Having a deck added to your house is a great way to extend spaces for you to entertain your guests. Since decks are additional floor space in the home, you're probably curious if they count as square footage. It's quite common for homeowners to ask, and here is what our research uncovered about his topic.
Although a deck provides additional floor space, it cannot be counted as part of the square footage of your home. While decks are generally attached to a house, only finished spaces with proper heating and cooling systems can be considered.
The area must be indoors to count as square footage, and it should be livable year-round. This is something that you cannot do on the deck of your house.
Being aware of the areas that can be counted as the square footage of your home is important. In this post, we'll talk about decks being part of the house, as well as the different types of decks. We'll also cover some of the best reasons why you should have one at home, so keep scrolling and enjoy this post!
Does A Deck Count As Square Footage For Your Home?
A deck installed at your house is a great way to add value to your property. Generally speaking, decks are wooden platforms that are built above the ground and connected to the house. You can access them through the house's doors or stairs if the deck sits on multiple levels.
Decks have become pretty common in many homes because of their functionality. It's a great space to entertain guests outdoors. A lot of homeowners also use their decks as a place for outdoor cooking and barbecues. Having a deck also enhances the look of your home, so it's a great way to change up the property's exterior.
Over the years, more and more homeowners have decided to add decks to their homes to provide more floor space for entertaining. The additional functionality is appealing to people building their homes, which is why decks of all shapes and sizes are now attached to many homes.
While decks do add floor space to a house, they will not count toward the house's square footage. This is because included areas have specific requirements.
A deck is outdoors and doesn't have walls or a ceiling; this automatically excludes it from square footage requirements. Decks are also unlivable throughout the entire year, another factor.
The only areas considered as a home's square footage are finished enclosed spaces. The area must be livable for the whole year with access to heating and cooling systems. External elements that can only be counted as part of the house's square footage are enclosed areas like sunrooms or four-season rooms.
Is A Deck A Part Of The House?
Generally speaking, yes, a deck is a part of the house. This is particularly true if you have a deck that attaches directly to the house's structure and uses a part of it for support. Of course, this is only true if you have an attached deck in your house.
The deck structure will usually follow any building restrictions in your area. Before constructing a deck, the homeowner must follow these guidelines for the safety of those who will be using it. These restrictions and guidelines will also provide guidance when it comes to the deck placement, including the height and its location.
Types Of Decks
A deck for the house comes in many different types. Depending on what style you are looking for, you can use different materials for the deck's floor, structure, or frame.
One of the most common decks you'll see in many homes is an attached deck because they are simple in form and function. For bigger homes, multi-level or wraparound decks are popular because they add a grander look to the property.
1. Attached Deck
An attached deck's structure extends directly from the house. These decks typically use a ledger board. This anchors the deck to the house's frame, so the additional structure is solidly secure and strong. Attached decks are one of the most common types of decks, and they are great as multi-use areas.
2. Platform Deck
Platform decks, sometimes called detached island decks, are separate platforms from the house built as freestanding structures. Typically, these decks are connected to the house using a pathway. Platform decks are quite similar to a patio, but the difference is that platform decks are raised a little above the ground. Because of this, you can build a platform deck even on uneven ground.
3. Multi-level Deck
A multi-level deck is built with a series of separate decks on individual levels of land. They are connected by stairways, so this type of deck is perfect for large properties on elevated or steep locations.
Multi-level decks can be quite expensive to build, but they add extra space to the property. For homes with elevation changes, a multi-level deck can serve multiple functions for your house.
4. Wraparound Deck
Generally, a wraparound deck is simply an extended version of an attached deck. It wraps around the home, and you can typically access this type of deck from multiple entryways. Since wraparound decks go around two or three sides of the house, it is typical for homeowners to utilize the space for different purposes.
5. Rooftop or Over Garage Deck
This deck is an option if your house has a flat roof or viable space above your garage. Rooftop or over garage decks utilize these otherwise unusable spaces and turn them into extra floor space. However, if you are looking into putting this type of deck on your home, it is always best to consult a professional to see if the structure can be supported properly.
6. Pool Deck
Just as its name suggests, a pool deck is a deck that homeowners build around their pools. Structurally, these decks are built alongside the pool during construction, so it is mainly freestanding. These decks are slip-resistant, and depending on the space available, some homeowners also add other functions like seating areas on these decks.
Why Should You Have A Deck?
There are many reasons why a deck is a great idea for your house. First, it provides an excellent function for your home. Secondly, they make your house even more beautiful. If you're still unconvinced, here are some of the best reasons why you should have a deck for your house.
Value
If you are looking to sell your house at some point in the future, a deck will significantly increase its value. While a deck does not count as square footage, some buyers look into extra amenities in a house. A well-built deck will enhance the value of your home and buyers will see its benefits immediately.
Function
Entertaining guests at home is inevitable, and sometimes, it's even better to do it outdoors. Adding a deck to your home will give you extra space to party and entertain guests when they come over. Since decks are also multi-functional, you can even have a barbecue right in your backyard.
Look
For homes that have weathered time, adding a deck will change its look immediately. If you want to refresh or simply upgrade the look of your home, a deck will give your house more design value. It's also a great way to level up and make your house look more modern.
Final Thoughts
Despite not being counted as square footage, having a deck is still valuable. A deck provides additional space for entertaining, relaxing, and even gardening plus enhances the home's exterior appeal.
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