Deck building has become a whole lot simpler with the advent of home improvement retail outlets. They offer how-to-do-it clinics, a wide variety of deck building materials and even free deck design consultations. In the course of these consultations the retail outlet person calls upon deck design software to make the process simpler for the homeowner. And of course the nice thing about it all is that it’s a free service.

So with so many homeowners having home computers why don’t more people go out and purchase deck design software and use it to create their own deck design?

The difficulty is that there are so many different kinds of deck design software out in the marketplace that homeowners find it difficult to make a choice. Deck design software programs vary in price and capabilities. The basic do-it-yourself types are priced in the $30.00 range. Another slightly more advanced type is in the $50.00-$100.00 range. Builders and contractors use commercial deck design software that costs $1,000.00 and up in price.

Ideally, the deck design software that you choose will allow you with the click of a mouse to create a deck design, change it from simple to complex, transform it from one level to multi-level and add features such as railings, posts, benches and skirting. However, much of the effectiveness of deck design software comes from the computer abilities and design capabilities of the person holding the mouse.

It is very important to compare the features and capabilities of deck design software before making a choice and purchase. Good deck design software will provide you with a variety of sample deck styles that can be copied or modified to suit your particular home and backyard. The size and shape could be altered in a flash with ease. It would allow you to add such features as railings, steps, benches, level changes and angles with the click of a mouse. You would also be able to select the decking material, its direction (horizontal, vertical, diagonal, herringbone, etc.) and color and texture.

Good deck design software would also allow you to view your proposed deck design from a variety of viewpoints. Some of the newer versions now allow you to import actual photographs of your home into the program so that you can view your new virtual deck design next to your own house. Another handy feature would be an editing toolbar that would permit deck features to be easily added or removed. Good deck design software would also allow you to enter custom dimensions for width, depth and height for your specific situation.

Another important feature would be the ability of the software to generate a materials list pertaining to the proposed deck. This would be vital in determining the budgetary information related to construction of the deck.

Finally, most good deck design software allows you to generate printed plans to use during construction ot to use as a basis for discussion with a contractor.

Deck design software can be a useful tool for a homeowner contemplating the addition of a deck in the back yard. It can eliminate a great deal of guesswork in the process with a point, click and drag of the mouse so that in the end the ideal deck is designed to perfectly suit the tastes and needs of the person in front of the computer screen.

Topics: Deck Design Software | Give Your Two Cents »

An outdoor living space such as a deck must be able to handle a great deal of abuse over the years. Rain, snow and ice, abrasion from foot traffic and furniture, and many hours of direct sunlight day after day are reasons why it is important to choose the right kind of deck finish for this outdoor room.

To make matters worse, the joints between the numerous parts of a deck retain moisture long after a recent rainfall leaving the wood at the mercy of rot, mildew, algae formation and wood eating insects. In order to deal with these problems, deck finish manufacturers offer a wide variety of product formulations that include sealers, preservatives, UV-light inhibitors, pigments and resins.

Some are oil based and are especially effective at penetrating the wood. Some are acrylic and form a film over the surface of the wood. Others are a mixture of the two. Some finishes are more popular than others because of manufacturer advertising. The trick is to do the reasearch and select the finsh best suited to the wood and local climate.

Clear sealers or water repellent preservatives are the most popular choice for newly built decks. They are especially created to protect the wood from moisture thereby saving it from repeated cycles of soaking up water and then drying out. Any wood left unprotected will eventually crack, warp, cup, splinter or check.

Sealers need to be reapplied regularly in order to remain effective. This could be yearly or longer depending upon the quality of the sealer. Homeowners must realize that even when a sealer finish is applied the wood will likely weather to a grey color. Water repellent preservatives have the added advantage of containing a fungicide to fight the onset of mildew.

Transparent stains or toners offer more protection than clear sealers. They have the advantage of deepening and enhancing the color of the wood while still allowing the grain to be visible. Transparent stain finishes applied to pressure treated wood can approximate the look of more expensive wood materials such as redwood or cedar.

The best and most effective products in this deck finish category penetrate the wood surface. They protect the wood from damaging UV light and mildew and leave a substantial top surface layer to resist moisture. Transparent stains or toners are relatively expensive finishes but will retain the original color of most woods if they are applied strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Exotic tropical hardwoods such as Ipe or mahogany are dense with natural oils and do not absorb penetrating transparent stains as well as woods that are softer. They can be allowed to weather to a teak-like grey or treated with a finish specifically formulated and designed to maintain the original wood color.

