Month: October 2021

As anyone who has added a deck to their property will tell you, deck-building is a major home improvement project. Careful planning and decision-making is a must in order to ensure the end result meets your needs and fits well with the rest of your property.

In the following article, we’ll look at 3 key factors you should consider if you’re planning to add a deck to your property. Doing so will not only provide you with a great deck you’ll be proud of for many years to come, but also help you avoid problems that may otherwise require costly deck repair at your Fort Collins home. Read on to learn more.

What to know before building a deck?

A deck installation is an investment in your home. It adds outdoor square footage to your property and provides a unique outdoor living space for you and your loved ones. It may also positively impact the value of your property if you decide to sell your home.

Consider these 3 things before building a deck:

1. Materials

The materials your new deck is made of will determine its price, appearance, how it feels to use, how long it lasts, how easy it is to clean, and how damage-resistant it is. For example, pressure treated wood lasts about 15 years and tends to be the most affordable material. However, it requires more maintenance and may splinter over time.

On the other hand, composite decking doesn’t splinter and tends to last 25-30 years, all while having the texture and color of real wood. However, it also costs more and is heavier than other types of wood. You need to carefully consider the pros and cons of different materials to ensure your new deck meets your needs and budget.

2. Purpose

What is it you want to do with your deck? Do you want it to serve as an outdoor cooking area? A place to entertain guests? A dedicated space for gardening? Do you want it to be private or wide open?

Different functions require different amounts of space and different types of deck accessories. Carefully consider what you want your deck to be, and don’t hesitate to look for inspiration online or consult with professional deck builders.

3. Type

Which type of deck are you looking to build on your property? Attached or detached? Multi-level or poolside? Rooftop or entryway? Different types of decks can serve vastly different purposes and accommodate different kinds of accessories. Carefully choose the one that best meets your needs and the layout of your property.

Is it cheaper to build your own deck?

Although it may seem relatively straightforward, deck building is a complex construction project that requires specialized knowledge and equipment in order to ensure your new deck complies with the local building and safety standards. An improperly built deck isn’t just going to be of poorer quality: it may also be dangerous for the occupants.

Because of this, you shouldn’t attempt to build a deck on your own unless you have a background in construction, as well as access to the necessary tools and materials. If this doesn’t apply to you, it’s strongly advised that you outsource your deck installation to the experts.

Where can I book expert-level deck repair in Fort Collins?

Handyman Connection of Fort Collins provides professional home improvement and maintenance services to clients across Fort Collins and the nearby communities. Whether you’re looking to hire experienced deck builders, electricians, painters, plumbers, or general handymen, you can count on us to meet your needs with utmost diligence and precision.Our team will happily attend to your home improvement and maintenance needs while you focus on your other responsibilities or enjoy a fun afternoon at the Carnegie Center for Creativity with your friends and family. Contact us today.

To say that outdoor living is all the rage these days would be a huge understatement. Even before the pandemic, many Americans were choosing to spend their leisure time in their backyards and even plan entire “staycations” at their homes.

Nowadays, with COVID-19 still being a major safety concern for many of us, having a great backyard that lends itself well to both family gatherings and quiet relaxation time is absolutely crucial. And what better way to do this than by building a gorgeous deck at your property?

But what exactly constitutes a deck? What are the different ways a deck can be incorporated into a property? Can a new deck installation increase the value of your property in Fort Collins? Read on to find out.

What is considered a deck?

Decks are flat platforms that are attached to a house. They’re elevated from the ground and usually enclosed by a safety railing. Depending on the homeowners’ preferences, they may also be covered by a pergola or a canopy.

Decks come in different types, including:

Attached decks

As their name suggests, these decks are attached to a house, usually at the back. These decks work best with homes that are either U-shaped or L-shaped, as this enables the deck to fit naturally and perfectly at the intersection of the walls.

Rooftop decks

If your house or garage has a flat roof, you can use that space to build a rooftop deck that gives you a lovely view of the surrounding landscape. These decks are a common feature in urban areas and typically require safety rails.

Detached decks

These decks aren’t directly attached to a house, but can be positioned anywhere on the property. Depending on elevation, they may either be accessed via a pathway or a stairwell.

Poolside decks

A poolside deck is a great addition to any swimming pool or pond. Since the materials a deck is made of won’t get as hot as concrete does in the summer, it makes it more comfortable for swimmers to walk around barefoot as they enter and leave the pool. These decks are also frequently accessorized with umbrellas and lounge chairs.

Entryway decks

These decks often resemble porches, but they have a more open design and include accessories such as planters, benches, and other items. They may also be equipped with outdoor living features such as barbecues, tables, and the like.

Multi-level decks

These decks are actually multiple decks that are interconnected and spread on more than one level. This makes them the ideal option if your property has steep slopes, hills, rocky terrain, or otherwise varying elevations that would make it difficult to install a traditional deck.

Will adding a deck increase the value of my home?

Assuming that they were maintained properly, decks have a nearly dollar-for-dollar ROI (Return on Investment). This means you’ll easily come out even if you decide to install a quality deck at your property.

What’s more, the increased popularity of outdoor living features means that many property buyers are much more interested in homes that already have a deck. Therefore, a deck significantly adds to the appeal of your property and may make it easier to attract the right kind of buyer.

Where can I book a professional deck installation in Fort Collins?

Looking to make sure your new deck stays in good condition, looks its best, and is compliant with the local regulations? Or perhaps you need the help of an electrician, plumber, painter, or general maintenance technician? At Handyman Connection of Fort Collins, we can assist you with all that and more.As the leading home maintenance and improvement company in Fort Collins, we’re uniquely positioned to ensure the key systems in your home are working flawlessly at all times. Get in touch with us today.