Deck Design

Do These Things Before You Get Started

Before you start planning your deck project, get some basic information.

• Permit Requirements. In many jurisdictions, you'll need a permit from the city, county, or other agency. There may also be building code requirements for footings, railing height, setbacks, materials, etc. There may also be permit fees and it's possible your addition will increase your property tax assessment.
• Homeowners' Association Rules. If your home is governed by a homeowners' association, you need to make sure your deck design meets its requirements. This may also require a review of your plans before you can begin construction.
• Check Before You Dig. Make sure you contact your local utility providers before you design foundations and footings or anything else—including trees—that will require you to dig. Most municipalities have a 'call before you dig' service. In U.S. cities, dial 811 or visit www.call811.com. They will visit the property and paint lines showing the locations of buried cables and conduit.

How to Create a Deck Design Plan with SmartDraw

SmartDraw gives you a number of options for drawing a deck plan. You can open up a pre-designed template and make changes to it or draw your own from scratch.

SmartDraw includes a vast symbols library. Just click and place blocks, posts, surface boards, and other elements into your deck plan. You can even place tables, chairs, lounges, and other outdoor furniture on your plan to make sure you have the look and feel you want.

You can also draw elevation plans to see how the deck will look from grade level.

To learn more, watch this brief video: Creating Landscapes with SmartDraw.