Building a 12 x 12 deck is a great way to increase the value of your home, as well as an opportunity to have fun with friends and family in the backyard. Once you’ve decided on the size of your deck, then you’ll want to select a design. You can choose from several styles: gazebo, patio, pergola or arbor, screened porch, lanai and more. You should also consider how much shade you need depending on where your deck will be placed and what time of year it is being built (if you’re building during summer months, for example). Consider using plants that will provide shade when needed but still allow sun light in during other seasons as well.
Decks are made from a variety of materials including wood (pressure treated), composite (wood plastic composite) and metal. Each material has its own advantages depending on where your new deck will be built or what look you want it to have so be sure to choose one that suits your needs best.
The cost to build a deck varies depending on the size, the materials used, and the complexity of the design. The COVID-19 pandemic affected the lumber industry, causing prices to fluctuate. Despite this, the construction industry continued to thrive, thanks to a high demand for building materials.
Dimensions
Before you start building a deck, it is important to determine the dimensions of the space you will be using. The dimensions of the space will determine the types of materials you will need. For example, you will need two-by-10-inch ledger board to attach the deck to your house. You will also need to buy four-by-four-inch or six-by-six-inch posts for the structure. Next, you will need to purchase joists, also known as beams. The length of the beams will be determined by the type of wood used.
The width of a deck will be equal to the length of the joists plus the width of the ledger and end rim joists. For a 12-foot-wide deck, you will need 144 lineal feet of decking. You will also need to leave about 15 percent of the deck for waste and horizontal laying.
Another factor to consider when planning a deck is the number of joists. A twelve-foot-long deck will need at least ten joists, or joists on the center. You should also include deck stairs in the square footage. The joists will be the main framing elements of the deck, so they must be measured carefully.
A 12-by-12 deck is an ideal size for a starter deck. This size is the perfect size for small gatherings. You will be able to add outdoor furniture to it, and if you plan on entertaining, you will be able to accommodate larger guests. Besides being the perfect size for an intimate party, a twelve-by-12 deck is also a great place for grilling and relaxing outdoors.
Wood options
Several factors will determine which type of wood to use for a 12 x 12 deck. First, you need to determine the dimensions of the deck. You may want to consider the size of the dining table or other furniture. Additionally, you should keep in mind that you need to make sure that the deck will not extend beyond the threshold of the door. Pressure-treated lumber is a good choice for the structure of a deck, but it will require an extensive maintenance schedule.
If you’re building a deck for your family, you may want to use cedar. This premium type of wood is naturally insect and decay-resistant. It is also durable, which is an important factor when choosing decking material. However, it will also require more labor to install, and it will likely cost more than other types of wood. Another premium option is mahogany. Mahogany will cost you between $8 and $11 per square foot and requires a lower amount of maintenance than pressure-treated wood. In addition, it has a beautiful natural look.
Railings are a great way to add style to your deck. You can choose from square-cut or bevel-cut options, depending on your needs and preferences. Square-cut railings complement almost any style of house, and they can be dressed up with post caps and mortises. You can also choose a more decorative option with turned balusters and milled stock. These styles go well with Victorian landscape designs.
Regardless of what wood you choose, you should consider the size of the deck. The size of the deck will influence the size of the joists and the spacing between them. When it comes to a 12 x 12 deck, you may want to consider joists that are 6 feet wide or 8 feet wide. These are the most common sizes for deck boards, and they’re available at most lumber stores.
The best thing about building a deck is the fact that you can choose from a wide variety of materials. Wood is always one of the most popular options for decks because it’s affordable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. However, if you live in an area where termites are a problem, then you may want to consider other options like vinyl or aluminum.
If you’re looking to build a small deck in your backyard or side yard, then wood is probably still your best bet. You can use pressure-treated lumber or cedar to create a sturdy structure that will last for decades without needing much maintenance. The only downside is that these decks will require regular upkeep so they don’t rot over time due to moisture damage caused by rainstorms or snowfall during winter months.
Permits
If you want to build a deck on your property in North Carolina, you will have to meet zoning requirements and follow the North Carolina State Residential Building Code. These rules regulate how and where you can place structures on your property and how far they must be set back from property lines. Additionally, they set the standards for building materials, structural framing, and connections. Additionally, they require that all deck construction features comply with building safety standards.
Deck materials and foundations must be durable and termite-resistant. You must also ensure that the material you use will withstand earthquakes and floods. Make sure your plans include the foundation plan, framing details, and deck elevations. You’ll also need to submit any necessary calculations. Once you have all the required documents in hand, you’ll be ready to start building!
Getting the permits you need for your new deck is easy once you know where to look. Most cities have Building Inspections Departments within City Hall. If you live in a rural area, you may need to contact an independent inspector. Most inspection departments also have handouts detailing the requirements for building a deck.
If you’re planning to build a 12-by-12 deck on your property, you’ll want to contact your local building agency. A permit is essential for most new construction in your area. In addition to obtaining the proper permits, you’ll also need to hire a licensed contractor.
Railings
There are a number of factors to consider when calculating the cost of building a 12×12 deck with railings. First, consider the purpose of the deck. Depending on the homeowner’s needs, it should be used for a variety of activities. This will affect the cost of the entire project. For example, if you’d like to add a hot tub to the deck, you’ll need to add a railing, steps, and decking. These additions will increase the overall cost of the project.
Another consideration is the material. You can choose to use pressure-treated lumber or wood composites. Pressure-treated pine costs $15 per linear foot. Redwood, on the other hand, costs $19 per linear foot. Composite lumber can be as much as $36 per linear foot. The additional cost is worth the added safety and durability.
Before selecting a contractor, take measurements and gather information about your project. You’ll need accurate measurements, and you’ll need to consider regional and local factors. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, special building codes may apply. Moreover, the type of foundation you’ll need depends on the height of the deck. The higher the height, the more material you’ll need to purchase.
Hardware is another factor you must factor in your budget. Hardware costs include nails, screws, and joists. Although they’re small in comparison to other factors, they can quickly add up if you don’t account for them. Hardware costs can vary based on the size of the deck and the materials used. For example, stainless steel fasteners are more expensive than galvanized ones.
Additional materials such as railings can also add to the cost of the project. Deck railings are sold in six-foot sections and range in price from $90 to $700.
Built-in seating
Adding built-in seating to a 12 x 12 deck is a great way to make use of this space and make it more comfortable for your family and guests. Whether you’re looking to add extra seating for the summer or simply want more space, a built-in bench can add an extra touch to the space. These benches are typically inexpensive to build and can be a great addition to your outdoor space.
Another way to add more seating to a 12-inch square deck is to build overhangs. These overhangs can be attached to the side of a home and provide extra shade for the deck while taking up less space. Alternatively, built-in seating can be built in a corner or against a wall, leaving the center area free.
Whether you want to have a small family gathering or host a large party, a 12 x 12 deck is the perfect size for entertaining. It’s spacious enough to host a small dinner party or a barbecue, and it can easily accommodate two outdoor furniture sets.
When building your deck, you may also want to consider the size of your deck. A 12-inch square deck is typically around 300 square feet, so you can consider two areas and separate them with benches. One area can be used for dining and the other as a relaxed area. A dining area can have two or three chairs with a small table and a bar table, while a relaxing area should have two deep seating chairs and a coffee table.
