Installing a Deck: Tips for Making the Deck Nearly Pay for Itself

With warm weather comes home improvement projects. What better way to enjoy the summer than with a new deck? One thing that may be holding you back from building a deck is the cost involved. However, a well planned, and well built deck can be an investment to your home. Remodeling Magazine recently published a study on cost vs. value, and found that a deck can add more than three-quarters of its initial cost to your home's overall value.

Here are five tips to help you get the most value out of your investment in a new deck.

1. Build your new deck from cedar.

Cedar decking is very popular in the Northwest. Its natural beauty as well as its resistance to moisture make it an excellent choice. It's also a good investment, as it can add up to 91% of its cost to the value of your home, compared to that of composite decking's 82% cost valuation.

2. Keep it simple.

Remodeling Magazine found that the deck designs that got the best return on investment were simple ones. They recommend a 16x20-foot linear-patterned cedar decking design. They also caution against building too big of a deck; a good rule to go by is to keep the deck within about 12-18% of your home's total square footage.

The reason to go with a simple design, is to make sure that it doesn't clash with the style of your home or your neighborhood. Subtlety is key.

3. Add railing.

Home buyers overwhelmingly prefer decks with a full rail setup. However, like the deck itself, they usually prefer simple, conservative, traditional designs using wood railings, posts and balusters.

4. Install a patio cover.

A simple, inexpensive patio cover, made of a low-maintenance material like aluminum is a great investment. It can both prolong the life of your deck, as well as allow you to comfortably get more use out of it throughout the year.

5. Choose your upgrades wisely.

Some of the more elaborate, expensive outdoor living space improvements don't return much on their investment. Don't add anything that is too extravagant to fit your home. Keep your local climate in mind when planning upgrades for your cedar deck. Portland has a very wet climate, so an elaborate outdoor living space might not get used enough to justify its construction. Simple additions, like planters and benches, are relatively inexpensive, yet can make your deck much more appealing.

By planning wisely, a deck can both enhance your home's living space while you use it, and add value to it should you choose to sell it

Looking for the right cedar decking design for your home? Visit the site for Rick's Custom Fencing and Decking, the deck and patio design experts.

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