Outdoor living spaces have been gaining popularity for years, especially in the Carolinas and other areas we service. If you are thinking about having a deck added onto your home in the near future, you may have already realized that there are a lot of issues you need to take into consideration before the project can get underway. Fortunately, guides like this one are here to help.
As you read the following sections, you will learn more about the factors you ought to evaluate as you plan your deck project. Remember, it is important to work with a professional contractor on a job of this magnitude. As someone who isn’t employed in the home remodeling industry, you might not be aware of municipal codes and general safety regulations your new deck should meet.
Where on the house should the deck be added?
Some homes have only one place where a deck can possibly go, while others have multiple options. If your house falls into the latter category, it is extremely important for you to consider which spot you will most enjoy spending time in through the years. If, for instance, one side of your home has a much better view than the other, you should add your deck there. Or, if one area is prone to harsh sunlight and another spot is more shaded, you should determine which one better suits your preferences.
How much money can we afford to spend?
Creating a deck budget is something you should do very early in the process. As a matter of fact, it’s a good idea to have a rough budget in mind when you begin interviewing contractors; this way, you can figure out whether or not their labor and material costs will work for your family. The final price of your deck will depend upon a number of factors, such as how much square footage you want it to live, how far away you live from your contractor (some charge mileage), and what kinds of materials you’re interested in using.
Which materials do I want to purchase?
In the past, homeowners who were interested in having new decks built could choose from treated pine lumber, a couple of other hardwoods, and not much else. That certainly isn’t the case for today’s consumers. There are a wide variety of options when it comes to decking materials. You and your family will definitely need to spend some time talking to your contractor and doing your own research to figure out which choice is right for your lifestyle.
If money is tight, traditional treated lumber might be best for you. It is less expensive than other products and still makes for a great place to spend time outside with those you love. It does, however, require some maintenance.
If minimal upkeep is your top priority, you might want to consider composite decking. This material comes in a variety of colors and doesn’t have to be stained, painted, or treated for bugs at any point. There are several popular composite decking brands you can look into.
If you aren’t worried about cost and you prefer the look and features of real wood, exotic options, such as cumaru and teak are probably right up your alley. These tend to be the most expensive of all deck boards, but they are also usually rated to last for at least half a century, so you can rest assured you’ll be getting your money’s worth!
No matter what kind of deck you’re thinking about adding onto your house soon, the team at Hatch Homes can work with you to make sure your dream becomes a reality. We know that decks add a lot of life to a home and we would love to be part of transforming your outdoor space into somewhere you can create great memories for many years. Give us a call today to get started.