If you’re considering adding a deck to your home, here are a few things you should consider.
Decks are perfect for boosting your lifestyle and your home’s value. They are also the perfect way to expand your home’s outdoor living space. Decks are also an investment and one that needs proper planning. Your dream deck can be whatever shape you like. The tricky part is making it fit your budget and location. You need to consider many factors before you make your final decision. If you’re considering adding a deck to your home, here are a few things you should consider.
What is the Deck’s Purpose?
Decks are versatile, multipurpose spaces. One night you might entertain friends and then enjoy a quiet sunset alone the next night. Choose a design that reflects your interests and activities to get the most out of your new deck. For example, do you love hosting parties? Or do you prefer to sit and relax quietly outdoors? These factors help plan your deck’s size, shape, and location. It’ll also help when choosing different materials for their visual appeal and the ambiance they create. Wood will warm up in the sun, making it perfect for bare feet or outdoor entertainment. If you have pets, composite might be a better alternative.
Consider the Deck’s Size and Location
Your landscape’s condition will significantly influence the deck’s design and placement. A sloping yard suggests a raised deck with stairs or a multi-level deck. If your yard has mature trees, are they obstacles to your plans, or could they be incorporated into your design? Also, think about the deck’s relationship to your house. Should it connect at the back or the side? If the deck will serve as the front porch, include design features to complement the façade. Scale is also important. A deck for a vacation house is much different from a deck in the backyard of a city house.
Set a Budget
Once you have determined the purpose of your deck and its location, it’s time to set a budget. Setting a budget helps you narrow down your decisions when choosing materials and a design. If you have any questions or concerns about budgeting, consult your professional deck builders. They will guide your decision-making process and help you stay within budget.
Customize Your Space
Lighting makes your deck safer and more inviting. Low-voltage lighting is popular because it’s compact and easy to install, but many other options exist. For a clean, professional look, consider modular lighting. It integrates seamlessly into posts, railings, deck boards, and stairs.
Deck furniture should be comfortable, attractive, and weather resistant. Before spending money, experiment with the furniture you already have or buy inexpensive pieces until you get a better feel for how you use the space.
Interested in Improving Your Outdoor Living Space? Consider Landscape and Hardscaping Design Services from Carroll Landscaping
Carroll Landscaping has over 30 years of experience with landscape construction, porch construction, deck building, and hardscape installation. Our award-winning landscape designers are passionate about providing customers with top-notch service and landscape design. Our landscape designers have a creative design outlook and work as a team with our installation crews to make your vision a reality. We are committed to providing every customer with the highest quality workmanship, professional and knowledgeable service, and creativity in design in order to surpass our clients’ expectations in every aspect of the project.
We serve residents throughout the beautiful state of Maryland including Baltimore, Columbia, Ellicott City, Eldersburg, Clarksville, Sykesville, Manchester, Westminster, and Woodstock. For more information and to schedule a consultation with one of our expert designers, contact us online or give us a call at 410-922-2416.