Having a backyard is a beautiful thing. It’s your slice of nature, you have the freedom to design the kind of outdoor space that works for you and your lifestyle and it allows you to take advantage of the hugely popular outdoor living trend. There are all kinds of things you can do to make your backyard practical and beautiful but a deck is among the most popular outdoor projects. Before you rush ahead with your deck build, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here’s what you need to know about building a deck in your backyard.
What Kind of Material Will You Use?
A big part of how the result will look will hinge on the material that you use for the deck. Wood is the standard but it’s not the only material that you can choose from. Other options include vinyl or composite deck. So, which one is best for you? It comes down to a few key factors.
Wood will provide a traditional and natural look but it’s not exactly maintenance-free. To keep it looking great, you’ll need to stay on top of cleaning, staining and even sanding it over the years. If you don’t stay on top of the maintenance, it will be prone to rot and decay.
Composite and vinyl decking have both become very popular with homeowners thanks to the fact that they are so low maintenance. Both materials are very durable and will be able to stand up to the weather. The boards also come in various lengths, widths, grains and colors so you can customize the final look. You’ll find these options are very popular with deck builders St. Louis and around the country.
How Big Should the Deck Be?
The size will be another important feature of the deck. Ideally, you want to go as big as the backyard will allow. You’ll always find a way to use the deck space and it will never feel oversized. But this leads to the question of how you plan to use the deck. This will help to determine the size you need and the configuration.
Some common deck purposes can include:
- A place for privacy in the backyard
- An area for outdoor cooking and dining
- Outdoor entertaining
- A quiet area of the yard meant for relaxation
The deck size/design will also need to adhere to any building codes in the area.
How Does the Style Work with Your Home?
The deck design should also work in conjunction with the style of the exterior of your home. This will create a cohesive and natural look. You could use similar colors to the exterior of your house, use similar architectural features and even some of the same materials.
What is Your Budget?
Setting a budget before you get started will be important and ensure you don’t spend more money than you are comfortable with. The budget may just be the biggest determining factor of all.
By keeping these considerations in mind, you’ll be able to design a deck that meets all your needs and also looks fabulous.
