How to Plan a Redwood Deck Addition

This curved redwood deck was planned to take advantage of a beautiful ocean view. To keep the view unobstructed while adding wind protection, panels of tempered safety glass were placed into sections of railings. Following the lines of the steep, sloping site, the deck flows down via curved steps to a lower level that takes the handrail out of view from inside the house. Redwood was chosen because its workability, stability and durability make it ideal for intricately crafted projects like this one.

To give extra visual interest to this curved redwood deck, the builder divided the deck into three distinct areas by applying 2x8 redwood boards in a Y-shape pattern and filling them in with 2x6 decking laid in alternating directions. Large pilaster posts trimmed with decorative moldings incorporate built-in lighting. Railing uprights alternate in size for added design appeal. White paint on railings, stair risers and brick foundation provide a crisp contrast to the rich cinnamon color of the redwood deck.

This romantic redwood deck features a nostalgic octagonal gazebo. Redwood railings and trim were painted white for contrast. Lacy redwood lattice was used to screen the underside of the deck. Redwood’s good looks, decay- and insect-resistance and exceptional dimensional stability make it a good choice for outdoor applications. Redwood is also easy to work with and takes and holds finishes well.

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How to Plan a Redwood Deck Addition

Building a deck is one of the most popular do-it-yourself projects. It involves relatively simple construction skills, tools and materials. It’s also a satisfying and economical way to extend your living activities outdoors. And you’ll discover the advantages of working with redwood--it cuts and drills easily, is dimensionally stable and naturally decay resistant. You can expect exceptional results--a deck that is beautiful as well as functional, a deck that will provide many years of enjoyment while also increasing the value of your home.

While building your own redwood deck is feasible, in some cases you may need help from a pro--consult with an engineer or architect for bracing on a deck over six feet in height, or hire an electrician for your outdoor wiring and lighting. You might also need to contact your local planning or building agency so that you can be sure your design ideas meet building and zoning codes.

Design

To begin the design process, ask yourself some questions. How much sunlight will your deck receive at different times of the day and at different times of the year? Would it be a good idea to locate the deck to increase or decrease solar exposure? If trees aren’t available for shading your deck, you might want to include an awning or a redwood trellis in the deck design. Do you have outdoor furniture that needs to fit on the deck, or do you prefer to have built-in redwood benches? Will there be room for potted plants or redwood planters? What about a grill? Or perhaps the focal point of your deck will be a spa or hot tub. Also consider evening use of your deck. What kind of lighting will be most suitable--floods, spot or low voltage?

Be creative as you ask and answer these questions. Perhaps there’s room at your house for more than one deck-—a small private deck off the master bedroom, a larger "party" deck off the living room or a grade-level deck outside a basement playroom for children.

Think about access to the deck. Is there already an exterior door that can open onto the deck, or will you have to install one? Railings are required on raised decks, but they can also control traffic on a grade-level deck, protecting lawn and garden areas along the deck edge. If you’re planning a raised deck, do you want a stairway leading down to grade level? If so, where on the deck should it be located?

To make the most of your new redwood deck, integrate it with an overall landscape plan. New shrubs, trees, garden areas, walkways and other landscaping elements can enhance the appearance and utility of your deck. Even raised decks require some sort of ground-cover treatment beneath the deck.

Materials

Consider the materials you will use. Knot-textured Construction Heart and Construction Common redwood are perfect for outdoor building projects, especially decks. Redwood is cost-effective and resists shrinking, warping and checking. Redwood decks simply last longer and age beautifully, looking good ten, fifteen and twenty years after construction.

All nails, fasteners and hardware should be stainless steel, aluminum or top-quality hot-dipped galvanized. Poor quality fasteners will react with redwood’s natural, decay-resisting extractives, causing unsightly stains.

A good finish will enhance the beauty of your redwood deck and help protect the wood from the elements. Read labels carefully. The finish you choose should include a water repellent and a mildewcide and UV (ultraviolet) inhibitor or blocker.

With good planning and design for your redwood deck addition, you can have a shady section as well as a sunny section. You can have privacy side-by-side with open areas and great views. You can customize your deck with stylish add-ons such as redwood benches, railings and stairs.

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