Some home additions are challenging not so much because of scale or cost but because the variety of options can be overwhelming. Designing a deck used both for pleasure and rest can be a challenging task. When attempting to choose the right deck design options, there are some questions that you should ask yourself. These questions include the intended uses for the deck and what works best with your existing house and yard.
Will you be using your deck to host parties?
If you want to invite the whole family or office over for a get together, you will need lots of space. Make sure everyone fits along with any other things you might need like tables, grills, and maybe that outdoor bar. Your deck needs to safely fit everyone you invite. Make sure you have easy access to stairs so that the party can expand to the rest of the yard.
How much privacy do you need?
If you don’t have a high fence, trees, or bushes between you and your neighbors then you won’t have much privacy in your new deck. But you can add latticework or a privacy fence to the sides of the deck to increase the seclusion. Or if you have a two story home, consider building the deck even with the second floor. This will give you a great view while making it harder for neighbors to see over onto your deck.
How much sun do you want on your deck?
If you want lots of sun, put your deck on a part of your home where it can get lots of direct sunlight. Or if you live in a hotter part of the country, you may want a more shady location. Look at where the shade is in your yard at the time of day you want to use your deck. This will help you plan a good location for the deck you are designing. You also might consider using umbrellas on your deck or adding an awning.
Deck Height
You can build your deck just off the ground or raise it up high in the sky. Or even build one with multiple levels.
Platform Decks
These decks are built low on fairly level ground. They are usually fairly large and capable of fitting a sizable amount of guests. This might also be a good design choice if you have young children and are concerned about them getting around any safety railings.
Raised Decks
These decks are usually built on the second story of a home, sometimes to accommodate a very uneven backyard. But if the area below is fairly flat you may want to consider a patio beneath your deck. Make certain this deck has good railings and that you maintain it well. A raised deck can become very dangerous if it is not kept in sturdy condition.
Multilevel Decks
You can connect multiple platform decks together with stairs to create a large multi-tiered deck. You could use each deck level for different activities like grilling, eating, and playing games.
Various Deck Design Ideas
- Gather ideas by looking at decks built by others. Your contractor may have some good suggestions in this area.
- Consider installing the deck planks in a diagonal direction rather than parallel or perpendicular to the house. This will make your deck more visually interesting.
- Consider building your deck with curved sides. This is a great way to make your deck uniquely appealing while bridging the gap between house and yard. You may not want to attempt this one by yourself though.
- Don’t forget the landscaping. When you design your deck make sure you plan where you want to put plants and trees for shade and decoration. Also, adding outdoor lighting is a great idea to beautify your deck and make it ready for night parties.
- Draw your design. Take measurements and make a detailed plan of what you want. This will make it easy for your contractor to turn your dream into a reality.
There are many factors to consider when designing a deck. But it should be a fairly easy process if you follow these tips. The best thing you can do though is hire a good reputable contractor to do the work. They will be able to bring their knowledge and experience to the table and make your deck the best it can be. Lakeside Renovation & Design is an experienced deck builder that can help you every step of the way! Contact us today for more information!
