When I was in junior high, my dad decided to build a deck on the back of the house, and because it went well and looked good, he decided to follow that up with a deck on the front of the house when I was a teenager. This time he tried to save money in a few ways, and while the deck is still standing after a decade, it doesn't look anywhere near as nice as the back deck. To create a deck that your friends and families will rave over, and one that doesn't loose its appeal after a few years, try some of the following tips.

Start by deciding where you want to place your deck, and what size is right for your home. You may have dreams of a 25 foot deck that circles the entire house, but it might not be the right option for your house. Think about what the deck will be used for, and think about access to the deck. Does it make sense to have a deck on the side of the house, if you have no access from inside? Look for a place where you will have at least once access point that doesn't involve climbing out the window.

Next check with your local boards on what permits are required. When we started building our first deck, my dad didn't have the proper permits, and one of our neighbors called in the project. A few days later a representative showed up with a clipboard and a packet of information that we needed before continuing. Checking on permits, and having the correct ones will save you time and money in the long run. You never know when a helpful neighbor will turn you in for doing unauthorized work. Even if you don't think you need permits, check first. Some areas allow you to slide if the deck is less than a certain size, but you won't know unless you ask.

Once you decide to start building, have a plan. Don't start by thinking of what you want or need, but actually draw it out on paper, and write down your dimensions. If you start by going with your instincts, you may end up with a haphazard and uneven porch. And absolutely do not skimp on materials. Use the right materials now, or you will have to replace parts of the deck, if not the whole deck in the future. This means using treated wood, and making sure its dry before you being. Using wet, or green wood will cause the porch to be uneven or have large gaps once it dries.

Using these tips can ensure that you have a deck that will last in both durability and appearance for years to come.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Eblin.
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