Decks & Patios
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If your kids are shopping for fireworks and you find yourself standing in longer and longer lines at the butcher, then that time of year just might be upon us again. That's right, it's summer time and party season! And it's never too soon to start planning ahead, because the only thing that matters in your neighborhood is who throws the biggest bash.
Don't let Bob Jenkins down the block, with his built-in bandstand and fancy barbeque pit, show you up this summer. The key to hosting your own great summer party is a great space to throw it in. The biggest baddest parties always have the biggest baddest decks. Summer fun simply goes hand in hand with decks and patios.
If you agree that there's nothing sadder than a backyard full of brownish crab grass and no place to sit but on top of your ceramic lawn gnome (ouch!), then it's time to get started! Restoring or building a deck or patio is the beginning to a great atmosphere for outdoor entertaining.
Patio vs Deck
The first thing you may need to know is what the heck is the difference between a patio and a deck, and which one is right for your backyard? Maybe you'd even prefer to have both! Patios are typically created with masonry materials, such as stone or brick slabs, which are laid over a firm base and situated on the ground level of a yard or garden. Patios can be ideal spaces for outdoor dining, and can create paths amidst garden plots and landscaping for added aesthetic appeal. Creating a firm base for the patio is important because a weak base can result in cracked slabs over time. Patios that hold a lot of weight can require stronger, concrete foundations. This could change the type of patio furniture or equipment you'd want to store on it.
Decks, on the other hand, are generally made of wood and are often elevated from the ground and connected to the house. Decks are an ideal location for outdoor grilling and dining, an outdoor fireplace, a hot tub, and many more fun outdoor activities. Deck surfaces are made from a variety of materials and come with a variety of pricing options, depending on the size and design. Picking the best one to suit your entertaining needs can be a difficult decision. By discussing your deck and patio options with a knowledgeable local contractor, you can learn more about your choices, and create an affordable plan for implementing your outdoor entertaining area!
Building Blocks
Popular choices for deck materials include pressure-treated fir, pine cedar, redwood, or wood polymer. However, whether it's natural wood, pressure-treated, or composite decking, each has its advantages and disadvantages. Remember even pressure-treated wood requires some deck maintenance. Make sure to inquire about all the design options when you meet with your contractor.
Adding the perfect patio or deck is just the start to creating your great summer party. It's all the personal touches, like a gazebo, built-in grill or hot tub veranda, that will set your deck and patio apart from your neighbors'. Let's not forget the proper deck furniture!
You can be conservative and refined, or use wild, colorful patterns; it's all about matching your deck with your personality. Start sketching out your deck and patio design ideas; be as creative as you want, because if you can dream it, a custom home builder can realize it. Your professional home contractor can even refer you to manufacturers who specialize in custom home furnishings if you're looking for a completely unique outdoor spread. With your new deck or patio layout in place, the only thing that can ruin your summer shindig is a rainy day...and Bob Jenkins, of course!
