You must hire the right contractor to install a deck on your home. A reputable company will be easy to work with and will build your deck to your specifications.
Besides having experience building decks, you should also ask them about their materials. This is because different materials have varying benefits and drawbacks.
Decide on the Material
Choosing the suitable material for deck installation by a Seattle deck contractor can be challenging. Different circumstances call for other materials, and each option has its aesthetic appeal and maintenance requirements.
A good deck contractor can guide you through the process and make it easy to choose the suitable material for your home. They can also help you figure out how to budget for your project to avoid getting stuck with a high price tag.
You should know what type of design you want before you start searching for a deck contractor. Do you want a simple, straightforward structure incorporating more intricate design features? Do you prefer a wood or composite deck, and what style of railing do you like?
Plan the Layout
The layout of your deck installation should complement the design and proportions of your home so it becomes a natural and seamless extension. You’ll also want to consider your yard’s landscape, soil, and weather influences as you plan your deck’s shape and size.
To plan your deck’s layout, start by determining the areas you and your family will use. These may include a spot for a grill, a hot tub, or a small outdoor kitchen.
As you’re designing, pay close attention to how guests will move between and across these spaces so that you can create comfortable traffic paths. For example, if you have a large grilling area, plan to have an entryway for people to access the space easily without having to walk over the grill or other objects.
After deciding how you’ll use your deck, plan the layout and determine your material choices. Your contractor should be able to guide you through the process and give you suggestions for customizing your deck to your specifications.
Prepare the Site
Before any contractor can start work, the site needs to be prepared. This includes digging holes for the footing, outlining the area with strings, and preparing the soil.
Some contractors will also help you with the permit process. This can save you a lot of time and trouble down the road.
Make sure the contractor you choose is a licensed builder with a current license and a clean record. They should also be insured.
Location: This is a significant factor in the cost of a deck. It needs to be located in a place that provides good privacy and easy access to the house.
It also needs to be placed in a part of the yard with plenty of sun. It may be worth the extra cost to have a deck in a spot that will add value to your home and increase its marketability if you ever sell it.
Prepare the Materials
A deck installation is a complex project. Whether it’s a DIY build or a professional job, it requires precise measurements to ensure the structure is solid and safe.
The best way to prepare for a deck installation is to plan the layout and choose the materials ahead of time. This will save you money and time in the long run.
Now that you have the materials chosen and the location determined, it’s time to start building the structure. In most cases, the first step is to install a ledger board and rim joists attached to the ledger with joist hangers.
Next, you’ll want to install a beam that will support the joists and the posts. This can be a simple 2 x 10 sandwiched together or use metal beam saddles to help the structure.
