February 13th 2020

Are you planning to add or replace a deck to your home this year? Before you stock up on lumber, here are some details you should address to ensure your deck will improve your home’s value and curb appeal.

Design

What you plan to use your deck for will have a big impact on other considerations you’ll need to make. Will your deck include a grilling station? A hot tub? Built in benches? There are several design and style options for each intended use.

Size

Choosing the right size deck to fit your needs and visually balance the home can be tricky. As a general rule, the deck shouldn’t be more than ¼ the size of your home. There are of course exceptions to the rule, especially if you’re planning on having a large number of people on your deck at the same time.

Materials

A lot of time and resources go into making a deck, so you want it to last a good, long time. Be sure to use materials that are durable, safe, and easy to maintain. Consider the different pros and cons of various kinds of wood, pavers, stone, vinyl, PVC, and composite materials. 

Labor

Finding a qualified deck builder or backyard contractor can make a big difference in the quality of your deck. Do your research beforehand to ensure your contractor is licensed and insured. You’ll also want to check their testimonials to be sure the people they have worked with in the past were happy with their results and experience.

Budget

Be upfront with your deck builder about your initial budget and how flexible it is. Your final cost could change based on the design, size, and materials you choose. Be ready to discuss and revise your budget before the building process begins so that there are no surprises during the construction phase.

A deck is a big addition to a home, as it adds an entire extra living space during the warmer months. You should treat this addition with as much care as if it were inside your home! If you're in need of a reference for a local contractor, or even home listings or vacation rentals with decks, give us a call at (609) 884-4242 today.