Semitransparent stains contain more pigment that transparent stains. They do a much better job of disguising wood imperfections and unattractive grain patterns. Oil based and alkyd based versions of semitransparent stains are very effective because they penetrate the wood better than acrylic formulated products. All are readily available in a wide variety of wood tones and colors.

Solid stains are more heavily pigmented than semitransparent stains to the point where they resemble thinned paint. They offer superior protection against UV rays and are able to hide the color and the grain of the wood. Solid stains are available in a wide variety of colors. Water based solid stain products are easier to clean while oil based formulas generally last for longer periods of time.

Deck and porch paints are different from many stains in that they are film forming products. This results in superior UV and moisture protection. It is also great for camouflaging lesser grades of lumber. The disadvantage is that the paint may blister and peel and will eventually show wear in higher foot traffic areas. Use paint if a bright gloss or semgloss finish is desired to match or complement paint on the exterior of the house.

Acrylic and alkyd based paints are available and are most effective when applied over an oil based primer. To improve slip resistance, mix the paint with clean sand. Keep painted decks swept free of dirt as it wears finishes away faster or place outdoor carpets along heavily travelled traffic areas. Sand and recoat when necessary.

Preservatives are specially formulated by manufacturers to prevent rot, fungal growth and decay. Some varieties also are designed to protect against wood-boring insects. Preservatives are especially recommended for treating untreated wood. They are also handy for treating the cut ends of pressure treated lumber on site during construction.

Preservatives are not finishes by themselves. However, they may be sold in combination with sealers in order to provide moisture protection as well as making them a 1 step finish. Some preservatives can be used before the application of paint for additional protection against rot and decay.

The rule of thumb for the application of a deck finish is to be generous. The idea is for the liquid to saturate the wood fibers. As always it is wise to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding applying the product and observe all warnings. In some cases it may be necessary to wear a face mask, eye protection or rubber gloves and a long sleeved shirt in order to minimize skin irritation and protect against splashes and drips.

Failure to apply some type of protective finish to the wood will undoubtedly lead to problems down the road and will affect the aesthetic appearance of the deck. It’s always better to be safe than sorry especially when it comes to applying a deck finish.

Topics: Deck finish | Give Your Two Cents »

When the best site has been determined for the construction of the deck, it is time to put possible ideas down on paper in the form of an initial deck design. Gather as much information as possible. Study deck designs in how-to-design-it books. Browse through home improvement magazines for additional information and ideas. Visit the decks of relatives, friends and neighbors for inspiration. Take photographs if needed.

The important task is to design a deck that works. Good looks are never enough with such an outdoor living space. The deck must survive harsh weather conditions, blend in with the architectural style of the home, coordinate in some manner with interior rooms and be sturdy enough to last for years to come. To achieve all of these goals it will be necessary to use appropriate materials and construction techniques. Durable and affordable materials that comply with the local building codes and provide the look that is right for the house are a must.

Ensure that the plans are as complete as possible to minimize confusion later no matter whether the construction is being done by a homeowner or by a contractor or builder.

It is not necessary to be an artist in order to design a deck. The process is more science than it is art. The deck’s basic surface pattern and substructure should be drawn in plan view as seen from above, looking straight down. The arrangement of the deck substructure should be drawn in plan view as well as elevation view in which it is seen straight on from 1 side.

 Railings and other vertical deck parts are best drawn in elevation view. Any attachments or detail features should be drawn from the view that most clearly shows their construction. Three dimensional detail sketches can often work best for these. 

To reduce the deck’s plan to paper size, it should be drawn to scale. A typical scale might be 1 foot of actual deck reduced to 1/4 or 1/2 inch depending upon the size of the deck. A simple way to do this is to use graph paper where a certain number of squares would equal 1 foot on the deck. If a larger drawing area is needed, tape sheets of graph paper together.

Initially, take the time to draw a base map which is a plan of the existing house and property. If it is possible to locate architect’s drawings or deed maps that show the actual dimensions and orientation of the property, this step can be eliminated.

Certain base map data is important. Measure the area where the deck will be located. Make a rough sketch first and then transfer the information to a more refined scale drawing. The dimensions of the lot, the location of the house and other structures such as a pool, garage, storage shed or hot tub, the position of doors, windows and interior house walls, the path and direction of the sun, fencing or privacy screens, utility lines such as water, gas, sewer and electricity, the direction of prevailing winds, existing trees, shrubs and garden beds and any obstructions beyond the lot that might affect sunlight, the view or privacy should be included.

