Author: Marshall Johnston

How Deck Contractors Improve Home Value

Marshall Johnston Deck Builders , , , ,
Contractors Murfreesboro TN

A new deck is one of the most popular home improvement projects with a high return on investment. However, it’s not just about resale value; homeowners are often interested in daily use and comfort.

Contractors Murfreesboro TN have experience with different types of decks and materials. This will help ensure your deck is built to last.

1. Increase Your Home’s Value

A well-designed deck can significantly increase your home’s value. A deck transforms your backyard into a functional living space, enhancing the usability of your property and increasing its appeal to prospective buyers. Furthermore, high-quality decks are durable and require minimal maintenance, which can reduce your overall operating costs over time. The ROI rate for such renovations is typically quite high, ensuring that you can recoup your initial investment with ease.

Regardless of whether you’re planning on selling your home in the near future, a quality deck can help you command a higher listing price. Real estate experts note that potential buyers pay more attention to outdoor spaces and are likely to consider a house with a deck to be more appealing than a similar one without a deck. In addition, a deck can add to your home’s curb appeal, resulting in a more attractive and welcoming appearance.

Professional builders are adept at navigating local regulations and building codes, making them an ideal choice for constructing a deck that meets all requirements. They’re also adept at solving problems as they arise, preventing costly mistakes and project delays. Moreover, they’re skilled in delivering cost-efficient solutions to meet your specific design needs.

Creative solutions

Deck contractors bring a wealth of creativity and experience to the table, allowing them to propose innovative elements that blend functionality with striking aesthetics. They can even create custom structures, allowing you to get the most out of your space. Additionally, they can offer advice on materials, helping you select a material that will last and stand the test of time.

Quality craftsmanship is apparent in every detail of the final product, from a perfectly-placed decking board to a properly secured railing. A thorough inspection by a certified professional can ensure that the finished deck is both safe and structurally sound. This is particularly important since many homeowners are unaware that a deck that has not been correctly constructed can be a major safety hazard.

2. Enhance Your Home’s Appearance

A well-designed deck ties together the house and yard, creating a more complete living space. It also provides curb appeal that can help a home stand out in the market. In many real estate markets, including Berkshire County, outdoor spaces are a big selling point. In fact, according to national remodeling cost-versus-value reports, a new deck can return 60-75% of its original investment in resale value.

To maximize your investment, make sure the structure is properly designed and constructed. A professional deck contractor can provide a variety of design options and materials that are weather-resistant. For example, composite decking is a great option for its durability and low maintenance requirements. It requires less staining or painting than wood, and it is a moisture-resistant material. It is also a safer choice for families with young children and pets.

Another way to increase the value of your deck is by adding a pergola, awning, or sliding glass doors. These features can help protect the deck from rain and sun and create an appealing ambiance. In addition, they can add functionality to the deck by increasing its use as an entertainment space or an extra dining room.

When designing your deck, remember to keep it in proportion to the rest of the house. A deck that is too large can overwhelm the house and look out of place. If you are planning on using your deck for entertaining, consider adding a grill station or fire pit. This will ensure that your guests are comfortable and entertained.

In addition, it is important to consider the location of your deck and how it will complement your home’s overall appearance. For example, if your deck overlooks a wooded or mountainous area, you may want to choose a color scheme that reflects this. However, if your deck is going to be used for relaxing, consider a more neutral color scheme.

If you are looking to build a deck, it is important to get your project permitted. This will let potential buyers know that the deck is legal and up to code. It will also increase the likelihood of a quicker sale and higher resale value.

3. Increase Your Home’s Comfort

As a homeowner, you want your home to be comfortable all year round. One way to do this is by adding a deck. A professional deck builder will work with you to determine your exact needs and can offer a wide variety of materials that match your style and budget.

A deck is a great addition to any home and can increase your property value by up to 100 percent. However, it is important to choose the right material and design to maximize its value.

The right materials will help you get the most out of your deck and minimize maintenance costs in the future. Composite woods, for example, are less expensive than traditional wooden decking and are easier to maintain. They are also splinter-free, making them safer for children and pets. Hardwoods, such as mahogany and ipe, add rich color to your outdoor space but can be more costly and require regular sealing.

When choosing a deck material, it is also important to consider the climate in your area. A deck should be designed to withstand your region’s weather conditions, including heat, cold, and snow.

Another great benefit of adding a deck is that it can be used to cook, entertain, or relax. A deck can make your house feel like a complete home and increase its livability. It can also appeal to prospective buyers who are looking for a comfortable living space.

