The perfect patio is every homeowner’s dream. Complete with a view of the nearest mountain range or urban skyscape, lounging on the deck with a few friends and cocktails to watch the sunset is the scene that captures many a home buyer’s imagination. Builders know that a beautiful deck is often the low-cost amenity that will later seal the deal for the realtor.

Unfortunately, not every home comes equipped with a patio, so adding a high-quality patio deck to the property tops the list of home improvements which brings out the tools, blueprints, and lumber catalogs.

The needs of your patio deck will be different from other types of wooden flooring. For starters, the challenge of building and maintaining a level surface while coping with discontinuities may be a bit of an engineering feat in itself. Selecting a flat surface for supporting struts is not always possible, so invest in a professional contracting level before designing any outdoor addition.

Naturally, weatherproofing is a priority for any outdoor application of wood. Most commercial water sealers contain chemicals you don’t want your dog licking up along with his chew toys, so select an ecologically-friendly organic based blend which will make your deck a safe as well as beautiful place to relax and play.

Spacing your planks and using micro-beveled edges allows dirt to fall in the grooves, which means you’ll be able to sweep less. Don’t neglect the underside of your deck, however; accumulated leaves and debris can present a fire hazard. Adding an organic flame retardant is essential if you plan to barbecue, allow smoking, or experience a dry climate.

Pre-sanded lumber can be costly, so you can save a few pennies by purchasing unfinished boards and sanding the upper surface yourself. The underside of the patio can be left unmodified, so renting a circular sander to finish the job after installation should be sufficient.

Your wooden patio deck will be the center of summer enjoyment and leisure for you and your guests and family for years to come. The hard work you out in today will still pay off when you are sipping lemonade in your golden years, admiring your handiwork of decades past.