e Deck Designs

Archive for the ‘DIY Basics’ Category

Construction materials are the most important factors you need to consider when building a home. High quality materials ensure that your home is safe, long lasting and remains beautiful over the years. Even for decks and patios, quality materials are crucial to keeping them stable, strong and long lasting.

Decks and patios are made of various kinds of materials to keep them safe, durable and beautiful. The most common patio and deck materials are:

1. Wood – Decks and patios can be made of wood, such as redwood, rose wood, cedar, teak, etc.

2. Chemicals – To preserve wooden decks and patios, chemicals such as Chromatic Copper Arsenicals are used.

3. Various forest products used while making decks and patios.

4. Rails – Decks and patios also have metal rails, structural fiberglass deck rails, stair rails and other railing systems.

5. Funnel shaped polyethylene plastic footing forms – These patio and deck material can be used along with concrete construction tubes to create footings for all types of decks and patios.

6. Choicedek – This patio and deck material is made out of low quality, low density polythene plastic, combined with pre-cleaned and steam treated cedar fibers.

7. Deck master – A hidden deck fastening system. deck master is available in galvanized and stainless steel.

8. Vinyl decking products

9. Composite deck building materials

10. Recycled plastic decks – These patio and deck materials are an extremely good and environmentally sound option.

Companies are attempting to devise new technologies to find better materials for building decks and patios. These patio and deck materials will be strong, durable, good looking and easy to maintain.

The importance of using high quality materials for any building project cannot be overemphasized. When building decks and patios, home owners must never compromise on the quality of patio and deck materials.

Ceramic, porcelain or stone tiles must be installed over proper surfaces in your patio or deck’s elevated exterior area. Acceptable surfaces include mortar beds and sometimes backer board. You need to be sure to obtain permission from the easement holder prior to constructing decks or patios within existing easements. Be sure to get this agreement in writing.

You need to obtain a grading permit:

* When grading is being performed as a condition of a development permit.

* For any activity that disturbs soil or vegetation in environmentally sensitive land.

* For excavation of a site with 25 percent or greater slope, or one that involves excavation or fill which results in a slope grade of 25 percent or more (4 feet horizontal, 1 foot vertical), and is more than 5 feet in depth or height.

* For any activity that impacts sensitive resources in the coastal zone.

The finished edge, or lip, around a swimming pool is referred to as the grade elevation. In the case of a regular patio or sidewalk, you can determine the finished edge by the surrounding ground or the correlation between the surface and nearby steps, decks or driveways.

Two changes currently proposed are: replacement of the word “levels” with the word “points”; and the replacement of the word “structure” with the phrase “a building, deck, portion of a deck, or a patio cover.”

The word “excessive” is defined as containing more moisture than can dry out of the assembly before that assembly freezes due to ambient temperature conditions. The trapped moisture will freeze and thaw and may cause deterioration known as spalling. Spalling is where part of the brick surface may break away.

Improper grade can contribute to the ingress of moisture, either from direct water run-off or the buildup of snow. Excess moisture present in the brick during the freeze-thaw cycles can result in spalling of the brick.

The Ontario Building Code and proper building practices dictate that brickwork should be a minimum of 150mm (6″) above grade. This requirement also applies to any level surface such as paving, patio, deck or balcony. Furthermore, the ground should be contoured so that the water drains away from the wall or structure.

Decks and patios expand the living space of a home into the outdoors. They are a very visible part of home, so it is imperative that they be kept in top shape. When building a new deck or patio, or if you’re refurbishing an old one, careful thought should be given to the way the deck or patio is finished. A well finished patio or deck has a beautiful finish to it. This makes it a shining star of the outdoor living area.

You can have a patio or deck that has a shining finish to it. In order to obtain a finish coat that shines here are some tips to keep in mind:

* Old and worn out patios and decks can be refinished and given a new surface. This makes them beautiful again.