As an added bonus, a custom-designed deck can make your house stand out in a competitive real estate market. It can make your home more appealing to prospective buyers and may encourage them to offer a higher price.

In today’s real estate market, it is important to do everything you can to improve your home’s value and livability. A deck is a great option that can add value to your home and can provide you with a comfortable place to relax and entertain. Decks are a popular choice among home owners of all ages and are an excellent way to boost your property’s resale value. A well-designed and maintained deck can increase your home’s comfort and appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

4. Increase Your Home’s Value

The right deck can be an impressive home improvement feature. A well-designed deck will increase your resale value by making your house look and feel more like a home. In addition to boosting your resale value, a deck will provide you with an outdoor space that’s comfortable and functional year-round. Decks can offer up to 80% ROI and are often one of the most popular home renovations.

Deck contractors are familiar with the best materials and design techniques to help you create a stylish, durable deck that fits your lifestyle. They also know how to work with your budget and can help you maximize your return by minimizing upfront costs and potential repairs.

Professional builders are also up-to-date on building techniques and codes, allowing them to navigate the permit process quickly. This saves you time and money while ensuring that your project is done correctly. In addition, they use high-quality construction materials that are long-lasting and require less maintenance.

A professional contractor will also consider how your deck is connected to other outdoor spaces, like patios or gardens, when designing the layout. They’ll make sure that the materials used for the deck and the surrounding areas match. They’ll also pay attention to details, such as matching trim colors and coordinating railings for a cohesive appearance.

When choosing a deck contractor, look for someone who has experience and a strong reputation. Look at their past work and customer reviews, and ask for references. You can also check out their website for examples of their work and contact information.

Investing in a deck can increase your home’s resale value. It can also add curb appeal, boost your comfort, and improve your quality of life. A deck can become a focal point for your property, so be sure to choose a contractor who will take the time to listen to your needs and deliver results that you’re proud of. A well-designed deck will be a feature that prospective homebuyers are eager to see. A dated or splintered deck can turn them off, however, so be sure to get it professionally inspected before you put your house on the market.

Code and Safety Requirements for Architectural Metal Stair Railings

Marshall Johnston Metal Craft , , , ,
83MetalCraft LLC

The safety standards for handrails and guardrails vary depending on the code or regulations you’re designing under. For instance, OSHA standards (which apply to workplaces) have specific rules regarding stair rail height and spacing.

Fortunately, metal railings can meet these safety requirements while still offering great style options. To learn more about codes and regulations, continue reading. Visit 83MetalCraft LLC for more details.

Structural Requirements

The structure of a staircase railing must be able to support the load it will bear. Stairway railings must also be able to provide a gripping surface that is strong enough to withstand the force of an individual grasping the handrail. This ensures that the railing system is safe for use and does not pose a risk to the individuals using it.

Most building codes establish rules that specify the structural requirements for stair railings to promote safety and provide stability. These guidelines include regulating the overall dimensions of the stairs to ensure that people can navigate them comfortably, setting minimum tread and riser dimensions for stability, and specifying the locations and heights of handrails. They also regulate the materials and design options for stair railings to protect individuals from fire hazards, enhance traction, and align with accessibility requirements to accommodate users with disabilities.

In most cases, handrails are required to be installed on both sides of a staircase to provide stability and support for individuals as they move up or down the stairs. In addition, they must be able to withstand a uniform live load of 200 pounds or less. They must also be able to prevent the passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere to avoid potential injuries.

When selecting the style of a staircase handrail, it is important to consider the architectural theme and aesthetics of the project. Metal railings can create a sleek, modern look, while glass and wood options complement more traditional, classic designs. These systems can be further customized by selecting decorative end caps and scroll work to enhance their appearance. Incorporating lighting solutions into the staircase railings can also enhance safety and set a mood or create an artistic display.

The building code may also require a specific grip size, which refers to the diameter or perimeter of the handrail’s gripping surface. This helps ensure that the handrails are easy to grasp and will not become slippery during normal use. Other code requirements typically include requiring the handrail to be continuous over the full length of the staircase, with no breaks or interruptions except at the top and bottom of the stairs. They are also required to be mounted securely to the structure of the stairs, either by being attached to the wall or fastened to the newel posts with standard terminal castings.

Design Requirements

Many designers don’t give much thought to the specifics of staircases and railings – but there are many important details involved in meeting code and safety requirements. Building organizations that enforce these regulations have clear guidelines for stair design and components to ensure that stairs, handrails and balustrades are durable, functional and attractive.

For example, building codes often specify a minimum and maximum diameter or perimeter for handrail grips to ensure that they are graspable and easy to hold onto. They also typically require that handrails extend continuously along the stair, with no interruptions or gaps. This provides a safe and consistent support system as individuals navigate the stairs.

