An outdoor deck is an extension of the interior of your home. It affords you extra space for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying family time when the weather is cooperating. A custom deck will transform your outdoor space into a cozy and enjoyable living area. We’ll explore some of the ways a custom deck can enhance the exterior of your home.
Benefits of Adding a Deck
A custom deck, designed and built by a qualified construction professional, will bring exceptional and enjoyable space to your home’s yard.
A deck connects you to nature without having to leave your home. You can enjoy the views, the fresh air, songbirds, and star gazing. It is a great space to unwind and take advantage of the health benefits that clean breezes and sunshine offer.
Decks are great spaces for entertaining and having fun in a social setting. Your custom deck can include an outdoor kitchen and a dining area for meals with friends and family. Consider a bar for adult entertaining. You can also add a hot tub to a deck. Use your deck for playing games, such as cornhole, Paddlesmash, and even beer pong.
An outdoor deck is a good place to chill and seek solitude. Use is to practice yoga, meditate, or partake in container gardening.
A well-constructed deck will not only add curb appeal, it will also add value to your home. customized seating, layering, and lighting will further enhance the value of your deck.
Materials for Durability and Aesthetics
Choosing the best deck materials for an area that experiences weather extremes is essential for longevity and appearance. The materials need to be moisture-resistant, safe from insect damage, protected from UV rays, and easy to maintain. Some of the best materials for durability and aesthetics include:
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Western Red Cedar -
Ipe hardwood -
Redwood -
Composite decking -
PVC -
Metal
Each of these materials can withstand hot summers and cold winters with periodic seasonal maintenance.
Professional Installation
It is very important to have your deck installed by a professional deck builder who understands structural integrity, safety, and aesthetics. The deck and its foundation must be able to handle the weight of people, furnishings, appliances, hot tubs, and snow loads.
Understanding the local codes for railing height/spacing and stair riser and tread depth/height is imperative to the safety of you, your children, and your pets.
Knowing how to work with the various materials available using the proper tools will ensure that the deck is without visible flaws/errors. A precisely built and attractive deck is an asset.
Deck Maintenance
Because a deck is exposed to the elements, it may require periodic maintenance. Wood decks are often stained or painted. These finishes will need to be reapplied at some point. Unsealed wood decks will weather naturally, but may benefit from seasonal sanding and power washing to remove mold and splintered wood.
Composite decks that are made with wood fiber, recycled plastics, and sometimes concrete don’t really require much maintenance other than periodic surface washing. This is also true for rust-resistant metal and PVC.
Bottom Line
A custom deck that is designed and built properly, with the right materials, is a wonderful asset to your property. It can be enjoyed by your family and friends for a long time. And it will be a good return on investment if you decide to sell your home.
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