It’s the middle of winter, and the last thing on your mind is relaxing out on the deck or patio. But believe it or not, winter is the best time to start planning an outdoor living space. It gives you enough time to carefully plan out the details of your deck or patio, consult with MD deck-building companies, and find the most cost-effective plan of action – all before summer arrives! Here’s how you can start planning your summer deck or patio.
DIY or Contractor?
Building a deck or patio on your own is no simple task. Sure, you’ll save money on labor costs, but doing so may influence certain factors of your build based on your skill set and time constraints. Working with a deck contractor, on the other hand, will add to your overall deck costs but will essentially guarantee great results. When you work with a professional decking contractor, you can rest assured knowing that your deck will meet your needs and aesthetic preferences and be built up to code.
Consider Cost Factors
The cost to build a deck or patio will depend primarily on:
- Labor: typically the greatest cost of building a deck or patio.
- Design: the more complex a design, the more you pay.
- Substructure: building a new one or replacing parts of your current one.
- Materials: varies depending on the type of material you choose.
- Fastening: ranges from basic screws to advanced color-matched plugs and hidden clips
Sometimes homeowners will require pre-work before being able to build their deck or patio, which will add to the overall cost to build. Some common examples of pre-work that may need to be done are tearing down an existing structure, landscaping to clear or level the area where the structure will be built, and addressing any job site access restraints.
Determining Shape and Size
There are several things you need to consider to determine the right deck or patio size and shape for your home. The first thing to consider is deck or patio functionality. How do you intend to use your outdoor living space? If you want to host large gatherings, a big deck would be ideal as opposed to a small one that is cozier. Next, evaluate your home’s architectural style and choose a size and shape that compliments it. Last, evaluate your yard layout to determine how to best fit a new deck or patio.
Find a Reputable Decking Company
If you decide on having your deck or patio built by a professional, now is the time to start looking for a reputable decking company. Before deciding to hire a decking company in MD, take the time to talk to them about your project, look at their online reviews, and ask for references. Who you choose to build your outdoor living space directly affects your outcome, so you want to find a reputable company capable of executing your project.
Start Planning with North American Deck and Patio
When it’s time to start planning your deck or patio, look no further than North American Deck and Patio. Our experienced designers will work with you to come up with a beautifully-designed outdoor living space, and our deck builders will flawlessly execute the plans. Contact us today to get started with a free consultation.
Thousands of Happy Customers
“ Jim at North American patio and deck's came up with the most ingenious way of utilizing our small very slanted very water drained environment and turned it into a virtual oasis. Making this deck the envy of all our ambitions and gem for the community.”
– C. Cross
30+ Years of Industry
Experience
