Updating Your Deck or Patio

For many people, one of their favorite features of their home is their deck or patio. After all, these spaces provide a place for entertainment and relaxation. Sad to say, though, some homeowners have these design features, but don't use them often because they find that spending time on their deck reminds them that it needs updating.

First Steps for Updating Your Existing Deck

Don't let the need to update or upgrade your deck be a cause to neglect this great design element. There are some simple weekend jobs you can do to have your deck or patio looking like new.

• Proper cleaning- Take everything off your deck then sweep and dust it off. When this is done, you can hose it off with water.
• Repair- Are there any loose boards, boards that are weakening or railings that need to be replaced or repaired? Correcting these will not only add to the safety of your deck, but make it more attractive to use as well.
• Refinish or stain your deck-Depending on the type of wood your deck is made from, you will want to re-finish the deck by sanding (or in some cases replacing) any surface areas that are splintering. Once you endured that the deck's surface is smooth and clean it is a good idea to stain your deck. If your deck is already stained, but the stain has not been reapplied in more than 3 years, this is a good time to re-stain.

Ways to Add Function to Your Deck

Now that you have your deck looking great, you may find that you want to spend a lot more time there. So, to add more function to deck, consider the following upgrades.

• Deck Lighting- There are many great ways you can add light to your deck; no longer are the choices limited to a basic light fixture and standard bulb. Today choices like rope lighting, electric tiki torches and candles, recessed lighting and many others are common and can be found at any home improvement store.
• Railings-If you deck does not have railings, these are great additions. Not only do they add an element of safety, but you can choose from many styles that add personality to your deck space. There are also many finials, post caps, and even light choices that will add to the overall appearance of the railings.
• Appliances-Today, many people are entertaining their guests outdoors by having outdoor fireplaces, patio heaters, cook tops, ovens and mini bars included as part of their deck "furniture".

Quick Tips for Staining Your Deck

If you decide to stain (or re-stain) your deck to give an updated look there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Purchase a few samples of deck stains and try them out in an inconspicuous area.
• If you are re-staining, be sure to strip off the existing stain first.
• Be sure the deck is completely clean and dry before starting.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely.

For additional information on the topic of decks and patios visit Paradise Decking. Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Paradise Decking. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

How to Design a Deck to Suit Your Needs

If you love would love to have more room in your home for entertaining, but don't want to add a new room, why not build a deck? After all, decks are much more than an attractive afterthought in home design. Today, people are using them as elegant entertainment areas, private spas, and much more. If you already have a deck, perhaps you want to give it an updated look. So, before you rush to the hardware store, take a few minutes to consider some of the basics of designing a deck.

Basic Factors in Designing a Deck

There are a variety of considerations to make when planning a deck, with perhaps the biggest one being functionality. If you are merely looking for a place to host the family cook outs, then your needs are not the same as someone who wishes to incorporate a hot tub into the design plan. Do you want to have electrical outlets? Maybe you want a deck that has a series of levels or even different floor designs. Then, for those who are part of a homeowner's association, there may be specific guidelines and standards that must be met. As you design your deck keep these things in mind:

What are the building codes for your area? Before buying the first deck board, make sure you understand any city ordinances in regards to zoning, building permits, inspections, etc. that are applicable. In addition, if you live in a neighborhood that is part of a homeowners association there may be restrictions and requirements regarding the deck size, the deck height, types of materials used, shape of the deck, whether or not you must have privacy screens or even how far your deck can be from the property line.

Where do you plan on building the deck? Perhaps one of the most important aspects of a deck is its view. Do you want to be facing the sunrise, the sunset or perhaps that quiet, wooded area in the back of your home? Of course, the layout of your home will be a big factor in this decision, but if you have more than one option, then try setting a chair or picnic table out and relaxing in the various spots to determine if one works better for you than another. If you think you may want to extend the deck at a later time, consider adding a door or way to add a new level later on. Also, think about the temperature, the north side of your home is typically the coolest.

What about the shape of the deck? Decks today are not just a basic single-level rectangle or square. Today they may be several levels connected by steps, walk ways and architectural elements. You can customize your deck to include lighting, decorative railings, an outdoor fireplace or kitchen, and other design elements. Just keep in mind that the more customization you have, the higher the price but also the greater potential.

For additional information on the topic of decks and patios visit http://www.paradisedecking.com.