Before designing your deck, check with your homeowner association and local authorities to determine specific rules or building codes. These may affect the size, height and safety features of your deck.

• Determine how you’ll be using your deck. Entertaining, dining, family activities and relaxing can all play a part in the size and design of your deck.
• Consider when you’ll be using your deck. Then position it in an area that will receive the appropriate amount of sun and/or shade.
• Think about how much accessibility you want to have. Your deck can adjoin to the kitchen, living room, family room and even your master bedroom.
• Decide what size deck you want. Many builders suggest that it be the same size as the largest room in your home. Be sure you have enough room to comfortably fit your deck furniture.
• Keep the physical features of your yard in mind, including trees, gardens and hilly areas. Some items may need to be moved or removed before you start building.
• Be sure to consider your privacy, traffic noise and the local climate. Often, you can add screens and landscaping to solve problems in these areas.
• Use deck features that match your interests. Gardeners may want to add planters. And if you like to entertain, you can build benches to accommodate your guests.