A deck is an extremely popular home improvement project that will add value to your home and provide a focal point for your yard.  However, decks are so much more than just boards and nails.  They are a place to make memories that will last a lifetime.  Your deck will be the location of many BBQ's, parties and social gatherings for years to come.  The most important part of building a deck is the planning of it because chances are, you will have to live with your choices for a long time.  You want to be sure that your deck not only complements the style of your home and yard but that it matches your lifestyle as well.  There are several factors that must be considered in the planning stage of your deck. 

• Legal Considerations - You must look into Local Zoning Ordinances, Neighborhood or Homeowners Association Covenants, Local Building Department Codes, Easements and Utility Company Policies to see if they regulate the size, appearance, minimum distance from property lines, etc.
• Location - The location of your deck may be limited by the layout of your house and property, but keep in mind that a new door or walkway can always be added to expand your options.  You will want your deck to be in a location that provides easy access to the kitchen, allows for a good view of the focal points in your yard, provides privacy from neighbors if possible and protection from wind and sun if desired. 
• Size - You will want to ensure that your deck will be large enough to accomodate the average size gathering that you will have.  If you typically have fairly large gatherings, rather than simply building a huge one-level deck that can often look awkward or out-of-place, you may want to consider building several multi-level interconnecting platforms.
• Shape and Decking Pattern - A deck can be built in any shape you choose and in numerous decking patterns.  Try to consider different options to find what will best match the style of your house and yard as well as your lifestyle.
• Height - Typically, you want your deck built to come within 2" of the bottom of the access door coming from the house.  However, if you are building a large deck or if your yard slopes, you may want to build on multi-levels that follow the slope.
• Building Material - You will have a choice of a variety of natural woods or a composite decking material.  Composite decking will be more costly to purchase but if you do not have the time or desire to complete regular deck maintenance, it may be the choice for you.  If you choose natural wood you must apply a water repellent sealer every couple of years to protect the wood and extend the life of your deck.
• Additional Components - You will also have to decide if you will want or need steps, railings, built-in benches or flowerboxes.  Depending on the height of your deck, steps and railings may be required by building codes, but benches and flower boxes are nice ways to personalize your deck.

If you want your deck to have some protection from the sun but the layout of your property does not allow you to place it in a location where the house will provide shade, a pergola may be the perfect solution.  Pergolas have been used for thousands of years to provide shade and support plants, however, they are also beautiful architectural elements that will add elegance to your deck, garden, courtyard or patio.  A pergola essentially creates a room without walls and the amount of shade it provides can be controlled by the number of roof rafters used.  Increasing the number of rafters or adding lattice or trellis will also provide a better frame for a variety of climbing plants and vines as well as provideing additional protection from the sun and wind.

Your outdoor living space will add charm and value to your home and will undoubtedly provide many years of enjoyment.  However, in order to get the most out of it you must carefully plan and design it to include all of the features necessry to fulfill your desires.  Call today and let us help you design and build your own outdoor Paradise!!!!!!!!