How To Choose The Perfect Deck For Your Home
With so many deck styles available, finding one suitable for your needs and budget can be confusing. Decks are usually made from composite materials or wood and are designed to facilitate outdoor activities. Unlike patios, an outdoor deck is raised above the ground and can be designed to include accessories such as screening walls, overhead structures, and seating areas. There are also many designs, such as a standalone deck, pool deck, or multi-level deck, to choose from.
When considering different deck ideas, it is important to think about the material, building challenges, budget, and intended use. Below are various types of decks to choose from and a guide on selecting the perfect deck for your home.
Attached Deck
An attached deck is adjacent to your home. Its construction is similar to a patio but patios are usually made with stone and similar hardscaping materials, while decks are made with wood or composite materials such as Trex®. An attached deck design is quite simple when compared to multi-level decks, as it is constructed on a slab or as a minimally raised surface. You can create an elaborate custom deck featuring seating areas, built-in fireplaces, and outdoor kitchens for hosting exquisite outdoor dinners.
Detached Deck
Detached deck styles can be constructed at any location on your property. This type of outdoor deck is perfect for uneven terrains. Homeowners can make use of their landscape regardless of terrain and drainage requirements. Freestanding decks can be elaborate if enough backyard space is available.
Multi-Level Deck
A multi-level outdoor deck is a good choice if your property has uneven terrain and includes slopes and hills. This type of deck design includes multiple levels connected through steps or walkways. Uneven terrains do not allow the construction of patios because of the difference in elevations. Multi-level decks can work with the landscape by creating one tier at the same level as your home connected to other tiers by stairs. Other levels can be constructed below or above to accommodate the terrain and elevation.
Properties with large backyards and square footage can benefit from this type of wooden deck by creating an elaborate design while ensuring the construction is structurally sound. Each level can feature a different layout to serve other functions.
Wraparound Deck
Like a wraparound porch, these deck styles also wrap around your home. They are elevated from the ground and do not have to be evenly shaped like a traditional porch. Design and materials should match the home so that the deck looks natural and not out of place being attached to the home. The deck can be a small extension of your home when limited space is available. It can also be an elaborate outdoor living space to accommodate many people if you frequently entertain.
Entryway Deck
If you are looking for deck styles that will seamlessly blend into the construction of your home, an entryway deck is worth considering. These deck designs are constructed at your home’s entrance and can be designed to seamlessly blend in with the design of your home without any gaps to look like an extension of the property. It can either be a composite deck or a wooden deck, depending on the materials used in the construction of your house.
Swimming Pool Deck
Swimming pool decks are constructed around your pool at the same level or slightly higher. Other than an improved aesthetic, a wooden outdoor deck provides some protection from the heat. Compared to hardscapes and concrete, wood doesn’t absorb a lot of heat. If your pool or hot tub is above the ground level, raised decks offer convenience and easy access to the pool by being at the same level. It also provides a functional space for relaxing outdoors.
Side-Yard Deck
If your home has an awkward, narrow space at the side of the property, side-yard deck designs can maximize this space. Most homeowners do not use the small space connecting the front and backyard. Deck construction in this space provides a cozy outdoor area to relax and entertain. It works as an extension of your home to blend your indoor space with the outdoors. The size of the deck can be as small or as large as the space allows.
Choosing The Right Outdoor Deck Styles For Your Home
There are several different things you will need to take into consideration when choosing between the different deck styles for your home:
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Think about the kind of structure that will work with your house. If you want to extend your indoor space, a detached outdoor deck will be suitable. If you have uneven terrain and a large yard, multi-level or detached deck plans are popular deck options.
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Think about where exactly you would want the deck constructed. Evaluate the space around your home. Do you have a very large backyard? Do you have a swimming pool? Do you want to make use of the narrow side yard space available? Deciding on the location will help you narrow down your options and choose a deck design that will work with the available space.
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Think about how you plan to use your outdoor deck. If you entertain often and need a lot of outdoor seating space, the deck will need to be in a location with enough space available to do that. If you want a space that allows you to make better use of your pool area, a pool deck will be more suitable.
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You will also need to consider other factors such as budget, decking materials, and building codes in your area. Elevated decks, for example, will be more expensive because they will need railings and stairways. Attached decks will also usually require inspections and permits, while detached decks might not need them in certain locations.
Take these factors into consideration and spend some time comparing the different deck styles to find one that fulfills all your needs and requirements. Regardless of the type of deck you need for your home, Atlanta Custom Decks can help!
Contact us today to discuss how we can build your dream outdoor deck!
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