Planning Your New Deck

A new deck can completely change how you use your home. It’s extra living space, fresh air, and a place to relax or entertain. But before anyone sets a post in the ground, a little planning goes a long way toward getting the deck you actually want instead of the deck you “settled for.”

Start with how you’ll actually use the deck

Before you think about railings or board patterns, think about real life. Do you picture family dinners outside? A quiet morning coffee spot? A place for kids to play? Space for a hot tub or grill? Your answers will drive decisions about the size, layout, and where doors and stairs should go.

A good rule of thumb: it’s easier to plan for space now than to wish for more space later. Even a couple extra feet in one direction can make furniture layout and traffic flow much more comfortable.

Think about sunlight, shade, and views

Decks live outside, which means sun, shade, wind, and neighbors all make a difference. We usually walk the site with homeowners and look at:

• Where the sun hits in the morning and evening
• How close the deck is to neighboring windows or fences
• Which views you’d like to highlight – and which you’d rather hide
• Whether a roof, pergola, or privacy screen might make sense

Sometimes a small shift in location or elevation can improve comfort and privacy without adding much cost.

Choose materials with maintenance in mind

The two most common options for decks today are pressure-treated lumber and composite decking. Both can be great choices — it just depends on budget, look, and how much maintenance you’re willing to take on.

Pressure-treated lumber typically has a lower up-front cost but needs periodic sealing or staining. Composite costs more initially but offers a more consistent look with less ongoing maintenance. We walk homeowners through the pros and cons and help match the material to the project and budget.

Understand permits and local building codes

Decks are more than “just a few boards.” They have to be safe and built to code. That usually means permits, inspections, and specific rules about:

• Footing size and depth
• Post spacing and beam sizing
• Railing height and spacing
• Stair dimensions and handrails

We handle the permit process and build to local code so your deck is both safe and compliant. You don’t have to wrestle with drawings and paperwork on your own.

Set realistic timing and expectations

Weather, material availability, and the size of the project all affect timing. A straightforward deck can often be completed in days once we start on site, but more complex designs or features can take longer. When we provide an estimate, we also talk about timing, lead times, and what the day-to-day process looks like.

Next steps

If you’re thinking about a new deck, you don’t have to have every detail figured out ahead of time. A simple conversation and site visit are usually enough to explore options, talk through materials, and get a clear written estimate.