Decks are one of the best hang out spots on the property. Especially during the warm summer evenings, gathering with friends to relax on the deck is the best way to finish off the day.
There’s a difference, though, between lounging and relaxing on a deck built for just that, or hanging out on a piece of wood that looks like it’s going to fall apart. As much as you want the deck to be the feature piece in your backyard, safety should also be of top priority.
If you’re planning on building your house a deck this summer, we have a few tips that will help you out.
Get the Permits
Before you even begin planning out your deck, you need to ensure you have the proper permits from your community. You wouldn’t want to start building, only to find out that you don’t have the right permit and you have to start over.
Go through the bylaws of your municipality to see what type of setbacks you could face. Knowing any limitations will help you come up with a plan that won’t get shot down by the municipality.
Design the Layout on Paper
Trying to build a deck from an image in your mind is next to impossible, especially if you have people helping you. Make things easier on you and design your layout on paper first. That way, you’ll have an idea of what things will look like, and you can show it to people helping you, so everyone is on the same page.
Build a Strong Foundation
You want to prevent as much shifting as possible. Living in Canada, the ground is always freezing and thawing out. The change in temperature can cause structures to shift. If not built properly, that shifting can damage the structure.
If you’re unsure of the best solution for a solid foundation, it’s best to hire someone to do this part for you.
Don’t Push Screws too Deep
It’s important to pay attention to how far you push the screws into the deck. You need to go far enough that it connects that materials together. However, going too deep into the wood, and you’ll create a little crevice that is perfect for holding water.
Don’t Forget About the Railings
We know that railings are an essential safety feature for the deck. However, that doesn’t mean you should neglect the style of railings you install. You have many options of unique and stylish railings to match the deck you’re building, all while being sturdy and safe.
Think About the Surface Material
Depending on where you live in the country, that may help you decide on the material you use for the deck surface. If you want to go natural, then stay away from pressure treated wood. Cedarwood is a popular option for a natural surface, but it does come with a price tag. Recycled plastic composite boards are becoming more popular. They’re made to look like real wood, but are made out of recycled plastic. This type is very durable and has an extremely long lifespan. Lastly, there’s the option of tropical wood, but many don’t like this option as it makes a big dent in the rainforests.
