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Porches & Decks

What would you do for decking on this small patio?

7 years ago

I'm trying to figure out whether I should float a deck over these stairs or build one right on the patio. We are getting a new air conditioning unit soon, and I think it might be moved to the side of the house, so I'm hoping that won't be an issue. We also have glass block windows, as you can see, and I just don't know what to do with all of this. I wanted the deck to have at least a partial cover (pergola?), as well. The top of the kitchen window is 9' from the ground. Any ideas? Thanks in advance!

(the patio measures 23.5' long and 12' wide)

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Comment (1)

User
7 years ago
The AC unit would almost have to be moved, unless the lower deck option were chosen.

The end result depends on what you want. Walk out from the house to the deck level with a 2"/3" step down, steps down to the yard, and a railing around the deck(depending on code heights in your area--I linked a picture for the no railing type below) or walk out onto the steps(will only wind up with 3 steps) and step down to a deck with a step down to the yard.

The lower deck will not need a railing and could have the step down across the length and width, allowing access off/on at any point.

The higher variety could be similarly constructed(if the height did not require a railing), but would need side railings in a couple places for stepping assistance(like the side rail on the current steps.

Pergola could be built in(most have flat tops, so roof clearance is not a problem. Or one could be added later.

floor level deck
Beth Powers thanked User
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