Tips For Your Deck Project
Written by Elizabeth Wood
Editor In Chief, United Home Improvement

People often forget how wonderful it is to have a deck attached to their house. It may be a pool deck, a patio deck, a roof deck, or even a deck surrounding a hot tub, but it's still ultimately an extension of your home. A deck enhances your home and speaks of your style. The value of your home will increase and so will your personal space.

Installing a deck requires much planning. Start off by asking yourself questions like;

• Am I more interested in a patio or deck?
• Where will my new deck be located?
• How big should my new deck be?
• How will a new deck affect the look of my home?
• Do I want to construct a multi-level deck?
• What style deck do I want?
• What will the main focus of my deck be?

A deck not only serves as a practical spatial enhancement, but it also adds to your homes overall appearance. Your deck is a statement made by you about your house. Think carefully about the size, location, and what material to build your deck out of.

Wood, like always, brings a warm welcoming feel with it. However, wood also needs a certain amount of maintenance to prevent boards from warping and the wood from moving. Vinyl decks, on the other hand, are practically maintenance free. You can also choose between aluminum decks, concrete decks, and composite decks. Choose a material that blends nicely with the rest of your home.

Once you have selected a material to best suit your needs and the appearance of your home, decide on the design of your new deck. Choose between an octagonal, a free-standing, a multilevel deck, or maybe even a pool deck design.

Dress your new deck up with stairs to impress and other unique structures to compliment its functionality and style. Maybe installing a separate, elevated eating area and built in benches will come in handy. Consider giving your deck personality with a beautiful rail design. You can choose between a warm classic look and a sleek modern appeal.

Last but not least, make sure to check on local building codes and restrictions. You may have to obtain a permit before building your new deck. Also, review the restrictions on how close your deck can be to your neighbors. It's better to be safe then sorry.

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