(ARA) – Most people build a new deck to enjoy their outdoor space. But did you know adding a new deck or upgrading your deck can add value to your home?

Remodeling Magazine rated adding a backyard deck as one of the best value projects in its most recent Cost vs. Value Survey, noting decks are relatively inexpensive to construct, but are almost considered essential by potential homeowners.

If you want to build a new deck, or just improve the one you have, HGTV/DIY Network star Jeff Wilson shares his experience gleaned from 25 years of professional experience and his own backyard makeover:

1. Dream big: What’s your ideal outdoor space? Books, magazines, TV shows and online content provide a wealth of inspiration. Even if you don’t have the budget now for everything you want, establishing a long-term plan ensures you won’t be tearing something out later to make way for your dream deck.

2. Trial run: Sometimes numbers like “10-foot-wide deck” don’t translate to usable space in the real world. Lay out your planned deck in the space where it will be built using rope, a garden hose, or stakes and string. Arrange objects in the space as you envisioned them in the plan. Make sure that there’s enough clearance between furniture and deck features to allow for traffic flow. This lets you catch problems before they’re too costly to fix.

3. Don’t forget the details: Have you considered lighting? Do you want to listen to music or have an all-outdoor home theater system? Maybe you want to run a natural gas line to your grill so your propane tank will never run out in the middle of a big party. Or water lines to a sink or outdoor shower – all of these details need to be sketched out in advance so that wiring and piping can be installed along the way.

4. Color your world: Do a little research on color options for your deck. You may want a clear coating for the most natural wood look. But you can also get tinted waterproofers and stains to add color to the wood. For instance, the Thompson’s Water Seal line has 117 different shades of stain to accent and protect your deck. If you don’t know where to start in choosing a color, look at the most dominant, unchanging color in the environment – probably your home’s exterior – and choose a complimentary shade.

5. Permits and setbacks: Take your plan to your local codes office to verify local building codes and property-line setbacks. Don’t try to start work without your building permit, or you may be in for removing work you’ve already completed in the future.

6. Green with envy: Consider the environmental effect of building your deck. Choose FSC-certified sustainably harvested lumber, solar lighting, rain barrels or “pillows,” and reused materials when planning your deck.

7. Get the best deal: If you’re hiring a contractor, get at least three estimates. Don’t automatically pick the lowest number – sometimes it’s worth paying a little more if the contractor is committed to a quality job and if they’re able to listen and incorporate your ideas.

If you’re going to do it yourself, don’t wait until the last minute to order materials. If you order everything at once, lumber yards will often deliver the materials for free. Check deals on contractor credit – some big box stores offer 10 percent off your first order if you open a commercial account. This can be a big savings if you’re prepared ahead of time.

For more do-it-yourself tips, or to enter for the chance to win a $10,000 makeover budget along with an in-person visit and consultation from Wilson, visit www.thompsonswaterseal.com/dreamdeck.