Landscape Architects and Deck Designs: Expert Guidance and Maintenance Tips

The transformation of your outdoor space can be significantly enhanced by the skills of a landscape architect. With a formal license, they are equipped to design comprehensive yard plans, including structural changes such as decks. If you're looking to liven up your home with over 7200 gorgeous landscaping designs without hiring costly professional designers, this collection and guide are your perfect starting point.

Do Landscape Architects Design Decks?

Indeed, landscape architects play a crucial role in deck design. They are not only skilled in creating aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces but also in ensuring that the structural elements are functional and safe. This detailed planning can include designing the deck, integrating it with the existing landscape, and sometimes even making necessary structural adjustments to accommodate the new additions.

Decks: From Installation to Maintenance

Installing a deck doesn't necessarily require the services of a landscape architect. A competent handyman might be able to handle the installation, provided they are detail-oriented and knowledgeable about the specific requirements of decks. In my case, our gardener did a fantastic job installing the deck, which is about the size of half a tennis court. However, maintaining the deck is a different story.

When wet, decks can become incredibly slippery, akin to ice. Therefore, regular maintenance is essential to ensure your deck's longevity and safety. Jet washing and treating against rot should be done annually. Unfortunately, we only managed to do this once in the ten years our deck was in place, leading to worn and rot-prone sections. If faced with a similar task now, I would approach it differently.

Preferred Maintenance Practices

For future deck projects, I would opt for the highest-quality decking materials. Before installation, I would apply quality preservative to the underside of each board to protect it from moisture. Additionally, using slip-resistant boards would significantly enhance safety. However, the boards we initially installed are no longer available, and newer decks often come in narrower widths, making it challenging to find matching materials.

Preserving Original Elegance

Below the deck lies a fascinating layer of medieval red bricks, intricately laid in a fishbone pattern. Originally installed during the house's construction in 1469, these bricks continue to provide a hint of history and charm to the property. Despite the ongoing maintenance challenges with the deck, these bricks serve as a reminder of the original elegance and design of the house, which will likely outlast any new additions.

Conclusion

While a landscape architect is crucial for initial design and planning, maintaining your deck is a yearly necessity to ensure safety and aesthetic appeal. Whether you hire a professional handyman for installation or undertake the project yourself, understanding the maintenance requirements is key to preserving your investment.