Planning a New Deck? Start Here.
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
A deck can transform how you enjoy your home, creating the perfect space to relax, entertain, and spend time outdoors with family and friends. Whether you're replacing an aging deck or building a new one, here are some important factors to consider before construction begins:
Envisioning How You’ll Use the Space.
“We start every deck design by asking our client how they envision using the space,” explains Trish Chaput, vice president of project administration at Cormack Construction Management.
For example, will your deck be a quiet spot for reading and relaxing or an open space for hosting and entertaining? Do you plan to grill or cook on your deck? Do you want to include an outdoor sauna, hot tub, or other amenity?
“When you're planning a new deck, these considerations will help determine the ideal size, layout, traffic flow, and special features that should be incorporated into the design,” Trish notes.
Choosing the Right Location.
“Like any addition, a deck should feel like a seamless extension of your home that makes the most of the natural characteristics of your property,” Trish points out.
When determining the placement of your deck, our design-build team considers the following:
Accessibility to your home's interior
Sun exposure throughout the day
Property elevation, views, and outdoor accessibility
Privacy from neighboring properties
Existing trees and landscaping
Yard drainage and grading
I have a sloped yard. Can I still build a deck?
Yes! Sloped properties are common throughout our region. The Cormack team has extensive experience building decks on sloped or uneven terrain, using multilevel tiers, custom support posts, concrete footings, and other proven construction techniques.
Selecting Your Decking Materials.
When it comes to selecting decking materials, you have a few options. Each offers its own balance of cost, appearance, durability, and required maintenance. Here’s a quick overview of the benefits and considerations for each product:
Pressure-Treated Lumber
Because of its lower cost, durability, and performance, pressure-treated lumber is a popular deck material option. This type of wood can be stained or painted, and individual boards are relatively easy to repair or replace.
Over time, pressure-treated wood will weather, crack, or splinter. To maintain its appearance, it needs to be repainted, restained, or resealed every couple of years.
Cedar Decking
Cedar decking is prized for its rich wood grain and natural resistance to decay and insects. It also stays cooler underfoot, making it a smart choice if your deck is fully exposed to the sun.
Cedar decking has a higher initial cost than pressure-treated lumber and requires regular sealing or staining* to preserve its appearance. Left untreated, cedar decking will naturally weather to a gray color. *Cedar decking should be sealed or stained every 1-2 years if fully exposed to the sun; every 2-3 years if in partial shade; and every 3-4 years if heavily shaded or protected.
Composite Decking
Composite decking has become increasingly popular because it offers a wood-like appearance without the required maintenance. Made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and durable polymers, it resists fading, staining, and splintering while requiring little more than an occasional cleaning.
While it costs more than pressure-treated lumber or cedar, many homeowners find composite decking worth the investment for its low maintenance and long-term durability.
Hardwood Decking (Ipe, Mahogany & Other Premium Hardwoods)
If you want to build a deck with exceptional beauty and durability, premium hardwood decking, like the one used in this blog’s feature project photo, may be the right choice for you. Valued for its natural color and dense grain, hardwood decking is remarkably resistant to moisture, insects, rot, and decay.
While it requires a higher initial investment. hardwood decking can last for decades while maintaining its structural integrity. Left untreated, hardwood decking will gradually weather to an attractive silver-gray patina. Alternatively, periodic oiling can preserve its rich, original color.
Because it is naturally dense, hardwood decking requires specialized tools and installation techniques, making it a material best suited for experienced deck builders like Cormack Construction Management.
Considering Deck Railing Options.
“A well-designed railing system does more than enhance safety; it helps define the overall look and character of your deck,” Trish explains.
Here are some popular options:
Traditional wood railings
Composite rail systems
Aluminum balusters
Cable railings for unobstructed views
Decorative post caps and lighting
Incorporating Other Deck Features
There are many other ways to add functionality and character to your deck, including:
Integrated Lighting
Waterfront Access Stairways & Railings
Built-in Outdoor Kitchens
Benches, Planters, Pergolas & Gazebos
Noting Important Structural Considerations.
Not all decks are created equal.
While two decks may look similar on the surface, the quality of the materials, structural design, and craftsmanship beneath the decking can make a significant difference in their safety, durability, and longevity.
“Working with an experienced design-build team like Cormack Construction Management ensures your deck has secure footings, framing, and connections, adequate drainage, and complies with local building codes,” Trish notes.
Planning a New Deck Requires Thinking Beyond Today.
A deck is a long-term investment, so it's worth considering how your needs may change over time.
Many homeowners choose to include features that make future upgrades easier, such as:
Space for a future pergola or covered porch
Wiring for lighting or outdoor entertainment
Gas lines for a grill or fire feature
Accessibility features for aging in place
Structural capacity for future additions like a hot tub
When it comes to building a deck, planning ahead is more cost-effective than making modifications once construction has started.
Deck Building in NH’s Lakes Region, White Mountains & Western Maine
Looking for a new deck? Our design-build team is here to help you explore the possibilities and design an outdoor space you will enjoy for many years to come. To schedule a no-obligation consultation, call us at (603) 367-8272 or connect with us online.
