Are you considering adding a deck to your home? Here are a few things you should know before going ahead with the project.
First, this is not a weekend project a homeowner should take on. Hundreds of decks collapse every year, and many people are seriously injured due to faulty installation.
Next, consider what you will be using it for; are you building a poolside deck? Your homes resale value will be increased a little, but make poolside entertaining more fun and accessible. If you are planning on an entertainment or family center in the summer, your value will be mostly in enjoyment before you sell. Adding a deck because your backyard has a steep hillside will increase your resale value considerably.
Decks are built in virtually any size or style the homeowner wants. Costs rise according to complexity and working conditions, such as that hillside deck. Costs also vary according to the materials used. If you want a deck built out of standard green-treated lumber, costs will be more affordable. If you are looking at cedar, costs will rise considerably. Maintenance on natural lumber amounts to power washing and re-sealing every few years. Plastic components for deck boards and railings are available and costs are about the same as standard green treated lumber, maintenance amounts to a hose and detergent.
Hiring a licensed contractor with good references for this project is a necessity. Load bearing considerations for the foundation, and lateral force fail-safes for the railing are just two considerations contractors deal with everyday.
Even so, you should ask a few questions. One of the main supports for your deck is the ledger board. This is fastened directly to your home and Lag Bolts, not nails or screws should be the fastener unless your deck will be fastened to the foundation wall. Carriage Bolts should be used to secure the 4"x4" posts of your railings to the deck. Deck boards should be installed using screws, not nails, and staples are worse than nails for holding power.
A deck is a wonderful place to spend summer evenings, and sound professional installation will provide many years of safe enjoyment.
