One of the most important parts of deck building in Houston is proper planning, yet this is often one of the most overlooked aspects of the project. Today we want to help you to get a jump start to build the deck of your dreams by creating a design. There are three reasons for having a deck built. The first is that whatever design you choose should serve your family’s functional needs. Next, it should fit within your allotted budget, and last but not least, a well-built deck will contribute to your Houston property value. The goal of this article is to help you accomplish this mission.
Before we start, I want you to walk outside your back door and look around. How do you envision your new deck is going to look? Have you considered the natural features in your yard that may determine where your deck will be built? Its size and shape? Have you considered how much space you want to devote to your deck? If you choose a raised deck, will it block the sunlight your landscape needs to thrive or darken rooms inside your home? Will you need to remove trees for the deck building? If you have a multi-tier wood deck, will it interfere with power lines or give your neighbors a view you’d prefer they not have? These are just the things you will need to consider in addition to the size of your backyard. The size and shape of your yard will significantly impact your designs. Always ensure that your chosen design outweighs any compromises you may need to make.
One of the best ways to get clarity is by putting pencil to paper. Deck building for Houston homeowners can be overwhelming; let us make the process a lot easier and more fun. I am sure you, like most homeowners, have searched the internet looking through hundreds if not thousands of ideas, many of which are over the top with complex shapes and intricate level changes. There are some awe-inspiring designs, but some of the best are relatively simple, so you will need to consider whether this will be a project you attempt to tackle yourself or you will be hiring a deck builder in Houston.
Tips For Deck Building In Houston
Finding the right deck builder in Houston will ensure that your design adds value to your property. This means you will need to invest some time doing research. You will want to ensure that they are fully insured, experienced, and knowledgeable about the project. You will want to go online to read their reviews and ask them for references from previous customers. But let’s back up because it will be harder to vet deck builders in Houston without knowing what you want first.
Here's my advice before you interview anyone, let’s create a sketch of what you have in mind. By this, I mean to draw what you imagine using simple shapes like circles, ovals, squares, and rectangles. If you are concerned this will be boring compared to what you have in mind, don’t be. A great yard is built with layers. The underlying framework is simple to cope with all the other layers that go on top. Let me give you an example. Consider a car and it’s basically a box of wheels. Even the best car is not exciting when the cars are on the assembly line. However, it looks remarkably different once the vehicle has been sculpted and accessorized with paint, trim, and finishing touches. The same is valid with deck building.
Step #1 Deck Design Rough Draft
Even if you’re not the next Picasso, let’s do an exercise to help you get some clarity. Take a pencil and draw your backyard just as it sits and the backside of your house. What existing features do you have in your backyard? Is there a pool or hot tub? A prized tree or flowerbeds? What about your child’s playground or your grill? Scribble these elements onto the sheet using a pencil so they can be erased, as we may need to move them when it comes time to add the deck. Next, I want you to consider why you want to build the deck. If you need more clarification, here is a sample list of some of the most common reasons people have decks built in Houston.
Why Do People Have Decks Built In Houston?
Most Common Functionality
Having a deck built is an added extension of your indoor living space. It will be accessible from your main level and can be used for the following reasons:
Relaxation
Outdoor Kitchen or Grill
Dining
Exercise
Hot Tub or Swimming Pool
If you are more of a practical person, you will be glad to know that deck building can save money by adding storage space to the design, saving you money on landscape maintenance, and saving you on entertainment. Better still, a well-built deck will yield a 75% return on your investment if you ever choose to sell. Clarity is the keyword when it comes to deck building; our Houston crew often hear people who say, “I wish my deck were…” fill in the blank, so while this exercise may seem over the top or like child’s play, it’s going to help make sure that the design you choose will serve your family’s needs, fits within your budget, and increases your property value.
Okay, before we scribble the deck onto paper, I want you to list the top three reasons you want a deck built on the backside of your drawing. If you need some inspiration, let us share an article containing some of our recent deck building projects in Houston. As you read along, put an asterisk beside the ones you think are most practical and beneficial for you and your family. These photos may not be what you have in mind, but at least they will allow your creative juices to flow into the brilliance of your customized design. You may also use a deck design tool to help you with the process.
Looking For A Deck Building In Houston?
At Emerson Home Exterior Enhancements, we offer deck building and repairs throughout Houston. Our family-owned and operated company has been in the industry since 1999 and is five-star rated. Call us today for a free design or estimate at (281) 545-7740 or complete our online contact form, and one of our helpful staff members will be happy to answer your questions or schedule your deck to be built. We serve Houston, Katy, and the surrounding area.