What Is a Cantilever Deck?

Residential decks are often framed vertically from the foundation to the railings. However, some homeowners prefer a slight overhang past the beam. This structure is known as a cantilever.

A cantilever deck is simply a deck with joists extending past the beam creating a cantilever or overhanging end on the deck’s exterior. The decision to have your deck cantilevered often comes with the wish to extend an existing deck. 

However, a cantilever deck may not be as simple as a regular deck. The extension requires precise measurement as recommended by the local building code.

Employing the services of expert deck builders can help you in putting your cantilever deck without any issues.

What Is the Purpose of a Cantilever?

A cantilever deck design is often chosen to add space. In addition, the overhang provides an additional area which is advantageous if your yard is small.

In terms of structure, the cantilever also adds aesthetics as the design can be an intuitive solution for lack of space or limited footprint drive.

Cantilever decks also function to save more money.

One example is a second-floor cantilever deck. Instead of putting up a foundation on the ground, specifically footings, and piers, you simply use two large brackets connected to the house’s exterior in a diagonal position.

What Is the Difference Between a Cantilever and a Beam?

In a standard deck design, the beams are placed perpendicular to the main house structure supported by the columns, piers, and footings. In contrast, a cantilever can simply be a flat surface attached to the house through the ledger and without a foundation.

However, it is important to remember that a cantilever can simply be a beam. But instead of being attached to the underneath structure, it overhangs on the outer side of the frame.

In short, it could be simply an overhang of joists extending from the beam.

Nevertheless, when it comes to decking, the description of a cantilever may be versatile depending on the presence or function of the beam.

How Far Can a Deck Be Cantilevered?

Joists cantilever should have an overhang limited of up to 24 inches. The drop beam can extend to a maximum of ¼ of its length over a post.  

For example, if the back span of the joist is at 16 feet, you can cantilever for up to 4 feet.

Advantages of a Cantilever Deck

While cantilever decks are uncommon in residential areas, they are still considered a reasonable choice with several benefits.

For starters, you can choose a cantilever design if you want a larger deck without spending too much on resources.

Of course, to achieve this purpose, you will have to make sure that your deck is building code compliant. Also, you will need quality decking materials from trusted brands and manufacturers like TimberTech.

Check out some of the advantages of having a cantilever deck.

1.      More Space

Since you will be extending your deck, its substructure and flooring, naturally, would give a larger space for your household to hang out.

This is advantageous, especially for those who had their deck made on the second floor.

In some cases, people choose to have a cantilevered deck if their backyard space is too small. This way, the area underneath the deck, since it is located on a higher floor, will remain unoccupied for a significant part. 

2.      Panoramic View

Cantilever decks can be designed in such as way that the exterior is elongated in the middle. With this form, you can have a panoramic view of your neighborhood or immediate area.

Unlike a regular deck, you can have the freedom of adjusting the shape and angle of a cantilever deck.

Houses near the beach or mountains where the scenery becomes a vital highlight can go for cantilever decks.

The overhang adds a spot where you can see a wider view of the sea or the mountain ranges making your stay in the deck worthwhile.

3.      Visually Appealing

It is pretty tricky to design a regular deck into whatever form you want, as you may need to add more materials on the way. 

But in the case of cantilever decks, you can choose to accentuate the overhang without the hassle.

Cantilever decks provide a visual appeal that adds value to your entire house. Modern designs often include cantilever decks to enhance the façade of the house, especially with curved especially if it is also treated as a balcony.

On the other hand, if your cantilever deck is on the ground floor, you can have it formed in shapes or add several corners, depending on your style.

Disadvantages of a Cantilever Deck

Cantilever decks may add the pizzazz you want for your home, but they also have disadvantages that often occur if the structure is not built correctly.

While a do-it-yourself project can be an exciting way to build your cantilever deck, it may not be the best way to go if you’re inexperienced. Here’s why.

1.      Complicated to Make

Cantilever decks may look simple, especially the balcony type, but they require precision and the proper knowledge of choosing quality materials.

