First I wanted to thank everyone who gave me advice on putting up window casing with jambs that stuck out too much. I planed them down and the trim looks great.
My next project: We want to install a deck in a yard that has a slope to it..
The problem I have is that the fence separating us from the neighbor is only 6′ high and I don’t want to replace it just yet. If I build a deck that’s, say, 18″ high, I’m going to be looking over into the neighbor’s yard (and I should mention that I’m 6’5″ tall, which doesn’t help).
Is it possible/wise to excavate a little bit of the rise of the yard so that the deck doesn’t rise more than 10 or 12 inches (lower if possible).
I’m trying to avoid building a patio, so any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Replies
of course you can excavate, but beware that you don't create a problem with water running back towards the house....
why not just add a bit to the fence, like some lattice work or some such?
sit on the porch, don't just stand there...LOL?
maybe a two tiered deck?
Well, you've heard the same thoughts I had already.
I'm wondering how close you are to the fence, too. Some AHJ get very picky about how close to a fence you get--but more HOA will freak than anything else. Sometimes, the fence is not "yours" to add on to, which complicates life.
Another thing you could do is a bit of a pseudo-pergola, more like the frame on a four poster bed, and put up some removable canvas panels (awning shops can do a nifty job on these). Some of the neighborhods around Austin give the neighbors all sorts of view into each other's yards, and decks are often not needed. So, one seeks solutions where one can.
The canvas awning also has a benefit in being "non fixed" which can mean fewer hassles than a fixed lattice or additional roof area or the like (grr, covenants against "patio covers" grrr). They are a spiffy way to add some color to the outside decor, too; they make a neat feature when lit, too.
A patio is often easier and cheaper than a deck, and it is not taxed, a deck is.
edit: plus there are little or no maintenance issues to deal with.
Edited 5/9/2006 8:02 pm ET by TGNY
Is there anything in the neighbor's yard worth looking at? ;)