Building the Perfect Deck: Tips & Tricks from Bungay Renos 🏡
Hello from Bungay Renos, your trusted home renovation specialists in Deer Lake, Newfoundland.
Whether you aim to enjoy those brief summer breezes 🌬️ or craft a space for year-round outdoor enjoyment, building a deck can significantly enhance your home’s exterior.
Drawing on over a decade of experience in creating dream spaces for homeowners, we’re excited to share with you some expert tips to ensure your deck not only looks great but lasts for many years to come. 🛠️
1. Plan Your Layout with Precision 📏
Before any wood is cut or nails are hammered, planning your deck’s layout is vital. In Deer Lake, where we cherish our views and our privacy, positioning your deck is crucial. Use a long hose or rope to outline your proposed deck on your property. This step helps in visualizing the space it will occupy and how it integrates with elements like landscaping, wind patterns typical of Newfoundland, and privacy concerns relative to neighboring properties.
2. Use Advanced Blocking Techniques 🔨
To counter the elements’ wear and tear, using both perpendicular and diagonal blocking in your deck construction can prevent future sagging, waving and deck sway. This ensures a sturdy, visually pleasing structure. This technique is especially significant in Newfoundland where weather & wind can stress building materials.
3. Implement Joist Tape to Protect from Moisture💧
Moisture is a major enemy of deck longevity. To combat this, especially in wet climates like ours, apply joist tape along the edges of the deck framing below before installing your decking. This barrier keeps moisture out of critical joint areas, preventing rot and extending the life of your deck.
4. Opt for Engineered Lumber for beams 🌲
While initial costs might be higher, engineered lumber offers superior durability and strength, perfect for Newfoundland’s challenging weather conditions. Consider using engineered drop beams which minimize the need for extensive posts and footings, thus simplifying construction and maintaining integrity over time.
5. Choose Water-Shedding Decking Materials ☔
With rainfall as frequent as in Newfoundland, selecting water-shedding decking materials can be a game-changer. Products like composite decking prevent decay by blocking moisture penetration. You can also create a dry space underneath your deck when coupled with a bladder beneath your decking —ideal for storing outdoor furniture or even creating an additional covered outdoor living space.
6. Ensure Even Decking with Board Spaces ➖
Precision in deck board placement not only affects aesthetics but also functionality. Using deck board spacers ensures even gaps between boards, which is crucial for handling the expansion and contraction caused by our local climate. This step is particularly important for maintaining a neat, orderly look and for practical upkeep through the seasons. This goes for both wood & composite decking!
7. Visualize and Customize for Deer Lake 🌄
Finally, adapt your design to embrace and enhance your specific location in Deer Lake. Consider view lines, sun exposure, wind patterns, and proximity to natural elements like trees or water bodies. Tailoring your deck design to these factors can transform it from just a structure to a meaningful extension of your home.
At Bungay Renos, we believe your deck should be more than just an addition; it should be a living space that enhances your connection with the natural beauty of Newfoundland.
Ready to build your dream deck or perhaps revamp an existing one? Reach out to us, and let’s craft a masterpiece that stands the test of time! 🌟
