How to Design a Timber Deck
If you have some space in your backyard or garden then this could be the perfect place to add a timber deck. A deck outside your house not only looks great, but it provides you with a cool spot to enjoy some rays on hot days, and opens up the opportunity for some al fresco dining. The space and size of your deck is completely up to you, and so too are the materials that you use, the world really is your oyster here.
Some people love to get inventive here and Melbourne has some fantastic timber deck options to gain inspiration from. If this is an installation you’d like to put in your yard, here is how to design the perfect deck for you.
Location of the Deck
The most important consideration to make here is where you are going to put your deck. Contrary to what many people think, this is not just about the spot in your garden or yard which has the most space. Firstly you want to ensure that you have a flat area of the yard or garden, which is going to make the installation much easier. Secondly you need to think about where the sun shines most; as there is little point in a deck which is covered in shade. Finally, think about protection for your deck from elements like rain or hail, which could cause damage.
Shape of Your Deck
There is absolutely nothing which suggests that your deck should fit a certain shape profile which you have seen in other people’s yards. Consider how you want to use your deck and map the design out in that way. For example, maybe you want to have a space for lounging and a space for eating, or a deck with two tiers to it. Designing the deck is all about you and your family, and how you plan to use it. Naturally you will need to ensure that you have someone who is able to build the deck to your requirements, but there really is nothing to stop you from creating a deck shape which suits you.
Understanding Timber
During the design phase,it is going to be important that you have a clear understanding of what type of timber you are going to use. There are a number of reasons for this: firstly you need to weigh up costs as the price of timber can range wildly; secondly you need to understand just how easy or hard the timber is to work with — as this can restrict what you are able to do with the shape of your deck.
And finally when you are designing your deck it is worth considering who in fact you are going to use to install it, or deciding on whether or not this is something you are going to do on your own. This decision will heavily influence your plans around the design of your brand new timber decking.
