Adding a deck to your outside area has many amazing benefits. The most significant of these include expanding your entertainment area and improving the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. Whether you want a small deck around your patio or a bigger version around your BBQ and pool area, proper installation will ensure you have a space you can enjoy.
While some homeowners opt to have their decks professionally installed, others prefer to buy decking supplies from their local home improvement centre and do the job as a DIY project. Whichever option you decide on, it’s essential to plan your deck layout before you buy any materials. This post provides a closer look at the key points to consider during your planning process.
Clarity on What a Deck is
Essentially, a deck is typically made from timber and is usually a raised platform that extends from your house. Decks are elevated and are an ideal way to even out uneven terrain. It’s not uncommon to see decks installed around pools and outdoor entertainment areas.
There are several advantages to installing a deck around your home or even in front of your doors and BBQ area. Some of these include the following:
- Enhances outdoor living space
- Increases the property value
- Improves the outdoor aesthetic appeal
- Creates an open, versatile entertaining space
- Provides a cost-effective home upgrade
- Can be used as zoning to separate yard and garden spaces
Proper Planning is Essential
No matter how good your DIY skills are, you will still need effective planning to ensure that you create a stable and durable structure. Ideally, your deck shouldn’t require excessive maintenance and should be safe to walk and sit on. Our experts have compiled a list of a few aspects that you should consider as you plan your outdoor deck.
1. Assess Building Code and Approval Requirements
The number one pointer to keep in mind is that you may require council approval to install a deck on your property. This will depend on various factors such as the state and council where you live, and deck specifications (size, location, and height).
A building permit may be needed if the job is classed as building works. The code is required to ensure that the deck complies with codes and is structurally sound. Smaller, lower-level decks may not need a building permit. It’s a good idea to check this with your local council. You will need an idea of the size you’re planning to create.
2. Purpose Will Help Determine Size
If you have a large outdoor space, you may not be sure how big you want to make your deck. Narrow down the challenge of deciding on the right size by reviewing what you want to do with the space.
Start by checking what you would like to put on the space. It’s a good idea to pack your planned outdoor furniture on the space in a makeshift layout. This will allow you to measure the space more accurately.
Keep in mind that you should leave enough space to stand or walk around once you’ve placed the BBQ, furniture, and other accessories in the space. Consider making the space slightly bigger so that you can still amend your furniture layout. However, avoid making the space too big as this will be a waste of labour and materials.
3. Review Material Options
For your deck to be durable and long-lasting, you will need to use quality, exterior-grade materials. Keep in mind that using superior quality materials will also reduce the amount of maintenance you need to do. In addition to choosing quality timber such as sustainable hardwood or treated pine, you should also opt for rubber joist protection and stainless steel screws that won’t rust.
You can also speak to your home improvement consultant about materials that won’t require extensive maintenance and treatments. Remember, the goal is to create a deck space that you won’t have to spend a lot of time and effort maintaining.
4. Consider Professional Installation
If you’re not a keen DIY enthusiast, it’s recommended that you outsource the project from the get-go. This will reduce the likelihood that you waste money and materials building something that you don’t feel comfortable creating. Opting for professional installation will ensure that the deck is built quickly and safely.
They will also already have the right tools on hand and will know more about the best materials to use. Professional installers will also do more accurate measurements in the design process, ensuring that your deck accentuates your outdoor aesthetic rather than creating an eyesore that needs to be redone.
Final Thoughts
Creating your outdoor deck can be a fun and easy DIY project, especially if you already have some experience working with timber and tools. Take a copy of your layout and proposed measurements with you to the local home improvement centre, as this will help a consultant guide you toward the right materials, tools, and accessories required. Proper planning will ensure that your deck is designed and built to last!
