3 top tips to consider before building a new deck

We have to be some of the luckiest people in the world, us Aussies. We live in a truly beautiful country, with summers that shower us in warm, sunny light and plentiful blue skies. But do you have somewhere off the grass in your garden where you can sit back, enjoy a meal and soak in this loveliness? Al fresco dining decks are a fantastic landscaping idea, but there are some things you need to consider before starting a project of this type.

These are tips to think about when building your own deck.

Know your permissions

Depending on where you are located in Australia, you may or may not need a building permit in order to construct your flash new deck.

For example, New South Wales' Department of Planning and Environment states that minor structures such as balconies and decks are considered exempt developments, and thus do not require a building or planning permit (provided it meets specific criteria, which you'll need to research). Meanwhile, though exempt developments also exist in Victoria, the Victorian Building Authority states that decks attached to a building - regardless of its size - will require a permit.

You can easily find this information online through a quick internet search.

Hire the right tools for the job

A DIY deck will take more than just a handsaw, hammer and a few ideas for how it should come together. There are a great many tools that will prove invaluable for the construction process, and these might be too expensive to purchase. For example, a circular saw for wood or a concrete cutter will likely be necessary, depending on your building materials, and can be hired from us here at Kennards.

If you need any other large-scale equipment, a digger for example, take a look through our product offerings and contact us about what you require.

To cover or not to cover

Finally, think hard about installing either a pergola or sail of some sort, to provide covered shelter. This isn't just for the rain should it decide to fall, but also for sunlight. According to SunSmart, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world - two in three of us will have been diagnosed with the disease by the time we reach 70 years. Don't allow yourself and your family to burn this summer by ensuring you have shade to lounge beneath on your new deck.

Just remember to check local council building regulations on this as well before commencing construction.