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It used to be that when people were remodeling or decorating, they made every attempt to bring the outdoors inside. Large windows, natural woods and stone, Earth-tone colors throughout. But more and more, people want to take their indoors outside. Expanding their living space is the order of the day for American homeowners.

There are a number of ways to create an outdoor living space, but the most popular by far has been the addition of a wood deck on the back or the side of a home. Having a deck is like adding a completely new living area to your home - you can build a basic deck or create an elaborate outdoor kitchen and dining area.

Plan, Plan, Plan - this is the key to any deck building project. Here are some helpful tips to make sure you get the right deck for your home and to make sure it lasts a long time.

• Location, Location, Location - where your home is located is important. The amount of sun, wind, rain, snow, and humidity in your area will affect the design of the deck, the materials you use, and the accessories you put around it
  
• Traffic Signals - how much use will the deck receive? Are kids and large pets involved? Is the deck the only route to the backyard? Plan to be able to handle the right amount of traffic on your deck
  
• Material Issue - the type of treated wood or composite materials is a major decision. It needs to be a material that you're happy with aesthetically and that will withstand your weather and moisture patterns
• Visualize It - draw out some sample designs of what you'd like your deck to look like. Go outside and spray paint lines on the grass of where you'd like your deck to be. Get a visual of what it will look like so that you won't be surprised that it's "too big" or "too small" while they're building. Change orders (meaning that you want to change the size or design during production) will cost you more money. Will your pool, shed, garage, air conditioner, or other items in your yard affect your plans?
  
• Accessorize It - plan on what you want to be a part of your deck - a hot tub, a fire pit, bench seating, storage under the benches, a bar, a kitchen counter (with plumbing?), a built-in picnic or dining table, etc. Will you want to add awnings or overhead beams for sun protection?
  
• Size Matters - consider the over size of your deck. Will is be able to grow with your family or needs? Will it be too big and overtake your yard? Also, a large deck will mean a larger budget. If you visualize it first, you'll be able to see if you have enough room to walk around once your furniture is in place
  
• Budget - consider what you're willing to spend to add a deck. Add ten to twenty percent to that for surprises and contact your deck building company

If you're ready to add a new deck to your backyard, don't wait until Spring or Summer -- start planning now to get it ready for the season. If you need to find a deck builder in your area, post your project with ConstructionDeal.com. It's a free way to find multiple contractors who will contact you - that save you time. Multiple bids will save you money.

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Labels: Deck Addition, Deck Building, Decks and Patios