Creative and Useful Ideas for Roofs Over Decks

For many people, one of their favorite activities is hanging out on their deck. Although most people think of deck life in the warmer months, installing a roof can help you enjoy your deck in more types of weather. 

A deck can add hundreds of livable (and fun) square feet to your home. So why not transform your deck into something useful and entertaining for the whole family? Bring the outdoors to you with roof coverings, shelters, and these cool ideas to shield your deck utopia from harsh weather elements.

Gazebo over deck

Installing a gazebo is a beautiful way to add shelter to your deck. Gazebos vary in size, so you want to ensure you have enough space on your deck to add one. These structures can be many different shapes, but usually, the most popular are round or octagonal. Gazebos are ideal for holding a table and/or some furniture so you can relax, eat, and take in the panoramic views.

Shade sail

A shade what? Sounds interesting and very sail-boatish, but what is it? A shade sail is a less permanent solution than a gazebo or similar structure. It’s a stylish way to create shade and relatively easy to install. These shade sails are available in a variety of colors and lend a “beachy” look to any deck. Make sure they’re anchored in well to have the proper amount of tension to filter out the sun’s UV rays.

Awnings

When you think of an awning, you might think of those old striped covers, usually placed next to windows or doors. Well, awnings have come pretty far in the past few decades; it’s not your Grandmother’s awning anymore! Instead, awnings are made using many types of materials. Awnings are a simple way to give needed shade to your deck. Whether it’s an old-school awning, or something much more contemporary, it’s easy to find one that will fit your needs.

Roof extension over deck

Some of us move into homes with decks, and some are lucky enough to have an overhang or roof extension that gives the deck some shelter. Use this extended roof to your advantage by adding a roof covers of your choice. A roof extension will beautify the area and create a larger, more pleasant, protected space for you to relax or eat.

Lighted umbrella

Perfect for those with smaller decks, these creative umbrellas serve two purposes. First, they provide shelter from the weather elements, and second, these umbrellas illuminate your nighttime activities. Often these umbrellas have small lights, also known as fairy lights. The lights create a beautiful ambiance for entertaining outside. In addition, solar lights in the umbrellas charge during the day, so your nights are brightly lit. It’s an easy add-on and great for townhouse decks or smaller outdoor spaces.

Deck arbor

There are several types of arbors you can build above your deck. Some will give more shade than others, depending on size and shape. These structures make an attractive and creative addition to your deck oasis. Additionally, you can plant some climbing vines to add greenery. Arbors can be combined with other ideas to help complete your deck space. They’re buildable in different materials. 

Pergola

What is a pergola? A pergola is a structure, most often made of wood, which gives some shelter and turns your deck into a gorgeous entertainment or relaxation space. Pergolas can be of different sizes and can function as more of a shading or shelter option or provide a whole other dimension to beautify your deck. In addition, you can add other aspects to enhance the structure, such as incorporating a full roof to make your deck more flexible to use in rainy or cooler weather.

Pergola with sides

Pergolas generally are constructed to be over something, but what about some side action? Having protection from the elements and bugs is nice, especially when eating outside. There are many ideas about screening in your pergola, but also, it’s possible to incorporate attractive drapery. Use weatherproof material so you can enjoy them, and they’ll be relatively maintenance-free.

Pergola with canopy

While we are talking about pergolas, let’s add another option. Pergolas, when built, will have space that will allow the sun and rain to come through. But first, add a roof using hard plastic, vinyl, or metal. 

You can also use fabric. Although these are quite different materials, each will have its own function and advantages. With careful planning, you can even install a retractable roof. Make your pergola versatile to enjoy a variety of weather conditions.

Pergola with extended roof

So, you’ve got your pergola, which adds beauty to your deck, but you want more covered space. That’s fair. How about a retractable roof? This is a great solution for those who want both sun and shade. The retractable roofs are watertight and can easily be illuminated for nighttime use. Some are even remote-controlled and adjustable to maximize your time outside.

Patio or deck privacy screen

Well, it’s not quite a covered shelter but a structure to give you privacy. These can be erected easily on decks, especially those behind townhomes, to increase enjoyment. The privacy screens keep your activities separate from your neighbor and can even reduce noise. In addition, you can hang lights or plants up to enhance the area.

Canopy

Have a sitting area or picnic table? If you want a stylish cover, have a canopy sheltering it. There are many variations of the types of canopies and the materials you can use, not to mention size. Your deck festivities will benefit from adding on a creative canopy. A simple canvas canopy is eye-catching and very easy to install. They’re transportable as well.

Cabana

We think of cabanas for use with pools – and yes, a poolside cabana is fabulous, but a cabana can be a great type of roof covering for your deck. You can install a cabana over an eating or sitting area, a play area, or a hot tub. If you don’t have a solid plan for where to put your cabana, that’s okay too. You can rearrange your deck (play area!) accordingly. Make it entertaining for everyone!

Garden style greenhouse

This is a bit of a different idea. So you like gardening, and you like deck life. So why not combine the two and set up a small greenhouse of sorts on your deck? A greenhouse is fantastic for growing, doing special horticultural projects, and protecting plants in the winter. So use your deck and your love of plants by setting up a greenhouse, large or small, to indulge your gardening adventures.

Grillzebo

Yes, we totally admit this is one of our favorites! It combines grilling and outdoor fun. We know gazebos are freestanding structures, usually circular or octagonal, and they give shelter and provide a weather buffer. What if we told you we could put a grill in a gazebo? Is that even possible? Would you become a gourmet grill chef? These pavilions are specially designed to accommodate a grill. Imagine great eating and having fun in a backyard shelter.

Deck Tiki Bar

Another fun idea is to install a tiki-themed covering over your outdoor bar or snacking area. These can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. The hut-style roofing gives a beach or island-themed mood to your deck. This entertaining idea lends itself to many occasions. Watch the game, dine, or converse with friends, all while enjoying the beverage of your choice. Make it a piña colada or a mai-tai.

Covered swing

Don’t have a lot of space to work with? Yet you want something relaxing and fun, and something that will keep you covered from the rain or other elements. A covered swing is an easy, fun idea that will allow you to enjoy the outdoor time while reading a book or working on your laptop. So think about a covered swing – which is idyllic for those quiet days.

Garden grove that’s gorgeous

How about a deck roof that’s plant friendly? While we enjoy making our deck attractive and valuable, we love adding plants. Not only does it make the area lusher, but it also makes the space more healthy. So add some climbing plants and flowering perennials to keep the area fresh and low maintenance.

Screened in porch

Another of our favorite suggestions is the addition of a screened-in porch. A screened-in porch adds value to your home and provides variety to your deck and outdoor activities. A room such as this makes any outdoor festivity much more approachable – especially when you have cover from the less favorable weather elements. You can still enjoy the seasons through the screen, and this special screened room provides the best of both worlds – indoors and out.

A sunroom addition

Another idea, and certainly more of an investment, is building a sunroom. Whether it’s a three-season room, a four-season one, or a solarium, this will definitely add value to your house. It will truly give you the best of the indoors and the outdoors, as there are many activities in which you can partake. When adding on a sunroom, consider what will benefit your family the most. You will likely find that the sheer versatility of a sunroom is worth it!