Planning a deck project can be overwhelming. Beyond the various decking materials, styles and colours available, the deck design possibilities itself are virtually limitless. In my experience, the best decks will cater to very specific purposes for each individual homeowner. As such, it is important to narrow down and prioritize the usefulness of an impending deck.
A deck is rarely ever built just to “look” good. However, it is important to address the desired aesthetic when determining overall functionality. Albeit sometimes cost prohibitive, the investment in composite sheathing may be at the top of the list for a truly maintenance-free approach to deck building. Although treated lumber can last upwards of 15-20 years, composite decking is sure to outlast any lumber deck, including cedar, which has also become quite pricy of late.
For me, the decorative sheathing of a deck takes a back seat to the importance of the main layout. As such, the deck design should always be the main focus throughout the process. How the deck is then “finished” is merely semantic, based on subjective tastes. There are always a few obvious things to consider, including the height of the deck based on the nearest door access – will the deck meet that elevation, or will there be a landing and an immediate stairway that lead you towards a lower deck top? Will there be multiple tiers, or is the entire deck one large surface? And, will there be railings surrounding most of the deck, should the deck top(s) be at a high elevation?
Having built a plethora of decks, of all shapes and sizes throughout the years, there are no right or wrong paths to take, provided the design is sound, and the deck is subsequently built safely. Low-level (also called ground-level) decks are tricky to support, because they lack the height under which a main beam can be placed. As such, every joist is then supported to ensure rigidity. And because the deck is close to the ground, rarely are railings required unless the client wants one. The process becomes slightly more complicated when the homeowner insists upon eliminating railings altogether (or as many of the railings as possible), despite a deck elevation that requires them. In these cases, I typically suggest a “wrap-stairs” approach, which is simply my way of enhancing the design with stair access along all visible edges, in lieu of unwanted railings. In most cases, this safely eliminates the majority of the railings, while providing easy access to the deck from anywhere, not to mention a plethora of (stairs) seating throughout.
Despite having hashed-out the final design, there are always tweaks and changes that will occur before the deck build is set to begin. I’ve also encountered “same-day” changes, which usually result in slight modifications to the layout that rarely affect the overall look of the deck. No matter the change, the deck must properly serve every purpose. It would be a shame to plan a two-tiered deck that does not cater to the patio furniture set on either tier, where a single tier would have been perfect. Careful measurements of the exterior space, and even an initial deck plot using stakes and/or biodegradable paint can be extremely useful before committing to a deck design. In my world, the more time taken during the planning process, the less time wasted later.
Deck season is upon us. If this is your year, you may want to contact your trusted deck builder sooner rather than later, as there is always an onslaught of requests once the snow melts. And everyone seems to want their deck built “next weekend”. Reputable deck companies will do their best to satisfy timeline wishes. A sketch and a list of deck desires will hasten the process – in other words, the more information that is provided to the deck designer and/or builder, the faster the final design can be ascertained, and the deck build scheduled. Make your choices wisely, and best of luck with your deck project this season.
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