Decks can be used as a simple way to extend living areas. ‘Outdoor rooms’ and patios are very popular, and are excellent places to comfortably dine and entertain outdoors.
What are attached decks?
Decks that expand your living areas, also known as attached decks, can open up your backyard like an introduction or a transition between the indoors and the outdoors – a halfway point between your home and your garden. These types of decks are affixed to the house, usually accessible by a large sliding, stacker or bifold door to take full advantage of the view. A deck attached to a home can add a significant amount to the property’s value if it’s handled and designed well, and is a worthwhile investment for any renovator with the space to build one and the time to keep it well maintained.
What are attached decks used for?
These decks can be used for entertaining, relaxing, taking in a view; all the usual things a deck is used for. Because they are generally covered, they can be used in just about any weather conditions. If the deck is in an exposed or windy area, you may wish to consider covering up the sides with some sort of screening such as a row of hedge shrubs, shade cloth or some timber infill or lattice. This can help reduce wind exposure and increase privacy.
How are these types of decks constructed?
The posts for the deck are measured up in line with the house, concreted in and allowed to set. The bearers are affixed to the posts and the joists spaced in between the bearers to brace them and lend extra strength to the structure. The decking is then overlaid on top, starting next to the house and working outward.
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