3 Things To Consider When Planning a Waterfront Deck

A lakeside front deck is a perfect opportunity to catch up with friends and family or enjoy the calming scenery your lakeside property has to offer. However, before you start planning your new deck, you need to take into account a few design considerations. 

Backyard Reflections, your trusted outdoor living contractors, lists them below: 

1. Safety and Durability

Since your deck will be located near water, its foundation needs to be sturdy enough to support the deck’s entire structure as well as the weight load on top of it. The structure of most decks is made from pressure-treated lumber. But, if you want added protection against weather extremes, there’s the option of using corrosion-resistant galvanized steel beams. 

2. Maintenance Needs

As for the materials used to construct the actual decking, wood (particularly the redwood and cedar varieties) is the most widely material. However, wooden decks have fairly high maintenance needs. Without routine maintenance, wooden decks might suffer rot or insect damage. 

If you want to reduce your lakefront deck’s maintenance needs, composite is a low-maintenance alternative worth considering. Composite is made of a mix of wood fibers and plastics as well as bonding agents. Unlike wooden decks, composite decks are resistant to rot, insect damage, and warping. 

Aluminum is another option. It’s two to three times stronger than wood but has fewer maintenance needs. Not to mention its surface is slip-resistant, making your deck safer during damp weather. Of course, it’s not without disadvantages. Aluminum decks are a bit on the pricey side, but if you’re looking for a sturdy low-maintenance deck, they’re worth the investment. 

3. Scenic Waterfront Views 

One of the biggest advantages of owning a lakeside property is the scenic views it has to offer. To take full advantage of your waterfront view, we recommend building a multi-level deck that can deliver varied views of the scenic landscape. For more design tips, consult a landscape services contractor. 

Looking for experienced landscape contractors near you? 

Backyard Reflections, a family-owned and -operated company with 20 years of experience, offers a wide range of professional outdoor living and landscaping services, including lighting design landscape services. To request a consultation, call us at (320) 274-6336 or (218) 454-1065 or fill out this form.