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If you are interested in adding or replacing your deck and you live in any of the following areas of Monterey County—Carmel, Pebble Beach, Big Sur, Pacific Grove, or Monterey—Carmel Point Landscapes can help with that.
Not only do we design custom decks for your landscape, but we also construct them. There are many considerations when designing and building a deck, such as the permit, the footer/foundation, the frame, the deck boards, and the rail.
The first step in building a deck is obtaining design approval and a building permit. At Carmel Point Landscapes, we take care of all of the above—from designing and obtaining your permit to building your deck. This process can take up to 6 months before work begins.
Once the permit is approved, we start by digging the footers, typically 17" x 17" x 12". The footer is poured with concrete and reinforced with #4 and #3 rebar.
The height of the deck will determine the size of the posts, beams (girders), joists, and ledgers. We like to build decks that are strong, safe, and built to last a lifetime, so we typically recommend a beefier frame. For example, we normally use 6" x 6" posts, 6" x 12" beams, 2" x 12" joists and blocks, and 2" x 12" ledgers. The frame is waterproofed before the deck boards are installed. If you plan on hosting a party on your deck with many guests, the strongest frame and foundation are the way to go.
When it comes to selecting deck boards, you have many options. If you live in a fire-prone area like Del Monte Forest or Carmel Valley, you might choose TimberTech advanced PVC. These boards are barefoot-friendly, the best choice for fire zones, have a 50-year warranty against fading and staining, and are made from recycled materials.
If you live in an area like Big Sur, a natural choice for your deck boards would be redwood, a local material that complements the area.
If redwood isn't your style and you live in Pebble Beach, consider stepping up your game with Ipe (Brazilian hardwood). It is one of the hardest, most insect- and rot-resistant woods available. At Carmel Point Landscapes, we help you select the right material that looks good and complements your architecture.
Once the footers are poured, the frame is built, and the deck boards are installed, the last step is installing the rail. If your deck is less than 30" off the ground, a guard rail is not required. When it comes to railing system options, the possibilities are endless. For example, to preserve a view and maintain a sleek, contemporary feel, you might consider a glass or wire cable rail.
If entertaining guests is your goal, a drink rail is a great option. A drink rail provides space to set down your glass of wine or martini while you socialize with friends and family.
Whatever your style, adding lights to your rails or deck may be something you'd desire. Low-voltage, LED lights can be added under a rail, cap, or built into the deck. Landscape lights finish off the deck project nicely, providing ambiance and allowing you to enjoy your deck at night.
If you live in Carmel, Pebble Beach, Big Sur, Pacific Grove, or Monterey and need help designing or rebuilding a deck in your landscape, call us to set up a free consultation.
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