A situation to test your plan against
A house with timber and other natural surfaces gains character through use and ageing. Do not choose only from a new sample. Discuss how colour variation, touch and outdoor exposure will form part of the design.
What this work involves
Discuss changes in level, support structure, drainage and access underneath. Choose materials for use and maintenance.
- Timber, composite or stone
- Substructure and drainage
- House and garden junctions
Coordinate outdoor timber with drainage and replacement of individual components.
What the drawing needs to explain
Detail the lower edge and the junction with another material. Show where water can drain and how an element can be replaced without opening the entire finish.
Allow for later maintenance
Create a maintenance record for each material, including access points and product information. Base the first inspection on the chosen system and actual exposure.
Compare the complete intervention
Compare purchase and recurring maintenance costs. Ask about preparation, fixings and access; the material price per square metre alone gives insufficient guidance.
How to review the result
Assess variation against the agreed sample and product information. Distinguish natural differences from damage or an incorrectly executed junction.
Cost factors for this service
Costs depend on area, substructure, materials and detailing. Ask for the scope and selected specification to be described separately.
Bring this to the discussion
Photographs of the existing situation, available drawings and your requirements for terraces & decking. Identify the elements that should remain.
Questions about the work
What should I discuss before arranging terraces & decking?
A level transition to the house also needs appropriate drainage. Develop that junction for the selected finished level.
Is timber weathering always a defect?
No, ageing can be part of the material choice. Agree the expected appearance and maintenance beforehand; moisture problems, damage and incorrect detailing require a different assessment.
The design situations here illustrate choices; they are not completed projects or a diagnosis of your property.