7 minute read
Awesome Ideas for a DIY Deck Project
inking of adding a new deck to your home this summer? A deck is an excellent way to utilize unused space and allows you to appreciate your backyard. It will likely encourage you to spend more time outdoors. If you have unused space at the back ( or front or side) of your home, why not create an exciting new deck for a unique and attractive new outdoor living and entertainment space. Here are a few ideas to inspire your inner designer.
inking of adding a new deck to your home this summer? A deck is an excellent way to utilize unused space and allows you to appreciate your backyard. It will likely encourage you to spend more time outdoors. If you have unused space at the back ( or front or side) of your home, why not create an exciting new deck for a unique and attractive new outdoor living and entertainment space. Here are a few ideas to inspire your inner designer.
If you’re planning to design your deck, you should rst become familiar with some of the more common deck designs. One of the most popular designs is the platform deck. Platform decks are recommended for level areas as it sits low to the ground.
Higher than a platform deck is a raised deck. As it sits higher, you need to include railings not only for aesthetics but also for safety. A freestanding deck is more suitable for properties that don’t allow for a directly connected deck. You can also have two-story or even multilevel decks if your home’s geographic contours allow. To design a deck that can be used year-round, one of the rst things you should consider is covering the part of the deck that connects to your home. oughtful landscaping around your deck creates a natural ow and acts as a subtle reminder of how your home is connected to your backyard.
Choosing the Right Materials
e rst thing one must consider regarding backyard deck ideas is the materials to be used. e four most common types of materials are pressure-treated lumber, redwood or cedar, aluminum, and composite materials. Each has its pros and cons, and careful consideration is important before you decide which one you will incorporate into your design. Pressure-treated lumber can make your deck look classic with a hardwood nish, but it is high-maintenance and prone to warping. Redwood and cedar are durable but can end up being very expensive. Aluminum is an excellent choice when it comes to durability, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. Composite materials are easy to maintain and are available in a wide selection of colours and textures.
Your deck will most likely become the centrepiece for entertaining. Casual dinners with your friends or family get-togethers. Planning will ensure that it is designed to host a variety of events. Installing lighting, an outdoor sound system, and a kitchen or a bar will add to the ambiance.
You may want your deck to have more than one purpose – as a space to relax alone, a place to entertain guests, or a quiet spot to spend time with your family. One way to visually divide parts of your deck is with the use of furniture. For example, place a dining table in one section intended for enjoying meals and a separate seating area where you can chill while having a drink. Small picnic tables are a great idea to accommodate children and allow adults a bit of breathing space at meal times.
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Outdoor Furniture Ideas
Speaking of furniture, choose pieces that will go with the style of your deck. For example, look for furniture with curves or complementary shapes if you have a contemporary deck with geometric patterns and hard angles. Cast-aluminum furniture works well because it is lightweight and can be easily shaped with curves to complement the deck’s rigid design. Furniture made of wrought iron is a popular choice for something more durable.
You will have more options for wood furniture; there is a vast assortment to choose from. For a traditional deck, wooden furniture is a good choice for a more rustic look. Some popular options are redwood, cedar, mahogany, or teak. ese are great for covered decks as inclement weather may damage the wood and make the cushion wet. If you’re designing a more open deck, go for light, folding chairs and tables so they can be easily stored if needed.
For something a bit more tropical, try mahogany or bamboo tables and chairs. Couches and loveseats made of these will add an element of elegance to your deck. Modern wicker furniture is another great option and is designed to be lightweight and is often weather resistant. Most wicker chairs and sofas have cushions, which can be removed when needed and stored during rain.
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e deck railing is the element that ties your design together. You can choose railings that match your deck’s main material or create a more eclectic look by mixing di erent materials.
ere are several di erent types of materials and a wide price range to choose from. You can opt for composite or vinyl railings if a maintenance-free deck is a priority. Some of these are available at your local home improvement centers as kits that are easy to install, making them perfect for DIY projects. For a more premium-looking but more expensive deck railing, you can install glass or plexiglass, which provides an unobstructed view beyond your deck. If you decide on the glass, be sure it is tempered and shatter-proof glass, and to prevent birds from crashing onto them, consider going with tinted glass. If you want a backyard deck with a more rustic appeal, try using metal railings. Most metal railings are made of either aluminum or steel. Choose aluminum if you want something rust-proof.
For a more modern look, consider installing a cable railing system. ese are often composed of stainless steel cables with posts made of wood, composite, or metal materials.
No matter the design of your deck railings, make sure that you follow your local building codes that set standards for height, grades, and sizes.
