DIY Deck Construction – A Bad Idea
By ProMatcher Staff
Building a deck is a great way to add value to your home and create a fun area for hosting friends and family. If you are thinking about building a deck by yourself, you may want to reconsider. Here are a few reasons why you may want to hire a professional deck builder instead.
1. It requires a lot of planning.
There’s a surprising amount of planning that goes into building a deck. You cannot just start digging holes for the footings. Can the site support the weight of the deck? What materials will be used? Have you obtained permission from your homeowner’s association? Have you pulled the necessary permits? Do you have a basic design in mind? How will you get on and off the deck? Will you be disrupting any underground utility lines during construction? How much direct sunlight will the deck area receive? You will need to answer many of these questions before purchasing any materials.
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2. You may not have the tools and materials.
Before you decide to do-it-yourself, take a look at this materials list for a 10 by 10 foot deck. In addition to all of these materials, you may need to purchase some new tools. Many first-time DIYers forget to factor the cost of these tools into the budget.
3. You could put yourself in danger.
Working with power tools can be very dangerous! The tools you need to build a deck are no exception.4. Building a deck is not a weekend project.
Although it depends on the complexity of the design, building a deck is not typically a weekend project. While a professional deck builder and his crew may be able to finish a deck in a matter of days, you cannot expect the same results when doing it yourself. Even with a little help from a friend or neighbor, your project could drag on for weeks (even months).
5. It can be challenging to comply with all local building codes.
It’s important to make sure your deck is compliant with local building codes. Revising plans can be such a headache. Let a licensed deck builder help you with this step of the process. They will be familiar with local codes and he or she can help you navigate the permitting process.
6. The deck may not be structurally sound as you think it is.
If your deck is not constructed properly, you could be putting all of your guests in danger. A poorly built deck is a major safety hazard and there can be very serious consequences. Between 2003 to 2007, over 30,000 people were injured as a result of a deck’s collapse or structural failure.
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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