As we venture into the cooler season of all, many of you may be thinking about updating your deck and/or dock with new lumber to ensure the quality of your outdoor areas holds up against the winter weather. Regardless of whether you’re looking to build a deck or a dock to enjoy the great outdoors with guests, or update your current decks and docks, I have some tips for you!

Today I’m diving into the topic of what you need to know before building or updating your outdoor deck or dock space. These tips will help you create a sturdy, reliable place for family and guests to sit and mingle as you work to plan some end of season events.

Work at Home Benefits of an Outdoor Deck

I don’t know about you, but having an outdoor deck is a fabulous way for me to enjoy a new view when my creative mind decides it doesn’t want to work. There are so many stressors that occur in everyday life that sometimes you need that outside space to collect your thoughts, detox from social media, and let your creative juices flow.

Having a safe, gorgeous, and spacious outdoor deck will allow you to have a new space to get work from home completed. Whether you’re a remote worker, social media manager, or a freelance writer, being able to work outside on a nice day will help keep your mental health in check while completing your hefty workload.

What to Know Before Building a Deck

Know Which Lumber

Deck wood is generally categorized into three groups; redwood & cedar, pressure-treated lumber, and tropical hardwoods. Determining which type of lumber will suit your deck needs best will be determined based on your color preference, pricing, and maintenance required to keep the deck in tip-top shape.

You’ll want to create a deck or dock that lasts a lifetime, but the reality is you can’t predict the natural weather patterns that hit your region. That’s why you’ll want to talk to a lumber professional who can easily guide you towards the proper wood for your deck based on your budget and other preferences.

Create a Budget

Whether you’re rejuvenating an old deck or building a new deck there’s one thing that’s more important than any other aspect of this project; your budget! Sit down to run some numbers and determine how much money you’re willing to, and can, invest in this deck project. While having a beautiful outdoor space can improve your home’s value, you don’t want to go broke in the process.

Creating a budget for home improvement projects will be easier for those who save money for a rainy day or other home improvement needs. People who live paycheck to paycheck will need to figure out what expenses they can give up to help front the cost of this deck project. Once you have a budget, you’re more equipped to plan and purchase the appropriate materials for this home project.

Consider the View

If this is a new deck project, then you’ll need to take into consideration the view. I know I wouldn’t want a brand new deck sitting out front facing some nosy neighbors, or a busy street. I’m more of a country chick, so my brand new deck would need to have an excellent view of mountains, woods, or perhaps my yard.

You’ll also want to take into consideration the building process of this deck doesn’t interfere with window views, or walking spaces. Since this new deck or dock will be a mostly permanent addition to your property, it’s vital that the location will suit your current lifestyle and desires for relocation while you enjoy your new or updated deck space.

When it comes to planning any home improvement project, you must take safety into consideration, the budget you’re allotted, and the quality of work. You’ll want to make sure whatever improvements you do to your yard, home, or riverfront location will be worth the investment for long-term relaxation and enjoyment.

What to Know About Building Decks FAQ