A terrace isn’t just a summer luxury – it’s an extension of your home, year-round

Posted by

Comments Off

If you’ve ever sipped your morning coffee while staring out the window and thought, “If only I had a nice terrace…”—this one’s for you. Not just because terraces look good (though they really do), but because they bring something more to a home than just extra square meters. They add life.

But let’s be real—when is the right time to start building one? Is it just a springtime impulse, or something that needs careful planning? And if you are building one, where do you begin, what should you consider, and how do you get it done right? Let’s walk through it, step by step—without overcomplicating it.

Start building the terrace

So… what is a terrace, really?

Sure, we all know what a terrace is. But do we really know?

It’s more than just planks and railings. A terrace is a natural extension of your home—it blends indoor living with outdoor freedom. It can be your breakfast nook, summer BBQ zone, kids’ play area, or quiet reading retreat. In a way, it’s like your home’s breathing space. You don’t have to hop in a car or drive somewhere—you just open the door and step into your own little world.

Why even bother building a terrace?

It’s not just about pretty wood patterns or shiny new furniture. A well-built terrace can:

Increase property value. Potential buyers don’t just see timber and nails—they see potential.
Give you more living space without needing permits. Most low-rise terraces don’t require special construction permits, which makes things simpler.
Boost your quality of life. Honestly—sunny afternoons, dinner with friends, quiet moments… they all hit differently on a terrace.
Help keep your home cleaner. Outdoor shoes stay out. Kids’ toys stay out. Nature stays—well—outside.

When’s the best time to build?

This is where most people expect the answer to be “spring.” And yeah, that’s true—April to June usually brings dry weather, thawed ground, and longer days. But here’s the twist:

Starting in fall can sometimes be even smarter. Why? Less competition for builders, lower prices on materials, and a calm winter window for finishing up design work. As long as the ground isn’t frozen solid, fall could be your secret weapon.

Things to figure out before you grab a hammer

Don’t just rush to the hardware store and start stacking boards. Even if you’re a hands-on DIY type, take a step back and think:

What’s the terrace really for? Dining, relaxing, sunbathing—or all of the above?
Which direction does it face? South means sun-soaked. North might stay damp and chilly.
Will you need a roof or cover? Estonian weather isn’t always kind. If you don’t want to eat dinner in the rain, plan for coverage.
Foundation and soil. Nope, “just laying the boards down” won’t cut it. A solid base is what keeps a terrace alive for years.

Picking materials—what are we working with?

Alright, now we’re in the fun zone—where chemistry meets design.

Wood – spruce, larch, thermally treated timber—classic. Warm and natural, but needs regular TLC.
Composite – a mix of wood and plastic. Maintenance-free, pricier, and some say it looks a bit “artificial.” Others love it because of that.
Stone or tile – perfect for a modern look or countryside homes, especially for ground-level patios with some extra durability.

Every material tells its own story. Some whisper, “I don’t need oiling every spring,” while others say, “I’ll stay with you for 25 years—if you just care a little.”

DIY or call the pros?

Here’s a hard truth: if you’re not comfortable with a saw, maybe this isn’t the best place to experiment.

Terrace construction involves more than a good eye—it’s about measurements, drainage, support beams, fasteners, finishes. If you want your terrace to last more than one season, get a pro. With Duuabl, for instance, you can find a reliable builder in just a few taps—no stress, no nonsense.

A little tip: plan the extras from the start

So much talk goes into the terrace itself, but too little about lighting, heating, and furniture.

Add a heater or small fireplace and stretch those summer nights into October.
LED strips in the steps? Safer, plus mood lighting.
Furniture? Go for quality. The less you worry each spring about “will it survive another year,” the more time you have to enjoy it.

So… when should you start?

If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’ve already got a few ideas buzzing. And guess what? That means the time is now.

Don’t wait for “better weather” or “more time.” Those things don’t just show up. You decide when it’s time to expand your home’s outdoor heartbeat. Whether it’s a spring surge of energy, calm autumn planning, or a winter sketch session—any moment is right if it feels right to you.

A terrace isn’t just a structure. It’s a lifestyle choice. It’s where summer spills into fall, where coffee tastes better, and even rain feels… a little less annoying.

And if you’re wondering whether it’s all worth it?

Yes. Absolutely. Because when you’re sitting on your own terrace, nothing feels too far away or too complicated.

Start building