Is your home feeling a little too cramped? Are you looking for a way to add some extra space—and style—to your property? If so, adding a deck may be the perfect solution. Decks can provide homeowners with a great place to relax and entertain guests, and they can be customized to fit any budget. Before you start planning your deck, however, there are a few things you should take into consideration. Keep reading to learn more.
Why Build a Deck?
A deck is a great way to extend the enjoyment you get from your outdoor living space. If you live in a climate that is warm for several months of the year, a deck can provide you with a place to enjoy the sunshine and entertain guests. There are a few different ways that you can use a deck to improve your home:
- You can use it as an extension of your living space. This is especially convenient if you have a small home or if you entertain often.
- You can use it as a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. This is especially enjoyable if you live in a quiet neighborhood or if you have beautiful views.
- You can use it as a place to entertain guests. This is especially convenient if you live in a large home or if you often entertain large groups of people. 4. You can use it as a place to improve the value of your home. This is especially important if you plan on selling your home in the future.
A deck can be a great addition to any home, and there are many different ways that you can use it to improve your life. If you have a vision for how you want to use your deck, you can easily design one that suits your needs.
What is the Perfect Location for Your Deck?
Often, it is obvious where you should add your deck. Nonetheless, there may be other factors and possibilities of where you should add it. This will also determine the purpose and function the deck will play. When you want to add one, it is helpful to think about the following considerations to decide on its appropriate location:
- Scaling it to the size of your house
- Placing it in shade and sun for comfort
- Creating privacy from neighbors
- Maximizing scenic views
- Easy access to your house from the deck
- Determining the wind patterns that can affect its usage
What are the Material Options for your Deck?
There are two main types of materials are used to build decks: wood and composite boards. Sometimes Aluminum is used too. Wood has been used for the longest time, but over recent years composite decking has become increasingly popular with homeowners.
Composite decks
In the deck-building industry, composite decking boards have become increasingly popular for a variety of reasons. Homeowners love them because they offer a durable and low-maintenance decking solution that looks great and adds value to their homes. Contractors appreciate composite decking boards because they are easy to work with and install. And, since composite decking is made from recycled materials, it is an environmentally friendly choice. Here are just a few of the many reasons why composite decking is such a popular choice for deck builders and homeowners alike.
First, composite decking boards are extremely durable. They are designed to resist fading, staining, and scratches, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Composite decking is also impervious to mold and mildew, so it will never require sanding or painting as wood decking does. In addition, composite decking boards are generally warranted against rotting and splintering, so you can enjoy your deck for many years to come without worry.
Second, composite decking is very easy to care for. Unlike wood decking, which must be sanded and stained regularly, composite decking only requires occasional cleaning with soap and water. This low-maintenance option frees up your time so that you can enjoy your deck rather than spend hours caring for it.
Finally, composite decking is an environmentally friendly choice. Since it is made from recycled materials, you can feel good about choosing a product that is good for the planet. In addition, by choosing composite decking over wood, you can help preserve our forests since the wood filler used to manufacture them is used from sawdust that is from manufacturing other wood products.
For all these reasons and more, composite decking is becoming the preferred choice for decks of all types. If you are thinking about adding a new deck to your home, be sure to ask your contractor about using composite decking boards – you’ll be glad you did!
Wooden decks
Wood is a popular choice for decking, as it is typically less expensive than composite materials. However, wood can weather over time, requiring more maintenance and increasing the overall cost of ownership.
Additionally, wood can rot if not properly cared for, and may warp, dry out, crack, or splinter. Poorly installed wooden decking can also be dangerous, as nails can pop out and cause injury. For these reasons, it is important to choose a reputable contractor when installing a wooden deck.
Ipe decking is a popular choice for those looking for a durable and long-lasting decking material. Ipe is a Brazillian hardwood that is naturally resistant to rot and damage from the elements.
However, due to its popularity, ipe decking has become increasingly expensive in recent years and now costs the same as composite decking material. When caring for an ipe deck, it is important to power wash and re-oil the surface after leaves and pollen have fallen. This will help keep the deck looking like new for years to come.
Aluminum
Aluminum is also another material that people consider when they are looking to build a deck, however, is the least popular. Most homebuilders like it because it is more robust than other decking materials and is lighter.
Aluminum decks are resistant to weather, insects, and mold. These decking materials are the most expensive option, even though they will last you a lifetime. One of the negatives of having an aluminum deck is that it gets hot in direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable to walk barefoot on. In addition, aluminum boards can be noisy when walked on, which can be a problem if you have neighbors close by.
Overall, aluminum is a good option for those looking for a durable and long-lasting material for their deck. However, its high cost and some drawbacks may make it less attractive to many people who are looking to build a deck.
Deck Lighting
There are endless ideas for deck lighting, and it is important to choose the right lighting for your deck in order to create the perfect ambiance. The location of the deck, as well as the aesthetic you are trying to achieve, will affect the type of lighting you choose.
Solar lighting is a popular option because it is easy to install and environmentally friendly. However, if you are looking for a more permanent solution, electric lights may be a better option.
It is also important to consider the amount of light you need in order to create the desired effect. Too much light can be overwhelming, while too little light can make it difficult to see.
Safety is another important factor to keep in mind when choosing deck lighting. Bright lights can help to prevent accidents, while softer lights can create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Ultimately, the best way to choose deck lighting is to experiment with different options until you find the perfect balance for your space.
You might want to consider the following deck light and locations:
- Overhead lights
- Path lights
- Recessed step lights
- Outdoor kitchen lights
- Post mounted, or wall lights
- Landscape spotlights
Approval and Permits
Decks more than 30 inches above the ground require a permit not only in East Tennessee and Knoxville, Tennessee but in all state jurisdictions. You may also require approvals for decks lower than 30 inches depending on local building codes. Be advised, Decks of any size or height may be subjected to minimum setback requirements, so call your local building department before choosing its location.
Who to Hire
While some homeowners want to see this project as a DIY project, hiring a professional deck designer-builder such as Green Home Installations is recommended. We will meet with you to take photos and measurements of the site and discuss deck design considerations. A professional will share suggestions for building a new deck and inform you of things you will need to build a deck on your property.
Now that you know more about the different types of decks and what to consider before beginning your project, you can be sure that you're making the right choice for your home. Green Home Installations is the perfect company to help you make your dream deck a reality. With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we'll make sure your project is a success from start to finish. Contact us today to get started!