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Wednesday, 10 September 2008 02:01 |
There are several deck railing design ideas for creating your perfect home deck. Decks are an oasis for a homeowner. They provide the perfect outdoor space for an individual getaway or an evening party with friends. Deciding on the type of deck railing, though, is perhaps one of the most important decisions in finishing your deck. Railings have the biggest effect on the deck because they are the most high profile part of the structure. They can be seen anywhere your deck can be seen. You must, however, plan the railing system before you build the deck, because sometimes they require tying into the post system of your deck.
Railing Materials
Your deck railing design ideas don"t necessarily have to match the material you use to build the deck itself. You may use a composite wood material to construct the base of the deck because of its durability, but you may not want the look of that material in terms of the railing. You may, however, prefer the deck components not only to match each other, but also to match the colors and materials your home was constructed with.
Some deck railing design ideas include stainless steel cable railing. This type of railing uses a solid stainless steel top rail, but the use of cables instead of balusters. This allows for increased security as well as visibility from your deck. Another deck railing design idea is glass balusters. These offer elegance and sophistication to your deck area as well as increased visibility from the structure. Another deck railing design idea is the use of an ornamental metal like iron. Strong metals like iron offer durability and beauty. It does not, however, always withstand the weather as well as other options do. Metals like iron have a tendency to rust with weather.
One final deck railing design idea is to use ornaments with your deck railing. Flower boxes create a nature paradise on your deck. Centerpiece accessories for balusters come in a variety of designs and create a very classic look on your deck. Post top accessories like post caps and finials that screw directly into the post top to offer an ornamental look to the railings.
There are many different deck railing design ideas, and it can be very difficult to choose the right design for you.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
Adam Peters is a freelance author who contributes adding interesting articles to deck porch railings website. Adam publishes ideas for railing plans and deck designs at www.deck-porch-railings.com/deck-railing-ideas.html . Reach further articles on these plans and designs at www.deck-porch-railings.com/deck-railing-designs.html
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Sunday, 10 August 2008 05:00 |
Yea right! If that were all it takes I would be building decks for a living. But with good planning and knowledge of using power tools you can do it.
The most important element of building a deck or for any project is the planning, if you plan poorly or quickly your project will turn out horrible, if you take your time and plan properly you will impress yourself with the outcome.
To start: First check local building codes, regulations and zoning restrictions. These may restrict your options. So will any deed restrictions and the location of a septic tank. Next, decide where you want to locate your new deck, off the kitchen, living room or family room makes a big difference, indoors and out. Decks on the north and east side of your house will get less sun and more cooling breezes. Take time to study sun and shadow patterns, see how they vary with the seasons before settling on a site. Terrain will dictate whether you should build a grade-level deck, which stands on its own just a few inches above the ground, or a higher raised deck and don"t forget about stairs! How big should your deck be? Measure your patio furniture and add enough room for pulling out chairs and walking around. A minimum of 5 feet by 6 feet allows two people to sit and relax beside a table, but itÂ’s cramped if anyone else comes along. If money is a problem, start small and add on as your family and budget grows.
The amount of time it takes to construct a deck depends, of course, on how big and elaborate it is. You can expect to spend a weekend digging and pouring footings, a second for erecting posts, beams and joists and a third for installing stairs, decking and railings. YouÂ’ll need a helper for parts of the framing process, so there goes the one weekend idea! How about a deck building party?
So I decided to get my wife involved (makes points guys) we started positioning our lawn furniture in and around where we were planning on putting the deck that by itself took a whole weekend! Then I took a trip to my local tool store and asked them for their advice on which tools I would need for the project, and then to my local building supply with the dimensions of the deck, all this was to see where the price was going to be about.
So.... itÂ’s a year and half later I still do not have a deck, I"m probably going in the direction of hiring a contractor
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
Ken Davis was born and raised in Bergen County New Jersey, where with his family owns a retail tool store called TOOLTOWN for more than 45 years. Ken started working with the family in his teens and now with his two brothers are running the business and continuing the family tradition of helping and building relationships with the community. You can stop by his store at www.tooltown.com and check out his products, services and other tips-techniques and do it yourself projects
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Wednesday, 30 July 2008 13:01 |
One of the most beautiful additions to any home is a deck. Not only does it add beauty, a deck also adds value to your home.
But there is much to think of when preparing to build a deck. A poorly built deck can be a disaster. Following are 10 things to consider before you build your deck.
1. Purpose
First of all, what is going to be the primary purpose of your deck? Entertaining guests -- you"ll need to consider how many guests you want the deck to hold, because more guests equal more weight. A play area for small children -- safety is essential. Whatever your intended purpose, think it all the way through before starting to build.
2. Location, Location, Location
The next thing to consider is the location. Landscaping issues may crop up exactly where you think you should place your deck. You should consider entrances and exits to your home. Access to your deck is essential -- if you can"t get there, you can"t enjoy it.
3. Deck Plan
You will need to have a deck plan, which will serve as a guide for the entire project. It doesn"t require a professional work-up, but you should be thorough.
4. Attaching Deck To Your Home
There are many ways that a deck can be attached to your home. Although the deck can be freestanding, it is not very practical or safe. If you decide to attach your deck to the house, you will need to decide how you will cut away the siding at the joining point. You will also need to determine if the framing of your home is strong enough for the deck.
5. Deck Supports
Deck supports are an important part of this process, so you will need to decide exactly how many footings and posts you will need, and where to place them.
6. Decking Material
What type of decking material do you plan to use? Composite decking materials are a good choice because they have been chemically engineered to avoid the problems of traditional wood. However, if wood is your choice, redwood, cedar and pressure treated pine are all popular because they resist rot and decay. If you choose another wood decking material, you will often need to provide protectant and sealant material.
7. Permits
Remember, different areas have different zoning laws and requirements so it is important to find out what permits will be required to build your deck in your area. While some areas require an official building permit, others will require only a periodic site inspection. Some require both. Check with your city government to decide what actions you need to take.
8. Tool Time
Make sure you have all the tools on hand that you will need for the project. There may be additional expenses added to the project to buy these tools. If you do not have this kind of experience, you should consider the next point very carefully.
9. Professional Help
Decking is a big project to undertake if you are a weekend handyman. If you have little construction experience, decking is not a good beginning learning project. Poorly built decks are very dangerous. If you cannot handle the project, it needs to be in the hands of a professional.
10. Extras
The final thing to consider is any extras you might want to build into and onto your deck. You might add a decorative handrail or you might want flower boxes on each corner, or perhaps built-in seating for your guests. Whatever extras you choose will personalize your deck.
All Decked Out
Although building an outside deck can be a huge undertaking, it is a great place for many activities -- sunbathing, barbecues with friends, a safe place for the children to play, or a hot tub. To name a few.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
Visit Build Deck to learn more. Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer, visit his website at Articles for authors
Copyright 2006 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact and the links live.
Submitted with Article Distributor.
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