Do you walk outside and wish there was more to your yard? Do you envision a beautiful deck where you can entertain family and friends? If so, it might be time to plan a deck for your home.
When you start the planning process, it can be a little overwhelming. There are more ways to plan a deck than you can even count. The possibilities are endless. If you can dream it, it can be done.
If you are planning a new deck or updating your current one, call Dupont Decks today. We will work with you every step of the way until you are enjoying your new deck and hosting the party of the season.
Questions to Ask Yourself
The best method for planning your new deck is to ask yourself a series of questions. Your answers to these questions will steer you in the right direction and should yield the perfect deck for you and your family’s needs.
Of course, a professional like those at Dupont Decks will seamlessly guide you through the process.
What is the Purpose of the Deck?
The first, and probably most important, thing to consider is why you want a deck. What will you be using it for? Do you want a place to entertain? Or do you prefer a place of quiet solitude where you can garden or read?
Determining the purpose of the deck will drastically impact the planning process. What you plan to do with your deck will affect the layout, location, and material.
Spend some time with your family and talk about how you envision using your deck. If you plan on hosting events, consider built-in seating that can double as storage. If you have kids, an open area is good for their activities.
Where Should I Build My Deck?
Another question you need to ask yourself is where you want to build a deck. Sometimes, there is not much of a choice in where you build your deck due to location or lack of space.
However, some homes have multiple areas where a deck could potentially go. Consider what areas of your house get the most sun and wind.
If you are looking for a deck where you can garden, both sun and wind will be important considerations. On the other hand, if you are looking for a deck where you can hang out and entertain, choosing a location where the sun won’t be an issue in the afternoons and evenings is a good bet.
If you are limited on location and the only place you can build a deck is in full sun for most of the day, there are options to consider. Adding a pergola or awning into the build can make the deck more enjoyable, even in direct sun. If your budget is full, the strategic placement of umbrellas is an option, as well.
Another thing to consider is the view. What will you be looking at from your deck? A deck with a view can increase the value of a home. Not many people want to start at the side of a neighbors home, or worse, into their window.
What is My Budget?
This is a hard question to consider with deck building, as there are so many options. Everyone has a different budget, and no two decks cost the same.It is essential to set a budget before going into the planning or building process. If your budget is on the lower end, your end product will be smaller and simpler versus a large budget.
Depending on the material and size, decks can range in cost from a couple of thousand to $50,000 or more. Obviously, a deck on the higher end will be made with the highest quality materials and be quite large.
You will need to decide what is in the budget for your family right now and go from there. You might end up deciding you should wait a little longer and save more if you find out your budget won’t go as far as you hoped.
What Materials Do I Want to Use?
There are many materials to choose from for your deck. Mostly, the question comes down to traditional or composite wood. Within these categories is a wide range of benefits and costs.
When choosing the material, consider the quality of the wood and its durability and reliability. Different materials mean different costs upfront, but also more or less maintenance down the road. Sometimes, a heftier price tag upfront means less money out of pocket down the road.
What are the Building Codes and Requirements in My Area?
A vital aspect to consider is the building codes in your area. Almost always building a deck will require a building permit. You will likely have to apply for a permit with your city. Often, an official will have to verify the environment will not be harmed in the process.
After you submit your application and plans, they will be reviewed to ensure they are safe and up to code.
What Type of Deck Do I Want?
Of course, you will have to decide what kind of deck you want in your yard. In many cases, your house, yard, and budget will dictate what style of deck you choose.
Some main types of decks are rectangular, octagonal, pool, rooftop, or split level.
If you are on a tighter budget, consider a single platform deck. Raised decks, split-level decks, and decks of different shapes will increase the deck’s cost because of their complication level.
Call Dupont Decks Today
If you are considering a new deck, call Dupont Decks today. We have years of experience working with people throughout the community. We will work with you to ensure your budget and ideas line up.
Call us today to start the process. The sooner we start building your deck, the sooner you will be enjoying it with your friends and family, or maybe just your garden.
