Before You Build: Outdoor Deck Checklist

Whether you live in the city or the suburbs of Sydney, there are a number of reasons why installing an outdoor deck can improve your home.

The reasons why you should install a timber deck to your outdoor entertainment areas are just as numerous as the things you will need to consider when you finally decide to start building. Here is the Wizard Home Improvements ‘Before You Build’ checklist for outdoor decks.

 

Deck Build Checklist

 

 Purpose: What is your outdoor deck for?

  • Extending the living area of your home

  • Levelling a sloping block in your backyard

  • Making a safe play area for the kids

  • Creating an outdoor entertainment area

  • Accessing better views from your backyard

  • Adding value to your home.

Initial points to consider before installing a deck:

  • Local council regulations

  • Special regulations for bushfire-prone areas

Deck location: Where can you get the most out of your outdoor entertainment area?

  • Which direction is the sun coming from? Do you get the morning or afternoon light?

  • Will the deck be windy due to height and location?

  • Where are the best views, and how can you take advantage of them?

  • Will you be exposed to your neighbours and the street?

  • What access will you have to the house – especially the kitchen and living room?

  • What is the local climate like?

Outdoor deck priorities and requirements:

  • Are the materials eco-friendly?

  • Are the materials child-friendly?

  • Is fencing required?

  • Will the deck be non-slip to be safer in wet weather?

Once you’ve assessed all of the points above, you will be able to start the hunt for the perfect outdoor deck for your home. We’ve made the checklists above with style, safety and sustainability in mind – your outdoor deck is going to be around for a long time, so you want to ensure that it ticks all the boxes before you get one installed!

Planning the Deck

In the video below Scott Cam and Mitre 10 show you how to plan the perfect deck in 10 easy tips. Give us a call or write a comment below with your tips and questions about deck planning and building.

 

*Images via Shutterstock

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