5 Things to Know About Decks

We know it’s still cold outside, but we think this is the best time to start planning and saving for a new deck! Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau Housing Survey indicate that homeowners annually spend billions of dollars improving their home’s outdoor living areas. Call the professional craftsmen of Handyman Connection of Lexington today to discuss adding a new deck or replacing your old deck!

Decks are beneficial in many ways. Grillmasters love decks because they make the perfect place to set up a grill and a table and cook for family and friends. Those who simply love being outdoors find decks the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun or idle away the evening hours.

Homeowners who plan on having a deck installed should know a few things before that process begins:

1. Permits are necessary. Unless the deck is going to be especially small, you will likely need a permit to build it. Before buying any materials or consulting any contractors, make certain you know which permits you need and how to get them. If the proper permits are not secured before the project begins, you might have to tear down the whole project and start all over again.
2. Decks don’t have to go on the back of the house. If the back of your house sits in the blazing sun all day, then it’s probably best to build the deck elsewhere, and that’s perfectly alright. So long as the property and permits allow, decks can be built on the side of a home as well, and putting a deck on the side might be more comfortable.
3. Decks don’t have to be made of wood. It’s easy to assume all decks are made of plain wood. However, decks can be made out of a wide variety of materials, natural or synthetic. Pressure treated wood is perhaps the most popular material for decking because it’s not very expensive. But man made materials that are a mixture of recycled plastic and wood bits or sawdust are also popular because they require no maintenance. But homeowners should know that man made materials can get hot in the sun, which will require those enjoying the deck to wear shoes.
4. The deck can have multiple levels. Though many people associate decks with one level, it’s possible to have a multi-level deck if you simply don’t have enough room to build a deck that will be big enough to meet all of your needs. A multi-level deck can break up those long flights of stairs while ensuring you will always have somewhere to go to escape the sun on a hot day.
5. Protect your deck. Decks are a costly investment, and you will want to protect that investment. If you’re building a wood deck, keep in mind the sun will beat down on the deck for most of the year. You can protect the deck by painting it. Paint provides sunscreen for the deck, stopping the sun from breaking down the material. Once you’ve finished painting, apply sealant, whether it’s oil or water-based.

If you are considering having a new deck installed or having your home’s old deck replaced, call the professionals from Handyman Connection of Lexington to provide a free, no-obligation project estimate today so you can enjoy a brand new deck this summer!