If you’re like most people, summertime means spending time outdoors with family and friends. What better way to enjoy the good weather than by hosting gatherings on your deck? A well-built deck can be the perfect place to entertain guests, relax after a long day at work, or simply soak up some sun. In this blog post, we will provide tips for building your deck so that it is perfect for entertaining!

Tips for Building Your Deck

Adding a deck to your property or replacing an existing one can be a great way to improve your home’s value and outdoor living space.

When planning to build a deck, there are several things you should keep in mind to make sure it is the perfect spot for entertaining. Many homeowners hire a deck builder to construct their decks. Even if you don’t use a hammer yourself, there’s plenty for you to do.

Decide on Placement

When building a deck, the first issue to consider is where you want it. If you’re building a brand new deck, you’ll likely need to construct a new entryway from your house. The position of the door will determine where you may place your deck. You could try to plan your door to meet the needs of your deck, but often indoor factors have a substantial effect on where you want to place your door. You may begin planning your deck’s placement once you’ve decided how to get to it from inside your home.

Elevation

In general, there are two types of decks: a high deck and a low deck. A high deck is generally up a full flight of stairs from the ground below. It may be reached from a second floor or a first floor if there is a walk-out basement below. The need for railing all the way around is one of the most important characteristics of a high deck. The railings will be one of the most apparent parts of the deck, so you’ll want to pay close attention to their design.

A low deck is one that is less than 30 inches above grade (above the ground). Although a low railing is not necessary, it may help to define the space and protect against falls and missteps. To prevent mold and dampness formation, it’s critical to keep adequate circulation under a low deck. You should also keep small rodents and other animals from taking up residence beneath a low deck. It’s usually better to leave as much space as feasible, but consider lattice or screening around the deck’s edges to limit the area below.

Choosing a Style

Try to keep an open mind when it comes to the design of your deck. Don’t get too hung up on the fine points when you start out with your first sketches. Consider your deck’s purpose and how you intend to use it. Your deck’s style will be dictated by several factors, such as its shape, size, location, and functionality.

Considerations for Multiple Levels

Multiple levels are one method to split a large deck. However, you’ll want to make sure there aren’t too many distinct levels in a little area. Unexpected elevation changes can lead to trips or falls, especially if you plan to entertain frequently. But if you have a large area, splitting it into two levels in a creative way to define separate areas.

Think About Functionality

Consider how you want your deck to fit into your lifestyle. If you love to host and throw a great summer party, consider a large deck with open spaces as well as some more intimate areas to relax. If you’re a private contemplative type, consider investing in the ideal conditions for some solitary reflection. You can get your family involved, too. Learn what everyone wants out of a deck and include those ideas into your final plan. Nothing is off limits during the early stages of planning.

Consider the Weather Where You Live

In many cases, an overhead structure will be present on the deck. If you want to use your deck during the hot summer, you’ll need something to protect yourself from the sun. A pergola is the most popular covering for a deck. If you use a pergola for your deck covering, you’ll want to space the slats at a distance that offers good coverage from the sun as it moves across the sky but also lets in a cool breeze. Consider a more solid covering if you live in a location that is unusually hot. The proper covering can make the difference between enjoying your deck in mid-summer and only using it during certain hours. Some people simply choose to forgo a covering altogether and use umbrellas or other portable shading options.

Cooking In Your Outdoor Space

For many people, one of the primary uses of a deck is to cook outside. For some, that just means setting up a grill in one corner of the deck. However, if you enjoy grilling and entertaining, your culinary options go beyond the basic barbecue. Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. An outdoor kitchen is anchored by a high-end grill but may include many other amenities, such as stovetops, a refrigerator, a counter for prepping food, separate eating spaces, or even a bar. There is really no limit to what you can do with an outdoor kitchen.

Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of deck design. The right lighting can make or break your outdoor entertaining space. It can set the mood, help you see what you’re doing when cooking, and provide a measure of safety after the sun goes down. There are many different types of lighting available for decks. Solar lights are becoming increasingly popular because they’re easy to install and don’t require any wiring. However, solar lights may not provide enough light for cooking or entertaining. If you want more intense lighting, you’ll need to wire your deck for electricity. This is a more involved process, but it will allow you to use any type of lighting you want.

Deck Construction by Green State Pro

The bottom line is that you should let your imagination be your guide when planning your perfect outdoor space. Keep in mind the tips outlined above, but don’t be afraid to think outside the box and come up with something truly unique. Your deck is an extension of your home, so make it a reflection of your personal style. With a little creativity and effort, you can have the deck of your dreams.

Green State Pro is a premier remodeling company. We specialize in creating custom decks that are both functional and stylish. Our team of experienced professionals will work with you to create a deck that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Contact us today to get started on planning your perfect outdoor space.