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Working
with Raised Decks |
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| A raised deck can expand your
view, catch cool breezes, and ensure privacy. But poor design
can leave you with a spindly add-on and steep steps. Here are
some ways to add a sky-high deck with down-to-earth features. |
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- Create a tier of decks. A second deck about halfway
up softens the distance from ground to top deck, and provides
a second outdoor "room."
- Lower the deck by immediately stepping down three
or four steps from the entry to the house. A landing would
also work well.
- Use a cluster of 4x4s instead of a single post.
Although the single post may be enough for stability, the
cluster creates a stronger, more balanced appearance.
- Skirt the underside of the deck with lattice,
louvers, or fencing to make it look more substantial and to
create handy storage space for less-than-eye-catching lawn
equipment and toys.
- Place a hedge at the foot of the structure to
connect the deck and lawn.
- Dress the underside of the deck with decorative
edging or large beams to improve the view of the deck from the
backyard.
- Plan a leisurely staircase. A steep, direct route
may be fastest, but it accentuates the height. If your site
permits, consider pivoting stairs around a significant tree,
using landings and turns, and using 6-inch risers and 14-inch
treads to lessen the steepness.
- Include plenty of plants on the deck, on or near
the rails, and along the stairs so the yard follows you all
the way up. Keep in mind that watering the plants on the
wooden deck can lead to rot and damaged wood.
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