Other design considerations include a clear and consistent height above the walking surface, opening size and spacing, and stair depth. Safety standards don’t just care about aesthetics, though – they also have strict rules about how much force a handrail can handle to prevent falls and other accidents. For example, a stair railing must be capable of resisting a concentrated load of 200 pounds and a uniform load of 50 pounds per linear foot along the top rail.

In addition, safety codes often have specific requirements for railings in different regions and climates. For instance, coastal areas might require weather-resistant materials like powder-coated stainless steel. Earthquake-prone zones may require reinforced posts and specialized earthquake-resistant designs for stair railings. And historic districts might require adherence to specific aesthetics like wrought iron or masonry construction.

A good way to meet these safety and code requirements is to work with a professional company that specializes in designing and installing architectural metal stair railings. They can create a custom solution that meets all of the required specifications while maintaining a stylish, contemporary look.

Using a professional installation service can also help ensure that the railings are correctly installed and that they are properly attached to the stair structure. This can avoid potential problems during the construction process, including damage to the stair and handrails, and it can also save on labor costs. When it comes to installing a metal handrail, working with a professional is vital because the proper mounting and fastening techniques are essential for safety, compliance and durability.

Material Requirements

Architects must consider the type of material that will serve the railing system’s function, including its durability and load-bearing capacity. For example, if the railing will be exposed to a lot of wear and tear, it should be made from a durable metal, like stainless steel or anodized aluminum, that can stand up to the impact and stress of constant use. Likewise, the railing should be able to hold up to the varying forces that are applied to the handrail system during normal use and to withstand concentrated loads, such as people leaning on them for stability.

Additionally, the railing must meet specific design requirements that are set by building codes and ADA regulations, such as its height and openings. For example, IBC Section 1013.3 requires handrails to be a minimum of 30 to 38 inches above the leading edge of the stair tread and extend at least 12 inches beyond the top and bottom riser horizontally. ADA regulations also dictate that handrail gripping surfaces must be continuous and graspable, and must not contain any sharp or abrasive elements.

Using the right materials for these structural components can make all the difference in code compliance and aesthetics. For example, carbon steel is the most economical choice for commercial railings, but it can corrode over time. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to use a galvanization or powder coating that impedes corrosion and keeps the steel strong.

When considering the varying material options, architects must also consider the region they’re working in. For instance, coastal regions may require weather-resistant materials like powder-coated steel, while earthquake-prone areas might mandate stronger posts. Similarly, historic districts might require railings that blend in seamlessly with the architecture of the space.

Taking these considerations into account can help architects create railing systems that adhere to all required standards while maintaining a sleek, architecturally elegant look. This helps ensure that the railings will be a functional part of the overall design, and that they will serve their intended purpose for decades to come.

Installation Requirements

Stair railings that follow code guidelines enhance a home’s aesthetic, increasing property value over time. They also provide safety and security for people of all ages, including children, seniors and the mobility-impaired. Choosing the right material and installing them correctly are key to keeping them compliant with code and safety standards.

Building codes specify handrail requirements based on the number of steps in a staircase, with most requiring them for stairs with four or more risers and more than 44 inches in height. However, there are a variety of other variables that can affect the required height, such as slope, surface type, and design.

In addition to stair railing height, handrails must be properly installed and able to support a user’s weight. This means the handrail must be mounted securely to the wall or other structure that supports it. Using a stud finder to locate wall studs before mounting the railing helps ensure the correct placement, which will meet safety guidelines and allow for the safest use of the stairs.

The handrail must extend 12 inches beyond the top and bottom of each stair run to prevent people from accidentally grabbing the handrail after stepping onto or off the stairs. It should also have a smooth, uninterrupted surface that provides gripping support without snagging clothing or causing injuries. Handrails should also be continuous along the length of the stair or ramp and not have any breaks, gaps, or fittings that could be hazardous.

Proper stair railing height prevents falls, especially for kids and elderly adults. These groups are more prone to accidental falls from sudden shifts in balance, so a handrail height of 34-38 inches effectively blocks these hazards while allowing for comfortable gripping.

Residential handrail requirements vary by locality, with coastal areas often requiring more corrosion-resistant materials and high-slope homes needing taller railings to prevent tripping. Earthquake-prone areas may enforce stricter anchoring and structural integrity rules. Contact your local building department to verify the specific rules for your area. Regardless of local code variations, there are general rules for residential safety that every homeowner should familiarize themselves with to keep their home up-to-date and meet all applicable regulations.