We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Home

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How Do I Choose the Best Deck Design?

Dan Cavallari
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 5,584
Share

The first step in choosing the best deck design is carefully measuring the area in which you would like to have the deck installed. You will also need to check local ordinances about how large of a structure you can build, and how close to other structures the deck can be built. The size of the deck will help you narrow down your choice of deck design, and it will help you decide what features you can reasonably afford to build on the deck. Once you have determined the accurate measurements, consider how you are most likely to use the deck.

Some families will spend a significant amount of time on the deck, either lounging or eating meals during the summer. If kids will be using the deck frequently, safety should be the top concern when choosing a deck design, in addition to well as durability of materials. You may want to consider composite decking, which will be resistant to damage from toys and impacts, as well as moisture damage. The railings on the deck should feature slats narrow enough to prevent children from sticking arms and legs through them, which can potentially lead to injury.

If your deck will be attached to a pool, either above ground or in-ground, you should consider a deck design that specifically addresses this configuration. The presence of a pool will have an impact on the choice of materials used for the deck, as well as the features, such as benches, stairways, railings, pool surrounds, and so on. Make sure any deck design you choose accommodates access to all parts of the pool should repairs need to be made to it. If your pool features heaters, filters, lights, or plumbing, be sure the deck design will allow you to access these features for repairs or adjustments.

All deck designs should account for durability and stability. Research the best methods for attaching the deck to the house to ensure the two do not separate from each other. Research local building codes as well to make sure the deck design you choose fits these local codes. Footings should be stabilized with concrete, and they should be placed at regular intervals throughout the deck structure. Wrap-around deck designs will cost more money, as will decks with several features such as stairs, benches, tables, and so on, so be sure to draw up a budget for the project before committing to any plans.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Dan Cavallari
By Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-choose-the-best-deck-design.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.