* Decks or patios that have damage like cracks or splits in the wood can be repaired and then refinished. This will make them look new again.

* Any finish put on a deck or patio needs to be non-slip and maintenance free.

* You can purchase water based finishes that have non-slip surfaces.

Follow These Steps When Applying Coating on Your Deck or Patio

1. Prepare the surface of the deck or patio properly.

2. Clean the deck or patio surface. All loose debris and dirt has to be swept off.

3. Scrub the surface of the patio or deck with tri-sodium phosphate mixed with water. Use a stiff brush for this. This will remove all oils and dirt that will interfere with the absorption of the finish.

4. Scrub the patio or deck once more with a 10-15% solution of muriatic acid and water. This will allow tiny holes to open thus allowing better penetration of the finish coating.

5. Apply the first coat. Wait 24 hours before applying the second coat. Then you can walk on your newly finished patio or deck.

The best way to refurbish an old and worn out looking patio or deck is to refinish it. If done well, this will breathe new life into an old friend.

Patio and deck covers are single story structures with height restrictions The maximum height allowed is between twelve and sixteen feet.

Patio and deck covers come in white; they can be as simple as just a roof or overhang, or they can be enclosed. Patio and deck covers can stand alone or they can be attached to the main building.

Patio and deck covers are great in the summer months. You can set up a patio cover by the swimming pool or use it for other outdoor recreation purposes. Patio and deck covers can reduce indoor energy consumption by getting people to spend more time outdoors. Patio and deck covers, which are adjustable, can shield you from the elements, like wind rain and sun. They are also a great way to protect entrance ways and walkways.

Patio and deck covers are mostly found in restaurants, swimming pools and peoples backyards. Patio and deck covers should only be used for outdoor recreation purposes. They were not designed to be used as carports, garages, storage rooms or residential living space.

A building permit is required to install a patio or deck cover regardless of the size. Usually your patio or deck cover receives approval as proposed. You are strongly advised to contact the local planning department to be sure your planned structure does not encroach on easements or required side, front or rear yard setbacks.

The nature of the deck or patio cover’s structure lends itself to allow the final inspection and the frame inspection to occur at the same time. The exception to this is if the walls are to be enclosed. Then you must have the framework inspected prior to enclosing the walls.

The Clarity Patio Cover offers you all of the benefit of being outdoors yet cradles you in the security of being indoors. You may have covered or open patios in any yard — front, rear or side. If installed in the rear yard, the patio cover should not exceed 75% of the total yard area.

Building a home requires proper planning and precise work. The home of your dreams cannot come to fruition without carefully planned designs and architecture. Every area of the home must be designed for optimal use, convenience and beauty.

Deck and patios are an extension of your home. This, the planning required for these structures requires as much attention to detail as the rest of the house.

There are several things to consider prior to building decks and patios. Some of the basic elements that need to be considered in the planning of a patio or a deck are:

* Digging post holes. Before starting to dig the post holes, check with your local authorities for current building regulations. The type of soil, the depth, the strength of deck posts and their footings are all regulated by local codes. Deck posts must be stable; they should be able to withstand frost and moisture while remaining steadily rooted even in soft soil.

* Deck or patio foundation. The foundation of the deck or patio must be created with extreme diligence as it is what will support the entire deck or patio.

* Ledger. Installing the ledger is a crucial step in the planning and building of decks and patios.

* Deck posts. Another important thing to incorporate in a patio or deck plan involves installing, marking and cutting the deck posts.

* Joists that need to be hanged.

* Deck boards and railings.

* Stairs.

* Deck or patio pattern and architecture, which can be complex or simple.

* Deck or patio seating.

* Planters, shade structures, lattice works and privacy screens.

* A spa, which is an optional deck or patio structure.

* Practicality, convenience, type of home and the home owners preferences. These all need to be considered in the deck and patio plan and design.