Place a sheet of tracing paper over the base map and sketch in a possible deck shape or configuration. Examine it and evaluate its strengths and weaknesses. Repeat the process trying different configurations or modifying ones that seem to have possibility. Don’t confine ideas to rectangles or single level decks. They may not be the best or most interesting choices in the long run. Experimentation and imagination will pay off eventually in a more satisfactory deck design.

Once a deck shape that seems to work has been created, figure the deck’s actual size and confirm its shape and placement on the site. Refine the scale drawing. Consider traffic patterns. People should be able to move smoothly from the house to the deck and from the deck to the yard. If necessary, open up a house wall to improve circulation. Avoid creating traffic patterns that run through the middle of outdoor spaces. Plan them so they flow along the perimeters of these deck spaces.

Taking the time to do the research, to do careful planning and using some imagination in the intial deck design process will eventually lead to the creation of an outdoor living space that will satisfy the needs and lifestyle of family members and guests for years to come.

Topics: Deck design | Give Your Two Cents »

Whenever it is possible and practical, select deck design options that either de-emphasize construction imperfections or make it much simpler to correct any mistakes made during the building process. There are a number of techniques that can be used in relation to a deck.

Technique #1 - Hide the footings and the posts. Deck support posts can sometimes end up being a little bit off-center on top of the footings for one reason or another. In any case an inch or two will not affect the strength of the deck foundation. However, anyone looking at the post and footing from the side might not be too appreciative of their appearance. People will not be able to see the imperfect footings if the joists are cantilevered 24 inches or more beyond the support beam.

Hiding the footings well under the deck is also a great method for hiding the beam so if the deck and the beam aren’t perfectly aligned, it will not show. The large beam pieces, usually an unattractive pair of pressure treated two-by boards, are often ugly to look at, so hiding the beam under the deck actually will make the deck look better. This is especially true and important when high end materials are used in the deck design such as redwood or cedar for the decking.

Technique #2 - Let the lumber run wild. Although all of the parts of the deck will eventually be trimmed neatly to exact lengths, try to wait until the last minute in order to make the cuts. Leave the posts, joists and decking too long when they are first installed. Then cut them later to the correct size. This method is called letting the lumber run wild and it can certainly be an important construction technique for building a great looking deck. Professionals have utilized this trick for many years.

For example, if the wall of the house bows out and all of the joists are cut initially to exactly the same length, then the bowed out wall will simply be duplicated. Instead let the joists run wild. Snap a chalk line across the tops and cut them all off in perfect alignment.

Technique #3 - Attach built-up beams to the posts. When beams are placed on top of several posts it is a necessity to trim all of the posts to exactly the same height prior to installing the beams. This can be a very challenging task, especially when a long beam span might be required to connect 5, 6 or more posts. A simpler method is to let the posts run wild upward. Create a beam composed of 2 or more pieces of two-by lumber that are attached to the sides of the vertical posts with lag screws or carriage bolts, washers and nuts.

Using this design technique it is possible to check and recheck the beam for level before installing and tightening the lag screws or carriage bolts and correcting any mistakes as the work progresses. Then it is simply a matter of cutting the posts flush to the top of the beam only after the beam is in place and fastened securely. Any construction plans should show this method clearly to avoid confusion when framing the deck.

Technique #4 - Use overhangs and underhangs. In situations where 1 piece of lumber supports another it seems most practical to trim the upper piece flush with the bottom piece in order to create a smooth, uniform corner. However, a gap may open up after a period of time especially in situations where deck lumber might be prone to expansion and contraction.

In many cases, a planned overhang or underhang can look better than a flush cut. It is usually a good idea to let decking overhang the joists by an inch or two. Railing pieces can also look best overhung as well. A rail overhanging a post is a benficial way to prevent water from collecting in the end grain of the 4×4 or 6×6 post.

Although it is not done very often, letting the beam extend well beyond the end joists can be especially attractive and add much to the finished look and style of the deck. Consider carving the ends of the deck beams or even cutting them on an angle to add a bit of artistic detail and flair.

Technque #5 - Install added-on railings. It is quite possible to design a deck so that the posts supporting the beam extend up through the decking and eventually become the main supports for the railing system. This sounds like a good idea, however, a longer post is much more difficult to install perfectly plumb. If the railing posts are not plumb or not exactly aligned, then it is almost a certainty that the railing will look less than attractive.

A much more forgiving technique is to construct the deck first. Once that has been completed, the railing support posts can be bolted to the outer joists or fascia. Once that has been accomplished, the rails and balusters can be installed in place and fastened. This type of added-on railing system can easily be just as sturdy as one using the continuous post construction method.

