I know the snow is still falling, but I’m hoping to start making plans to add a deck this spring for barbecuing and entertaining. What tips can you give to help me through the process?
Signed, All Decked Out
Dear All Decked Out,
Now is a great time to start thinking about spring and planning for a deck!
There are several ingredients that go into the planning process. You have already touched on one of the most important elements of your deck — what you’ll be using it for. It you want to entertain, size will likely matter. But first, let’s take a few steps backward to set the stage for your project. If you’ll be completing the project yourself, good for you; if you plan on paying a contractor to do it, choose wisely.
1. Know the rules: Verify with the local code enforcement officer any restrictions, setbacks and permit information required. Part of the permit process will likely involve the questions of whether the deck will be attached to the house or “floating” (detached), how high above the ground it will be and who will be using it (specifically whether children will be using it).
To help you answer the first question, you should have some knowledge of the ground beneath the proposed location. Softer ground will allow for digging for posts and sauna tubes and a more secure attachment to the main structure. Otherwise, harder ground (tougher to dig) means building a floating deck would be recommended, without having to secure it to the main structure. This matters in colder climates where seasonal changes affect the movement of the ground and dwelling attachments. A floating deck would not be physically attached to the dwelling.
2. Size it up: Most building codes require stairs, rails and railings when they are a certain height above the ground, leading up to the deck. Proper spacing between balusters is another consideration.
The code enforcement officer likely also will want a rough sketch of the proposed construction. Make a mock setup on the ground for what you believe to be an adequate deck space for your gas grill, patio furniture, etc. Pace the space with a tape measure for realistic dimensions and translate these to the dwelling. You should consider placement of sliding glass doors, if not already in place, when measuring for deck height.
3. Select material: Material is another consideration. Pressure-treated lumber was the industry standard for decking years ago. A change in wood chemical processes and alternatives to wood have driven material prices up (some requiring little maintenance, therefore justifying the increase) such as composite “wood.” Natural woods, such as cedar, are a great alternative to pressure-treated lumber. Don’t forget to add a waterproofing agent, stain or other coatings to ensure long life to natural woods. There are also a number of vinyl alternatives as well. This consideration bodes well for railings, effectively eliminating the possibility of splinters in little fingers.
Kaile Warren of Windham is CEO/Founder of the national handyman franchise Rent-A-Husband. Kaile is also a national home improvement expert for the CBS Early Show, HGTV and Parade Magazine and appears locally on WCSH’s 207. When not on the road or working he spends his time teaching his white shepherd, Maintenance, how-to ... Send your questions for Kaile to editor@themaineswitch.com.