When you speak with a deck contractor about a building project, you might not be sure what sort of structure you'll want to install. Here are four common kinds of decks and their advantages.
Ground Level
The name is a bit deceptive. A ground-level deck is usually a bit off the ground. However, it is typically at the same height as a home's first floor. There might be a few inches of difference, and a deck builder may have to install a step.
Setting up a deck at ground level has a few advantages. Foremost, it's generally the safest kind of deck because it's the shortest. Secondly, you'll spend less on materials because you won't have to build a supporting structure. Finally, there tend to be fewer engineering challenges because you can normally sink piers for support and build the deck on top of them.
Elevated
When people imagine decks, they often picture the elevated models. These usually extend from the second story of the structure. Consequently, it's common for this style to include stairs that go down to the ground, too.
If you're building an elevated deck, you need to think about safety more. The structure has to be well-designed for support, and you'll also want to be sure the rails don't create risks for smaller children.
Multi-Level
A typical multi-level deck attaches at a house's second-story just like an elevated one does. The big difference is there's a second space at the home's first level. Most people have these away from the higher deck to prevent anything from falling onto the lower level. Stairs connect the two levels, and individuals often connect the lowest level to the ground with stairs.
It's possible to install more decks at half levels if you want to add some distinct spaces. This approach makes for a great conversation starter. Understandably, it adds costs and engineering challenges.
Free-Standing
While you may assume a deck has to be attached to a house, it doesn't. A free-standing deck is away from a building. People often build free-standing decks when they want to enjoy outdoor areas. The deck works like a ground-level model, usually a few inches off the ground.
If you have a large lawn, a free-standing deck can give it some life. A well-designed deck can serve as something of a landscaping feature to break up a large green space with few accents. To learn more, contact a deck contractor.
it is interesting that, as a society, we have decided to lump so many different jobs and trades under the umbrella term of "contracting." One person could use the work contractor to refer to someone who is framing a new building. Another person could use the word "contractor" to refer to someone who was painting walls. Don't even get us started on the term "construction worker." That one's pretty vast, too!
Since we realized we cannot possible say everything we want to say about construction and contractors in a few paragraphs, we decided to write a blog. And if you are reading this right now, you've found it. Please stick around and read a bit!