Hi, why don't you have a think about installing composite decking which will allow you to be level with the door sill without the worry of run-off into the house due to the 5mm gap between the boards. Composite doesn't required coating so the maintenance issues are significantly less, just a hose down and sweep or mop with water. You would still need to excavate approx. 250mm below the finished deck level to allow for the sub-frame but if you use treated pine framing with, either H4 stumps in concrete, or galvanised stirrups to anchor the framing into the soil. Check with your local decking pro for further advice and brand options. Generally, the USA made composites like Trex or Timbertech are better quality and the concealed fixing systems are easy to install. Your soil type may be the only issue with water, ie clay which retains water, or sand which tends to drain more quickly. Good luck

Both really great designs, we are seeing so many of our clients decide to get creative with their outdoor living areas and the patterned styles are very popular, also painting them different colours adds a special touch and something different to an outdoor area!

Just done this - had stacker doors made to fit, could have had bifold however screens for bifold can't be crimsafe, so easily broken into or damaged by children or pets. We often leave the doors open at night with just the security screens locked. As ours are our front entrance and not the rear, security was important. Also bifold folding out without a wall or roof are open to the elements and can be damaged if open during a hi wind. Will weather quickly also. Bifold look great but you really need to decide if they need to have security screens etc. We had beautiful timber stackers made, as we get big winds occasionally and the bifolds would have folded out onto the deck with lots of sun - didn't want to be re lacquering every 6 months.

Biggest Thank you to everyone who has commented and given me such good practical advice for updating my little front patio/porch area. Before I depart again and forget to update? This is how it looks, I am probably at a later stage going to work out how to add a wider sill as suggested, however it does look so much better than before. Such timely advice has given me the motivation to get it done. I have left the roller shades on one side just to allow a bit of privacy from the neighbours and wind/sun. And one day will swap the large couch for something more suited.