Decks are the least expensive way to add square feet to your living space. They are relatively straightforward o build and don’t require elaborate foundations, and adding one won’t interfere with your day-to-day routine nearly as much as a kitchen remodeling. Because of their simplicity, however, many homeowners and builders don’t stop to consider all the possibilities that decks can offer. With a little forethought, they can be a lot more than rectangles with guardrails.
The Many Uses for a Deck
Decks can be places to cook and entertain, soak in a spa, gaze into a fire, exercise a green thumb, or sunbathe. They can be made comfortable— with protection from sun, wind, rain, and bugs—and private, too. In addition, decks can feature structures such as screened rooms, gazebos, pergolas, and trellises. Decks can even help you save money on cooling bills if built to shade a lower level. Best of all, an upgraded deck does not need to cost a lot more than a bare-bones one. Good ideas and advice for decks and patios will help you get the most from the deck addition you’re planning for your home.
To design anything, you must gather all the bits and pieces you’d like to include and then try to put them together in a coherent and elegant way. Desks are no exception. You’ll want to know where the sun passes over your property in the summer, which architectural elements to borrow to help the deck blend with your home and much more.
One way to gather the pieces is the scrapbook approach. Clip photos of deck you like from home design magazines, and then hand them over to a designer or builder and say, “I want something like this.” However, it is well worth the effort to go one step further and look at all the options an architect would. By taking the time to consider all the angles, you will end up with a deck that perfectly suits your home and lifestyle. Successful deck design is about seeing all the possibilities. We’ve identified those that the most important by focusing on the fundamental deck design principles. It will help you envision key aspects of your deck, such as where to put it, how big to make it, and what height and shape it should be. It also addresses key concerns, such as material selection and safety.
Take the time to plan and design your deck carefully. Consider how you will use your outdoor spaces. Do you plan to barbeque on the deck? Would a hot tub be a relaxing addition? Will large groups of people gather on the deck for parties? Make certain the deck design meets as many of your desires as possible, and if you plan to add elements such as a spa in the future, make the structure strong enough now to save you extra work in the future. Read and research enough books and articles on the Internet to help you find just the right design idea for you and your lifestyle.
A good initial plan will make your deck building project as easy and stress free as possible. Plus careful planning will ensure your deck is a source of pride and satisfaction for a long time.
Look at many examples created by top architects and designers. After looking at the photos and drawings of different types of decks you’ll have a clearer understanding of the deck design process and its possibilities whether you go on to design your own deck or turn your notes and sketches over to a professional deck contactor, you will be on the right track.