Also, you will have to abide by the standard and calculations prescribed by the local building code. Otherwise, you may end up tearing your deck apart.

The length of the cantilever should not exceed the recommended measurement, or else it could create structural issues in the long run.   

2.      Requires Added Support

A cantilever deck that only has one side for support may require other ways to strengthen the structure.

Although an overhang fixture to the house’s exterior can suffice a smaller deck, if you’re building a larger one, you may have to consider your choices when it comes to support materials. Unless, of course, you will stick to a joist or drop beam overhang.

But if that is not the case, it is still best to ask for professional assistance.  

Are Cantilevered Decks Safe?

Cantilevered decks are safe if built the right way. That’s why hiring a contractor, and professional deck builders like TNT Home Improvement can be worth the money as it guarantees proper construction.

The deck has to abide by the prescribed length via the local building code to keep the overhang safe and well-built.

For instance, the length of the cantilever has to correspond with the lumber species, grade, and size. Another attribute you need to consider is the size and spacing between the joists.

According to the building code, the standard cantilever length for a 40-pound load per square foot is 40 and ½ inches. If you wish to extend, you will have to consult with your contractor or engineer.

Other Deck Designs You May Want To Consider

Cantilever decks are worth your time and money as it gives a modern and stylish aesthetic to your property.

But in some cases, a cantilever deck design may not be suitable for your location and house structure. Nonetheless, you can still choose from other designs that builders may recommend, such as the following.

1.      Attached Deck  

This is the most common type of deck design wherein the deck is connected to your house through a ledger board, and the framing sits on groundwork.  

2.      Floating Deck

This deck is not attached to any structure. Instead, you can put the pier blocks straight on the ground.

3.      Wraparound Deck

A wraparound deck in an exterior structure that surrounds the entire house.

4.      Multi-level Deck

This deck has multiple levels or stories strategically raised on top of the other.  

5.      Roof Deck

A roof deck is simply a flat surface on the roof designed for casual foot traffic.

Summary

Consulting with professional deck builders is essential when you are building a cantilever deck. Not only will your deck have quality construction, but you can also ensure that the installation is done according to the standards of the building code. If you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit the deck services page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project.

Deck Construction in Fort Collins, Colorado

pic of a deck and pergola built in Fort Collins, CO

Are you interested in adding a deck to your property? If so, we are a local outfit offering the best deck construction services in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Decking can be used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, increase the available living space and ultimately raise the property’s overall value. With all these advantages in mind, it is easy to see why these structures are so popular.

Our Services

To help our clients reap the above-mentioned benefits of having a deck, we offer the following decking services:

• Deck Installation

As an established deck construction company in Fort Collins, CO, we can help you put up the most stylish and long-lasting deck. We have the expertise and knowledge required to help guide you through the process of choosing the right type of deck and decking materials given your own personal requirements, the available space, your property’s landscape and the available budget among others.

Over the years we have worked on a variety of projects, installing wide variety types of decks along the way. Every project is unique and depending on the available space and location, we can install the following types of decks:

Attached Decks

Resembling a patio, an attached deck is made using composite or wooden decking materials. It is also slightly raised from the ground. Attached decks are commonly located at the rear end of U- or L- shaped houses.

Island/Detached Decks

Like an island, these decks are designed to stand alone. Steps or a clear path can be used to access the deck. Since they can be built over uneven or poorly drained terrain, these decks are considered to be highly versatile; unlike concrete patios, for instance.

Pool Decks

There are many reasons for you to put up a pool deck. For starters, unlike concrete or stone, the materials used do not present a slipping hazard. Furthermore, wood is less likely to scorch your feet even on the hottest of days.

In addition to increasing the space available for swimmers to soak up the sun, a pool deck can also make above ground swimming pools more accessible.

It is, however, worth mentioning the fact that wooden pool decks should be regularly maintained to keep the wood from splitting and prevent the occurrence of splinters.

