A deck is a great way to extend your living space and increase your home’s value. But a deck must be built to support the weight of furniture, barbecues, and people, as well as meet local building codes and safety regulations. This requires a professional deck builder, so it is important to research companies and find one that offers competitive pricing. Also, a deck builder that offers an extended warranty is a good choice.
Decking is an alternative to concrete, stone or a patio. It is usually constructed on top of a wooden base and provides a level area for entertaining or relaxing. It is popular in many parts of the world, especially in warmer climates, and can be made from a wide range of materials including wood, composites, or metal.
The most common types of decking include wood, composite and PVC. Each material has its own benefits and disadvantages, but it is important to consider all your options before choosing a decking product. For example, wood may be more expensive than composite or PVC, but it is a sustainable product that can last for decades with minimal maintenance. Composite and PVC decking can also be less expensive than wood, but they have a shorter lifespan and may require more frequent replacement.
Before starting construction on a new deck, it is important to plan out the layout and choose a design that suits your needs and budget. It is also a good idea to consult with your municipality and local building codes to determine whether you need a permit or are required to submit drawings. Depending on the size and height of your deck, you may also need to obtain a builders licence.
Creating the foundation for your deck begins with marking the floor frame joist spacing, which is typically 16 inches on-center for end joists and 8 inches on-center for center joists. After the joists are marked, the deck boards can be laid. If possible, try to stagger the spaces between each board for a more seamless look.
After constructing the deck, it is time to stain, seal or paint. But before doing this, it is important to wait 2-3 weeks or longer if you used pressure treated lumber. This is because the lumber must have time to acclimate and dry out before it can be stained, sealed or painted.
When creating a deck, it is essential to think about who you will be presenting the deck to. Understanding the audience will help you structure and format the content of your deck in a way that is most effective for your audience. For instance, a deck created for an upcoming presentation with a client will need to strike a different visual tone than a slide that is being sent as an email attachment to co-workers. Similarly, a deck that will be presented IRL (in person) at an event will need to be more formal than one being created for a webinar.