Technique #6 - Build the stairway after the deck. Stairway design can be a complicated issue. It can take a fair amount of measuring and figuring to find out just where the stairway will end. So it is more practical to wait until the basic deck is complete before the position of the stairway posts and the landing slab are worked out.

The posts that support the stair railings quite often require extra lateral support. Instead of doing the traditional post-on-footing arrangement, stair posts can be extended down inside the footing forms with concrete poured around them for extra strenth.

In building a stairway use screws in place of nails. If it is necessary to reposition a baluster or pull up a stair tread, it will be far easier to remove the screws fastening it. In all likelihood, the baluster or tread board will not be damaged and can easily be reused.

A successful deck design is the product of extensive research, careful planning, a bit of imagination and careful attention to proven construction techniques and will result in an outdoor deck space that will service the needs and lifestyle of family members and guests for years to come.

Topics: Deck design | Give Your Two Cents »

The process of installing decking boards is the most satisfying part of the construction process of building a deck. The work proceeds quickly because most of the layout work will have been completed at this stage. Generally the decking can be applied in one day especially if a helper is available to provide assistance.

Take the time to sort through the stack of deck boards and select which side will be up for each piece. Discard any boards with bad cracks, twists or other damage. If there are different lengths of boards to be used, stack them accordingly so it will be easy to find them when needed.

Where the decking boards are long enough they can run over the outer joist and be trimmed later. Wherever a board end needs to be butted it is wiser to wait to see how the board falls on the joist and make the cuts at that time rather than make the cuts ahead of time. It is important that the butted boards join in the center of the joist.

Lay out 10 or 12 boards on the deck as they will go down with the lengths positioned to stagger butt joints. This will keep the work moving and provided a temporary surface on which to stand or kneel.

For decking the runs parallel to the house, select a straight board and cut it to length making sure to allow for the overhang. Measure out from the house at both ends of the run and mark the width of the decking board plus 1/2 inch to leave a drainage gap. Snap a chalk line or string a line between the end marks.

If the house wall bows in or out it may be necessary to increase the gap margin. Avoid twisting the board to conform to the house wall, otherwise the decking boards will not be straight. For decking butted to the house, follow the same basic procedure.

In situations where a diagonal pattern is being installed, begin with a straight board at least 6 feet long and set it on a 45 degree angle by measuring equal distances from the starting corner. Before fastening it measure from the center of the board to the corner to avoid ending up with a tiny pice of wood in the corner.

If a parquet pattern of decking is to be installed, keep track of what is happening with boards running in both directions by tacking at least 4 starter boards in place. Measure carefully to ensure that all of the decking boards come out right. Then drive the nails or screws into place. With complex patterns it is wise to layout decking boards to see how the pattern will fall on the framing.

With a herringbone pattern it is very important to account for all the repeats. In most cases, it looks best to use a pattern of full boards centred on the deck and equal sized partial lengths where the pattern meets the edges.

When fastening decking boards it is important that the long end hangs over far enough to be trimmed squarely. For angled, herringbone and parquet designs it will be necessary to measure and cut as the installation process goes.

Fasteners such as nails or screws can be used to locate the boards in place initially and then the rest can be nailed or screwed into place later once all the decking boards have been put down. This is a more time effiecient method of decking installation.

Use a nail as a spacer. Simply hold the nail against the last fastened board and tap it lightly with a hammer to hold it as you set the next board into position. Then simply remove the spacer nail and tap it into place to install the next decking board.

Drive a pair of nails or screws where each deck board crosses a joist about 3/4 to 1 inch in from the edge. Professionals drive the nails or screws straight in to leave a flat head on the surface. For appearance sake, snap a chalk line to keep the nails or screws in a perfectly straight line.

With screws predrill near the ends of all deck boards to avoid splitting. If a crack starts to open while working on a butt joint, remove the screw, increase the pilot hole size and then fasten the screw in place.

Deck clips or continuous deck fasteners are available to allow fastening decking from below with no visible screw or nail heads. They are more expensive and take more time to install. The important thing is that there is enough room to work on the deck from below.

There are several types available. The most common and most efficient is a perforated L-shaped strip. The idea is to screw through 1 side to fasten the hardware to the joist and through the other to fasten the decking board to the hardware.

It is important to check every fourth or fifth board to check for straightness. Simply measure back to the starting board at several points to see that the boards will continue to be square to the frame. Once all the boards are installed and completely fastened in place, it is simply a matter of snapping a chalk line at the outer edge of the decking and making the cut to trim the outer edge of the deck.

