Building or renovating a deck involves a number of considerations. These include the type of materials used, the design of the deck and various other aspects.
Choosing the Decking Material
While building a deck, choosing the material is an important aspect. Nowadays, a variety of materials are available which can effectively be used for deck building. The most common types of materials used include:
- The brown colored pressure treated wood made of fir is affordable and is permeated with insecticides or anti rot agents which increase its longevity.
- The dark colored Cedar wood is an affordable option which can last up to 20 years with annual refinishing jobs.
- The lightweight Redwood is expensive and may require regular maintenance for preventing decay which may result from being exposed to natural elements.
- Polyvinyl chloride available in tan, brown and gray colors offers a maintenance free option for deck building with a warranty of 25 years.
- Composite which is made of recycled polyethylene and wood fiber is low maintenance and is available in a variety of textures and colors.
- Ipe is a rot resistant hardwood and is extremely durable thus making it an appropriate decking material.
- Aluminum decking which is poly urea coated is a new and good option amongst the various kinds of decking materials.
- Glass infused wood decking is low on maintenance and offers greater strength.
Decking Structures
While building a deck, it is important to consider its design. The design of the deck may depend on the structure and architecture of the house. The various types of deck designs include:
Platform Decks
This is the simplest deck design, which usually does not require railings. The perimeter can be highlighted by installing bench seating and built in planters. Platform decks are closer to the ground surface. It is hence important to protect them from elements which may cause damage. This involves pressure treating the structural materials for ground contact. The materials may also require protective sealer coating before installation. The coating can protect the undersides from damage.
Raised Decks
Raised decks usually require stairs and railings for providing easy access and safety. The exposed deck posts can be concealed using skirting or plantations. More information regarding the available safety options for raised decks can be obtained from utah-decks.com/
Two Storey Decks
These decks usually provide access to the higher levels of the house from outdoors. These decks may require a solid support. The deck structures may be camouflaged with decorative boards or skirting.
Multilevel Decks
These consist of several interconnected decks. They offer high functionality as the different levels of the deck can be used for distinct purposes.
Free Standing Decks
For houses that cannot accommodate ledger boards, free standing decks are the best option. Being unattached from the house, these decks can efficiently highlight the best yard areas as natural landscape extensions.
Deck building often requires a lot of considerations. The deck structures may be chosen on the basis of the structure of the house while for choosing materials, durability ad budget may be the primary concerns.