Evaluate Your House for a Deck

February 18th, 2017 Categories: Random Thoughts

In the summertime when the living is easy, there’s nothing quite like a deck for cooking out, entertaining, or simply relaxing. In addition to boosting outdoor living space, a deck can be an asset when you sell your home.

More good news: Decks add living space at a fraction of the cost of fully enclosed living area. You’ll pay $25 to $35 per square foot for a pro-built deck compared to $100 to $250 per square foot for an enclosed addition. Read the rest of this entry »

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Smart Upgrades for Decks

December 9th, 2016 Categories: Random Thoughts

A deck is a great way to add low-cost living area. A professionally installed deck costs about $25 to $35 per square foot, compared to the $100 to $200 (and up) per square foot cost of an enclosed addition. Read the rest of this entry »

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Care and Maintenance of Your Deck

December 8th, 2016 Categories: Random Thoughts

Because decks are exposed to the elements all year round, it’s a good idea to establish a routine of upkeep that’ll protect your deck and prevent expensive repairs.

Here’s a simple maintenance schedule to help keep your deck safe, sound, and looking great. Read the rest of this entry »

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Smart Options: Decking

October 21st, 2016 Categories: Random Thoughts

If you’re planning a new deck or upgrading an old one, the decking material is the most important decision you’ll make. Not too long ago, redwood and cedar were just about the only options. Synthetics, such as composite and PVC decking, and tropical hardwoods, such as ipe and mahogany, offer ease of maintenance and longevity that put the traditional favorites in the shade. Read the rest of this entry »

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Screen in Your Deck for a Bug-Free Summer

March 22nd, 2015 Categories: Random Thoughts

You can make the most of your backyard by converting your deck to a screened-in porch, which turns mosquitoes, heat waves, and downpours into non-events. Plus, the thwack of a screen door is still the soundtrack for summer.

Converting won’t be easy — unless you’ve got top-notch handyman skills, you’ll have to hire a pro. And it won’t be cheap — converting a 14-foot-by-14-foot deck into a porch will cost $10,000-$12,000. Read the rest of this entry »

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