Decks are fantastic, versatile features of many homeowners’ backyards and many business owners’ properties. They allow people to enjoy the fresh air and sunlight while they sit and talk with friends, have a meal or drink, or spend time alone with their favorite reading material.
When it comes to building decks, there are many factors to consider to ensure the design is perfect for the owner’s needs. If you are thinking about having a deck constructed on your property, you should know what these factors are.
- Purpose – There is little point in building a deck that you won’t end up using. Think carefully about how you anticipate using your deck since this will inform its design, size, and other factors. If you like to entertain, you might want to make sure there is enough space for an outdoor dining table, for instance.
- Location – Where decks are built depends heavily on where there is space, but it’s also important to consider site conditions. Building a deck on a slope presents unique challenges, and the stability of the soil may affect a deck’s longevity.
- Zoning – Whenever deck construction is involved, it’s essential to comply with zoning and setback regulations. These are in place for safety reasons, and following them helps you avoid fines, complaints from neighbors, and other issues.
- Budget – With all the different designs, materials, and accessories to choose from when it comes to decks, it’s fairly easy to get carried away and spend more than you should. Setting a reasonable budget from the beginning is advisable.