Wrap Around Decks

If you are looking to follow the sun or shade or expand your living space, a wraparound deck is exactly what you need. Resembling a traditional wraparound porch, this type of deck is raised and roomier.

Multi-Level Decks

Does your property’s sloped or rocky terrain make it difficult for you to put up a concrete patio? Well if so, consider putting up multi-level decks. Linked by paths or steps, multi-level decks are simply a series of decks built on different levels, as dictated by the existing landscape.

This can also refer to a stacking multiple decks on top of each other. So if you have a tall two or even three-story house you could build multiple outdoor living spaces on top of each other.

Entryway Decks

Usually a series of linked platforms that lead to the entrance of your house, entryway decks can be used to enhance your property’s curb appeal. To do so, the decking must be designed and installed in a way that perfectly matches your home’s architecture.

Rooftop Decks

For elevated views of your home’s surroundings or even some added privacy outdoors, rooftop or garage top decks are the answer. These decks are suited to flat-roofed homes. Before construction, the structural integrity of the underlying structure must be tested, and enhanced where necessary, for safety purposes.

Decking Materials

As an experienced deck construction services provider, we understand how important it is for you to choose the right decking materials straight from the start. Climate, maintenance requirements, and cost are some of the main considerations you need to keep in mind when choosing the right material for your new deck.

Here’s a shortlist of some of the main decking material options we have found to be popular among Fort Collins homeowners over the years.

Wood

Wooden decks are quite common in the Fort Collins area. Wood, a natural material, is not only visually appealing but also strong and long-lasting. However, to keep it in its best condition, annual maintenance may be necessary depending on the specific type of wood used. This material has been known to stand up well to the high altitude and hot dry climate associated with this part of the country. When it comes to wood, you have a wide variety of options to choose from, including:

Redwood And Cedar

Resistant to both rot and insect damage, both of these options can be used to construct decks that will stand up to the extreme local climate and maintain their appeal and strength over the years, provided that the right sealant is used.

Unlike pressure-treated wood, which is known to warp and crack due to direct exposure to the elements over an extended period, redwood and cedar will maintain their original shape and form for decades.

For a seamless, refined look you can opt for wood decking systems that do not require the use of screws as fasteners.

Tropical Hardwoods

If you are looking to add an exotic feel to your new deck, consider going with tropical hardwoods such as Ipe, Philippine mahogany or tigerwood among others. In addition to being rich grained, these hardwoods are also very strong and highly durable. Like the above-described options, tropical hardwoods are also naturally resistant to rot and insect damage.

It is worth mentioning that tropical hardwood decking usually requires the use of a specialized fastening system. This is mainly due to the fact that they are so dense; making it quite difficult to drive nails or screws through the timber. These hardwoods are also harder to cut and heavier in terms of weight.

Pressure Treated (PT) Wood

As the most economical decking material, pressure-treated wood is the most affordable decking material discussed here. As the most popular decking material, pressure-treated wood is not only easier to cut but also supports the use of simple fastening systems including nails and screws.

Mostly milled from southern yellow pine, PT is treated with chemicals to make it rot and insect resistant. In recent years, the use of non-toxic chemicals has been adopted on most PT decking products for health reasons.

While PT decks are less costly to install, regular maintenance is required to prevent splitting, cracking and warping of the wood. To keep the deck looking as new as possible for as long as possible it should be power washed on an annual basis; while a wood preservative should be applied every 2 to 3 years.

Composite Materials

For those looking for the most durable, stain, insect, and weather-resistant decking material that will not warp, split or even crack, look no further than composite materials. While they may look and feel like real wood, composite materials are made using recycled plastics and wood fibers; some products are solely made of plastic.

Even though composite materials are more expensive than wood, they are fast becoming a popular decking option due to their many advantages.

• Deck Repair Services

In addition to constructing new decks from scratch, we also offer deck repair services in Fort Collins, Colorado. Proper deck maintenance and repair not only ensures that you keep your deck in the best condition even as the years go by, but also protects your investment by extending its durability.

