by Sam O'Quinn

Created on: September 30, 2008   Last Updated: October 01, 2008

The heat of the sun warms your shoulders as you turn the steaks cooking on the grill. Your friends are laughing at the latest joke and tease you about being a horrible cook. The kids are chasing Sparky all around the backyard and suddenly they bound up the steps of the deck. This is a great way to spend the weekend and there is only one problem: you don't have a deck, yet.

This new project will not only provide a great place to relax and entertain, but it will also add living space and value to your home. First, you must consider what this project will entail. Questions to ask yourself include whether you will be hiring someone to built it for you or will be doing it yourself. How much space you do have to built the deck? What designs are you interested in? What are the building codes for your property? What kinds of permits will you need? Do you have the proper tools and safety equipment to build your deck? What types of materials will you need? How will you maintain your new investment?

If you will be hiring someone to build this deck, most of these questions will be answered for you. However, you may feel that this is a worthy do-it-yourself project. First, consider how much space you have for a deck. Measure the area and place temporary stakes around your target construction site. This will give you an idea of which designs will work best for you. It will also give you an estimate for your building permits. These permits vary from city to city, and state to state, so make sure you check with your local office to obtain the proper permits before beginning any construction.

Your favorite home improvement store will have an abundance of books and magazines dedicated to deck designs, railing designs, and instructions if you have never before built a deck. You may even have an idea brewing of your own. Some stores offer workshops, so be sure to check when they will be offering one on decks. Once you have your design, you can begin the construction process and be on your way to the outdoor space you have been dreaming of.

One more chore remains if you want your beautiful deck to last more than just a few years. You will want to maintain your deck just like you would maintain your lawn. Painting or sealing the wood are the most common options, however, you may choose another material for the construction of the deck. Composite wood products are a great alternative to natural wood and require a lot less maintenance.

Add more value and living space to your home by building a deck. Designing it and building it yourself will only contribute to the enjoyment you will feel when you step outside. What design will you choose? The only limitation is your imagination.

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