If you are planning to build a beautiful deck to perfect your yard, the most important things to think about are location, design, maintenance and materials.
Before you start building your new deck, do not forget to get a building permit, if you don’t want to see it ripped up. You have to plan your deck’s design according to your town’s lawful requirements for height, length, style, etc.
When planning your future deck’s location, consider the following things: its relation to the neighbors’ house; should it be situated directly in the sun, or shade; what type of access should it have to the house, how many levels it’s going to have, etc.
You have to choose amongst various synthetic and natural materials (pressure-treated wood, hardwood, redwood, composite, engineered, plastic, polystyrene, etc.). If the choice of material is too overwhelming for you, you should get samples so you can feel the material and visualize what the finished deck will look like.
The most common choice for decking material is wood, which is strong and easy to install. However, wood needs regular cleaning and staining every two to three years to keep looking its best.
Composite decking and other synthetic materials can last decades. They cost more than most other woods, but the payback comes with reduced maintenance.
You have to also choose railing materials amongst wood, glass, metal, vinyl, composites, and cabling.
If you have your plan ready, first thing to do is digging the holes to build the pier footings – these are going to support the weight of the deck. Then continue with installing and balancing the ledger board – it’s used to secure the deck to the house.
Then you can continue with installing the decking.
When installing a wooden deck, make sure the boards have at least 1/8 inch between them so there is enough room for expansion.
If possible, use stainless-steel or coated screws, specifically made for pressure-treated wood. They will resist corrosion and extend your deck’s life. If you don’t want to see screw heads on the deck, use hidden fasteners to leave your deck surface with a simple appearance.