Conclusion

Whether you are hosting guests, taking in the view or simply enjoying a cool breeze, your deck is an integral and personal part of your home. However, to create such a space you need to work with a local partner that understands the local climate and architecture among others. For the best deck construction services in Fort Collins, Colorado, contact us today at 970-663-2868.

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Five Types of Deck Design in Fort Collins, CO That Might Work for Your Home

pic of a Composite deck built in fort collins, co

Adding a deck to your home can greatly enhance your outdoor living space. While deck design in Fort Collins, CO is dependent on the space you have available in your backyard, you do have several choices of styles and creations to choose from that offer a variety of functionality and convenience for you and your family. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or a spot to entertain, there is a deck model designed to give you what you are looking for. Think about these deck styles when you are looking to add to the outdoor living space of your home:

pic of a deck and pergola built in Fort Collins, CO

  • Attached:

    This popular deck design in Fort Collins, CO makes for easy access from your home, as it is attached to the house in the rear. It provides an entryway from the inside of your home and is the perfect choice to add some outdoor living space to your house. It is usually raised up and acts as a patio area that is made of wood or wood composite. It works well in an L- or U-shaped home.

  • Detached:

    This type of deck design in Fort Collins, CO is separate from the home and works well to add space to entertain or relax in a backyard. It is often referred to as an island deck, as it literally seems to be floating in your yard. It can carve out a special area in your property or designate a space for you to place patio furniture.

  • Wraparound:

    As the name suggests, this style of deck wraps around your home. You may have several access points to it from inside your home. A wraparound deck truly expands your living space and offers multiple ways in which to enjoy the outdoors. This allows you to enjoy the sun, no matter if it is setting or rising, and may give separate rooms in your home access to the outdoors from different vantage points.

  • Multi-level:

    If you have a lot of land, a multi-level deck design in Fort Collins, CO may be just right for you. This deck configuration has different elevations that are typically adjoined by stairs or pathways. This is an ideal deck type for elevations that have hills, slopes or rocky terrain. A multi-level deck can get you from one point of your yard to the other with ease and can provide sitting areas throughout.

  • Entryway:

    Make a grand statement with an entryway deck design in Fort Collins, CO that will welcome your This deck style can be simple or elaborate and is designed to complement the architecture of your home. Wood deck platforms can be used to outline the entrance to your home and can incorporate benches and planters along the way.

With so many deck designs to choose from, it may be hard to pick just one. A deck builder will be able to advise on what type of deck design in Fort Collins, CO will work best for your yard and can custom design features that offer you everything you are looking for. To have a deck installed at your home, contact TNT Home Improvements. We are a home improvement company that specializes in deck building and much more. Call today for a quote!

Looking for local deck builders for your next project? Give TNT Home Improvements a call at 970-663-2868 or fill out the contact form at https://tnthomeimprovements.com

The Numerous Benefits of Wood Decks in Fort Collins, CO

pic of a multitiered deck w/under-decking built in Fort Collins, CO

There are many quality decking options available in the marketplace today, but one certainly stands out above the rest. If you have been on the fence about adding a wood deck in Fort Collins, CO, consider a few of these hidden benefits that might help make your decision easier:

