When working on decking plans, it is common saying that the material used determines the ultimate decking outcome. Choosing the right decking material is thus advised as the outcome largely depends on the quality of material used. Different decking plans will demand different materials. Another determinant of the decking material is the general climate of the area that you desire to lay the decking.
Most of the decking plans have revolved around wood for many years. With advances in technology, synthetic materials are seemingly gaining popularity as a decking material. Depending on the desired outcome, cost, durability as well as aesthetics, the preferred decking material is selected. Choose your options well so that you strike the perfect balance between cost, durability, material availability and aesthetics.
One of the decking materials that has been used for hundreds of years is red wood. The reason why redwood is so popular is it is readily available, resistant to rot and gives a unique look. It is also affordable. When treated annually with a sealant, the wood can stay for many years. Though a good material, it has a hue of red which might not auger well with most deck plans, depending on the colour of the house chosen.
Another common option is cedar. This is strong wood that can last for years and is rot resistant too. This is an option that is preferred due to its neutral silver to gray color as it weathers. Another benefit of cedar is that it is affordable, costing much less than redwood.
Cypress can also be used as a decking material of choice. This is a good option if you are in the south east and in need of a robust wood type building a deck. For best results, ensure that you go for pretreated cypress. Though it is pricier as opposed to redwood and cedar, it offers value in the long run.
For best results, pressure treated lumber is recommended. It is available in most areas, though it is n a greenish shade which in time weathers to silver gray. If you are specific on color, you can get it pre-stained such that it looks like cedar or even redwood. This is the best option if you desire a one off solution.
If you desire to work with trends, synthetic decking is the way to go. The beauty of synthetic decking is that is has very low maintenance costs. This is made from recycled plastics and can be got in a variety of designs. You can also paint the decking. The only limitation is it can never look as wood looks as it weathers. Installation is also somewhat technical, as expansion should be factored in. It is however important to note that irrespective of the chosen synthetic material, support struts must be from wood.
Laying deck is a project that you will see many people taking part of. It may be done at home by the owner or professional help may be sought. Whichever option is chosen, one this is certain, some costing has to be done. It is thus crucial to work with a budget so that you have the best financial plan and do not end up spending more than had been budgeted for. The more elaborate that a deck plan is, the higher the cost you should be willing to spend. This is so as there is an increase in materials when one goes for designs outside the norm, thus the cost factor goes up.
On average, hiring a contractor to build a professional deck will average at $15 per square foot when use of pressure treated wood is chosen. If hardwoods are desired over the pressure treating of wood, the cost can go up to $35 per square foot. These designs will mainly use wood types such as mahogany or even oak. A remodel of an existing deck plan can vary on costs. It is thus best advised to talk with your designer for an estimate.
In choosing a deck design and costs, you ought to have an estimate of what the house is worth and how much time you expect to live in the house. It does not make business sense to spend a fortune on the deck while the house is not worth much or if you will not live as long to get the desired value out of it. It is ideal to have three estimates of the average deck price and choose one that offers best value. Do note that this does not mean you pick the cheapest.
Your contractor can be able to suggest to you ways of pushing your budget downwards without compromising the structural quality of the deck. A larger deck plan is advisable as it to some extent extends your living space and in actual sense extends the value of your home. Statistics have shown that home owners in most cases recoup their investment in deck building when they are selling their houses in the US. This is a real testament that the deck allows owners to sell and recoup their investment.
In most states, you will incur a small property tax when a deck is installed or remodeled. This comes from the building inspectorate who monitors the deck plans and the building of the deck when complete. A tax assessor will contact you after deck completion and examine the new deck and notify if any additional property taxes are incurred. The value is not standard and may vary depending on location.
Finally, it is good to note that insurance costs might also increase. When building, ensure you have covered the process with home owners insurance. All personnel working on the deck laying should also be insured for best results. Upon deck completion, an occupancy certificate should be offered and a policy evaluation done.
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