If you’re looking to add some extra living space to your home or make your garden look bigger, a deck is a great option. It provides outdoor living space, but it can also increase the value of your home. When designing a deck, there are several factors you need to consider. From the materials you’ll use to the deck’s layout, here are the eight most important factors to keep in mind.

The Deck’s Purpose

Do you want a space for entertaining, a place to relax, or somewhere for the kids to play? Your area’s climate will also play a role in using your deck. If you live in an area with harsh winters, you’ll want to be sure your deck can withstand the elements. Once you know how you’ll use the space, you can start planning accordingly.

Energy Factor

Since you’ll be using your deck as additional space for parties and family events at night, you’ll want to light them up for a perfect ambiance. A careful choice of LED deck lights can go a long way in saving your energy bill. If you live in an area with high winds, you might also want to consider solar-powered lights as an alternative to avoid any accidents.

Location

The placement of your deck is just as important as the design. You’ll want to think about privacy, the view, and how much sun or shade the area gets throughout the day. If you have a pool, you might want to consider placing your deck nearby to enjoy the water on hot summer days.

Size

The size of your deck will depend on a few factors, including the size of your backyard and how many people you want to be able to fit on the deck at one time. If you entertain often, you might want to consider a larger deck, so you have plenty of space for seating and dining.

Material

There are a variety of materials you can use to build your deck, including wood, composite, and PVC. You’ll need a material that will help build a deck that lasts long and has fewer maintenance demands. If you’re a wood enthusiast, a pressure-treated wood with weather-resistant preservatives will go long. PVC or plastic planks are an ideal option if you want something that can hold up to harsh weather and can resist rot.

Your Budget

Decks can range in price, depending on the materials you use and the size of your deck. If you’re working with a limited budget, you might consider using more inexpensive materials like pressure-treated wood and building a smaller deck. If you have a larger budget, you can opt for more expensive materials like PVC or composite.

Permit Requirements

Before you start building your deck, you’ll need to ensure you have the proper permits. For instance, in East Hartford, Connecticut, you’ll need zoning and building permits for new and expanded decks. More often, your deck’s size, design, and purpose determine what type of permit you’ll need for building the deck. Check with your local city or county office to see if you need a permit for your deck.

Think About the Deck Seating

One of the most important things to consider when designing a deck is how you will use it. If you plan on entertaining guests, you’ll want to make sure you have enough seating. Built-in benches and chairs are a great way to add seating to your deck without too much space. You can also go for fancy deck furniture if you have enough space and a bigger budget.

Whether you’re going for a DIY project or hiring a professional for the job, there are many things to think about when you’re designing a deck for your home. As long as you keep these eight factors in mind, you should be able to create a beautiful and functional space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.