Installing decking is not brain surgery. Tt is a simple process that simply involves careful measurement, precise cutting and the strategic placement and fastening of the boards that will make up the surface of this wonderful outdoor structure.

Topics: Install decking | Give Your Two Cents »

Any deck must be thoughtfully designed and solidly constructed of durable materials. Successful deck design is about seeing all of the posibilities. However, there are 10 important principles or commandments of deck design that should be considered by any homeowner planning to construct a deck.

Commandment #1 - Try to see the design as a whole. The deck is both part of the house and part of the garden so its size, shape, design and location will undoubtedly have a profound effect on both. This would hold true in terms of affecting the interior view of garden areas, possible elimination of valuable garden or play space as well as accessibility from one to the other.

Commandment #2 - Plan generously and then add up the costs. Creating a strong design will assist a homeowner in distinguishing between the more and less important elements of the plan so that it becomes clear where to make compromises to bring the project within budgetary constraints. It might be decided to have several extra feet of deck surface rather than an area for storage or built-in benches rather than the extra floor space.

Commandment #3 - Rely on familiar shapes. Landscape designs that are based upon squares, rectangles, hexagons and circles almost always generate eye pleasing designs. They are usually the most economical to construct as well. The important thing is to avoid irregular or arbitrarily curved patterns.

Commandment #4 - Think in three dimensions. This will help to balance the design elements and enable a homeowner to visualize the results. It will also keep the designer from confining the design to an endless horizontal plane.

Commandment #5 - Maintain a sense of proportion. The deck should be large enough to suit the various needs of the family. It should be large enough to accomodate outdoor furniture comfortably. However, it should not be so large that it overwhelms the landscape or the home. Similarly, a deck that is dwarfed by the house and the garden can seem to be overcrowded with minimal amounts of furnishings. Try to size the deck so it complements rather than dominates the interior room or rooms from which it projects.

For example, a deck that wraps around the home may be generously sized where it joins the living room, a bit smaller where it opens off the kitchen and extremely small where it extends the master bedroom.

Commandment #6 - Look for a feeling of unity. Elements in deck design such as the shape, the pattern of the deck surface, the railing system, built-in benches, vertical privacy screens and roofs should look as if they belong together. It is also vital that as a whole the deck should blend with the architectural style of the home. If the house is built with rustic materials, the deck would be constructed with similar materials. If the home has a formal and uncluttered feeling to it, the design of the deck and its appearance should reflect a simialr feeling.

Commandment #7 - Consider traffic patterns. Family members and guests should be able to move smoothly from the home to the deck and from the deck to the garden. If it is necessary open up a wall to better facilitate movement. Avoid creating traffic patterns that flow through the middle of outdoor spaces or rooms. Traffic patterns work well when they flow along the perimeters of these outdoor areas.

Commandment #8 - Learn to stretch a low level deck. Make a ground level deck appear to be larger by planning it around 1 or 2 planting areas. A simple 10 by 18 foot deck can appear to be twice as large with the addition of 10 square feet and 2 planting areas. It is also possible to make the space seem larger by linking the deck to the lawn and a single planting area.

Another alternative would be to connect the deck to a patio or paved area. This will expand living space without having to add to the deck surface or losing the warm feeling of the wood.

Commandment #9 - Look below a high level raised deck. Consider what happens to the space that lies beneath it. The deck will almost certainly have some effect upon the temperature, the view, the amount of light received and the noise level of the area that it overhangs. A high level deck will affect temperature when it casts a shadow on one of the house walls and cools related interior walls.

It affects the view when looking through a lower level window or patio door especially when the deck’s support structure is exposed. In addition high level decks can block out daylight as well as transmit noises generated by upper deck activities into the rooms below. These handicaps can be minimized by locating the deck above a windowless wall of the home, building a second deck at the lower level or designing the deck with a streamlined substructure.

Commandment #10- Consult with professionals when necessary. Issues such as proposed deck sites over sand, mud or water, unstable soil, leakproof deck surfaces, high level decks and extensive cantilevering are best dealt with by getting advice and/or on site guidance from those who are trained to deal with them. Failure to do this could very well lead to structural defects and costly repairs in the near future.    

Any successful deck design will be the result of the homeowner doing the necessary observation, research and planning work related to creating an outdoor living space that will meet the needs and suit the tastes of family members and guests for years to come.