  • Cost efficiency: The price of natural wood is substantially lower than most decking alternatives, with composite materials sometimes costing twice as much. Although there will be variations in the price of wood due to the wide variety of options, it is still the most cost-effective material currently available. Not only does the material cost less, but wood decks are also cheaper to install than some of the composite alternatives. Oftentimes, with less durable material, hundreds of dollars of reinforcements are needed to strengthen a deck. Because wood is naturally more sturdy, these expensive additions aren’t necessary. In addition, composite decks are made up of several different materials, which drives up manufacturing costs. With minimal manufacturing needed, the production costs of wood are much lower, which allows customers to procure it at a better price. One of the most affordable options in decking material is pressure treated wood, which has a natural resistance to the effects of both weather and wood-eating insects, thus extending the lifespan of a deck. With a deck that could potentially last much longer, you will be able to get the most out of your investment.
  • Stay cooler during the summer: During the summer months, natural wood does not soak up the heat from the sun, which means that the time you spend on your deck will be comfortable and enjoyable. Some of the other decking options absorb so much heat that the deck becomes unbearable to stand on, which might force you back inside on an otherwise beautiful and sunny day. In fact, some of these decks retain so much heat that it is eventually radiated onto your windows and deck doors, which could potentially heat the walls in your house and nullify the effects of your air conditioning. With natural wood decking, your family will be able to enjoy a cooler deck that doesn’t project heat onto your house, no matter how hot it may be.
  • Quality material: Although some of the composite decking materials might come close to achieving the same look as natural wood, there is no substitute for the warmth and comfort that real wood provides. And while the aesthetic can be mimicked, there is no denying the look of authentic wood. No other material can evoke the same feelings that the smell and feel of natural wood do, and this serenity encourages you to spend more time on your deck enjoying nature. Your natural wood deck will be a part of your home for years to come, and the wood can be used for many other things after its time as a deck is complete. Twenty years from now, when you are upgrading your deck, you can repurpose the used wood for fires or small projects around the house.

With so many benefits, it is easy to see why wood decks in Fort Collins, CO are the preferred option for so many consumers. If you are interested in adding wood decking of your own, call the best in the business at TNT Home Improvements to get a free estimate for your project.

Reasons You May Want to Choose Composite Material Over Wood for Deck Building in Fort Collins, CO

pic of a deck and pergola built in Fort Collins, CO

Installing a deck for your home can be a beautiful, functional and perfect home addition, whether it’s a new construction or a rebuild of an older deck that’s beyond repair. When it comes to decking material, the first thing that likely comes to mind is wood, although composite has become popular in residential home deck building projects across the country.

Truth be told, using wood for your home’s deck is a good choice when you prefer the natural beauty and feel of real wood, but what about composite decking material? What are the advantages to using composite over wood? Here are some reasons you may want to choose composite materials for deck building in Fort Collins, CO.

Cost

Although wood decking materials and installation may cost less initially, the maintenance costs over the lumber’s lifetime is much higher when compared to composite. Doing the refinishing work and repairs on a wood deck yourself can save you money compared to paying for hired services, but you must be willing to do it. And while composite building materials may cost more at the start, future maintenance work and cleaning supplies will cost very little.

Maintenance

Wood decks, as pretty as they are, will require sanding and staining or painting every couple of years to keep them from splitting, peeling, fading and warping. As a result, many homeowners never install a deck because they know they won’t have the time to maintain it. But choose composite decking—which is similar to refinished indoor flooring—and you will enjoy a low maintenance, easy-to-clean deck material option that will never need refinishing. Just clean it occasionally with soap and water, and you should be good to go.

Appearance

If using a composite material for your deck sounds good, but you really want the look of wood, then you’re in luck. A high quality composite material made of wood and plastic can indeed look like real lumber, complete with grain-like designs and color. In addition, because composite decking materials are manufactured to avoid changes like warping and fading, your beautiful-looking composite deck will retain its same lovely appearance for years. The appearance of wood, on the other hand, can alter over time due to sun damage, wood decay, mold and attacks by animals and insects, if not properly cared for.

Safety

When it comes to your deck, safety does not involve only its structural integrity and building quality. Like a patio, you may want to walk around on your deck barefoot to soak in a warm day, or because it is more convenient to do so, or your kids and pets will want to play on it. However, the natural life cycle of wood may cause wood decks to rot, splinter, crack and split, creating an unsafe hangout area in between refinishing jobs. With a composite deck, none of this will happen, which makes it a safe area for everyone’s bare feet.

If you have decided that it’s time to move forward on that long-awaited deck project, give the team at TNT Home Improvements a call today. From materials to all the information you will need, we are here to help you plan for deck building in Fort Collins, CO.