How Large Should a Deck Be?

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Decks can add a lot of utility to your outdoor landscape. A deck can be built to serve any number of functions. It could be a gathering place for parties. It could become a personal book nook. It could be somewhere to enjoy outdoor meals.

When designing a deck, one of the big questions is how large it needs to be. You don’t want to have a cramped space, but you also don’t want your deck to have too much empty, unused space. Here is how to decide the size of your deck.

What’s the Purpose of My Deck?

We’ve listed some of the potential uses for your deck earlier, and those are only some of the options you have. If you’re going to use it for social gatherings, you’ll have to be capable of having many people on the deck at once. Therefore, it will need to be larger.

But, if you only intend to use it as a tranquil oasis to get away from daily stresses, you might not need the same amount of space.

You’ll also want to consider whatever additional structures you want your decking to have. Some decks are built with cooking areas, hot tubs, and fire pits. If you’re going to use any of these, understand that you will need more space to accommodate for them.

How Much Weight Does My Deck Need to Support?

Depending on what you want your decking to include, you might need to consider how much weight you’re putting on it. Your deck has to be able to handle all of the weight it supports.

Something important to note is that there are “dead loads” and “live loads” A dead load refers to the weight of the actual deck. The live load is the weight of furnishings, appliances, and people that will be on top of the deck. Make sure that your decking is able to support not just itself but also everything you plan to install on top of it.

How Much Yard Space Do I Have?

If your decking is at ground level, the space it uses will take space away from your yard. This can be a positive thing if you don’t enjoy mowing your lawn. However, if you want to have a spacious yard, you don’t want decking that gets too big because it will eat away at the amount of yard space you have.

Decks built above ground level help preserve yard space. Just realize that grass underneath your decking will likely struggle to grow because of the lack of sun.

Contact Albaugh & Sons

Since 2003, Albaugh & Sons, LLC, has been dedicated to meeting the fencing, decking, and home remodeling needs of homeowners throughout the greater Frederick area. All of our team members are experienced, well-trained, and committed to exceeding the expectations of every customer.

Visit our website here, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.

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Customer Testimonials

We could talk all day about the happy homeowners we’ve provided renovations for, but the real measure of merit lies in customer reviews. See what people are saying about Albaugh & Sons.

4.8
Based on 229 reviews
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Bonnie
21:41 27 Nov 24
I just want to say this company is the Best.. did my fence and my screened in porch. The guys are professional and just a delight to deal with.. customer service is important.. their prices are reasonable.. I would never use anyone but them.. they do it All too..
Alexander S.
16:32 22 Nov 24
We could not be more pleased with the entire process and outcome of our experience with Albaugh & Sons. From the timely turnaround on coming out to give us an estimate, to the flexibility on adjusting our proposal, and to the quick and professional installation itself. I would highly recommend Albaugh & Sons to anyone in their area of serviceability.
Abby G.
14:50 04 Nov 24
So great to work with. Have had the pleasure of working with both sons who were knowledgeable and courteous. The entire process was easy from estimate to completion of my new deck. Both arrived on time, had my estimate for both deck and basement remodel in a couple of days. Danny, the project manager arrived on time and explained the plans, the work crew were amazing. Old deck demolished and beautiful new composite in its place in less than 2 days. Tiffany, the office manager is prompt in responding to all emails with courteous knowledgeable answers. They make you feel like you are their only customer. Look forward to working with them for my basement remodel. I 100% recommend this company.
James L.
13:49 10 Oct 24
We love our new fence. Thanks Emily and George for everything. Excellent communication, timeliness and excellent workmanship. We highly recommend Albaugh and Sons.
John K.
13:19 31 Aug 24
I had a beautiful deck built almost 2 years ago. I called yesterday about a few items that have come apart such as the pvc outside corners on the rim/ band board etc. The company was very responsive and ready and eager to help. Because of this, they have made a customer for life! Not only will you get an amazing product, but it appears you get a lifetime of amazing customer service!! 100 out of 5 stars!
Van Lavoy J.
17:06 01 Apr 24
We needed a fence as fast as possible for 5 rescue dogs that we took on. Albaugh and Sons was able to provide a great quote and a speedy installation. My wife and I love the new fence. It has literally improved our day to day lives by being able to let the dogs run free in the back. The materials were perfect and high quality. I would definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Bill D.
20:50 24 Mar 24
I hired Albaugh and Sons to tear out our old deck and replace it with a new composite deck/ screened porch. The front office was a pleasure to deal with and kept my wife and I informed on everything. The crew did an amazing job every step of the way. I was especially impressed with their finish work. The attention to detail was impressive! What I also liked Albaugh and Sons is they had a project manager (Danny) who would occasionally pop over and answer questions and would also keep me updated on progress. I would highly recommend hiring Albaugh and Sons for any of your fence/ deck / home improvement needs.
Joseph D.
15:39 04 Oct 23
We are very pleased with the work done by Albaugh and sons. We had them replace our side porch and they did excellent work and built it to our request. Also had them install a three tier rail fence around our property. It is excellent and looks great. We thank Danny and his deck crew and George and his fence crew for their excellent work. I recommend them for any projects you need done. Thank you very much!!
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