Topics: Deck design | Give Your Two Cents »

The deck concept design process is the time to basically get general spatial relationship down. This involves outdoor room sizes, circulation and connections between them and special design considerations such as the sequence and separation of public and private spaces. The emphasis should be on how family members and guests will use and move around in the deck spaces. The same emphasis will apply to the general physical forms that the deck areas will assume.

There are numerous ways in which to develop a deck concept design. Most professional designers have their own techniques and there are no best splutions. However, there are many good solutions possible to suit any design problem. The degree by which the solution will be measured depends upon how well it serves a homeowner’s requirements, how consistent and balanced it is and how flexible it will be in order to accomodate any changes in the future.

Assign preliminary dimensions to the different spaces or outdoor rooms that are desired. Think room size to come up with initial space allocations to avoid creating a deck that is too large to be comfortable and convenient. The idea is to examine  the issue realisticly. If a deck is to be built to entertain guests outdoors then the 2 questions to be answered would be how many people are normally entertained inside and how much space will they use outdoors?

Spend minimal time and energy in assigning these starting dimensions because in all probability they may well change as the deck concept plan evolves.

With 1 or more outdoor spaces roughly dimensioned sketch each as a space in scale on separate sheets of tracing paper and cut them out. Move these tracings around on top of each other to create different configurations. When one is found to be appealing, make a tracing of it. Continue the process to create other design possibilities.

Once several configurations have been developed, examine each one and determine if it accomplishes the design goals, fits the preliminary measurements of the spaces and seems to be practical with respect to serving the uses defined for these outdoor rooms.

It is important to keep in mind during the deck concept design process that spaces are being created for activities or quiet reflection or both. The connection that naturally or ideally exists between them must be considered such as easy access from the kitchen to the barbecue or from a hot tub to the family room or bedroom. Make certain that the concept designs allow for the uses needed.

Be very conscious of circulation issues such as where deck users will need to walk and where a space will be placed that is out of the traffic area. The effective use of any outdoor room will be limited if it becomes a corridor from one place to another. An outdoor dining area situated between a family room and pool deck might be more successful if it were located off to one side of the direct route between the other 2 spaces.

Save only those deck design concepts that seem to have strong positive characteristics. Work freehand keeping possible spaces to scale but remaining conscious of the basic deck form and how well the various design ideas create space and answer functional needs. Consider changing deck levels, wrapping a deck around the corner of the house, connecting deck levels with wide stairways, cantilevering beams and joists to disguise the deck framework, enclosing a tree, creating an in-deck flower garden or erecting an arbor, pergola or other shade structure.

Consider how the deck space will look from the interior of the house. Think about how existing conditions can be accomodated. Consider also what the orientaion of the outdoor space is to the angle of the sun, views available, noise types and prevailing wind patterns.

The deck concept design process is an important part in the planning, design and construction of an outdoor living space that ultimately will serve the needs and lifestyle of family members, guests and future owners for years to come.

Topics: Deck concept design | Give Your Two Cents »

Deck design  is a process. It is not just an end. It is similar to a recipe in which different ingredients can be experimented with until it tastes great. Repeating the cycles of observation and evaluation will force a homeowner into reexamining the reasons why something is done and either refining it or rejecting it.

There may be aspects of a deck project that will require professional assistance. In situations where a deck is 10 feet or more off the ground, where soil conditions for footings are less than ideal or where a rooftop location is the only site solution for a deck, then it might be wise to contact a licensed landscape architect, architect or civil engineer to have the deck plans checked. During the actual construction process special conditions may necessitate the assistance of a skilled carpenter.

However, these experts can be hired on a day-to-day basis. The important thing to remember is that it is far cheaper and much easier to make changes on paper than in wood. The design process actually may take almost as much time as the actual construction time for building the deck. That is what the design process is all about - thinking through the changes and recording them on paper. The objective of the design process is to discover requirements and limitations so that the eventual deck spaces will accomodate the expected uses.

Many questions need to be answered in the deck design  process:

How do you use the proposed deck site now? How would you prefer to use it? What do you like most about it? What don’t you like about it? Where children are involved, what specific uses will they be growing out of and into? Where pets are involved, do they have any specific requirements that would infuence the desgn? Do you want to shut them out or shut them in?

What specific uses do you want to plan for? Dinner parties? Sunbathing? Quiet conversation? Enjoying the view? Reading? Children’s play areas? Storage? How do other family members plan to use it? What ideas do they have regarding deck use?

What is the architectural style of your home? What house materials could be repeated in the deck design to link the two? What colors would achieve the same effect? What particular design style do you prefer - formal, informal, mediterranean, rustic, countryside, natural, Japanese? What special features will be created to enhance the look of the deck - arbor, pergola, water feature, bench seating?

