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DESIGNING & BUILDING A DECK…DIY OR HIRE A PRO?

Why build a deck?

If you are someone who enjoys being outdoors and are wanting to add
more living space to your home, building a deck could be the perfect way to go. Home
renovations, such as building an addition or expanding your living space, can be very expensive.
And while building a deck isn’t necessarily cheap, you have much more flexibility with what you
can do and stay within your budget. If you have limited funds, you can scale back on the size of
your deck and keep it very simple. You also have options on building materials, some more
expensive than others. And with so much beautiful weather here in SoCal, your outdoor living
room will be so nice and become a wonderful space to entertain.

DIY or hire a pro?

With enough time, the right tools and ambition, you can certainly build a
simple deck for your backyard. There are plenty of tutorials and DIY deck projects online that
will guide you through the steps.

 

There are also plenty of reasons why hiring a professional contractor makes more sense in the long run.

• Because contractors receive professional discounts, homeowners can pay up to 10-20% more
for materials than a contractor. You will also need to purchase expensive tools, if you don’t
have them already. These costs could make your deck project more expensive than hiring a
contractor.
• You definitely want your deck to be safe, especially if it is on any kind of a hill, as so many are
here in Los Angeles. Your contractor will know the load bearing capabilities of the different
materials used. They will know how to create a frame that will support furniture and people. If
there are any stairs or railings involved, it’s especially important to see that these are 100%
safe.
• Your contractor has experience. They can help you design a deck that makes the best use of
your space.
• A poorly built deck will devalue your property, while a beautiful deck will actually increase the
value of your home. Indoor/outdoor living space is highly desired by many people.
• Materials and tools can be quite heavy, and if you are not experienced, using them can
actually be dangerous.
• Building a deck is time consuming.
• Deck spaces are highly customizable. If you have the resources and desire, an experienced
contractor can help you design and build water features, planters, a raised- bed garden, an
entertainment area with flat screen TV and speakers, even an outdoor kitchen.

Having a beautiful and inviting outdoor living space in your SoCal home will bring you years of
enjoyment. Let us here at RWT bring your dream into a reality!