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The Top 5 Deck Mistakes to Avoid: Building Your Dream Backyard Oasis in Bennington, NE
Transform your backyard into a vibrant hub with a stunning deck. It's a place to gather with friends and family for barbecues, relax with a good book in the sunshine, or simply enjoy a quiet cup of coffee in the morning air. But before you embark on building your dream deck in Bennington, NE, it's important to be aware of some common mistakes that can turn your dream into a disappointment.
At
Hunt Home Remodeling, a trusted deck installation company serving Bennington, NE, we've helped countless homeowners transform their backyards into dream escapes. We understand the excitement of envisioning your perfect outdoor space, and we're here to guide you through the process, ensuring a successful and enjoyable deck-building experience.
1. Skipping the Planning Stage: Jumping Headfirst into Construction
The urge to dive right into construction is understandable. However, taking the time for thorough planning is crucial. This stage lays the groundwork for a successful project and helps you avoid costly mistakes down the line.
- What to Consider in the Planning Stage
- Budget: Determine your realistic budget for the entire project, including materials, labor, and permits.
- Deck Size and Layout: Consider the size of your yard, how you plan to use the deck, and how it will integrate with your existing outdoor space. Sketch out some ideas or use online design tools.
- Materials: Research different decking materials (wood, composite, etc.) to understand their pros and cons in terms of cost, maintenance, and aesthetics.
- Local Building Codes and Permits: Familiarize yourself with building regulations in Bennington, NE, to ensure your deck complies with safety standards and property line restrictions.
- The Hunt Home Remodeling Advantage: Our experienced team will work closely with you during the planning stage. We'll help you develop a design that meets your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences while ensuring adherence to local building codes.
2. Failing to Account for Functionality and Flow
While a visually stunning deck is certainly desirable, it should also be functional and seamlessly integrated with your existing living space. Here are some key considerations:
- Traffic Flow: Think about how people will access and move around the deck. Will there be enough space for furniture, walkways, and grilling areas?
- Accessibility: Consider incorporating features like ramps or wider doorways if accessibility is a concern.
- Privacy: If privacy is important, consider adding privacy screens or strategically planting trees or shrubs.
- Sun and Shade: Think about where you want shade and sunlight throughout the day. Explore options like awnings, pergolas, or strategically placed trees for shade control.
- The Hunt Home Remodeling Advantage: Our team will design a deck that not only looks beautiful but also maximizes functionality and creates a cohesive flow between your indoor and outdoor living spaces. We'll consider all the elements mentioned above to ensure your deck is not just aesthetically pleasing, but also a truly functional extension of your home.
3. Choosing the Wrong Materials for Your Needs and Climate
Decks come in a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Making an informed choice based on your needs and the Bennington, NE climate is crucial for long-term satisfaction.
- Popular Decking Materials
- Pressure-treated lumber: Affordable, readily available, but requires regular maintenance.
- Composite decking: Low-maintenance, comes in various colors and styles, but typically more expensive than pressure-treated lumber.
- Cedar: Naturally rot-resistant, beautiful aesthetic, but may need staining.
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Materials
- Budget: Consider the upfront cost of materials and ongoing maintenance expenses.
- Climate: Think about how the Bennington, NE weather conditions (harsh winters, hot summers) might affect the material's durability.
- Maintenance: How much time and effort are you willing to invest in maintaining your deck?
- Desired Aesthetic: Choose a material that complements your home's style and your vision for the overall outdoor space.
- The Hunt Home Remodeling Advantage: During your consultation, we'll discuss the various decking materials available and help you select the one that best aligns with your needs, budget, and climate in Bennington, NE.
4. Neglecting Drainage: Setting Yourself Up for Future Problems
Without good drainage, your deck is at risk of water damage that can lead to costly repairs. Here's what you need to consider:
- Slope of the Land: The deck should slope slightly away from your house (typically 1/4 inch per foot) to allow water to drain properly.
- Location of Downspouts: Ensure downspouts discharge water away from the deck foundation to prevent pooling.
- Spacing Between Deck Boards: Adequate spacing between deck boards allows water to drain through, preventing rot and mildew.
- The Hunt Home Remodeling Advantage: Our experienced deck builders in Bennington, NE, will design and construct your deck with proper drainage in mind. We'll ensure the correct slope, consider downspout location, and use appropriate spacing between deck boards to prevent water-related issues and ensure the longevity of your deck.
5. Overlooking Safety Features: Putting Yourself and Others at Risk
When it comes to deck construction, prioritizing safety is non-negotiable. Let's explore some crucial safety elements to incorporate in your design:
- Railings: Ensure railings meet local code requirements for height (typically 36 inches) and baluster spacing (to prevent small children from falling through).
- Sturdy Railing Material: Choose railings made from high-quality, sturdy materials that can withstand weight and pressure.
- Slip-resistant Decking Material: Select decking material with a textured surface to minimize the risk of slipping, especially when wet.
- Proper Lighting: Install adequate lighting for safe nighttime use of the deck.
- The Hunt Home Remodeling Advantage: Hunt Home Remodeling prioritizes safety in every deck project. We'll use high-quality materials, adhere to strict building codes, and incorporate appropriate safety features to create a secure outdoor haven for you and your loved ones.
Ready to Build Your Dream Deck in Bennington, NE?
At Hunt Home Remodeling, we are passionate about creating beautiful, functional, and safe decks in Bennington, NE. We understand the importance of a well-built deck in enhancing your home's value and creating lasting memories with family and friends. Our services include custom deck builds, deck repair, and decking installation service.
Contact us today at
402-885-0738 to schedule a consultation and discuss your dream deck project! Our experienced team will guide you through the entire process, from initial design and material selection to obtaining permits and ensuring a smooth and stress-free construction experience.
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