The 5 Most Popular

Styles Of Timber

Decking

Decks are tremendously versatile and provide good areas where one can

entertain and play with kids outdoors. For those homes with a pool, a deck

will perfectly finish it off ensuring a level and non-slip surface all round.

Decks can get the most out of the sloping sites as well as capitalizing on a

specific view. Decks can be created in different styles; they can be made in

any shape, size, with levers or steps as well as built in bench seats,

balustrades and screens among others.

The 5 most popular styles of timber decking

include;

Platform decks

Raised decks

Two story decks

Multilevel decks

Freestanding decks

Each type of decks has been used to add value to the homes and other

places. This article is going to give an overview of each of the five decking

styles.

Platform decks

Platform forms are very popular in homes and are the simplest deck style.

These decks are usually built on level lots and are then attached to a single

level dwelling. The decks are so low to the ground and railings are not

necessary though homeowners are usually advised to find other methods

that can help in highlighting the perimeter. Some of the ways that are

commonly used to highlight the parameters are the bench seating and built

in planters. Curves, sunburst railing, angles as well as large screened

gazebo provide both function and style for the platform decks. A gazebo is

mainly used to extend the platform deck giving shelter at all times, on both

rainy and sunny weather, and also allows solar lights in making the space

shine with design as well as safety. In addition, the deck can be built in

concrete jungle to provide a sitting area that is surrounded by a stone tile

border and a large flower boxes and one can happily enjoy the nature.

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1. Waterproofing a platform deck

Platform decks are very close to the ground and can easily get wet

especially in rainy seasons. It is important that the material is well protected

from the elements. This can be done by pressure treating all the structural

materials or rating them for direct ground contact. All the materials need at

least two coats of a protective sealer before installation so as to help

preserve the undersides.

Raised decks

Raised decks are common because most houses sit on foundation walls

positioning the main level floor several feet above the ground. Raised

decks are also found in houses with above grade first floors. The safety

precautions are usually incorporated and these decks must include railings

as well as staircase far safety and easy access to the yard. The decks have

exposed foundation posts after completion and can be concealed with

skirting or foundation plantings. Skirting consists of lattice panels or lath

that directly fit in between the deck and the ground. A large raised deck can

also house several outdoor living areas. To make sure that the raised deck

looks great and fits one’s lifestyle, it is important to take time and learn the

basic construction terms and the best kinds of materials that can be

suitable for building long lasting decks.

1. Modern pergola design

Raised decks can now be designed to match the contemporary architecture

of the house. This is by adding a pergola design to the deck which adds a

shade and style. People can rest under the shade during the summer and

enjoy the view without getting sunburns. A large existing tree can also be

incorporated into the raised deck to provide the shade all through the day.

Two story decks

The two story decks are the best choice especially when one wants to deal

with the aesthetic challenges. The decks provide outdoor access to the

upper levels of the home. The structural posts as well as the bracing which

are required to support the two story deck can create an aesthetic

challenge. Structural members can be disguised to make them beautiful by

covering them with decorative boards and materials so that they do not

appear spindly. The exposed structures can also be disguised by use of

posts that are thicker than the building codes or by use of partial skirting

along the exterior.

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2. Deck skirting

Two story deck style can bring out the best of a home when skirting is well

and partially made on the outer part of the deck. The deck should take the

central stage and then the skirting can be stained with a beautiful colored

material that blends well with the surrounding.

Multilevel decks

Multilevel decks are a series of decks that are connected by walkways or

stairways. They are commonly used in sloped areas because the deck

areas usually follow the contours of the land. The decks are made by

joining each section with a short run of stairs. This prevents the lowest deck

from interfering with the views which are made from the higher decks.

3. Enjoy the weather

The multilevel decks are suitable for both the sunny and rainy weather. The

decks take advantage of the microclimates within the yard and its

surroundings. This allows the homeowner to have one level close to the

house for games and entertainment, another level for resting especially due

to the shade provided by the nearby trees and a third level that is

strategically positioned for one to soak up in the sun.

Freestanding decks

Freestanding decks stand by their own and they are not attached to the

house. This style is very useful especially when the houses construction

does not allow for any ledger board which is usually bolted to the frames of

the house or when the house requires a three level deck style. The

freestanding decks are built in a similar way with the attached decks except

for the posts, footings and beams that replace the ledger.

4. Advantages of Freestanding decks

I. They highlight the best areas of the yard since they are not attached

to the house.

II. They become natural extensions when placed in shady areas.

III. They add into the beauty of the home as they are well stained.

In conclusion, one should always go for a deck that best suits his family.

Each and every style of deck offers its own advantages and disadvantages

and it is upon the homeowner to weigh them and make a choice. It is

important to get a high quality materials when building a deck to ensure

that the deck is safe and will last for a long period of time.

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