A well-designed deck or patio can contribute to turning your house into a home. A plain, ordinary house can be transformed into a gorgeous home with a properly constructed deck or patio. Thus, it is important to remember that in building any deck or patio, careful attention must be put into planning its construction.

Most deck and patio projects require some or all of the following supplies: flashing, caulking compound, premixed concrete, gravel, crushed stone, cinder blocks, post caps, post bases, seismic ties, joist hangers, cardboard tube concrete forms and Rebar. Be sure to use stainless steel or HDG nails if you want to use nails. It is preferable to use deck screws as they are stronger than nails. You may also require joist hanger nails and HDG bolts or lag screws and washers.

Confront Adversity

Beginners will have many questions once they embark on a project as complex as deck or patio building. When making that trip to the hardware store or home improvement center, be sure to write down any questions you may have. These stores offer a wealth of free information to their customers. As long as you have the basic knowledge to ask intelligent questions, the store’s staff will be more than willing to help you resolve your quandary. Be sure you are aware of basic deck building terminology and that you have sufficient understanding of deck construction methods.

There will be challenges ahead in your deck building journey. With your new found knowledge, you should be able to walk into the hardware store and converse like an intelligent person about your deck or patio building dilemmas.

Is your concrete slab looking drab and dull? Do you wish you could turn it into a custom wood deck without all the expense involved? The DIY “deck-in-a-box” system is for you! This product gives you a fantastic looking deck — just like a custom built wooden one, without all of the hassles and issues associated with building a deck the traditional way.

It’s So Very Simple

Installing DIY decks and patios does not get any easier. Simple DIY installation is designed to give the homeowner a right out-of-the-box installation. No special tools or carpentry skills required. The hassles of screws, nails, adhesives and messy finishes are eliminated. All you do is just snap the tiles together. That’s all there is to it. Water will drain properly, the tiles will be evenly aligned and spaced, the surface is safe — not slippery. What more can you ask for? Need to build around an obstacle like a pole or column? No problem, the tiles are easily cut to shape and the installation continues. No more fuss. No unnerving hassles. When completed, the design is flexible so it can be changed with ease. DIY makes it easy to remove the deck and replace it in another location. You can easily add tiles or reconfigure what you already have. The possibilities are endless. Just design and install.

Drilling, Nailing, Hard Work, Carpentry Skills… That’s All in the Past

Installing DIY decks and patios is so easy, even a child can do it. There is no drilling, sanding or nailing. No worries about screws and nail holes. No unseen tiles or spacing. Just snap together and you’re done. It’s easy, even if you have no carpentry experience at all.

Change is Easy

Add on, change it around, move to another location if you desire! Just either add more tiles, reconfigure what you have or pick it up and transport it to another location. Three distinctive tile designs make it easy for you to configure the deck or patio of your dreams. Turn your unattractive concrete slab into something exciting and beautiful. Take any place in your yard, just be sure it is well drained and on firm level ground, put down a weed barrier, and install as directed. A great way to cover bare spots or place the tiles in areas where plants are difficult to grow. You are limited only by your imagination.

Here are a few suggestions to follow before you proceed:

1. Where is the deck or patio going to be located? Choose the location carefully. Check the sun’s position throughout the day. Plan your location based on the purpose of your deck or patio.

2. How are you planning to use your deck or patio? What activities will be engaged in on the deck or patio? What about the view? Be sure to locate the deck to maximize any spectacular views. Keep your privacy in mind. You may not want the neighbors to see everything you do.

3. Decks and patios are great for entertaining small groups of people. If you plan on entertaining large groups, be sure there is enough space on the deck or patio and that the structure can support the weight of many people.

Your deck or patio design depends on your personal preferences, and the amount of time and money you can afford to allocate to the project. Get a professional to design the deck or patio for you. A quality architect will be sure to specify the correct type of building materials. This will ensure everyone’s safety. If you have the time and energy, you can always purchase one of the many do-it-yourself kits that are currently available. This can be a rewarding experience, so go ahead and have fun!

