How to choose the right materials and supplies for building a deck

Building a wooden deck or structure onto your home or commercial building is no small decision and
requires careful planning. Before beginning the project, it is essential to research available contractors to
ensure you have chosen reliable professionals who understand every stage of the installation process.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what goes into ordering, managing, and completing the
wooden deck/installation project successfully. With good preparation and planning before starting, you can
rest assured that your completed wooden structure will be long-lasting and offer smart utility without
compromising aesthetic beauty.

Step 1: Determine Which Structure is the Best Fit for You

When considering adding an outdoor structure to your home, such as a deck, balcony, terrace, pergola, or gazebo, it is essential to carefully consider what structure is right for you based on your specific needs and vision.

Decks not only increase the value of the property but also have the potential to expand living space. On the other hand, balconies are a great choice if you’re looking to add an upper level to your home.
A terrace might suit your needs if you want to build a beautiful outdoor area to entertain guests or clients.

Pergolas and gazebos are smaller installations requiring little to no modification of the existing property but providing an excellent spot for lounging and entertainment.

Step 2: Determining What Materials are Best for Your Deck

When selecting a material for your deck, it is vital to consider the look and feel, ambiance, cost, maintenance effort, and longevity. While there are many materials to choose from, Ipe (ee-pay) Brazilian hardwood,
Composite decking, and PVC decking are popular due to their excellent qualities. Let’s take a look at each of these materials in more detail.

Ipe (ee-pay) Brazilian Hardwood

Ipe is a solid and durable hardwood that is native to Brazil. It has a stunning texture with rich colors ranging from reddish browns to yellowish olive cast tones. With its high-density properties, Ipe can last up to 70 years, making it an excellent choice for any outdoor project.

Although Ipe requires regular maintenance, such as washing and oiling every few years, this hardwood is worth the investment due to its beauty and long lifespan.

Composite Decking

Composite decking consists of both plastic and wood fibers, making it low-maintenance as it does not require regular staining or sealing like traditional wood decks. It also resists fading, scratching, cracking, and
warping better than wood decks over time. However, composite decking may be more expensive than other materials in comparison.

PVC Decking

PVC decking requires even less maintenance than composite, as it’s made entirely of PVC plastic with no wood fibers. This means you won’t have to worry about staining or sealing your outdoor space again! PVC decking is also incredibly easy to clean; you only need a garden hose or power washer!
Furthermore, the costs associated with PVC decking tend to be on the lower end when compared to other comparable options like Ipe or composite decks.

Step 3: The Ideal Structure of Your Deck

When it comes to designing a deck, there is a multitude of options and choices. From stairs, railings, and levels, there is sure to be something to suit your needs. It’s essential to consult an experienced contractor before starting work, as they can help you make the right choices for your design.
For those handling their renovations alone, pencil and paper plans are essential to a successful project. Our 3D renderings allow us to try different designs, colors, and materials before signing off on the final plan.
With all these in mind, our 3D design service is here to help make building or renovating a deck easy and approachable.

Step 4: It’s High Time to Begin Preparing for Installation!

Installing a deck requires careful planning and accurate planning documents. At Decksforlife, we provide comprehensive drawings for installations and all necessary permits from the local municipality, allowing
customers to start their building projects without worry or concern.
By properly obtaining a permit before beginning the deck’s installation, homeowners can be sure of avoiding any fines, repairs, or even the unfortunate situation of having their project taken down at a later date.
Investing in such plans also adds substantial value to having homeowner’s insurance policies cover on-site work with reliable insurance companies. Decksforlife is here to help you get started and protect your
investment.