Looking for more space to entertain guests at your home? A place to hang out and have barbeques, parties, a pool, and even a firepit?
Why not try adding a deck? With a deck, you can create the ultimate outdoor entertainment space for your family to enjoy all year round.
Before adding a deck extension to your home, there are a few things you need to consider. It can be a big investment, so it’s worth taking the time to get it just right.
Council Permits
Before adding a deck, you may need to find out about council regulations. Building a deck may require a permit or approval, especially if it’s above a certain height and if it has a roof going over it. Council regulations vary from place to place, so make sure you research the regulations in your local area.
Cost
Before you get too excited about adding a deck, it’s important to think about how much it will cost. A typical deck will cost around $8000, depending on if you do it yourself or hire a professional. The more luxurious you want your deck to be, the more it will cost. Some large decks can end up costing around $18,000. This is why it’s good to set a budget at the start of the project and not get carried away.
Material
The material that you choose for your deck can influence its overall cost and how much maintenance it will need. Although wood is the most common deck material, it requires lots of maintenance to keep it from weathering and rotting. Other options include:
- Composite decking materials made of recycled wood fibres and plastics
- PVC or plastic planks
- Aluminium
These other materials tend to be more expensive than wood, but require less work in the long run. The best material for you also depends on the climate where you live. For example, PVC and plastic decks can get quite hot in the sun and aluminum decks can offer slip resistance for wet locations.
Function
Next, you need to decide what the purpose and function of your deck will be. Once you have a vision for its purpose, then it will be easier to design. Your deck could be for:
- Entertaining, parties, barbecues
- Outdoor dining
- A pool or spa
- A fireplace
- A study space
- A garden space with pot plants, hanging plants or a small greenhouse
Location
Next, you’ll want to think about your deck’s location. If you have a side or back door already installed, then this may determine the easiest spot for your deck. If you’re not sure, think about:
- The aesthetic appeal of your house/ yard
- The deck’s size and scale
- How much space you have available
- Placing the deck in the sun or shade for comfort
- Privacy from your neighbours
- Maximising scenic views
- Having easy access to the deck from your house
If you want to place your deck to your property’s fence or boundary, then you may also need to consider council permits and approvals. Talk to your builder for advice.
Looking To Add a Deck to Your Home?
At JM Homes, we ensure we always take the time to listen, communicate and act with our client’s interests at heart at every stage of the build.
If you have a renovation project in mind, we’re Brisbane’s building experts. Whether it’s a Queenslander, new build, house raise, extension, or deck, we can help you.
Contact us today.