Decks And Patios 101

Decks & patios blur the lines between the indoors & outdoors. Although decks serve as a part of the house, they offer a place to sit down and socialize. Patios welcome guests and visitors by softening the transition from the outside space into the house. Decks and patios can be located in the yard, offering a secluded area away from the house. By extending your living area, decks and patios make your home feel more spacious.

Your deck or patio should complement your house. It is a place to mingle natural and structural elements. Using the same colors is an easy way to strike a balance. Simply setting the same plants on your deck or patio, that already grow in your yard, will create coherence. Forethought will make enjoying your life on your patio possible under all sorts of weather conditions. Equipping a table with a collapsible umbrella will act as a rain repellent and a sun protector. While striving for harmony it is also a good idea to let your patio or deck have there own identities. While complementing your house and yard, they can become the focal point for your outdoor space. Enjoy!

Add Splashes Of Color
1) By using cushions and an outdoor friendly rug you can color coordinate your deck. Creating a new look, for little cash.

Create A Curve
2) If your deck is style-less try adding a sweeping modern curve with metal accents for a stunning modern style.

Container Gardens Add Piz-azz
3) Add piz-azz.- Container gardens with flowers, ornamental grasses, and shrubs add bright splashes of color.

Inexspensive Privacy
4) Create a private getaway with fencing covered with lattice and plants.

Add A Screen
5) A ready made canopy and bamboo screen will provide protection from the sun and keep out prying eyes.

Lush Plantings Add Flair
6) Decorating with lush plantings can take your deck from ho-hum to spectacular. Create tropical flair with palms and hanging baskets.

Instant Charm
7) Create charm wth spindles and a lattice skirt.

Pergola's Add Style
8) Add structure and style with a stately pergola.

Paint Provides An Instant Makeover
9) A coat of fresh paint and a set of new railings can provide the perfect makeover.

Create Comfort
10) Create a deck as comfy as your living room by selecting from the rising number of outdoor products.

Purpose
What is the primary purpose of your deck?

Location
Is your choice location workable? Consider access, entrances and exits.

Plan
You will want to have a deck plan which serves as a guide for your entire project.

Attatching Your Deck
You need to determine if the framing of your home is strong enough and how you will cut away siding at the joining point.

Deck Supports
This is an important part of the process. Decide exactly how many footings and posts you need, and where to place them.

Decking Material
What materials do you plan to use? Chemically engineered to avoid the problems of traditional wood, composite decking materials are a popular choice. Redwood, Cedar and pressure treated pine are also good options because they resist deacay and rot. You may need to provide protectant and sealent materials if you choose another wood decking material.

Permits
Find out what permits will be required to build your deck in your area. Your city government will provide you with the answers you need.

Tools
Make sure you have all the tools you need on hand. Additional exspenses will be added to your project if you have to purchase these.

Professional Help
Remember that poorly built decks are very dangerous. Decking is not a good beginnig learning project. If you have little construction experience -"Hire A Professional."

Extras
Extras such as decorative handrails, flower boxes, and built in seating will personalize your deck.