Decks Charleston SC provide outdoor living space and unify the home with the backyard. They may include furniture, entertainment assets like a hot tub or fire pit, and even a grill station.
Decks can be built using a variety of materials. Choosing a wood that will last for years is important. Also consider the impact of temperature swings on your building materials.
A deck is similar to a porch or a patio in that it’s an outdoor space for dining, socializing and relaxing. It can also add value to a home if it’s well-maintained. However, what distinguishes a deck from other types of outdoor structures is its elevated nature. In this way, it provides a view that is different from the ground level, which can enhance curb appeal and create a connection to nature.
A successful deck design is based on several key elements, including safety, functionality and aesthetics. The design process begins by determining how the structure will be used and whether it will be attached to the house or freestanding. From there, the size and shape of the structure can be established. Additional design features include built-in benches and seating areas, a privacy wall or secluded hot tub, and even an outdoor entertainment setup.
Choosing the right material is another important element of deck design. Wood options include traditional treated lumber, cedar, and exotic woods like Ipe. Composite materials are an alternative to wood and offer durability and low maintenance. Other design features include railing choices, lighting and the use of different textures and custom designs.
The deck’s foundation and structure contribute to its cost, which can vary depending on the size, complexity and geometry of the deck. Other factors include the deck’s height, location and accessibility, as well as its location in relation to the surrounding landscape.
While the structural components of a deck are usually prefabricated, it’s important to plan the layout. A professional can help you with this step by using a software program to produce a detailed blueprint that will guide the construction. This program will also indicate the amount of materials and hardware needed.
The joists that form the foundation of a deck are typically 2×6 stock. The joists are joined with headers, rim joists and ledgers. Rim joists are the outermost framing members, while ledgers attach to the side of the house. Headers connect joists to each other and allow them to span between the house and the deck. Joist hangers are metal fasteners that reduce the need for notching the ends of joists.
Materials
The materials used in deck building greatly influence the lifespan and appearance of a deck. Wood, traditional composite, and polymer options each have unique advantages for homeowners seeking a long-lasting, durable outdoor living space.
Choosing the right material for your new deck will impact the overall expense of the project as well as the maintenance requirements down the road. Wood decks typically require regular staining and sealing to prevent rotting and protect against insect infestation. Over time, these treatments can add up to an annual cost of over $12,000 per deck.
Wood is the most popular choice for homeowners seeking a natural aesthetic for their outdoor living space. Common hardwood species include redwood and cedar, which both offer a classic look with knots and grain patterns that bring an element of natural character to your backyard. These woods are often more expensive than softwoods such as pine or fir, but less so than exotic hardwoods like ipe.
Softwoods like pine, fir, and spruce can be cost-effective options for a deck but require annual maintenance with preservative chemicals to prevent rot and insect damage. Pressure-treated wood is a more environmentally friendly option, but it may be less appealing to some homeowners for its strong chemical smell and splintering potential.
Modified wood, which is made with sustainable softwoods but undergoes a thermal modification process that boosts its durability and performance similar to tropical hardwoods, offers an alternative to a standard pressure-treated wood deck. It’s also safe for families with young children and contains no harsh chemicals, and it ages to a stunning silver-gray shade over time.
Composite and polymer decks, meanwhile, use a mix of recycled plastics and wood fibers for a stronger, more versatile, and longer-lasting product. They also feature a wide range of colors and textures to suit your design preferences. While initially more expensive than traditional wood, composite and polymer decks minimize future costs and labor with their longevity and low-maintenance needs.
Permits
Most municipalities require a permit to build a deck and ensure that it is constructed according to local building codes. These codes may be based on standards set by national organizations like the International Residential Code or created by local governments. They generally include requirements on the size of decks, height of structures supporting them, and safety features. They also dictate how far the deck must be away from property lines and other structures. Non-compliance can result in fines or dismantling at the homeowner’s expense, depending on the severity of the violation.
Getting the right permits for your deck can be difficult, and it is important to follow all necessary steps to ensure that your project is compliant with local regulations. The process will usually involve submitting a site plan with the correct dimensions of the deck, construction plans with specifications for the framing and connections to the house, and elevation drawings that show the deck from the front or side. These plans will typically be reviewed by a public inspector to ensure that the structure is safe for use and will not cause any structural damage to your home or yard.
In some cases, you will need to submit an electrical or plumbing permit application as well. This is especially true if your deck will be used for outdoor cooking, hot tubs, or other permanent electric-powered components. Licensed electricians or plumbers can usually obtain these permits for you.
While there are rare instances where a deck can be built without a permit, it is always recommended to adhere to local building codes and zoning ordinances. Failure to do so could lead to legal action from an irate neighbor and could create a potential hiccup when you want to sell your home in the future. In addition, a poorly-constructed deck that is not up to local codes could be unsafe for family members and guests. This can be costly to repair and may even necessitate a full deck rebuild. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid these potential headaches by taking the time to get the proper permits for your new deck.
Installation
A deck is an outdoor living space that can be a place to relax and entertain. Whether attached to your home or freestanding, it’s an investment that can boost your property value. But how does a deck differ from a porch or patio, and what do you need to build one? These experts explain the differences and offer tips for creating an elevated escape.
A good deck should be designed to be both functional and beautiful, and careful planning can help. Start by reviewing installation requirements and gathering the necessary tools.
Once you’ve prepped the site, lay down a base and frame the deck. Then install posts, a beam and post caps, and trim pieces like railing panels and gates. Finish the deck with stairs, railings and balusters, and add elements like lighting or seating.
If you’re building with wood, acclimate the boards to your climate for at least 72 hours before starting. Choose a wall or door to run the first plank parallel to, and make sure it’s the main access point–that’s where appearances count most. It’s also smart to square up the first board. This way, small errors won’t compound as you work your way down the length of the deck.
When it comes to materials, the most common decks are made of pressure treated lumber and composite materials such as ipe, cumaru, and tigerwood. But you can also use a wide range of woods, from redwood and cedar to exotics like ipe and jarrah.
For composite materials, you can use hidden clip fasteners to avoid visible screws and the need for staining or painting. Use a power drill and a circular saw with a blade suitable for cutting composites to get clean, precise cuts. Set up a workstation to support the saw and ensure that you have enough space to comfortably cut the boards.
If you’re using Ipe or other exotics, be prepared for slow work and to burn through a lot of blades. To speed things up, consider using a carbide tip or a saw with a very thin kerf. Also, bore the screw holes before installing, to minimize rust and reduce drilling time.