Top 10 Things to Consider When You Build Your Deck

M.C. Fence and Deck has built thousands of  high quality wood decks, fences, and screened porches in northern, VA, the professionals at M.C. Fence and Deck know a thing or two about building a deck. Here are our "Top 10 Things to Consider When You Build Your Deck"

1. LOCATION Most decks are placed off the kitchen. You can install privacy panels or walls to reduce noise and provide relief from passing neighbors and motorists. It is also important to consider the view from inside your home. Other factors include wind and sun exposures, and placement relative to any existing structures, including windows, clearance for doors, plumbing or electrical fixtures, and pools or patios.
2. SIZE The size and shape of your deck will, in large part, be determined by the location, the load calculations, the support needed, and the terrain. Local zoning typically requires a "setback" distance between the property line and your deck perimeter.
3. LEGALITIES Make sure you use a current site plan, obtain a building permit, and incorporate ADA (The Americans With Disabilities Act) or other building code requirements. Recent incidents of wood deck collapse remind us the structural integrity of your deck is paramount.
4. COST The size, materials, and load requirements all factor in to the cost of your new deck. A professional deck contractor will guide you in making choices to support your budget. Allow for maintenance and repair costs over the life of your wood deck. Some materials require much less maintenance and therefore, cost less over time.
5. DESIGN Deck shapes, flooring and railing patterns, materials and finishes, accessories, lighting, complimentary structures like gazebos, pergolas, arbors, screened porches, and outdoor features like fireplaces and outdoor kitchens can contribute to your custom deck paradise. The sky really is the limit!
6. MATERIALS Our wood decks are not our father's wood decks. Modern technology and market globalization have intertwined to bring a dizzying array of choices in wood deck building products: teak, white cedar, and pressure-treated lumber to name a few. Now we also have synthetic woods, or composite deck materials. Durable and low-maintenance, these are great choices for outdoor building projects.
7. FLOW Your family traffic patterns, the variety and versatility of uses, and other landscape elements can dramatically enhance your deck. The more sophisticated your design elements, the more planning goes into consideration and placement of items like stairways, entryways, seating, and lighting.
8. USE Whether you plan to cook or grill, dine under the stars or entertain friends and family, how you plan to use your deck has a key bearing on your deck design. Many of our clients incorporate a pool, a hot tub spa, or a Zen garden to bring an added dimension of enjoyment and relaxation to their outdoor construction project.
9. SHADE Decks get hot in the sweltering summer. When you plan your wood deck installation give thought to how you will provide relief from direct sun. There are many creative ways to bring ample shade to your deck, including awnings, arbors, gazebos and pergolas, landscape elements, and strategically placed umbrellas.
10. STYLE You can find an architectural aesthetic to match or compliment any home landscape. Use accessories like railings and caps, seating and lighting, color and texture to contribute to the mood and sensibility of your deck. The possibilities are endless.

Call for your free deck estimate today.