A deck is a great way to extend your living area to the outdoors and is something you can build yourself. But why settle for a stock standard deck? There are a variety of ways you can take your deck up a notch and make it a standout feature of your home.
Built-in benches
Built-in benches give your deck an extra dimension. Instead of a flat expanse of deck, benches clad in the decking material make a part of the deck seem like it’s risen up. The same effect can be made using planter boxes instead of benches. Placed along one side of the deck the plants can also act as a living privacy screen.
Add some lights
To make your deck as welcoming at night as it is during the day, include deck lighting. Small energy efficient LED lights set into the side of your deck or along the steps will add a touch of class and sophistication to any deck, and there are some types that you can install yourself.
All in the details
Screws that are all lined up along the line of the deck joists looks a lot neater and more professional than a haphazard line of nails. Make sure the screws are the same distance from the edges of the boards for an even neater look. Wide decking boards look great with the larger heads of bugle batten screws. You could also go the other way altogether and use a hidden fixing system so you can’t see the screws at all.
Whitewash your deck
Add a touch of coastal flair to your deck by whitewashing it. It's easy to do and will add to the summer retreat feel of your backyard. Our handy guide will take you through how to do it yourself, with just a few simple tools and materials.
Stepping out
Connect your deck to the rest of your backyard with a set of steps that run all the way along it. Clad the steps in the same materials as the deck as this will make the deck seem like it is flowing down into the backyard. Another advantage of a big set of steps – extra seating when you’re entertaining.
Keep the tree
Don’t despair if there’s a tree right where you want to build your new deck, turn it into a feature. Frame your deck around the tree and build it in. You can even put some benches around it to give you a shady spot to sit and relax.