A new deck project is an easy way to provide your home with significant upgrades. A deck project should be carefully planned and executed by professionals in order to receive the maximum benefit from the end result and so you can start enjoying your new deck sooner. Here’s what to consider during the deck installation process.
Budgeting and Contractors
Adding a deck can be expensive, we’re not going to lie. The upside is that adding a deck isn’t money down the train and directly translates into vastly improving the value of your home. While many home renovation projects only return anywhere from 50% to 80% of their cost in value, it’s estimated that the return on investment for patios and decks can exceed 100% based on the size and materials used. That’s why it’s important to choose the right contractors to advise your design and budget choices. It’s important to be realistic when considering budget, but also to make your wants and needs known to your contractor so they can best advise you. At Hen-House decks, we use advanced decking design software to show you exactly what to expect during the budgeting and design phases of your project! With referral incentives, seasonal offers, and over 12 years of experience, we’re the right contractors for your project!
Design and Deck Installation Codes
The size and design of your deck is only limited by your property size and budget. From ergonomic designs that flow and match the contours of your home to unique decks shaped like guitars, with islands of foliage in the middle of the layout for a more natural look, or something that’s never been done before, your design is only limited by your tastes and creativity. Many homes that are located on slopped terrain will require a second-story or multi-story deck. Raised decks offer a plethora of new design opportunities, but also come with some complications. They often have the advantage of providing a scenic view that you can’t get from the ground level but may require more financial and time costs from the property owner.
After the design is settled upon, it’s time to look at accessories, and finally acquire all the building codes for proper, legal approval from the city. The specifics of building codes and legal requirements for building and additions vary from state to state and city to city — another benefit of having contractors handle it all and save you the headache. Codes and permissions are important to get out of the way before work begins or materials are bought, guaranteeing that everything you want done in your new deck installation, is a possibility.
Materials and Building
You may have always imagined your new deck would be default hardwood, but you don’t want to limit yourself from the many available material options. Wood offers a great, traditional look, but composite decking is the fastest growing segment of the deck industry. Composite decking is virtually impervious to inclement weather, rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. Only occasional cleaning is required to keep composite decking looking like new! Because of this advantage many homeowners choose to construct their deck with composite material to avoid the headache and commitment of routine maintenance. Composite decks are ideal for homeowners who want a deck that they can enjoy for years before selling their home!
From there, it’s all a matter of time until your project is completed. Your deck’s building time will largely depend on you size and design. As a whole, a deck can take from 1 to 3 weeks for a standard deck with fewer features, but custom decks can take anywhere from 6 to 16 weeks. Beginning in spring will set your deck’s finish date sometime around summer — the perfect time to enjoy the fruits of your investment!
