If you have an outdoor deck on your property, remodeling it can add color and vibrancy to the space. Homeowners typically want to remodel a deck in order to refresh the existing design or style or to make a deck more contemporary with the prevalent styles. In any case, a bit of planning in the right direction can make a huge difference if your deck remodeling.
Have A Deck Remodeling Plan
Planning is an important part of deck remodeling. You want to consider many questions and options before you actually get started with the remodeling. Here are some vital considerations when it comes to deck remodeling:
Have a Plan
Does your deck need a complete overhaul or just a touch-up here and there? Are you looking for major upgrades or minor additions and improvements to the existing outlook? Is it some high-end maintenance that you are really looking for or a hardcore remodel? These are questions you must consider in the planning phase. You must have a blueprint of your deck remodeling project before you begin it.
Consider DIY and Professional Approaches
As with constructing a deck, you have the option of taking a DIY approach or hiring a professional when undertaking deck remodeling. A DIY deck remodel has obvious benefits. The bulk of remodeling expenses are labor costs, amounting to nearly 60% of the total cost of remodeling. So if you leave out the labor and instead do the work yourself, you can get away with a very cost-effective remodeling project.
Get Creative
You can look at other decks and online ideas for inspiration. But ultimately, your deck is meant to serve as a living space for your own unique needs. Make sure you customize the deck and use some creativity to tailor it to your specific taste. Deck remodeling can be an excellent opportunity to take a standard deck and turn it into one that reflects your personality.
Consider Adding Levels
A quick and easy way to upgrade your deck is by adding multiple levels. If you already have a deck, consider connecting a lower or upper level through a mini staircase. This not only makes your entire deck look like a new installation, it also looks stunning.
Apply for a Remodel Permit
In most cases, you will need a permit from the local authorities before you undertake a remodel project. You will probably need to provide a brief overview and plan of the deck remodeling project and a small fee. Only once you get the permit should you begin work on the remodel.
Deck remodeling is a fun project for anyone who would like to upgrade their favorite outdoor space. However, it requires a considerable degree of time and effort. So make sure you know the drill and make a commitment for the full haul before you begin the project. If you’re not sure you can see it through, it’s always a safer and more reliable option to hire a professional to do the job. MG Construction & Decks can help you with your next deck remodel. Contact us today.
If you’re thinking about adding a deck to your property, your planning should take into account ROI variables. Materials, size, access, and the “wow factor” all contribute to a prospective buyer’s perception of the value added by a deck to the property. It’s worth becoming familiar with deck construction in the comparable properties in your area so you can position yours where you want to be value-wise. Another value relationship to consider is that between your deck budget and the overall value of the property. It doesn’t make ROI dollars and sense to build something too grand for the size and likely resale price of the home. One rule of thumb used by contractors and architects is that a deck should be no larger than the home’s biggest interior space.
Keep in mind, too, that adding value to your home gets the attention of the assessor and the underwriter, so your property taxes and insurance premiums are like to be increased. Like anything else built by human beings, a deck will inevitably require some maintenance and/or repair as time goes by. Good choices of materials, with expert design and construction, are the ticket to keeping those costs down and your enjoyment and ROI up.