How much money is available to spend on the deck project? How will any cost overruns be paid for? Will the construction process be completed all at once or will it be phased in over 2 or more years? What effect will the deck’s presence have upon the value of the property?

How much time will it take to construct the deck or have it built? Is there time available if the project runs beyond this time limit? How much time will be involved in the maintenance of the deck? Daily? Weekly? Monthly? Yearly? How long do you expect the deck to last?

How available are the construction materials in your area? How easily can these materials be brought on site and stored until construction can begin?

Where are the underground utility lines in relation to the deck site? How soon can the utility company locate and mark them? Is there a charge for this service? What local building codes will apply to the project? Are there easements, setbacks or other zoning regulations that will influence possible design plans? Who can be contacted to provide advice regarding any other special conditions that might affect your deck plans?

Does what you are planning affect any neighbors and their property? Are they planning any projects in the future that might affect the design that you are considering? Height? Fencing? Screens? Landscaping? Do you have a scaled plan of the site from the grant deed or from work done earlier on the property?

Do you have the tools, the skills and the patience to complete this project?

A homeowner may not be able to answer all of these questions and some of them might not even apply. There might be additional questions that may need addressing. It is important and helpful to identify what is not known about a proposed deck’s requirements and needs so that this information can be discovered eventually. The deck design process requires careful thought, extensive research, a bit of imagination and the determination to see the project through so that the deck space created will provide years of enjoyment to the homeowner, family members and guests for years to come.

Topics: Deck design | Give Your Two Cents »

Shadows, sound and wind are environmental conditions that need to be considered in creating a design for the enjoyment of outdoor deck spaces. It is important for a homeowner to understand their influences during the different seasons. Through careful design techniques it is quite possible to improve upon the deck microclimate.

By altering prevailing winds and developing more surfaces that are able to collect and hold or even discharge heat, the deck can be much warmer or cooler than surrounding areas.

Different surfaces have variable abilities to reflect and absorb heat or radiant energy. Wet or dark colored surfaces tend to absorb more heat than dry or light colored ones. A matte surface tends to reflect very little heat while absorbing most of it. Most natural surfaces such as wood or stone are relatively heat absorbent.

The speed of wind has a profound effect upon the heat retention of objects and of the air mass in a space. The speed and extent that heat and sound spread out depend upon wind and its turbulence.

Noise is distributed by air movement or winds. When a pleasing sound is intended, the structure and plantings must be designed to limit deflection and absorption. Since noise is carried by air movement, sounds that are desirable should not be blocked. On the other hand street noise or sounds from adjacent yards will need to be toned down. In order to accomplish this, create solid walls and windbreaks that reflect and deflect the sounds away from the site.

Where the noise is excessive and cannot be deflected, mask it by adding pleasing sound to it. Noises can be disguised by incorporating plants with rustling leaves, wind chimes or the subtle sounds of a water feature.

Wind tends to increase in velocity above ground obstructions that create turbulence. The objective of windbreaks is to block and divert winds without creating turbulence. A solid vertical wall is not a perfect solution because it lowers the temperature on the protected side. Dense groupings of shrubs and trees that are progressively higher the closer they come to the protected deck space can easily reduce wind speed by 50 percent without affecting temperature negatively.

Shadows and shading are important influences upon the temperature of outdoor spaces such as a deck. Areas with year round cooler weather will require a good deal of sunshine and little shade. In areas where hot weather is the norm, the reverse is true. If sunshine is critical it will be necessary to study shadows upon the proposed deck site to determine and estimate their actual extent during the various seasons. The information gleaned from these observations will enable the homeowner to design ways in which to either trap warmth or avoid the heat.

Construction of shade structures such as arbors and pergolas can create shade areas where permit air movement is not affected. Climbing vines and plants are wonderful accessories in this process because the enclosure they help to create is subtle in nature and very beneficial to deck users.

The orientation of a deck or adjacent wall surface will make a great difference in how warm it is. A wall angled to collect direct sun will be warmer than a nearby vertical wall. In a deck space, absorbed and reflected heat can, like solar panels, warm the surrounding areas. The trick is to consider design possiblities where the angled orientation of certain structural elements can be incorporated into the general design of the deck.

Conscious design decisions based upon thorough research, careful thought, imagination and strategic planning can do much to affect a deck microclimate and make the eventual finished product a place where family and guests can truly enjoy the outdoors most of the time.

