A rebuilt and updated deck can not only provide an exciting facelift for the exterior of any home, but can also enhance the value of your home. But there’s a lot more that needs to be considered with any deck renovation – big or small – than simply deciding that it’s time for a change. For today’s post, we wanted to list those important considerations to take into account before you get started with your deck rebuild.

So, before you pick out your new deck furniture, consider these:

1. Size – The size of your deck can be adjusted up or down during a rebuild, depending on the amount of space you have available in your yard as well as the amount of yard you may have to sacrifice in order to provide the deck area needed. Also, deck-building codes may have changed since your last deck was built. For example, the building code width of deck steps may have been 36” when your current deck was built and may now a minimum of 42”, so this will have to be taken into account when deciding on the size of the rebuild. Your MDV Remodeling contractor can advise you on these matters.

2. Uses – Decks can be used for variety of outdoor activities, including: relaxing and reading a book, barbecuing, outdoor music and entertainment, or perhaps even to connect the house to a newly-installed hot tub. But that’s not all – there’s the trends that are growing in deck design – trends like outdoor living, kitchens, and bars. Be sure that you’ve given some thought to exactly what you would – and wouldn’t – use your deck for and make a list so your contractor can ensure it is designed to accommodate all of your needs and wants.

3. Leveling – Many homes are built on land that has a slope or incline. Your MDV Remodeling contractor will help assess the land surrounding your home and determine what, if any, additional processes are required for your deck to be installed. Just be aware that difficult terrain generally means a more complicated, and thus a more expensive, deck installation.

4. Old decks – If you have an existing deck, then you will want to be forthcoming about any damage or issues with your existing deck prior to having it repaired or replaced. It is not uncommon for older decks to have issues with water or moisture or to have shifted slightly over the years. Depending on the nature of your project, these are things that can increase the project costs. So the more you disclose up front, the better MDV will be able to perform work that meets your budget.

5. Safety – Do you have small children or pets? Are you going to be hosting large parties where a large number of people will be standing on the deck dancing and having fun? Think about all of the people that will be using the deck and ensure that your contractor is aware of your maximum capacity needs so that your deck is designed for safety as well as enjoyment.

6. Liability and permits – This goes hand-in-hand with safety and is an absolute must to ensure that your deck has the proper engineering approval and city permits. If not, you could be putting your family and guests at great risk. For example, if someone gets hurt because your deck wasn’t designed properly or being cited for code violations by your city or neighborhood association, you may be financially and civilly liable. Having a friend or family member install your deck as a favor can be a major problem that could result in your being liable. This would never happen if MDV Remodeling is your contractor due to our many years of experience and professional and responsible service.

7. Longevity – Ensure that the materials and installation methods are such that your deck will hold up to extreme weather conditions and will not need to be replaced again in five years. Your MDV Remodeling contractor will advise you of performance and material guarantees and warranties.

Those are the 7 most important things you should take into account when considering replacing or rebuilding your deck. If you don’t already have a deck, but are interesting in adding one to your home, be sure to check back next week for our list of things to consider when adding on a deck. As usual, if you have any questions about rebuilding or installing a deck, please don’t hesitate to contact the experts at MDV Remodeling. If you are ready to get started, click here to schedule a free estimate.