Custom Decks Come with Endless Possibilities

If you've landed on this page, chances are you're considering designing and installing a new, custom deck on your property. If that's you, we’re here to discuss the endless possibilities of designing a new deck for your property. Throughout this blog, we’ll go over some of the key considerations when designing a new deck so that you’re prepared to get the most value out of your project!

Working with the Right Contractors

The first major decision you'll make is the contractor you work with. You want to be careful with this decision because once you make it, you're sticking with them for better or worse.

Choose a company that is highly recommended in the local area. Read testimonials and ask for referrals to be sure. Additionally, when you're in the consultation process, remember that you're not stuck with them just because you've had a consultation. They’re called no-obligation consultations for a reason.

Ultimately, you should go with your gut. Only work with a team that aligns with your values and gives you a good feeling.

The Importance of a Detailed Consultation Period

The consultation period of your project is arguably the most important. It's the period when all the decisions are made. A good consultation will end with the whole project being thought out before starting. There should be no wiggle room at all once the consultation is through.

Some points of discussion with your contractor will include budget and timeline, of course. However, the consultation is also where you'll discuss the project's design, the materials, and your overall goals for the deck. This is the point in time when you’ll learn what your contractor has to suggest and where you get to let your ideas fly.

Discussions Regarding Deck Materials Used

These days, there are countless building materials to choose from. Throughout the consultation project, you should discuss all the materials that will be used with your contractor. Everything from the decking material to the braces and nails should be decided in the name of being thorough and coming up with as detailed a plan as possible. Knowing every detail will also help make coming up with an accurate quote all that much easier.

Additionally, once you start to narrow down material choices, your vision of the design of the deck will start to become more detailed, thus pushing your project closer and closer to becoming a reality.

What's the Big Deal About Composite?

Composite decking has taken the deck world by storm, and for a good reason. When composite decking first came onto the scene, the biggest criticism against it was that it became too hot under the sun. However, since composite decking has been a popular option for well over two decades, there has been plenty of time for innovation.

These days composite decking comes in all shapes and sizes, and they don't get super hot in the sun anymore! With endless composite decking options, you can feel confident that you'll find what you're looking for when you set out to choose your decking material.

What About Wood?

Wood is still a classic for a reason. Although, in recent years, the price of lumber seemingly won't stop going up, it's still well worth it to build your deck from wood. As one of the best building materials, you can feel confident that your wood deck will meet all your specifications with the right contractor.

Thinking About Stairs

Stairs should be a consideration for your deck right from the outset of the design. You'll get a better result when you consider the stairs from the beginning. Stairs may seem straightforward, but they’re a significant design consideration. How your deck stairs are oriented will make a big difference in the approachability and access you'll have to your deck.

Will your deck be high up? Down low? These are all considerations you must make with your deck contractor. The right contractor will help you design a beautiful staircase up to your deck that you can love for many years to come.

How About Some Extra Shade?

Did you ever consider building a pergola within your deck? What about built-in awnings? You may not have considered this option because they aren’t commonplace to the stereotypical vision of a deck. However, with comprehensive planning, you can create a comfortable shaded area within the structure of your deck.

If that sounds like an attractive idea, don't forget to bring up the possibility of additional sun protection during your deck-building consultation!

Do You Want a Dining Area?

One of the most significant advantages of building a new deck on your property is the opportunity for a new dining area to enjoy when the weather is nice.

You can work with your deck builder to craft the perfect outdoor dining space during your consultation. You can even make room for an outdoor kitchen if you’re craving some quality outdoor time! The possibilities are truly endless when designing your custom deck!

With the right dining area, your deck will truly be the envy of the neighborhood, and every social occasion you host on your deck will be doubly improved.

Firepits for Comfort

If you were to play a word association game with the word "comfort" as your starting point, it wouldn't take long to come up with the idea of sitting around a firepit.

Few creature comforts are more enjoyable than sitting around a fire in the evening with friends and loved ones, and by working with the right contractor, your custom deck can have a fireplace built in!

Play Structures: Yet Another Possibility

Do you have little ones running around? Consider building a play structure attached to your deck! The possibilities are endless for your outdoor structure's functionality and fun.

In Conclusion:

If you're bursting at the seams with deck-building ideas, we want to know about it at Atlantic Deck Systems. Allow us to make your custom dream deck a reality.

Your perfect deck doesn't need to be just a pipe dream. Call today to set up a consultation with Atlantic Deck Systems—it really is that easy. As a communicative team of deck builders, we look forward to hearing about how your deck can add value, enjoyment, and relaxation to your life.