Building an Home Extension

Adding a deck to your home is one great way to get the most out of your outdoor living space. However, it is essential to have some crucial information before the construction begins so that you end up with a deck that best suits your needs. Here are some of the important things you should have in mind prior to the construction of your deck.

Find Out If You Need Any Permits

Checking with your local government is very important because it helps determine whether your deck plans comply with any of the set zoning restrictions and even building codes. When it comes to decks, permits are usually necessary especially when you are considering building over a certain size or height. If there's a homeowner's association, it would also pay off to find out if they have any rules, too, so that you don't violate any.

Choose The Location Wisely

You can build your deck anywhere you want in your home. However, this will depend on the amount of space you have. If your property is somewhat limited in size, it will dictate where you build the deck. Location can also affect things such as design or budget. When choosing the perfect location to build your deck, consider factors such as privacy, rain, snow, sun and shade. For instance, you can consider a southeast or southwest orientation if you are after the sun.

Know What Materials To Use

Wood is primarily the best material to use on your decks because it fits well into the outdoor space and holds up well to the outdoor elements. However, there are other materials you may want to try, such as aluminium or plastic. If you stick to wood, choosing won't be easy because there are several species available. However, there are three major wood options you will come across when looking for materials for your deck: softwood, hardwood, and composite. To make the correct decision, you need to consider things such as affordability, durability, and maintenance. Generally, hardwood species such as mahogany and oak will last longer. For protection against rotting, hardwood will require some maintenance although this may be after very few years. Hardwoods are usually more expensive than their softwood counterparts that tend to be the most budget-friendly of the three options. However, softwoods will require more maintenance because they are not as hard wearing as their hardwood counterparts. Composites on the other hand, are a blend of plastic resins and wood fibres to resemble the look of wood. For this reason, they aren't as strong as real wood. They tend to cost more but require relatively low maintenance.

For more information, contact a decking company like Apollo Patio Roofing.