity of your deck. It means that working with a pro will actually save you more money in the long run. A reliable contractor can deliver better results and offer comprehensive warranties.
Do I Want to Add Extras to My Deck?
Aside from the basic features, such as tables, chairs and a grill, there are different accessories you can add to your deck. In your outdoor kitchen, you can include a smoker and warming drawer. If you are building an enclosed deck, you can have a fireplace with a mounted TV above, which you can enjoy in the winter. You may also want to add a hot tub or a heated enclosure to the design of your deck for the colder months. To determine which features best suit your new outdoor living space, you can consult an experienced deck and patio installation company like The Deck Store.
What Is My Budget?
You can get an idea about the cost of your new deck by obtaining estimates from different contractors. Getting quotes will also help you choose the best contractor for your project. When assessing bids, make sure to not only consider the price, but the quality of the products each contractor is offering and their experience. Once you have hired a contractor, maintain constant and clear communication throughout your project to avoid unwanted surprises or sudden expenses.
At The Deck Store, you can count on us for your deck building project. We install high-quality composite decking and patio that will elevate your home’s beauty. Call us at (701) 223-1008, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.