Adding a Deck to Your Yard? Consider These Factors First
A backyard deck is a wonderful way to connect indoors and outdoors and make better use of your home and property. They are there for you on those quiet mornings when you want to enjoy your coffee while listening to the birds sing, and they’re there for you when you have 50 of your closest friends over for an epic 4th of July BBQ. But custom decks in Breckenridge, CO don’t build themselves and there are a number of things to keep in mind before you start ordering lumber. In this guide, the team at Colorado Deck Works present 8 things to consider when adding a deck to your yard.
Key Considerations When Adding a Deck to Your Yard
A place like Breckenridge, CO with its stunning vistas is in many ways the perfect place for a backyard deck. Before you start enjoying the view, though, you will need to engage in some serious planning to ensure you get the deck you have in mind. Here are 8 key considerations to weigh before you add a deck to your home.
#1: Will you build it yourself or hire a contractor?
There is an argument to be more for building the deck yourself and equally valid arguments to be made for hiring a contractor. Review the pros and cons of both options in the table below.
| Factor | Building the Deck Yourself | Hiring Professional Deck Builders |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Saves money upfront | Ensures the job is done right |
| Full control over design and construction | Faster completion with fewer hassles | |
| Sense of accomplishment when finished | Professionals handle permits & technical details | |
| Cons | Mistakes can increase costs | More expensive overall |
| Requires purchasing tools and equipment | Need to research and vet contractors | |
| Takes longer to complete | Less control over final design |
All things being equal, hiring a pro is the way to go. Your deck will be finished quickly and you won’t be stressed out when a couple of dozen friends are gathered together on the deck. With that out of the way let’s look at the other considerations.
#2: Purpose
Everyone has a mental image of how they’re going to use the deck once it’s finished. What’s yours? Do you envision large crowds for holiday BBQs? Or are you drawn to the possibility of the deck being a refuge where you can enjoy a good book while the sun sets? If you hope to create a party town in your backyard you’ll need one kind of deck. If your only goal is to create a haven where you can commune with nature you’ll want another kind of deck.
3: Design
This will be determined to some degree by the purpose of your deck, but also by the specifics of your property. You actually have quite a few choices regarding the design of your deck. It can be on stilts and attached to the house, or it can be a free-standing feature that sits separate from the house. If it’s an elevated deck you may be able to incorporate multiple levels. Or you may want to reserve space under the deck for storage of garden tools, your lawn mower and other items.
4: Budget
This could arguably be higher on the list since it will drive a lot of your decisions. If money is no object then you can pretty much build whatever you want. However, if like most people you don’t have unlimited funds to sink into a deck then you will need to decide how much you do have to spend. Once you have your budget in place you can then use it to determine size, style and other considerations.
“Set a budget. Be realistic and make sure to include an extra 10 percent for overage or surprises — contingency dollars. Then, consider what aspects of the deck will give you the most bang for your buck. Will it be the size of the space, the quality of product used, or the maintenance of the materials?”
—Amy Matthews, Star of HGTV’s Sweat Equity
5: Materials
Today, you have a wide variety of choices from pressure-treated lumber to aluminum, PVC, fiberglass, recycled wood and various composites. Each one has its upside and its downside – including cost, durability and maintenance requirements – and the pros at the decking company can explain them to you. If you are DIY-ing the deck you will need to research materials on your own.
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6: Lighting
The advent of long-lasting, energy-efficient, easy-to-install LED lighting has revolutionized deck design. These days just about any lighting scheme you have in mind can be easily realized, which means your deck doesn’t need to be vacated once the sun goes down. If there are stairs up to your deck you can illuminate them to avoid accidents. You can also install accent lights to create whatever mood you want and you can extend the lighting scheme into the paths in your yard, perhaps right to your pool.
7: Privacy
There’s a chance that sitting out on the deck will expose you to the neighbors’ prying eyes. If you’re okay with that then this is not an issue. If, however, you would like to retain some level of privacy you will need to keep that in mind when determining the design of the deck. The deck builder might be able to align the deck in a way that takes it out of the neighbor’s sightline or you can install privacy screens you can raise and lower as you wish.
8: Other accessories
Besides lighting you have a veritable cornucopia of accessories to choose from, each of which will add a distinctive element to your deck. Those accessories include planters, built-in seating, deck gates, a full or partial roof, a hot tub and much more. Below are some of the most popular deck accessories that can take your outdoor space to the next level.
- Hot Tubs & Spas — For the ultimate relaxation experience, consider adding a hot tub or spa to your deck. A well-integrated design can turn your deck into a personal oasis, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Just be sure to plan for weight distribution and proper water drainage.
- Fire Pits & Outdoor Heaters — A fire pit or an outdoor heater extends your deck’s usability into cooler seasons. Fire pits create a cozy, inviting atmosphere where family and friends can gather. Whether you choose a traditional wood-burning pit or a sleek gas-powered option, it’s a great way to add warmth and ambiance.
- Pergolas & Shade Structures — A pergola or shade structure adds both style and function to your deck. It provides relief from the sun, creating a comfortable area for outdoor dining or lounging. With options like retractable canopies, climbing vines, or even motorized louvered roofs, you can customize the amount of sunlight filtering through.
- Outdoor Kitchens & Grills — Take your backyard barbecues to the next level with an outdoor kitchen. From built-in grills and countertops to mini-fridges and storage, an outdoor kitchen makes cooking and entertaining outdoors convenient and enjoyable. A well-planned setup ensures durability and weather resistance for year-round use.
- Privacy Screens & Railings — Privacy screens help define your deck space while offering protection from wind and prying eyes. Whether made from wood, metal, or composite materials, they can be both decorative and functional. Stylish railing designs can also enhance safety while contributing to your deck’s overall aesthetic.
- Outdoor Rugs & Furniture — A stylish outdoor rug and weather-resistant furniture can make your deck feel like an extension of your home’s interior. Choose durable, easy-to-clean materials that can withstand sun exposure and moisture. Cozy seating arrangements with cushions and accent pillows add both comfort and charm.
- Planters & Greenery — Incorporating planters and built-in garden beds brings life and color to your deck. Whether you prefer lush flowers, fresh herbs, or climbing vines, greenery can soften the space and create a more inviting, natural feel. Vertical gardens and hanging planters are also great space-saving options.
No matter your style or budget, these deck accessories can enhance both the look and functionality of your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to create a peaceful retreat or the perfect gathering spot, adding the right features will make your deck a place you’ll love spending time in.
Conclusion
A deck can be an invaluable addition to your home but it’s important to remember there will be a modest amount of maintenance involved. If you can factor that in and handle it in a timely and effective fashion your deck should bring you many years of happiness and satisfaction while at the same time increasing the market value of your home. We hope you found this guide helpful and remember for all things decking in Breckenridge, CO the company to call is Colorado Deck Works.