Designing your deck
Your balcony, deck, or porch is possibly one of the most important places in your home. You or your family probably use it as frequently as your living room or television room. They are great places for having breakfast or dinner in the spring and summer, perfect for sitting out to read, play games, or sew. They are also wonderful for hosting parties and barbeques, and even work well as a romantic location for you and your loved one to spend time together.
These places deserve a lot of attention and intricate planning. But often they are overlooked in building, remodeling, or decorating.
First, and foremost, clear away the clutter that is often thrown onto your back porch or deck. Beyond furniture, outdoor toys and items, and grills, your backyard does not need to be the home for trash, junk, or storing items. Sift through everything in your outdoor living spaces, throw away what is unneeded, sell or donate the things you don’t use, and you’ve got yourself a great start.
When designing a deck, prepare something that is level to the ground by using concrete slabs in four corners. If it’s just a big pallet sitting on the ground, the slightest soil erosion below will result in a rocky deck. The only way to make a deck design that you can be proud of, that will stand the test of storms and wind, and that you can build onto as years go by, is to prepare a firm foundation before you start to build up.
A ground level deck design should not just sit flat on the ground. Raise the deck frame off the ground to allow for drainage and to protect the wood. However, keep in mind that the top level of your deck should not be higher than the entrance to your home – so that the rain doesn’t run off your deck design and through your back door.
Make use of a blank space of your garden by planting around it, decorating it with tall and leafy plants, or growing vegetables. Not only is it visually appealing, but it creates a useful and positive area to spend time in. Many people plant bamboo to differentiate between different parts of their balconies and deck.
If you have a Jacuzzi in your backyard, consider using bamboo as a privacy shield around it. You can hang up lanterns, string or rope lights, and paper lights to produce a beautiful and sultry ambiance.
Candles can be used all around your deck or balcony as well. Don’t forget, you can purchase candles infused with citronella for a beautiful look with a useful effect- keeping the bugs away.
Adirondack chairs are also popular. They are frequently seen at beach houses and in southern homes, and are a beautiful touch for any backyard furniture.
For award-winning deck designs, great gazebos and well-crafted conservatories, visit Cleveland construction leader Patios Cleveland.
Great article! I totally agree about the foundations. As with all building projects one of the most important things is to get your base right
Hi
Sensible article but the note about “keep in mind that the top level of your deck should not be higher than the entrance to your home – so that the rain doesn’t run off your deck design and through your back door.” It might be worth mentioning that if the decking is against the house then the deckings top level should be well below the damp course for the house