Storage sheds, sun rooms, gazebos and even garages come in quality kits. Save money in these tight times while improving your home with do-it-yourself kits.

* Adding a sun room can give you much needed extra space during the warmer months. * Installing an awning will reduce cooling costs. Retractable awnings add elegance and versatility to your backyard or deck.

* The perfect final touch to any deck are long-lasting lights.

Patio and deck kits are the perfect option for every home owner who wants a comfortable shelter for his or her back or side yard. A deck kit is the ideal solution if you want to create a sunny corner in your garden. A deck kit that is easy to install includes: posts, balusters, handrails and decking boards.

Every garden should have an area for entertaining and relaxing. Patio decking is the perfect material for saunas, grills, sandboxes, wading pools, and more; as it provides a non-slip, easy to clean surface. A patio or deck kit will save you time and money as well as help you avoid the pitfalls of conventional decking.

An overview of decking kits

A wooden deck offers many benefits such as: bringing life to the outdoors, having a place to relax and soak up the sun, an area to enjoy al fresco dining and a place to entertain friends.

The natural beauty and warmth of wood is a superior choice to concrete or stone. There are a variety of decking styles, which make designing and building a deck an easy task for any competent handyman.

Various patio and decking kits offer endless possibilities for the home owner to create the perfect wooden patio or veranda. Patio and deck kits look very attractive in the backyard of houses and around swimming pools.

Practical and portable garden deck kits

With patio and deck kits, you can add to and change your designs to allow for future adjustments in your garden’s layout or if you are moving to a new house. Simply undo the bolts and take the deck kit system with you when you are changing layouts or moving. You can re-assemble the deck kit in the new garden as you see fit.

Hire the right professional to build your porch deck or patio. Be sure that the contractor you hire is qualified for the job. Carefully screen each applicant, get references and call them. Be sure to see if any legal action has been taken against the contractor. This will weed out the undesirables and the dishonest tradesman.

Know what you want ahead of time. This way you can negotiate effectively. Have an estimate of costs and materials before you begin. Be sure to have drawings and charts drawn up. Make sure you understand the ramifications of changing plans or materials.

Keep a constant eye on your contractors, this will keep them on time and on budget. Keep everything running smoothly, from planning, code issues, through completion. If you keep organized with checklists, contracts, charts and illustrations, your deck or patio project will run smoothly. Find out about what will end up as a money pit. Use these tips to get your job done correctly, even if you have no prior experience.

An Overview

If you are looking to add more value to your home through curb appeal, or a more usable outdoor space, then adding a deck or patio is a good choice. You will have to educate yourself about the many different aspects of project management. These include: screening and selecting contractors, obtaining permits, zoning laws, choosing a design, having plans and specifications prepared, selecting the site, types of materials to be used, checking for underground utilities, job estimates and the bidding process.

Deck and Patio Maintenance Tips

* Decks should be sealed right after cleaning. To see if your deck needs to be sealed, place a few drops of water on it. If the water beads up, the deck does not require sealing. If however, the water soaks in, then you must seal the deck.

* A dull gray color indicates a possible mold or mildew issue. Try cleaning it with a suitable product. A deck that stays wet for an extended time after a rainfall needs attention. Take proper action to dry it out.

* Remove all debris from the deck surface and spaces between the deck boards. Be sure to check the area where the deck attaches to the house for any hidden debris.

* Trimming tress and shrubs that overhang the deck will help keep it clean and dry. So will rerouting down spouts so that water is carried away from the deck area.

Always inspect for rot. All wood will eventually rot. Pressure treated lumber, hardwoods like cedar, redwood and teak are less prone to rot and insect damage than softwoods like pine.

* Wood and soil should never have contact with each other. Check to see if you deck is on concrete or other stone. If not, look into repairing this situation. Remember, all wood will rot if left wet for long periods of time.