Some Thoughts on Building a Backyard Deck

Building a deck can be challenging without the proper knowledge and tools. If you take your time and study up on instructional books and videos than in truth it can be pretty easy. I don't want to mislead you though. It will take time and it will take work, but in the end it will greatly add to your backyard and extend the living space of your home.

Is your backyard big enough? That is the key point right there. If you don't have the room than you certainly cannot build a deck. It's as simple as that. A small backyard can still accommodate a deck, you just have to use your imagination. Not all decks have to be large or spacious. A simple step-down transition point from the back door onto the patio can add a lot of character to the backyard. Break away from what is considered 'normal' as far as deck construction goes and look into a more decorative means. Off to one side of your backyard place a gazebo installment without a roof; a simple platform type deck with seats built into the railing and perhaps a fire pit in the middle. This would make a great gathering area.

Larger backyards is where you can really experiment with design. I can't even begin to describe what all is possible due to the limitless potential. Again your ability to build a deck, and what type of deck it is, depends for the most part on the situation in your backyard. A large backyard can give you the space for a deck spanning the whole length of the rear of your house. I love a multi-level deck with a built in spa and integrated seating around the area. Mix ideas and designs for a truly unique setting.

Start with backyard construction and deck building books. There are hundreds and if anything they'll give you ideas for designs and layouts. This part of the project can be a fun do-it-yourself part of the build to get you thinking and occupy your time. The internet also has tons of ideas and articles. After that come the professional designers. They will have a better understanding of how everything can work together so they'll give a lot more solid design ideas. I myself like to do things myself so I would buy a few books and do the designing myself.

Tools for building a deck are simple. Screws, nails, hammer, saw, tape measure, level, drill, straight edge, etc. All the basic tools are the mainstay of what you'll need. The types of nails and screws will depend on what type of material you choose to use for your deck. Wood will need wood screws and nails. The wrong nail/screw can lead to an unstable deck over time. Materials used for building a deck can be specific types of weather treated wood, metals, or composites. The wood has the most natural and comfortable feeling but the metals and composites will be the most durable in the long run. If you choose wood, and I probably would just because I'm a little old fashioned in taste, make sure to keep it treated and water sealed, especially during bad weather.

Joseph Cobb is a long time article writer with many interests. His topics span from DEA auctions down to business phone systems. If you'd like you can check out some of his latest work at Patio Heater Market [http://patioheatermarket.com/] which also has an interesting article on the benefits of patio fire pits [http://patioheatermarket.com/2009/12/patio-fire-pit/].

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