Designing a Deck with AK Complete Home Renovations
Mar 23rd, 2010 by Hazel
Our guest post this week comes from AK Complete Home Renovations! As a whole, AK Home Renovations believes that dream homes do not have to be bought, because they can be created. Let their expert knowledge help turn your house into a dream home today.
Even a design/build remodeler knows that during certain seasons your outdoor living space is just as important as those indoors! As that first taste of warm weather arrives many homeowners are just itching to perk up their decks, patios, sunrooms, even outdoor kitchens. AK is most commonly asked about decks: designing, building or repairing, and there are so many options! Homeowners and buyers rate a deck as one of the most desirable outdoor features of a home. When designing a deck there are many factors to consider: size, shape, orientation, color, privacy, levels, stairs, railings and extras – like hot tubs!
The building block of your deck design should be none other than…Your Home! Ideally a deck will compliment the architecture of your home – bend with it, wrap around it, work with the windows, existing doors and height of the yard below. Capturing the unique quality of your home and reflecting it in your deck design is essential to create an ideal and customized outdoor living space that suits your lifestyle.
It is often recommended that a deck be built to be about the same size as the living room, or the largest room of the house. A deck should also be placed so that it offers an easy transition between your home and the outdoors. Typically, decks have one point of access to the house, and one or two points of access to the yard.
Privacy screens can also be a nice addition to a deck design. Many people think they want for solid deck screens but there are ways to add some architectural interest. Simple customization of a privacy screen or panel can dress up your house and add to its value, but don’t forget to check with your local ordinances before you settle on your final design. If you’re working with a professional they should do this for you.
Hot tubs are another popular addition to a deck and considered a valuable feature for resale. The most important thing to remember when adding a hot tub is that water is extremely heavy and the tub will need support independent of the deck. A raised seating area around the hot tub can also serve as storage and can conceal plumbing. Additional features like cabinetry, towel warmers, beverage centers and even outdoor televisions are fantastic higher-end options that require capacity for electrical wiring and some weather protection.
Like every family, every deck should be unique! Carefully discussing your goals with a professional designer will help you learn about all your options and get the most for your money.
