THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUILDING A NEW DECK
The decision to build a new deck onto your home adds value to not just your home, but also to the quality of your life! Your new deck will last a long time, so the choices you make when designing your new deck are important. However, building a new deck should also be fun. At Barefoot Decking, we help you design and build the deck you have been dreaming about!
When you are building a new deck on your property, there are many different options to consider, including the materials, size, location, function, and any additional add-ons you might include on your brand-new deck. At Barefoot Deck Company, we are the most experienced deck builders you can find. From lighting, to lattice, and other options, we know how to help you design the perfect deck. Here are some choices for you to be thinking about as you build your new deck!
The Purpose and Function of Your Deck
How do you want to use your deck? Do you want to entertain, dine outside, have space for a garden, or just have some outdoor privacy? The answer to this question will inform a lot of the decisions you make when it comes to building the right deck for you. For example, what activities you are going to use your deck for can help determine the size of your deck and how you design the space.
Your Deck’s Location
Sometimes, it is obvious exactly where your deck will be placed. Other times, you have options! If you have more than one possible location, we can come scout out your yard for you and give you advice. For example, do you want your deck in the shade or the sun? Do you want to create privacy from your neighbors? All of these factors can help you determine where your deck should be built.
Style of Your Deck
What’s the style of your dream deck? What is it made of? Is it casual, or more fancy? Considering the style of your deck will help you make other decisions, like the deck’s material.
Deck Material Options
Another option you have when it comes to building your new deck is your material options. The two main options you have when it comes to material for your deck are wood and composite.
Though wood might be your first thought when it comes to which material you will choose for your dream deck, there are several benefits to choosing a composite deck. For example, composite decking requires much less maintenance than wood decking.
Building Codes and Permits
Always check with your town or city to obtain any necessary permits before beginning construction on your deck!
Your Budget
It is best to be realistic when setting your budget for your dream deck. It is also important to allow room in your budget for add-ons that you might realize your deck requires! For example, lighting and wrapping posts are integral parts of any amazing deck. At Barefoot Decking, we have experience building decks for clients with budgets from high to low. We are not the cheapest or most expensive option for deck builders, but we are the BEST option.
Deck Add-On Options
When you are building a new deck on your property, you have plenty of options when it comes to add-ons. Here are a few that the experts at Barefoot Decking recommend.
Under Deck Water Systems
Many people don’t realize how much is going on underneath their decks! For example, you might require an under deck water system to help drain moisture.
ZipUP UnderDeck System
The ZipUP UnderDeck protects the underside of your deck and provides an additional dry, usable, outdoor living space. Why waste this valuable space when you can use it instead? The ZipUP UnderDeck is simple to install and comes in a variety of profiles and color options.
Have a Patio Underneath Your Deck
If you really want to maximize your outdoor space, another option is to consider having a patio underneath your desk. This creates usable space and also keeps water from leaking through. A patio underneath your deck also serves as the perfect escape from the rain or other weather in Chicago! A deck and patio is a winning combination that optimizes your yard’s space as much as possible.
Deck Lighting
There are several reasons you will need to consider adding lighting to your deck: for safety, ambiance, and function.
Safety
Deck lighting is necessary for safety reasons, especially on pathways leading to and from your deck and to illuminate any steps on or near your deck.
Ambiance
Lighting also adds a mood and an ambiance to your deck! You can choose soft lights, bright lights, whatever you want the atmosphere to be on your deck.
Function
If you plan on entertaining on your new deck at nighttime, some form of lighting will be necessary.
Here are some different options for lighting for your new deck:
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Recessed step lights
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Path lights
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Overhead lights
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Wall or post-mounted lights
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Landscape spotlights
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Outdoor kitchen lighting
Deck Railings
Decks are commonly thought of as floors, but there are plenty of vertical elements to your deck, too! One aspect you will need to consider is your deck’s railings. There are many options when it comes to deck railings, like cable, aluminum, composite, and even glass.
Deck Wrapping Posts
At Barefoot Decking, we trim out the underframe of the deck for a finished look. Deck wrapping posts, also commonly referred to as sleeves, wrap around deck posts and give them an instant upgrade.
Deck Lattice
A lattice is a structure that consists of strips of wood or metal crossed and fastened together with square or diamond-shaped spaces left in between. Lattice is ideal when it comes to keeping critters out of your deck. It also gives a cleaner, more finished look to your deck.