Fall is a terrific time to start planning a deck renovation or new deck installation – so what’s the best way to plan for a new vinyl deck? Tuff Industries has some tips to help you get started:

Tip One: Consider Location & Climate

Don’t just consider the view when planning for a new vinyl deck, look at various locations and consider the average climate during the time when you typically enjoy your deck. In hotter climates, building your deck on the north side of your home will offer a cooler place to enjoy your deck or patio, while south or east/west-facing vinyl decks will be warmer. If you do have to build on the hotter side of your home, keep an option open for an overhead veranda or roof to shelter from the sun.

Also – what do you like to enjoy? Capitalize on a view, enjoy the sunset, or find a spot where you can sit all day out of the sun. Considering the location can make a big difference in how much time you spend on your deck.

Tip Two: Measure Twice

Before committing to a vinyl deck design or deciding the size of your vinyl deck, measure it out on your lawn. You can use string and stakes to mark the corners. Next, place your patio furniture inside the staked-off area, along with representations for other items (barbecues, potted plants, etc.). You might find that, once everything is accounted for, that the deck you’ve planned is too small or doesn’t face in the right direction to enjoy the amenities.

Consider your point of ingress (door) and egress (stairway) as well, placing your deck in one location may make access awkward or force you to skirt around patio furniture, which can be a hassle if you regularly use your vinyl deck entrance to access your yard or enter your home.

Tip Three: Keep Vinyl Deck Sizes in Mind

When planning your vinyl deck, keep in mind that most decks are sized in 2- to 4-foot increments to match standard lumber sizes. If you’re on the fence about your deck size, consider increasing by one of these increments – the price difference will be minimal and you’ll probably enjoy your deck that much more. When it comes to your vinyl deck surface, a few extra square feet isn’t going to impact your pocketbook, and the tradeoff is a more comfortably-sized space.

Tip Four: Aim for High-Quality Materials

A deck needs to be built to be able to carry a dynamic load of people, pets, and furniture, but it also needs to withstand a range of temperatures, weather, and ultraviolet rays from the sun (as well as carry heavy snow loads in some many areas). Bearing that in mind, you want to choose the best materials possible to build your new vinyl deck. Treated lumber can offer superior resistance to rot and water damage. While other options may be cheaper, try to find a good balance of price and durability to give your vinyl deck long-term viability.

Your deck surface material is important too, as this protects the underside of your deck from the entry of water, as well as handling all the traffic your family throws at it. Select a deck membrane that lasts and is backed by a good warranty so you know you won’t have any issues down the road. This is the exact reason why so many professional deck builders choose Tufdek™ vinyl deck membrane for their projects.

Tip Five: Get Professional Advice

While you might be able to narrow down size and shape without assistance, it’s best to have a professional help you work out the final details for your new vinyl deck. They’ll know the best materials for building, which vinyl deck railings will work best with your design, which vinyl deck membrane compliments your home, and can give you an accurate estimate of the cost and timing for your project.

Fall is a busy time for deck building, so if you are thinking about building or renovating a vinyl deck in the near future get started now!