Planning A New Deck To Expand Living Spaces

(HIT) - Decks have become one of America’s favorite add-on home improvements. Decks add architectural interest to a house, and a new deck can extend indoor living spaces and increases the usefulness of outdoor areas. A new deck is a great place for kids to play and for grown-ups to relax or party.

A new deck can be a simple platform or a multi-tiered extravaganza, but when planning a new deck, one of the most important factors to consider is how the new deck will associate with existing entryways, steps, fences and landscaping. As you plan you new deck, make sure the deck is easily accessible from both inside and outside your home.

Building professionals caution that planning is the key to making sure a new deck fits well with your home and your lifestyle. A well-planned deck should complement the house and provide a smooth transition to the yard. There are many things to consider, such as whether you want your new deck to be designed for privacy or exposure. Do you want your new deck to catch the cool breeze coming across the wooded lot behind your home, or do you need protect against harsh ocean winds. Are you looking for an elegant outdoor setting for parties, an informal outdoor room for family meals, or will your new deck provide a secluded, romantic spot for a hot tub or sunbathing.

With so many design possibilities available, it’s important for the whole family to sit down together and discuss ideas for your new deck. Make a list of the design elements that are most important to your family, and use it as a guide when talking to decking contractors. That will help your contractor zero in on a design that fulfills as many of your dreams as possible.

Once you’ve identified an overall design for your new deck, its time to begin planning deck details like what materials will be used and what kind of styling you like for deck boards, railings and stairs.

Discuss the virtues and drawback of different decking materials with your contractor or customer service staff at your local home improvement center. Availability, durability, cost and appearance can differ dramatically from one decking material choice to another. Synthetic decking materials and composite (wood/plastic) deck products offer the possibility of lower maintenance, but that convenience often come at a price.

Plan Your New Deck Size Carefully

Don’t be too stingy when planning a size for your new deck. Figure somewhere around 20 square foot per person, and keep in mind that fixed costs like deck design and support structures often make "extra" space less expensive. Grilling areas, dining tables, and pool lounging space should be accounted for as well.

On a very large lot, you’ll have to balance the size of your new deck with that of other yard features, such as pool, lawn or flower garden, but on a small lot, the worst thing you can do is skimp on the size of your new deck. Planning a new deck that’s too small will just emphasize how small your yard is. Check with your local building officials to find out what limitations are imposed by local ordinances and building codes.

Courtesy: Home Improvement News and Information Center