There are many ways to improve your garden, but if you like entertaining, want to make a staging area to get the best view, or just wrangle a steep area, a deck is a fantastic choice. You’re likely already imagining how you’ll use the space for barbecues and lazy afternoons. Because of that, it’s very easy to get ahead of yourself and want to jump right into the building process, but a deck is a big project, and what you do before you even buy the first piece of wood will define everything else.
That’s because the truth is that a beautiful, long-lasting deck requires, more than anything else, a solid foundation and a smart plan to prevent any installation issues You can save yourself a lot of time, money, and frustration, just by doing some simple prep work now. It’s a very wise investment that guarantees you a space you can enjoy for decades.
In this post, we’ll helpy you nail that deck and give you the best options going forward.
Plan Your Space
Anyone who wants a deck will really need to sit down and think about the deck itself. What size will it be, what shape, and where exactly will it go in the garden? Ask yourselfhow the deck will connect to your house and how it will fit with the rest of your outdoor area.
With that in mind, you should also look into getting the right permits, as you want to be sure everything is done to the planning permission with specific dimensions. It’s also a good idea to call the utility companies to mark any buried lines so you don’t accidentally hit a pipe or wire while digging your foundation.
Check Your Foundation
The ground your deck will sit on is the most important part of the whole project, so it’s essential to prepare it. You need to make sure the soil is stable and firm, and you’ll want to check that the area is level. A deck built on uneven ground will settle improperly and can warp or become unstable easily (certainly when the ground becomes wet), which you definitely want to avoid.
You should also think about drainage and runoff, to make sure water can flow away from the deck’s posts and the house’s foundation so you don’t end up with moisture problems. A good service can help you format that land and even lay protectors to ensure it’s secure. A dry, solid base is essential for a long-lasting deck.
Pick The Best Materials You Can
This is arguably the most important step, because that deck material is what you’ll be placed on, walking on, cleaning, and caring for for decades. You need to decide on the type of wood, such as a durable hardwood or a more classic pine, and you should also consider other options like composite decking that requires less maintenance.
We’d recommend always finding a trustworthy timber merchant that can also provide installation services, as they can give you expert advice and provide you with the best options for your project, especially in the area you’re in, and with a mind for the weather your home is most likely to experience.
With this advice, you’re sure to perfect that garden deck, and host some great dinners there!
Photo by Siddanth Sawant
No Comments