Topics: Deck microclimate | Give Your Two Cents »

Homeowners and designers have many more options when it comes to deck materials than in previous years. The majority of new products seem aimed at creating decks that require less maintenance. The old adage of buying high quality materials holds true today. Decks take a fair amount of abuse because they are subjected to foot traffic as well as the elements of nature. Quality materials will certainly keep the deck looking better for longer periods of time.

There are 2 types of untreated wood that are used most often for decking. Redwood has a straight grain, takes a finish well and ranges in color from light to dark red. Heartwood redwood is resistant to decay, insects and rot. It is expensive, often 4 times the cost of pressure treated wood. Consider using redwood only for the visible decking parts and using pressure treated lumber for the under structure.

Western red cedar heartwood possesses many of the same qualities of redwood although it is lighter in color. Cedar is easy to work with but softer than redwood and takes a finish readily.

Both types of wood work well as decking but heartwood is more expensive and not available in quantity all the time. Lumber harvested from new growth which is lighter in color and called sapwood may have less resistance to decay and insects.

Exotic woods are another option for maintenance free, long lasting wood decking. Ipe, also known as Pau Lope, ironwood or Brazilian walnut, is one type while teak, Brazilian cherry and Philippine mahogany are others. These exotic woods benefit from being extremely dense and rich with natural oils thus making them very resistant to decay, fungal growth, insects and even fire. On the other hand, these tropical hardwoods are so dense that saws and drills have a diffiucult time penetrating them.

Tropical hardwoods cost more than most deck materials with the exception of redwood which is on par with them. Additional costs must be expected because of labor costs associated with the slower processes of predrilling and cutting. The need for extra saw blades will also impact upon the cost of the project with these deck materials.

Exotic hardwoods have great natural beauty but will still require some maintenance similar in nature to what is done with cedar and redwood.

Pressure treated lumber is the most cost effective and practical deck building material for the majority of homeowners. It is extremely resistant to rot and insect damage. A new process has replaced arsenic with copper compounds which poses no known threat to humans. The copper compounds are highly corrosive to other metals so it is vital that hot dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails and screws be used as fasteners.

Some synthetic deck products called composites combine wood fiber and recycled plastics. Others are produced from vinyl. Both are used primarily for decking with some matching components for railings, trim boards and moldings.

Synthetic products are not subject to rot, checking and do not splinter. They require less maintenance than wood but are more expensive than wood types. Some brands are more difficult to work with due to their density and weight. These types also tend to hold more heat than real wood and can cause discomfort when walking on them.

Aluminum decking is the new kid on the block that likely will become an attractive alternative in the future. It is low maintenance, light in weight but strong, prefinished, cool to walk on, recyclable and has a clean, contemporary look to it. Aluminum decking is also substantial enough that noise and denting are not problems.

Channels that are built in between the planks conveniently carry away rain. This translates into no additional drainage system under the deck being required. Aluminum decking is very well suited for use with roof decks and harsh seaside climates.

Decking made from plywood is another alternative to the use of solid wood or synthetic deck planks. This option has a more formal, less busy appearance than traditional deck products. When it is waterproofed properly, the space below will easily stay dry. One process involves caulking and taping all joints and then applying several coats of acrylic polymer. Granules can be added to the final coat to improve skid resistance and add a measure of texture.

A second system involving rolling a heavy vinyl membrane into place would basically achieve the same result. Any seams would need to be overlapped and heat welded. The finished product is much like an outdoor sheet vinyl floor because it is available in a variety of colors, patterns and textures.

A third alternative would involve applying a layer of fibreglass and resin to the plywood. Once dry a coating of marine paint would be applied to complete the task and add a splash of color to the outdoor living space.

In most deck designs, footings, beams and joists are usually hidden for good reason. However, it is possible with a little imagination to incorporate these items into the total deck design especially with upper level decks and those decks built on ground that slopes away from the house. In such cases there are a number of possible options.

Beams can be accentuated by extending them beyond the deck perimeter and cutting their ends with a distinctive profile. Cladding piers, posts and columns with wood, brick or stone can be particularly effective when the home also includes these materials.

Craft posts from full logs or rough-hewn timbers and they will look more distinctive than standard milled lumber. Use less obtrusive diagonal braces in place of posts as long as they meet local building codes.

Make use of decorative deck hardware such as column caps and joist hangers that typically come powder coated in black.

The choice of deck materials selected by a homeowner will be almost certainly affected by the project budget, product availability, design possibilities and of course with maintenance issues which have become increasingly more important in recent years.

Topics: Deck materials | Give Your Two Cents »