Five Deck Designs Explained

Platform Decks

Platform decks are the simplest deck style. They are usually built on level lots and attached to single-level dwellings. Railings often are not necessary because these decks are built low to the ground. Other ways to highlight the perimeter include built-in planters and bench seats. Angles, curves, a large screened gazebo, or an interesting railing pattern provide both style and function for this deck.

Because platform decks are close to the ground, it's important that the material is protected from the elements. All structural materials should be pressure-treated or rated for direct ground contact.

Raised Decks

Houses with above-grade first floors require raised decks. Raised decks must include railings and stairs for safety and easy access to the yard. When complete, these decks include exposed foundation posts that can be concealed with foundation plantings or skirting. Skirting usually consists of lath or lattice panels that fit between the deck and the ground.

Two-Story Decks

Two-story decks provide outdoor access to the upper levels of your home. While the extra access is a plus, the structural posts and bracing required to support a two-story deck can create an aesthetic challenge. Structural members can be disguised by covering them with decorative boards so they don't appear spindly. Other ways to disguise the exposed structural members include using posts that are thicker than building codes require or using partial skirting along the exterior.

Multilevel Decks

Multilevel decks are a series of decks connected by stairways or walkways. These decks are perfect for sloped lots because the deck areas follow the contours of the land. Joining each section with a short run of stairs prevents the lowest deck from interfering with the views from the higher decks. The multilevel deck style also takes advantage of the microclimates within the yard. This style allows homeowners to have one level close to the house for entertaining, another level in the shade of nearby trees, and a third level positioned to soak up the sun.

Freestanding Deck

Freestanding decks are not attached to the house. This is a useful approach when the house's construction does not allow for a deck to be attached to the house. Freestanding decks are built with the same basic methods and techniques as attached decks, except footings, posts, and beams replace the ledger board. Because freestanding decks are not attached to the house, they are perfect for highlighting the best areas of your yard. Freestanding decks become natural extensions of the landscape when placed in a shady glade or overlooking a beautiful garden.

Source: bhg.com

10 Ideas for Functional Outdoor Spaces

Create a Link to the Indoors

The first step to designing your outdoor space is determining how to marry it with your existing home. Architectural connectors such as overhangs, colonnades, and pergolas make linking the outdoors with the indoors a breeze. Design elements and materials should flow together to create a uniform feel.

Flow from Room to Room

People want to feel connected to the outdoors when inside. This requires opening up the rear of the house for sunlight, visual sight lines, and accessibility. Adding easy access from several areas of your house is the key to achieving this goal.

Use Low-Maintenance Materials

Using low-maintenance decking and paving materials means you'll have more time to enjoy your outdoor space. Decks are now commonly constructed of composite materials, which require no staining or sealing. If you want to use wood, some tropical hardwoods are naturally rot-resistant. Stone is also popular for its ability to blend with the natural landscape. Brick, stamped concrete, and manufactured pavers can also form solid foundations.

Spark Up a Conversation

Even in warm climates, a hearth -- fire pit, chiminea, or wood-burning or gas fireplace -- adds visual interest and comfort to your outdoor area. The hearth makes an ideal focal point, so it's wise to design your space with its placement in mind. Consider whether you'll want a built-in hearth or one that's portable for zone heating and entertaining flexibility.

Move the Kitchen Outside

An outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a grill or as comprehensive as your indoor version -- with an alfresco twist. Outfit your space with a sink, refrigerator, dishwasher, bar, prep area, built-in grill, and wood-fired oven. Make sure to also consider utility requirements, shelter, climate-proof materials, and how you'll use the space.

Work with the Weather

To some extent, you can control the climate in your outdoor living space. During the day, ceiling fans hung from overhead trellises help keep insects at bay and air from being stagnant. After dark and on cool days, portable heaters -- tower or tabletop units -- add extra comfort. Overhangs, umbrellas, gazebos, sunrooms, and porches all offer shade.

Tip: Consider building on the south side of your house during the planning stages. Southern- facing areas warm up quicker and are more comfortable in cooler months.

Add Entertainment Value

Ditch your battery-operated radio for more sophisticated electronics such as an all-weather LCD television and wireless outdoor speakers. Some entertainment systems are designed to blend in with natural elements; many are constructed of waterproof materials and built to withstand everything from insects to extreme heat.

Illuminate Your Space

During the day, natural light is king. But you can keep the party going long after the sun sets with strategic outdoor lighting. Single-source spotlights and floodlights can be too harsh to set a laid-back mood. Instead, opt for multiple indirect sources such as sconces, candles, lanterns, and landscape lighting. Walkways, stairs, and water sources should always be well-lit for safety.

Add Water

Whether it's a little (fountain and koi ponds) or a lot (hot tubs and swimming pools), water is a pleasing outdoor design feature. Before you set your heart on bringing water into your design, check zoning guidelines for potential safety requirements such as fencing and proximity to buildings and property lines.

Separate with Fencing

Privacy fences keep pets and children in and onlookers out. Masonry walls can double as counter space or extra seating in an entertaining pinch. Incorporate built-in or attached benches to free up walkways where freestanding furniture might make for cramped quarters. Trellis walls keep spaces airy while giving vines and hooks a place to hang out.

As with all exterior products, vinyl fence can become dirty when exposed to the elements. A mild detergent and water should be sufficient to keep your fence or deck rail looking new. For tough stains, a soft scrubbing product or baking soda works well. Simple Green® and super fine steel wool (0000) also works to clean stubborn stains.

Remember that direct contact with lawn and garden equipment can cause damage to all vinyl and wood products. Use caution when operating any type of equipment near fence posts, especially commercial trimmers, which are more aggressive.