How to add value to your home by building a deck

Where to put one?

Achieving indoor/outdoor flow is key for a deck to be the most valuable; that is, it needs to be easily accessible from the main living areas.

North-facing will provide you with all day sun, but could make it too hot to use much during the summer.

If your home is exposed to prevailing winds from a specific direction, then it also might make it unusable a lot of the time to build it there.

Of course both of these aspects can be counteracted by including adequate shade, planting trees and building an exterior wall for shelter — so it is just about weighing up the pros and cons for each position, and putting extra design aspects in place.  

Which design is best?

Think about length and width—and what you will be using the deck for. If you know you will be entertaining a lot, a wide deck will be ideal for a large table and chairs, but if you want to make the most of different viewpoints, then you might want a long one wrapping around the main living spaces.

You may also like to consider incorporating a level to drop down into, as they can help to create privacy as well as achieving an interesting design. Remember, you’re aiming to create value with your deck, however it should also still fit with your home.

Other things to consider

What type of wood and finish you are keen on? Smooth and sleek, or natural and hardy? And are you handy with the tools, or will it require a professional builder to work on it? These things will need to be factored into a budget, as well as a chat to your local council to discuss safety regulations and whether you need consent from them.

It would also be worth thinking about whether you want to include built-in storage and/or seating. Of course you need to weigh up if those extra costs will result in added value.

Shade, however, is a big factor for outdoor spaces, and there is definite value-added from a permanent structure that provides shelter from the elements, as people will note that they can use the area more often.

Don’t forget to style it

This is particularly important for when it comes time to sell your home, but for you to get the most out of your deck while you live there, don’t leave it bare once it’s finished, as you may not use it as much as you thought you would.

When it comes to putting your house on the market and adding value to your home from your deck you need to create an appealing space to help people envisage themselves living there. You’re selling a lifestyle, and it is about making your deck not so much an extension of your house, but a place that buyers can see themselves enjoying almost all-year-round—because this is really where it achieves its value.  

A deck is a great addition to any home—you can enjoy it straight away, and see a great return on investment when you decide to sell.