Homeowners will often add decks to their homes to both add a comfortable outdoor living space, and to spruce up the overall look of their property. There are many fun, unique ways to both decorate and design your deck (especially in Virginia). If you’re looking to make your deck pop, here are five deck design tips that Virginia homeowners simply must know about:

1. “Deck” Your Deck Out

Virginia homeowners are known for being flashy, and this is no different when looking at the layout and designs of their homes’ decks. Incorporating different bells and whistles into your deck can be a terrific way to make the space more functional and enjoyable, much like you would think about adding additions to a patio to make the area more enjoyable. Deck lights, fire features, countertops, cooking areas, infrared heaters, and ceiling fans are a few of the extras that are typically incorporated into a deck design. Such upgrades will elevate your home to a whole new level. The more you “deck” your deck out, the more unique and attractive it will be. These kinds of unique features are what will make your new deck construction uniquely yours, after all.

2. Find the Perfect Design Layout

You should also think about the shape and layout as you brainstorm deck design ideas. The days of a deck having to be a dull square are long gone. Decks can be specially made to fit your space however you like. Bump-outs and multi-level decks are other ways to increase the size of your deck. For example, you could install a grill in a bump-out area to create a cooking area that is isolated from the deck as a whole. Another option is to have a deck with a step-down section where you may eat, creating what is essentially a separate room for the outside of your home. Based on your preferences and requirements, the right deck contractor can help you find the perfect design for your dream deck in 2023.

3. Keep Things Cool and Comfortable

One of the beautiful things about a deck is that you can screen it in to make it more of a year-round space. Although individuals enjoy unwinding and spending time outside, this doesn’t happen as frequently as it used to as the weather becomes colder. Enclosing the deck is thus one of the deck design concepts to take into account. Of course, it’s up to you how far you take this concept. Some homeowners just install a roof, while others build walls and windows, transforming their deck into a sort-of sunroom as a result. Even if you don’t want to make your deck feel as though it’s a room, you can still benefit from having a roof that will still allow you to use your deck in both bad weather and year-round.

4. Use the Ideal Material

Choosing quality deck materials, and materials that will work well with your home, in particular, becomes just as important as designing your deck properly. Despite the advancements in modern deck materials, some deck builders still use pressure-treated lumber in their construction. Pressure-treated lumber will eventually require continuous upkeep or perhaps replacement over time. However, if installed and kept up properly, treated lumber can look stunning (so some homeowners will still love this material). This means that while new decking material may cost more, it will last longer and require less upkeep. There are also many other quality materials to consider when building a deck in Virginia, so simply going with treated lumber is not always the right choice. Once again, your deck builder can help you make the right decision.

5. Pavilions and Pergolas Can Do Wonders for Your Deck

Adding a sizable framework to your deck can provide the ultimate way to “deck” out your deck. With this being said, your deck can benefit from adding a pavilion or a pergola to improve the aesthetic appeal and provide useful shade. Because they have an airy sense to them, pergolas are popular among homeowners. On an extremely hot day, they do a terrific job of cooling the area while yet allowing some filtered sunshine to enter. A pergola can also be equipped with lighting or a ceiling fan. A pavilion is more like a full roof and will protect you from the weather in addition to providing shade.

Find a Deck Design that Works for You

As you consider the details of the five tips we’ve discussed, you can pinpoint a deck design and layout that works for you. Consider trends when building your dream deck, but never lose sight of what unique features might help you feel truly at home when you’re using your deck. Doing so will help you ensure your investment is a massive hit, after all.