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A deck helps you maximize your
outdoor
living space.
The right design
will allow you to make
the most of your deck when entertaining, relaxing,
enjoying the view or even
gardening.
Here are some things to
consider when planning your deck.
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What SIZE ? |
How
will you use your deck? For Meals, Entertaining, View, Lounging |
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How many
LEVELS |
Ground Level,
One Level, Multi-Level |
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What type
MATERIALS |
Pressure
Treated, Composite Decking, Redwood, Eon, IPE |
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DIRECTION of
Decking |
Parallel,
Diagonal |
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| SAFETY |
A Gate at the
stairs |
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Do you need
STAIRS |
Width of
stairs,
Landings |
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| What
style of RAILINGS |
Vinyl,
Treated, Redwood |
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| Do
you need Deck LIGHTING |
Solar
Lights, Stair lighting, Low Voltage |
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| How
about ACCESSORIES |
Benches, Planters, Spa or Hot Tub, Outdoor Kitchen |
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| Some
Things To Consider: |
| 1. |
Consider how the deck will be used.
Plan areas for chairs and lounges for relaxing and entertaining. Think
about dining areas, children's play areas and a place for planters and
garden pots. |
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| 2. |
Think about other amenities that will
add to your enjoyment, such as a spa or hot tub, a fire pit, a barbecue
area, or even an outdoor kitchen with grill, sink, refrigerator and
countertop. |
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| 3. |
Make a preliminary sketch. Decide the
size, location of the deck, and shape of the deck. Also note utility
easements, required setbacks from neighbors' property, privacy problems,
weather issues, existing landscaping, and desired or to-be-screened
views. For visual interest, round off or cut off corners of rectangles
and squares and add in changes of level. |
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| 4. |
Add any desired details. These include
benches and tables, railings, steps and ramps, planters, and storage
areas. If prevailing winds or lack of privacy will cause the deck to be
unusable during parts of the day or evening, consider adding screening
in the form of walls, wooden screens, or plantings. Trees or vines make
excellent windbreaks. |
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| 5. |
Sketch any overhead shade structures
desired, and add in other features such as a hot tub or spa, children's
sandbox, garden pool or water feature, or barbecue or kitchen area.
Include water lines and any irrigation lines for spigots, fountains,
ponds, and container gardens. |
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| 6. |
Plan for any wiring or plumbing. Keep
safety in mind, and make sure transition areas will be well-lit and
easily negotiated. |
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Free
Estimates
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