Understanding the Building Code for a New Deck
December 16, 2024When building a new deck, there are several building codes you and your contractors have to follow. The building codes are in place to ensure
Your deck should be an outdoor oasis; a place to enjoy great weather and cold drinks while making memories with family and friends. When it comes to creating a visually appealing and welcoming deck space there are countless ways to go about furnishing.
If you are serious about making your deck the talk of the neighborhood, check out some of these popular items that can serve as inspiration for your own deck project.
Potted Plants
One way to add some color and beauty to your deck is by adding potted plants. You can really liven up your deck with some colorful flowers or succulents placed strategically on your deck. If an area of your deck feels empty, adding plants can fill the void. Plants can add a much-needed decorative element to your outdoor oasis.
A Deck Box
One commonly overlooked piece of deck decor is a good deck box for storage. When the weather is gloomy, you need a place to store seat cushions and other items that can be damaged by rain or high winds. Plastic is the most common and inexpensive material these are made of.
Table and Chairs
The centerpiece of your deck will be the place where you dine. Finding the right matching set is a challenge, but it’ll be worthwhile to spend time looking at several sets and comparing prices and quality.
Aluminum is the most popular and durable material for an outdoor table and chair set. You can get many years out of aluminum furniture without having to do too much maintenance. Aluminum is also the most inexpensive type of outdoor furniture you can find, making it a great choice for people on a budget.
Wood is also a great material to look at for your deck furniture. While annual maintenance is required to keep wood furniture looking pristine, it is well worth it for homeowners that love the natural beauty and craftsmanship of a wood table and chairs. They tend to be a little more pricey, relative to other popular materials, but if your heart is set on wood, there is an abundance of great styles in varieties of colors all over the internet and in your local furniture stores.
Wicker is a lightweight option that can be easily moved if you like rearranging your deck often. It is also an elegant style because of the way it is woven. The great thing about wicker is that there are plenty of different woven patterns for you to choose from so you’re bound to find something you like.
Lounge Chairs
When you’re not serving a meal, it’s good to have other places to sit that aren’t at your outdoor table. Adirondack chairs are perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. They are designed so that the front of the chair is higher than the back so you are primed for relaxation.
Rocking chairs and wooden swings are also great for relaxing and tend to fit a more colonial style home. No matter your preference, having a few chairs to lounge in will make your deck a more appealing spot to spend your summer evenings.
Outdoor Lighting
If you’re going to be using your deck at night, it’s a good idea to invest in some outdoor lighting. A popular lighting option that is great for summertime is a set of tiki torches. You can mount full-size tiki torch poles to your deck railings to give your outdoor seating area much-needed pop of lighting and ambiance.
There are also plenty of traditional lighting options if you aren’t sold on the tropical feel that tiki torches create. String lights are also a fun way to light your deck. You can hang them around the perimeter of your deck or over the top of your deck roof or pergola if you have one.
A Way to Keep Out the Sun
Whether it be a retractable awning or a standalone umbrella or canopy, it is an absolute necessity to have a place where you can escape the heat and sun on your deck.
If you go with the canopy option, you can turn it into a little room with a few chairs and a small table where people can relax and sip on some lemonade.
Outdoor Rugs
You can really bring your deck together with an outdoor rug. The material that you choose is important! It needs to be able to stand up against the elements. When shopping for a deck rug, make sure you are shopping for “outdoor” rugs. You’ll be looking at significantly more durable fabrics that won’t deteriorate when exposed to various types of weather.
When building a new deck, there are several building codes you and your contractors have to follow. The building codes are in place to ensure
Furnishing your new deck is how you turn it into a space where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. Well-chosen deck furniture not
When speaking with a deck contractor about building your dream deck, it’s important to understand the parts of a deck and how they are constructed.