How to Plan a Wooden Deck
Wood decks are popular additions to back and side yards. Careful planning of a deck's design, construction, and maintenance can save time, money and headaches. It's a good idea to visit home improvement stores or their websites for free resources such as a lumber-buying guide or the online Lowe's Deck Designer program. Seeking professional design services is another good idea. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Determine where to build. Decks generally are added at the side or rear of a home, adjacent to family areas. Consider existing views, sun exposure, privacy, shade trees and underground utilities. Check existing rules for deck locations and setbacks from property lines in communities with zoning or neighborhood covenants.
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Note house perimeter features that need to be accommodated or built around, such as downspouts and chimneys, the Virginia Decking and Remodeling website says. Never cover an in-ground utility feature such as a well or septic tank with a low-level deck, it says, unless proper access panels are provided.
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Decide how large the deck should be by estimating how much space is needed for chairs, tables, flower boxes, the barbecue grill and large amenities, such as a hot tub. One of the worst mistakes, according to Virginia Decking and Remodeling, is to build a deck that is too small to meet a homeowner's needs.
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Imagine the deck's shape. Think about whether it should be simple or terraced to follow the grade of the yard. Consider if any part of the deck should be covered to provide protection from sun or precipitation. Lay out the perimeter using stakes and colored tape to get a feel for size, configuration and impact on the yard. Arrange patio furniture and equipment within this outline.
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Ask a contractor or staff at a building supply store for a rough estimate of cost per square foot to build a wood deck. Review the available budget to estimate whether it is sufficient for the project as planned.
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Explore the use of pressure-treated wood or redwood, both of which are resistant to decay. Pressure treating infuses wood with preservatives that make it rot less. Remember that wood will turn grey over time unless stained, sealed and regularly maintained. This problem can be avoided by using man-made composite for the deck floor and railings.
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Consult an architect or structural engineer about the best way to support the deck. They will usually recommend poured concrete piers spaced evenly underneath the deck floor. Make sure the plan specifies connecting pressure-treated wood or steel posts to the concrete piers with anchors. It should also identify appropriate sizing and spacing of supporting header beams and joists.
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Be aware that the local building department may need to review the construction plans, according to the Home Plan Info website. Adhere to safety rules, such as adding railings to decks 30 inches or more above ground. Contract with an architect or structural engineer for projects that include roofs.
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References
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