Decking & Patios

by Shannon Shimizu

Decking & Patios

Everyone desires that sacred, special place to relax and unwind outside. A place outdoors to retreat after spending the day in traffic rushing from one place to another, or being stuck in a cramped cubby inside a hermetically sealed office. Whether you have a small space and desire to quietly unwind while reading a book, or a larger area to use for entertaining, an outdoor deck is an extension of your home.

Our lifestyles are hectic and busy. It is enjoyable to be able to relax in an atmosphere of your own creation. Whether it is by a vegetable garden or in front of a swimming pool and fire pit a deck can extend the layout of your home and allow you to enjoy outdoor living to its fullest.

One great way to increase the useable square feet and therefore value of your home is to optimize your outdoor living space by putting in a deck, patio or both. The question then becomes, “What is the right deck or patio for you and your home.” Decks should feel like an extension of the home. Traditionally, decks have been built out of wooden planks, laid on a wooden framework that is supported by posts on a firm foundation. However, today we have many different options to choose from. Patios are more integrated with the surrounding landscape as they sit directly on the ground, and once again the choices seem limitless.

Whether you desire a deck, patio or both it is important to plan your project to suit your style. How will you be using the area? Do you entertain, have children? What is the traffic flow like in your yard? Do you have a view? If so, remember to orient the patio to make the most of your view. Also take into consideration sun, shade and wind. Don’t overlook small spaces in your yard. It is easy to create many cozy spots with movable flowerpots and patio furniture. It is imperative to have a good idea of what you are looking for. Once you can visualize it in your mind it is time to put it down on paper. Your beginning plans do not need to be extremely detailed. However, as you proceed so should your drawing; ultimately they should be refined and drawn on graph paper. Having your plans on paper allows you the luxury of adjusting the size or shape of your patio or deck, without costly mistakes. Also if your project requires you find a contractor a detailed plan will help you to secure bids and help your contractor to envision your patio exactly the way you want it.

Decks come in all shapes and sizes. However, there are five primary types of decks. Platform decks are low to the ground; because of this they don’t require any railings or steps. Platform decks can take on any shape or size that you can dream up. Raised decks reside a couple of steps off of the ground. Due to this it is necessary to have a protective railing and steps. Rooftop decks and set atop of a flat roofed portion of a home. Second story decks are a full story above ground. They may have stairs from the yard up or access from a room upstairs. Poolside decks extend around in ground or above ground pools. Wraparound decks are any kind of deck that turns around a corner of a house. It is important to choose your deck materials wisely. A large variety of decking materials are available today. Some of your options are pressure-treated wood, softwoods, tropical hardwoods and synthetic wood planking. It is important to view samples of your decking material. Note the different texture, availability and price as these will have an impact on your final choice. Remember to research deck maintenance. Properly finishing and maintaining your deck will help to retain its color and structural soundness.

Like decks, patios have evolved with the times from dull concrete slabs to sophisticated entertainment areas. A patio can be attached to home or placed some distance away. There are five major patio categories. The attached patio lengthens a home directly into the landscape. It can provide an eye pleasing transition from the home to the lawn and garden. A freestanding patio is usually used to enhance a specific feature of the landscape. For example, a beautiful garden or spectacular oceans view. A balcony patio is popular for those whose outdoor space is limited. A poolside patio focalizes on entertainment. Finally, a courtyard patio combines separate areas of the home. It is important to understand what you desire for your home and which type of patio will work best for you. Once you have a good idea of what style patio you want it time to choose your materials. This can prove to be overwhelming as there is a wide range of colors textures, shapes, durability and prices out there. It is vital to get some samples and place them in your yard. This will help you to visualize the colors and textures. Keep in mind the colors of your home and how they will relate to the colors in your yard. There is no principle that says that you cannot combine two or more different materials in your yard. Using different materials can help to define and separate areas in your yard. For example if you desire a small intimate area away from large entertainment areas it is easy to do with different kinds of paving materials. Also combining materials can save you money. Concrete is a less expensive building material than brick. If you have your heart set on brick, however, your budget can’t afford it, think about pouring a concrete slab with bricks bordering and/or running through the concrete. Like decks, patios require upkeep too. In order to avoid costly repairs it is best to have a maintenance schedule for your patio. Consistent and proper maintenance will add many years to your patio.

Should you use a contractor? Many homeowners handle a wide range of home improvement projects themselves. However, before you take on a large patio or decking project be sure to look at the following objectively. Look at your skill level and experience versus the scope of the project. Decking and patios will require more than one person, make sure you have someone to help you. Do you have the proper tools? If not how much of an investment are you willing to make to get them? Do you have the time to devote to the project? Add everything up, what will your total cost be? If you do decide to go with a contractor for your project it is important to get multiple bids from a licensed and insured contractor. Five Star Consumer Referrals, Inc., is a free referral service to homeowners. While homeowners are ultimately responsible for who they choose to work on their home, Five Star Consumer Referrals does the best job it can to pre-screen its contractors through the California Contractors State License Board. They also check references and insurance. If you are interested in speaking with a qualified contractor regarding your home improvement needs please contact Five Star Consumer Referrals, Inc., at (949) 305-5900.

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