Let’s face it – we all make mistakes. But when it comes to building a brand-new deck, there are a few that should definitely be avoided.
After completing tons of planning and logistics, it’s never fun to have to stop and start over. Construction mistakes can not only slow down the process but also impact the safety and quality of the finished product. So, let’s dive into some common deck building mistakes, so you can easily avoid them.
Choosing the Wrong Material
One of the most important deck building basics is choosing what materials you’ll be working with. There are so many options out there for decking, so it’s essential that you choose the right one. Think about the climate your deck will be in, taking into consideration the weather and humidity. Some materials, like redwood, hold up well in hot weather and direct sunlight. Others such as composite, do well in the rain. Do your research ahead of time, so you aren’t left with costly repairs and an unsafe deck.
Not Installing Handrails
When installing a deck, safety should always be a priority. Any open spaces, whether on the sides of stairs leading to the deck or around the edges, can be dangerous. Adding a handrail not only helps keep your family members and guests from getting injured, it also gives the deck a finished look. Even if safety codes don’t require it, including handrails is always the best choice.
Blocking Access to Services
Building a deck can be a beautiful addition to your home, but there are also many logistics that need to be taken into consideration. Placing the deck on the side of your house could end up covering essential services you need to access, like water faucets or vents. Plan accordingly, by either choosing a spot for your deck that won’t block any of these items, or relocating the services to another area where you can still reach them.
Underestimating the Timeframe
Any big construction project, like building a deck, isn’t something that should be rushed. You’ll end up with a result that’s neither safe nor functional, and won’t look it’s best. It takes time to create the best quality results, so don’t expect the job to get done quickly. Be sure to set expectations ahead of time about the timeline, and plan accordingly.
Leaving Your Deck Unprotected
In order to hold up over time, all decks need to be protected. No matter what type of material your deck is made of or what type of climate you live in, it’s essential to seal it and perform routine maintenance. Leaving it exposed without proper waterproofing could result in potential issues like warping, fading, or even decay.
No one wants to deal with the hassle and stress of repairs that come after errors occurring early on in the process. That’s why it’s essential to call the professionals, like the waterproofing experts at WICR. They’ll help save you time, money and stress all while ensuring there are no mistakes along the way.
