6 Important Tips For Planning A New Deck

Everyone loves spending time outdoors, right? Well, outdoor living is a lot easier if you have a designated space — in this case, a deck. A deck can provide space for dining, entertaining, and even soaking in a hot tub. As you start planning for a new deck, keep the following six tips in mind.

When you're first planning for a deck, consider how much space you have against the activities you want to do on your deck. Brainstorm the types of activities, from neighborhood cookouts to quiet relaxation, that you want to do outside. Consider practical items such as traffic flow and appliance clearance. Likewise, keep in mind that outdoor furniture is often larger than indoor styles.

Decks are commonly constructed of wood. Cedar or redwood are the common hardwoods for decks. They provide the classic profile you think of with a deck. However, you need to stain them on a regular basis, plus you must maintain vigilance for warping, rot, or termite infestations. Nonetheless, a well-maintained cedar or redwood deck will last years.

Ipe is another hardwood used for decking. Considered an exotic hardwood, ipe boards feature a warm coloration and pretty graining. However, being an exotic hardwood, ipe decks are more expensive than cedar or redwood. You also need to stay vigilant for wood-related problems, though ipe is more durable. According to the Landscaping Network, an ipe deck can last up to 50 years.

Just because you're hanging out in the great outdoors doesn't mean you want your neighbors to see your every move. Nor do you want to be completely subjected to the elements, especially the sun.

Concerning privacy, you have many options. One of the most common for wooden decks is building a screen, be it a lattice screen or a pergola. You can also have a privacy wall built. If space allows, deck designers suggest locating the deck so that it's not easily viewed from another property. Likewise, if you have a handy tree available, plan to use it as a shield.

Some of those ideas work for creating shade, too. Many homeowners opt for portable shade, such as sun umbrellas. Others opt for permanent structures, such as a ceiling above the deck.

On the other side of things, consider your view from the deck. Ideally, you'll want to be looking out over pretty landscaping or a natural vista. Even if you live in a more urban setting, try to place your deck so you'll have an enjoyable view.

Likewise, don't forget to note how the deck looks in relation to your house. The deck design and construction should complement your house's façade. Keep that in mind when you're considering materials and a color palette.

Along those lines, your choice of railings will impact both how your deck is viewed and your view from the deck. For instance, wooden railings are a classic addition, but they can impede the sightline. Cable rails are very modern, and they visually recede. Composite railing resembles wood without the necessary maintenance.

Naturally, you'll want to enjoy your deck at night, too. To that end, you'll need an illumination plan. Part of this plan should include ensuring you and your guests' safety. To that end, plan to light up the perimeter of the deck as well as any exits, especially out to the yard.

Plan also for ambient lighting. If you're including an overhead light, consider putting it on a dimmer switch. Many landscape architects like to use directed lights in nearby trees to illuminate a deck. Likewise, you could use lighting to highlight areas of architectural interest on your house, which also provides ambient lighting for your deck.

A well-designed and well-lit deck can be a big advantage to your outdoor living. Consult with the decking experts at Keith's Construction & Painting Co., Inc. for help designing your deck addition.