RH Design Concepts builds, designs, and constructs outdoor structures, including pavilions, pergolas, wood sheds, arbors, and more. We work with the highest quality materials for your value in each project and often use high quality prefabricated kits to keep the cost down and speed of construction up. We work to 2D or 3D design your structure so you can see it before it is built during the design process. That might be for a wood shed for firewood storage, or a pavilion for your patio to keep an intimate experience for guests, or a pergola to create filtered shade on your sunny patio. We work with the township to ensure your structure is permitted and you’re ready to go. Start the design process with us today. Let our team begin helping you and contact us about the installation of your deck project.

A new or rebuilt structure is essential to making your outdoor space look amazing. All of our deck builds can certainly make a great impression. Our specialty is making sure the project turns out as you intended. RH Design Concepts is dedicated to going above and beyond to ensure the correct installation methods and safety precautions are taken. Talk to our team today and learn more.

1. Planning and Design

• Assessment:
  • Site Evaluation: Assess the location where the structure will be installed. Consider factors like sunlight, shade, wind exposure, and proximity to existing features (e.g., house, trees).
  • Purpose: Define the purpose of the structure—whether for dining, relaxing, or entertaining. This will influence the design and size.
• Design:
  • Layout: Sketch the design, including dimensions, style (e.g., modern, traditional), and any additional features (e.g., built-in seating, planters).
  • Materials: Choose materials based on the design and desired durability. Options include wood, metal, or composite materials.
  • Permits: Check local building codes and obtain any necessary permits. Ensure the design complies with regulations regarding height, size, and placement.
• Budgeting:
  • Estimate Costs: Calculate the costs for materials, tools, and any labor if hiring professionals. Adjust the design if needed to fit within your budget.

2. Preparation

• Tools and Materials:
  • Tools: Gather tools such as a tape measure, level, drill, saw, hammer, and safety gear.
  • Materials: Acquire materials such as posts, beams, rafters, connectors, concrete, screws or nails, and any finishing materials (e.g., stain, paint).
• Site Preparation:
  • Clearing: Remove any vegetation, debris, or obstacles from the installation area.
  • Marking: Mark the layout of the structure on the ground using stakes and string lines. Measure and mark the locations for posts and footings.

3. Foundation and Posts

• Footings:
  • Digging: Dig holes for the footings at the marked locations. The depth will depend on the structure’s size and local frost lines.
  • Footings: Pour concrete into the holes to create footings. Insert post anchors or post bases into the wet concrete. Allow the concrete to cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Posts:
  • Installing Posts: Once the footings are set, attach the vertical posts to the footings. Ensure they are plumb and level. Secure them with bolts or post anchors as needed.

4. Framing and Structure

• Beams and Rafters:
  • Beams: Install horizontal beams across the top of the posts. Secure them using brackets or connectors. Ensure the beams are level and properly aligned.
  • Rafters: Attach the rafters to the beams, spacing them according to your design. Secure the rafters with screws or nails. Check for level and alignment.
• Bracing:
  • Stability: Add diagonal braces or cross-bracing as needed to provide stability and prevent movement.