As spring approaches, many homeowners plan to spend more time outside in the warmer months. If your spring plans include improving your outdoor living space, consider adding a deck or porch.
Undoubtedly, adding a deck or porch to a home is a fantastic way to increase your living space and offer you more flexibility to enjoy the outdoors. But how do you choose the right deck or porch? What is best for your home?
Let’s look at a few things to consider when searching for the perfect deck or porch for your family’s home.
Purpose
For what will you use your deck or porch? Are you looking to create a quiet sanctuary to enjoy nature or curl up with a good book? Or do you want to create a space for entertaining, including multiple seating areas? Do you need room for a grill, a bar, and a refrigerator? Is a sound system something you wish to include in the space? Answering these questions will help you ensure complete satisfaction with your project.
Style
The first thing to consider when choosing a deck or porch for your home is the existing architecture of the house. Your porch or deck should complement the style and colors of the features of your home. Don’t discount your personal taste. Your outdoor space should appeal to your unique sense of beauty and style.
Landscape
Next, consider the pitch and slope of the area where you plan to add the deck or porch. Think about if you are looking to have a simple one-level deck or if you need to plan for steps and a multi-level structure.
Materials and Maintenance
Once you have an idea of the design of your deck, you will need to choose between several options for materials. Depending on your budget, you can choose between Trex, cedar, and treated pine.
- Trex: A wood-alternative composite known for its high performance and low maintenance. Trex has a 25-Year Limited Residential Warranty against material defects and a 25-Year Limited Residential Fade and Stain Warranty.
- Cedar: A natural wood option that is rot-resistant and doesn’t readily absorb moisture. Cedar is less expensive and tends to last 15-20 years.
- Treated Pine: An economical option, treated pine is pressure treated to keep the wood from susceptibility to warping and insects
Deck on Porch Planning Questions
- How do you plan to use the space?
- How long do you want it to last?
- What terrain are you building on?
- What is your budget?
- Do you need to plan for shade?
For expert advice and installation for all your deck and porch needs, count on Coy Construction. We are a family-owned and -operated Michigan deck building and interior remodeling company with a 40-year tradition in Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Coy Construction is proud to offer a wide range of products for your deck and basement needs, such as Trex, cedar, treated pine, and more. Call us today at (248) 363-1050 for a consultation!
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