An outdoor deck is a type of platform structure that is made from some type of composite decking material or from wood. Decks are designed to provide you with a space to perform outdoor activities. For example, decks can run around a pool, so that you can lay out in the sun, get in and out, have a BBQ, and more. Decks and patios are quite similar in nature, but decks are commonly raised, and patios are not. Decks can become quite extravagant and include screening walls, seating areas, an outdoor kitchen, and more. Or they can be simple and plain too. The type of deck you choose is up to you; however, it should meet your needs and stick within your budget.
In this blog, we will discuss the most popular and common types of decks available along with some information about them. There are all types of decks to choose from but after reading this blog article, we are confident you will know which one is right for you and your home.
Platform Deck
A platform deck is a detached deck, which means it is not hooked onto another structure. These decks are ideal for providing you a space to sit or complete activities in the yard without being on the ground. This freestanding deck is often linked to the home via a pathway, and you may hear these decks referred to as floating decks.
The alternative to these, attached decks, require a different type of structure, which these do not. This means these are an ideal choice for anyone who wants to do the project themselves, as they do not have to have a footing post beam structure. In most cases, a building permit is not required to construct this floating option, but you should always check with your local permitting office to be on the safe side.
These decks do not require a special foundation or anything and can simply sit on the ground itself or rest on short posts or concrete blocks should the area not be level.
Pros:
- Cheaper option
- DIY compatible
- Quick to build
- Great alternative to a patio
Cons:
- Needs a walkway from deck to house
- Does require maintenance
- Can succumb to water damage due to flooding and moist ground
Attached Deck
An attached deck is just as it sounds – a deck attached to your housing structure. This type of deck is probably the most common one found on homes and is usually designed to be an extension of the home itself. For example, the deck may extend from a family room, dining room, or even the kitchen. The deck is accessed via a door that is installed.
An attached deck can come in a variety of styles and can be ground level or raised. These decks can even have landings and stairways making them completely customizable to enhance the look of your home. These decks are subject to building codes due to the fact that they are anchored into the home’s framework.
If you choose to have an attached deck that is elevated above the ground, you will need to make sure it is supported by beams or posts. You will need to apply for a permit for these and have an inspection completed at the end of the project.
A professional should complete this project and it is not recommended as a DIY project.
Pros:
- Great as a multipurpose and multiuse area
- Adds value to your home
- Extends the indoor spaces to the exterior
Cons:
- Not a DIY project
- Requires inspections and permitting
- Requires maintenance regularly
- Does need code approved stairways and railings when it is elevated
Wraparound
A wraparound deck is often referred to as a large, attached deck and it is usually elevated and continues around at least two or more of the sides of the home. These types of decks will usually be covered by a roof and include some type of railing in the front and some steps to climb up and down.
The unique thing about a wraparound is that it can be large and wide, or it can be narrow depending on your needs, wants, and budget. If you want to add this type of deck and have it covered, it will cost you quite a bit more as you will need to have new roofing added and have your gutters reworked.
Most wraparounds are made from composite materials, which tend to be more expensive, but they last much longer than what wood will. If you plan to use the area often and expect to have high foot traffic, you want to make sure you use quality materials.
Pros:
- Connects the home and adds an aesthetic look to it
- Allows you to access sunny or shady areas throughout the day
- Can be customized to meet your sizing needs
Cons:
- Can be expensive due to size
- Serves a different purpose than traditional decks
- Gutter rework and additional roofing can add to the cost
Swimming Pool Deck
You have likely seen these decks around pools and most people do opt for them at some point. Decking is a commonly chosen option around the pool because it is slip resistant and does not retain as much heat as other options. This means you will not burn your feet when walking around.
Composite or wood is the most commonly used materials, and you can choose to have decking placed around an in-ground or above-ground pool. A deck around your pool increases the amount of space that swimmers have as they can lay out on the deck before or after swimming.
While wood and composite materials are the two most popular options, composite is generally the better option because you avoid splinters, and they composite is durable. It is more expensive than wood too. If you choose wood, it is important to know that you will need to have it treated and maintained regularly due to its exposure to water.
Most pool decks will simply rest along the concrete apron already created for the pool but in above ground pools, the deck is constructed to make it look like an in-ground pool. Decks that are attached to above-ground pools can usually be attached to existing attached decks as well.
