Planning an Outdoor Living Space? Start Here

This two-story deck with pergola and custom patio furniture took four weeks to build and cost about $55,000. (Photo courtesy of member Ben D. of Chicago)

After a long, cold winter, installing an outdoor living space is a very popular spring home project.

There several things that a homeowner needs to do now to prepare for their upcoming project:

1. Set a Project Budget

Get your finances in order, so you know what you’re able to spend.

The average wood deck cost can range from $25 to $45 per square foot, and a maintenance free deck will range from $45 to $70 per square foot. And stairs can add a lot depending on the length and complexity of the design. A full set of stairs with landings coming off a walk-out level home can cost as much as $6,500, so you need to be prepared for some sticker shock.

2. Design the Outdoor Space

Have some idea of what you want to use for furniture, so a designer can make sure everything will fit comfortably.

By giving your designer a close range of your budget, they will recommend product choices or combinations that will fit your budget and the size of the space.

Help your designer out and be as upfront with them as you can, and you will save lots of time.

3. Find a Contractor

Research builders who specialize in the type of project that you’re looking to have built and who have the reputation and trust that you’re looking for to complete your project in a timely manner.

Too many homeowners waste so much time meeting with contractors that they would never consider hiring, just because they didn’t take the time to check them out prior to having them come out.

An experienced contractor will ask lots of questions about your project and you, so they can try to understand what you’re looking for and ensure that they can meet your expectations, so they don't waste your time and theirs.

Finding true experts in the industry you’re looking for, such as deck builders or outdoor kitchen installers, will be very valuable to you because they will give you so much product information and ideas to make your project stand out from the rest.

4. Hire Early

Start looking for your contractor before the season starts because good contractors schedules will fill up fast. When you find them, and they meet all your expectations, hire them! Don't put it off to see if you can save a hundred dollars. You will regret it.

Ask lots of questions on the phone, so that you and the builder have a good idea what to expect when you are at the kitchen table, and you won’t be to surprised.