Building a deck is a great way to expand your outdoor living space and create a perfect space to relax, entertain, and enjoy in Australia’s beautiful weather. Whether you’re planning a simple or a more complex multi-level deck, understanding the right materials and correct building methods is essential for creating a beautiful and long-lasting structure. This article explains everything about how to build a deck: why to build it and its proper procedure.
Why is building a deck a game-changer for Aussie homes?
A deck is a beneficial addition to your home as it offers a number of benefits for Australian homeowners. It is particularly useful for the mild to warm weather of Australia. Here are the reasons why building a deck could be the best choice:
- Backyard living: The backyard is just as important as indoor spaces in many Australian homes. A deck extends your living area and creates an ideal spot for family get-togethers, barbecues, parties, or simply unwinding outdoors.
- Increased appraised value: A solid deck can increase the appraised value of your home. Many prospective purchasers see outdoor spaces as a key component, making your home more attractive in the market.
- Great for entertaining: A deck offers a fantastic area for outdoor entertainment like dining and relaxing. It creates an ideal setting for hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying a party under the stars.
- Low-maintenance: A deck does not demand high care or attention as compared to other outdoor spaces like gardens or lawns.
- Tailored design: Tailor the deck to align with your way of life and aesthetic preferences.
That’s why a deck makes a top-notch addition to any Aussie home.
What regulations you need to know before building a deck?
There are various rules and regulations that you will need to follow before building a deck. You must know the legal requirements of your area. It is crucial to understand that the regulations are made to ensure the safety, access, and commonwealth matters. Ensure the following rules for the addition of a deck to your home:
- Permit necessities: Some specific councils may insist on a building permit for the deck that is above a particular height or when the deck meets defined dimensions. It is always a good idea to contact your local council or visit their website to get detailed information.
- Building restrictions: It is crucial to know whether or not it permits proximity to the boundary lines or other structures.
- Construction Codes: Learn the construction or building codes, as they outline requirements for foundations, railing height, and materials.
- Professional advice: Hire a registered builder or structural engineer if required.
Make sure to align with all these rules and regulations before building a deck at your home.
How to plan the design of a dream deck?
Proper planning helps a lot to get a practical and aesthetically designed deck. Consider the following before starting up:
- Design: Think about the size, shape, and features you want to include, like its shape, its size, or things you are interested in including, like benches, planters, or lights on the deck. Also, think about whether the deck will match the architectural style of your home or not.
- Position: The perfect position of the deck carries significant weight. Check how the sunlight can move across the home and how winds blow, also the sight lines to efficiently experience a deck. In addition, it will also help to decide the type of material for construction.
- Height: It is necessary to include some features, like stairs, when building an elevated deck. For a low-level deck, see how it will manage the situation, like the accumulation of water.
- Materials and budget: Choose materials and other planning tools that meet your budget and desired aesthetic.
Essential tools and materials for deck building
Having proper tools and materials will help to save time and put the plan into action.
Necessary tools
You will require the following necessary tools:
- Drills: Helpful for drilling holes and fastening screws.
- Circular saw: Used to cut decking boards and frames easily and accurately.
- Spirit level: Helps to make the surface of the deck flat and smooth.
- Joist hangers: Make sure proper fastening of the joist to the beam.
- Post-hole digger: Vital for preparing the best foundations for placing the deck posts.
Material choice
Consider the following material for the best deck:
- Hardwood (e.g. Merbau): Other timbers like Merbau are sturdy and moisture-resistant, and withstand other severe conditions of weather, though usually expensive and may consequently require re-coating or re-staining sometimes.
- Wood-plastic composite decking: It is manufactured from a mixture of plastic and wood material. It requires low maintenance and is resistant to rot and insects. But its primary cost is high.
- Treated pine: It is budget-friendly and accessible to everybody, and may require frequent placement for long-term use.
How to build a deck: A step-by-step guide
Here is the step-by-step breakdown of building a deck:
1. Preparation of the site
As you have all the basic materials and tools, let’s start building your desired deck. Start with the preparation of the site as follows:
- Clear the area: Start by clearing the space, making sure to get rid of any loose rocks, overgrown plants, or leftover rubbish lying around.
- Level the ground: Make the area flat for ground-level decks. Specify the positions for the footing for elevated decks.
- Mark the layout: Outline the perimeter of the deck by using string lines and batter boards.
2. Construct footings and posts
Now, it’s time to set up the foundations of your beautiful and aesthetic deck.
- Dig post-holes: Dig holes at the designated spots to specification of depth for elevated decks.
- Establish the footings: Pour concrete or deck blocks into the holes and permit them to establish.
- Build posts: Anchoring treated timber posts into the footings, ensuring they are flat and vertical.
3. Constructing the deck frame
Get ready to build the frame of your deck.
- Attach the ledger board: Securely fasten the treated timber ledger board to your house. Make sure it is flat.
- Install beams and joists: Place the beams across the ledgers and lay out joists at regular intervals, fixing them with joist hangers or screws.
4. Fit the decking boards
Lay the decking board as follows:
- Begin at one edge: Start fitting decking boards from one end, leaving a small opening between each board for drainage.
- Fix the boards: Secure the boards to the joist by using the decking screw or nails.
- Cut the edges: Once all the boards are placed, trim any overhanging edges to create a tidy, neat, and even appearance.
5. Finishing touches
Give your deck a touch of style with these finishing touches:
- Build railings and stairs: It is safe to add railings and stairs for accessibility if your deck is elevated.
- Secure the deck: Seal your deck by applying a protective sealant to the timber. It will assist in enhancing the durability and appearance of the deck.
- Furnish: Decorate your deck and create a welcoming space by adding outdoor furniture, lighting, and plants.
Finally, your dreamy and aesthetic deck is ready.
How to preserve the deck?
Keep up with maintenance to make your deck last for years to come.
- Reapply sealant: Depending on the material, recoat every 1–2 years to protect against moisture and UV damage.
- Regular maintenance: Clean your deck regularly, remove debris, and wash the deck occasionally.
- Examine for damage: Look for any damage like loose boards, nails, or signs of wear.
When to call a professional?
It is suggested to call a professional deck builder when you face challenging design specifications, structural flaws, or a lack of time, experience, or confidence to build the project yourself. Especially, consult an expert if you want to build a multi-level or custom deck, if the deck connects with your house structure, or if you are not sure about the local building codes or permit requirements.
Final Thoughts
Building a deck is a meaningful and achievable project that can greatly improve your outdoor living space. Australians can build a deck by planning thoughtfully, complying with local regulations, and using good-quality materials. A well-structured and well-maintained deck plays a significant role in providing a comfortable area for relaxation and entertainment. Furthermore, it also enhances the value of the home. Don’t forget to maintain the deck regularly to extend its lifespan and continue its enjoyment.