Pros:
- Slip resistant
- Does not retain as much heat as other options
- Can be a DIY project
Cons:
- Wood requires a lot of maintenance due to water exposure
- Splinters from wood
Multi-Level
A multi-level deck is one that is made up of a series of smaller decks all connected to each other through stairs. These types of decks are ideal for large properties and properties that vary in elevation. One thing to keep in mind is that you do need to have the right type of terrain to have this deck option installed, as it will not work with all. Some of the terrains this works well on include rocky landscapes, hills, mountains, and slopes.
Decks tend to be cheaper than patios when it comes to rough or rocky terrain, which is why these are ideal. You will find that this option is much more expensive than a traditional deck, but they look amazing. Most are constructed from wood, but you can choose a composite material too.
Pros:
- Can be used with existing decks on site
- Great for uneven yards
- Does not have to be constructed all at once
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not a DIY project
- Does require maintenance
Entryway Deck
If you are unhappy with the space in front of your home, you can add livable space by adding an entryway deck to your home. This deck can allow you and visitors to sit out front and enjoy your time outside without compromising space or struggling to move around freely.
The deck can be constructed similar to a patio but is not enclosed or it can have a series of elevations and steps or platforms. You can even have flower beds built into the sides of the deck.
The most important thing to remember with this type of deck is to match it to the architecture of your home. This way, it complements the home and does not detract from it.
Pros:
- Allows for entertaining in the front yard space
- Inexpensive option
- Looks good when matched to the home
Cons:
- Requires maintenance on a regular basis
- Can be hard to shovel snow from
Side Yard Decking
If you have a small area of your yard that you want to use for some seating or you want to create a pathway, a side yard deck may be the way to go. These decks are designed to meet the landscape they are intended to serve, which makes them unique.
These types of decks are smaller and much cheaper than other options. If you are not looking for a large deck, this may be just enough for you.
Pros:
- Uses unused or underutilized space in the yard
- Cheap option
- Good DIY project
Cons:
- Limited on space
- Does need maintenance
Dedicated Deck
Wait what? Yes, this is a category, and it is still a deck, but it is for a dedicated purpose. While you likely have a purpose for your deck, these decks are used just for their specific purpose. For example, you can create a deck that has an outdoor kitchen and seating area, and this becomes an extension of your dining room and kitchen. These decks are meant to be used only for that reason whereas others can be quite versatile.
A dedicated deck is usually built out with the items that it will be dedicated to. For instance, an outdoor kitchen would include a table, countertops, refrigerator, built-in grill, sink, food prep area, and so on.
This type of deck can be as simple or as extravagant as you want it to be. Other options can include a small, secluded deck that is fitted with privacy screening around it or even built-in planters.
Pros:
- Moderate price range for what you get
- Can be DIY
- Adds value and creates a dedicated area
Cons:
- May need a building permit
- Limited to specific use
- May need additional features such as electrical or plumbing
Choosing Your Deck
As you get ready to choose your deck, keep these things in mind:
1. Location – Where will the deck go? Choosing the right type of deck will depend on the location of the deck and the terrain that surrounds it. Do you want the deck in the front yard, side yard, around a pool, etc.?
2. Structural Design – What type of structural design are you after? Do you want the deck to match your home’s current architecture, or do you have something already in mind? Do you want an attached or detached deck?
3. Building Codes – Do you need to have a permit to have the deck installed? Does this mean you will need to have inspections conducted?
4. Function – How do you want to use your deck? What activities will take place on the deck area?
Now that you have answered those questions, consider furthermore:
5. Materials – What type of materials will you use? There are many different options, so weigh them each and determine which one best suits you and your budget
6. Building Site – What is the site like where you will build the deck? Is the terrain rough or smooth? Do you need any work completed prior?
7. Ability for DIY – Is the deck you want a good DIY project, or do you need to hire someone for the job? Would you prefer a DIY deck? Do you have the experience and tools needed to complete the job on your own? Will this be a simple or complex project for you to carry out?
8. Budget – What is your budget? Can you afford your wants and needs? What type of materials can you afford? Do you want them to be high-quality and are you willing to cut costs somewhere else to make that happen?
Get to Building Your Deck Today
If you are ready to get your deck built, the first step is to determine which one suits your needs best. Decks are an excellent way to add extra functional space to your yard and allows you to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family.
As you construct your deck, don’t forget that self-storage is available to store your belongings that may be in the way until the deck is ready.