Lots of planning and consideration goes into deck construction and deck building. To ensure you build a deck that perfectly suits your outdoor space, you have to consider the regulations, sizes, colours, purpose, and much more. Here are all the things you need to consider before deck construction can begin and how to make sure you end up with a great deck design.

What to Know Before Deck Construction Begins

Before you can finally kick back and relax on your dream deck, you’ll have lots of decisions to make. To ensure you don’t get lost in the minor details or construction jargon, you should start planning ahead.

Checking Deck Permits and Regulations

Depending on where you’re building your deck, you will need to follow certain local building codes and might even have to obtain some permits. Here’s what to know if the deck construction is taking place in Calgary.

If your uncovered deck is more than 0.6m (2 feet) above the ground at any point, you will need a building permit in the following situations:

• Building a new deck
• Replacing, rebuilding, or extending an existing deck
• Replacing structural parts of an existing deck
• Adding stairs to an existing deck

For decks with a pergola or roof:

• If the roof is attached to your house, it’s considered an addition. 
• If the roof is not attached to your house, it’s classified as an accessory residential building. 

You don’t need a permit if your deck is uncovered and less than 0.6m (2 feet) above the ground at any point.

Considering the Purpose and Function

Decks are incredibly versatile, offering a multipurpose space that can adapt to different activities. To truly make the most of your new deck, it’s important to design it with your lifestyle and interests in mind.

Think about how you’ll use the space. Do you prefer basking in the sun, or would you rather have some shade for those hot summer days? Consider whether you want an open design that offers sweeping views, or if you’d prefer more privacy, perhaps with the addition of screens or strategically placed plants.

If dining outdoors will be a regular activity, you’ll want to plan for convenience. Ensuring an easy flow between your deck’s dining area and the kitchen can make mealtime more enjoyable. 

Alternatively, you might consider building an outdoor kitchen or barbecue area. This could include a bump-out or an extended section of the deck specifically designed to accommodate a dining table and chairs, creating a seamless and functional space for outdoor meals.

Deciding the Size

Fortunately, there are no strict codes governing deck size, so the main question to ask yourself is how much square footage you want. This should be easy to figure out, as you likely already know the dimensions of your house and yard.

Once you’ve settled on the deck size, you’ll need to calculate the amount of decking material required. Here’s how to do it:

• Determine the total area of your deck by multiplying the length and width (L x W).
• Choose the board lengths.
• Calculate the square footage covered by each board.
• Divide the total area of your deck by the square footage of the boards to determine how many you’ll need.
• Account for the spacing between deck boards in your calculations.
• Purchase extra materials to cover any mistakes or waste during the deck construction process.

Choosing the Right Material

Decks come in many different shapes, sizes, and materials and making the right (or wrong) decisions here will make a world of difference in the future. Choosing the right deck material for your deck can be a challenging decision, as each option — redwood, pressure-treated lumber, and composite decking — comes with its own set of pros and cons.

Redwood, while naturally beautiful and available in a variety of colours, is more prone to warping and damage over time. However, it can be sealed and maintained more easily, allowing you to preserve its appearance with regular care.

Composite decking is highly durable and often comes with a 20-year warranty. It’s designed to last for decades with minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice for those seeking low upkeep and long-term reliability.

Pressure-treated wood decks fall somewhere in between. They’re more durable than redwood and cost less than composite decking, but they have their own challenges. As a wood deck dries, it can warp and will need to be re-stained annually to maintain its look and longevity.

Each option has its strengths, so your decision will depend on your budget, maintenance preferences, and the overall look you want for your deck.

Deciding on the Foundation

Ground-level decks should still be elevated slightly to allow proper ventilation, especially since moisture from the ground is inevitable. The footing depth must be at least 12 inches to ensure adequate airflow. You can create a basic foundation using deck blocks, concrete blocks set on a layer of gravel for better drainage, or anchor spikes.

For raised decks, you’ll need more robust support. Your options include concrete footings, helical piers, or anchored footings. Concrete footings are often selected for their strength and are ideal for taller decks. Helical piers are better suited for shorter raised decks. 

Calculating Cost

Now that you have a clear idea of what’s involved in the deck construction, it’s time to break down the expenses.

Start by estimating the cost of materials, whether you’re using lumber or composite decking. Don’t forget to include the price of screws, lags, concrete, stain or paint, anchors, and bolts. If you’re hiring professional help, factor in labour costs as well.

In addition to monetary expenses, consider the time investment. How long will it take to complete if it’s a DIY project versus hiring a professional team? To get a full picture, calculate two scenarios: the total cost if you handle everything yourself, and estimates from at least three contractors for comparison.

Maintaining Your Deck

Before you begin deck construction, it’s important to understand the type of maintenance your deck will require over time to avoid rot and deterioration. While composite decks are low-maintenance, they still need basic care to avoid permanent stains. 

All decks, regardless of material, will eventually need upkeep such as mopping, hand scrubbing, or power washing. You may also need to repaint or restain wooden decks and replace any boards that become warped, splintered, or broken. Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your deck and keep it looking its best.

Choose a Trustworthy Contractor for Deck Construction

When it comes to building your deck, choosing the right contractor is key to ensuring quality workmanship and peace of mind. YYC Builders is a trusted name in the industry and is known for its reliability and expertise. 

With a proven track record of delivering high-quality projects, we at YYC Builders will ensure your deck is built to last, with attention to detail and craftsmanship you can count on. Make the smart choice — schedule your estimate and choose YYC Builders for your next project.