Description

Deck – A deck design is the first stepinadding beautiful and functional outdoor space to your home.Whetherit is part of a complete landscape plan, home remodel, ornewbuilding project, the right deck design will add value and yearsofenjoyment to a home.

Before you start planning your deck project, get somebasicinformation - patio.
- Permit Requirements. In many jurisdictions, you'll need apermitfrom the city, county, or other agency. There may also bebuildingcode requirements for footings, railing height,setbacks,materials, etc. There may also be permit fees and it'spossibleyour addition will increase your property taxassessment.

- Homeowners' Association Rules. If your home is governed byahomeowners' association, you need to make sure your deckdesignmeets its requirements. This may also require a review ofyourplans before you can begin construction.

- Check Before You Dig. Make sure you contact your localutilityproviders before you design foundations and footings oranythingelse—including trees—that will require you to dig. InNorthAmerica, you can do this via the www.digsafely.com hotlineat888-258-0808. Most municipalities also have a 'call before youdig'service. In U.S. cities, dial 811 or visit www.call811.com.Theywill visit the property and paint lines showing the locationsofburied cables and conduit.

- Determine your budget. This may not be the most fun part ofthedeck design process, but it's important to set a limit andstick toit. You can then scale your deck plan within yourbudget.

- Make a list of the features you want. If you haven't donesoalready, you may want to peruse some deck plans and ideas. Youcango online, or visit local contractors or building supply storesforideas.

Some of these might include :
- Outdoor fireplace or firepit - garden
- Hot tub or spa
- Integrated seating
- Built-in cooking center
- Wind screens
- Covers or roofs
- Outdoor heaters/misters
- Electrical systems for lighting, music, orentertainmentcenters
- Planters

- Determine the Size of the Deck. Scale your deckprojectappropriately to your house and property, while making surethat itis large enough to accommodate your needs.

- Don't Forget Weather Factors. Most people use their decksinthe late afternoon and evening. If your deck faces west, youmaywant to consider alternatives for screening the afternoon sun.Ifyou live in a very rainy or sunny climate, an overhead shadeoreven a hard roof may be desirable.

- Consider Wood Alternatives. While pressure-treated cedarorredwood are both great choices for decks, you may want toconsiderusing plastic-composite material. Although the price ishigher,you'll save on maintenance time and expense and gain a muchlongerlife span. It's also good for the environment—every 20 feetofsynthetic decking board contains about 30 pounds of recycledjunkthat would have ended up in a landfill.