Building a deck can be considered as an excellent DIY project. You can simply do it at the comfort of your own home. You just need to be aware of the technique that needs to be followed. In addition, you should be equipped with all the required tools as well. Here is a list of key factors that you should keep in mind in order to build a deck.
Start off with planning
Like everything, building the deck should be backed up with proper planning. You can simply search online for deck plans. Then you will come across hundreds of methods, which can be followed in order to build a deck. The plan would let you know about all the materials that are required to build the deck along with professional advice. In addition, you will be able to find deck design tools, which can be used in order to make your life easy. You will also be provided with a cost calculator, which can deliver a good understanding about the overall cost associated with the project.
Estimate the cost
Before you start working on the project of building a deck, you need to figure out all the finances. That’s because you should create a deck, which matches perfectly well with the amount of money that you have got in your hand. The cost associated with such a project would range somewhere in between $10 and $25. Several factors such as the material used can contribute towards the cost of the project at the end of the day. If you take the decision to add any extras such as planters and built-in benchers, you will have to spend few additional bucks.
Get to know about the standards and obtain permits required
Before you begin working on the project, you need to get to know about your code as well. This will help you to keep the deck safe. As per the safety standards, a deck that has a walking surface of more than 30 inches should have a railing that is about 36 inches high. The balusters need to be placed over 4 inches apart. Having a clear understanding about codecs can keep you away from frustration in the long run.
In order to build a deck at home, you will need to obtain a permit as well. Even though it is possible for you to construct a deck without obtaining a permit, it is better to obtain a one as it can ensure the safety of you and your loved ones. On the other hand, an unpermitted deck can come back to bite you at any point of time. For example, you will have to face a variety of issues when you are selling the house. The amount you have to spend on the permit would depend on the scale of your project. It could be somewhere in between $100 to $500. After getting the permit, you will need to get the deck inspected periodically as well.
Starting your construction activities
Now you have come to the most important phase, which is about starting the construction activities of your deck. In order to complete the construction, you need to be equipped with right tools. The essential tools that you need to have in order to construct a deck should include Miter Saw, cordless drill, tool belt, framing hammer, water level, 4 foot level, extension cords, socket saw, gloves, saw horses, clamps, clamshell post hole digger and dust marks. The guide you follow will also deliver a better understanding about all the tools that you need to purchase.
When you are working on the project, you need to be honest about DIY chops as well. If you feel that you are not confident, you can keep the plans straightforward and modest. Rectangular or square shaped decks can easily be constructed. In case if you are ready to face a bigger challenge, such as creating a multi-level deck or a curved deck, you need to make sure that you know how to get it done. In addition, you need to be ready to invest a considerable amount of time on the project as well. Otherwise, you will not be able to get the job done right.
Give a personalized outlook to your deck
It would be a good idea to play with the color of your deck. That’s because you will be able to complement the exterior of your home by introducing the right color for the deck. There’s no rule, which states that you should go ahead with a deck having brown color. It is up to you to figure out the perfect color as per your specific requirements. The entire project of creating a deck would deliver a wonderful experience and you would love each and every step of it. This project will give you the opportunity to learn a lot of new things as well.
