How to Design a Patio Deck to Feel Like an Extension of Your Home

A patio deck can increase your home’s value and provide a comfortable space to entertain guests. It also provides a relaxing setting where you can enjoy nature and spend quality time with your family.

When building a deck, it’s important to work with an experienced contractor to ensure the project is done correctly. A professional can offer design ideas that you may not have thought of.

Cost

A patio deck can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends. It also adds value to your home and can increase its resale value. But the cost of installing a deck can be expensive. It can vary depending on the materials, size and style of the deck. The type of wood used can also significantly affect the cost.

A popular choice for a patio is wood composite, which costs about $10 to $15 per square foot. It’s durable and requires little maintenance, but it’s more expensive than natural wood.

Another option is a natural wood deck, which can be affordable. It can also be more attractive than a basic concrete patio. The most important thing is to make sure that your budget allows for the installation of a new deck. In addition to the initial costs, you should consider any possible property tax increase. Generally, the IRS considers outdoor improvements as taxable assets.

Maintenance

A wood deck needs staining and sealing every two years and an annual power wash. The cost varies according to your climate and the type of stain. If you choose a natural wood plank, it will also need periodic sanding and cleaning to prevent mildew and rot.

The best time to perform these tasks is in the spring or fall. Before washing, a thorough sweep is important to remove dirt and debris. Be sure to move furniture, grills, and other equipment out of the way to avoid a splatter effect from hurried pressure washing.

After the deck is clean, a moisture meter can help determine if it’s ready to be sealed. Another test is to pour water on the surface – if it beads up, the deck is good; if it soaks in, it’s time to wash and re-seal. Check stairs, railings and hardware for rust or damage too. Look especially at areas near the ground or water sources that tend to stay damp – they are more prone to rot.

Safety

A deck is a great place to entertain, but it’s also the location of some serious injury risks. Whether you’re hosting friends or family or enjoying some quiet time alone, a few simple safety measures can help protect you and your guests.

Inspect your deck regularly for damage, such as splintering wood or loose railings. Look for cracks larger than a dollar bill, especially those around fasteners, and watch for areas of discoloration. Mold and mildew can eat away at the surface, making it slippery and a major health hazard.

If you have trees that overhang the deck, keep them trimmed to avoid branches that could fall and hit someone while they’re relaxing or cooking on the patio. Check the area where the deck meets your house, too, to ensure the fasteners are in good condition. Also, make sure the deck is clear of combustible materials and fire hazards. Finally, install lighting to illuminate stairways and prevent trips or falls at night.

Design

To make a deck feel like a true extension of your home, design it with distinct areas for dining, relaxing and cooking. A well-planned layout ensures that these spaces have comfortable traffic pathways between and around them, which also allows the flora of your yard to thrive.

Use large planters to add structure and potential privacy to a deck, as shown here at this cottage-style home by designer Jess Bunge. Fill the pots with plants that do well in your climate and enjoy the added benefit of fresh-smelling flowers.

Create a bespoke workspace on your patio deck by installing a sturdy table or adding a railing-mounted tabletops like this acacia wood one from Etsy seller Views Balcony Bar. This table can accommodate a laptop, cup of coffee and an assortment of office supplies while providing an attractive focal point to your outdoor space. Add a screened-in area to this deck for ultimate seclusion and protection from mosquitoes.

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