Creative Raised Decking Ideas for Your Garden
By Dave KileIf you have a deck, it is an excellent addition to your home, and if you’re lucky enough to have a raised deck, even better! Having a second-storey or raised deck gives you more options for outdoor storage, activities, functionality, and design. From my years in the decking industry, I have several ideas to maximise your creativity.
The Benefits of Raised Decking
As mentioned before, a raised deck has many benefits. If your residence sits on a slope, then a raised deck will not be affected by the slant of the ground. Also, there are many things you can tackle in the way of storage with a raised deck. Furthermore, a patio underneath can be quite helpful in setting up another seating space, a dining space, or a play area for the youngsters.
How about the view? Because a raised deck can be several metres above the ground, there usually is an enhanced view. If the sun beats down strongly on your deck, installing an awning, an umbrella, or perhaps a pergola for shade is easy.
Design Ideas for Raised Decking
From pet areas to play spaces or a screened-in yoga room to an outdoor kitchen, we have suggestions for what to do with the treasured space underneath your deck. These suggestions are feasible with the right materials and desire to build.
Multilevel Raised Deck
A multilevel deck has it all! If you have different areas of your deck sectioned off, you could have a place for dining, sunbathing, and a spot for play. It’s always nice to have a variety of spaces for different purposes. To make the transition seamless, utilise large planters or deck furniture – or maybe a large brolly or patio umbrella to make each section its own little perfect oasis.
Raised Deck with Under-Deck Storage
Fun and functionality – this is brilliant! You have a raised deck and need to store a few things. You have the ideal space, whether it’s a paddleboat, deck chairs, or gardening tools. You can waterproof the underside of the deck by using Trex RainEscape. Trex RainEscape is a deck drainage system that uses troughs, gutters, and downspouts to divert water away from your deck. The underside of your deck stays dry, giving you many options for using this space.
Screened-In or Covered Raised Deck
Indeed, incorporating a pergola or shade sail over your deck will keep it private and reduce the sun’s UV rays. You can also screen in the underside of your deck. This will keep insects at bay and create a makeshift room you can enjoy even when the seasons change. A space heater, fan, or portable air unit will keep conditions temperate in your screened-in “hideaway.”
Raised Deck with Outdoor Kitchen
This is one of my favourite suggestions when it comes to raised decks. Since the pandemic, homeowners have spent much more time eating at home. If you have a raised deck, you could incorporate an outdoor kitchen on either the top of the deck, or the patio below. An outdoor grill, a prep area, and potentially a mini-refrigerator are something to consider, especially if you entertain a lot. The kitchen could be in a waterproofed area under your deck, while seating could be on top! Something to note: I suggest using stone or concrete countertops for durability.
Kid and Pet-Friendly Raised Deck
Now we get to the good stuff! If you have children or pets, there is nothing like having a fun deck set up for them. Make sure your railings are in top shape, with no missing balusters. Space the balusters so there is no danger of a small pet or child falling through. Using a gate to “contain” the fun is also a brilliant idea. If space allows, you can also design a playroom or pet room underneath the deck. The area below the deck is shady and offers activities for kids and pets. At the very least, the under-deck area could double for storage for all the outdoor equipment.
Creative Layouts and Patterns
You might have a deck in a somewhat challenging space where the land layout isn’t as flat. Or perhaps you need to work around some existing landscaping that doesn’t lend itself easily to deck building. Here are some factors to consider:
- Varying heights and levels – You should include a few different steps or stairs in your deck design or make it multilevel. This ensures ease of access and sections off your deck.
- Unique shapes and curves – if your garden has a specific curvature, consider working with the land. Think about curving part of your deck instead of having a straight line that may not go with the landscaping. This works well in yards that have ponds. We have also seen some beautiful angled decks.
- Different laying patterns – speaking of angles, think about an inlay deck pattern. Trex composite has many colours that you can use to create a custom design. Having a patterned deck is a focal point and a conversation starter.
Material Choices and Considerations
Decks can be constructed from many different materials, including lumber, aluminium, PVC, and composite. Pressure-treated pine, ipê, and cedar are all popular choices. PVC (or polyvinyl chloride) and composite decking are durable and sustainable options. Trex is a popular type of decking material with a 25-50-year warranty and is one of the most environmentally friendly materials you can use.
Depending on your garden and the set up of your residence, you can choose what type of material best suits you. Lumber may complement your yard space, as well as your patio. Composite decking offers longevity and beauty and is very easy to maintain. Composite needs a thorough cleaning about once a year to look attractive and does not require painting, sealing, or staining.
Enhance Your Deck with Accessories
This is a chance to further personalise your deck. Besides the shape and size of your deck, you can add things like stylish railings, custom lighting, and shelter, like a gazebo.
Balustrades and Railings
For safety with raised decks, one must consider the significance of railings. Railngs can come in all sorts of styles. Spacing the rungs is of utmost importance, as well as ensuring the railings are secure to prevent accidents.
Lighting Options
Lighting will make your deck and patio accessible and safe, and it sets your atmosphere at night. Whether you choose string lights, solar lights, or Trex Soffit lights, available with Trex RainEscape, you’ll have a beautiful illuminated area. Lighting up your garden, patio, and/or deck in the evening is important so people can find their way around.
Practical Tips for Building Raised Decks
If you’re thinking about constructing a raised deck for your dwelling, you need to plan for a few things. The first one is safety, as a raised deck can present a potential falling risk. Secondly, consider your lifestyle. Will this be an outdoor place suited to your activities, dining, and relaxing? Thirdly, if this type of deck plays well into your landscape, a raised deck will give you excellent views.
Although some people prefer to DIY their construction, it’s always advisable to seek a professional contractor to help you. Between zoning rules, survey guidelines, and building permits, a pro can help you navigate the regulations so you have a successful build.
Conclusion
Having a deck increases your outdoor enjoyment! You might have a deck that surrounds a swimming pool, one that is complementary to your garden, or one where you have different spaces for relaxation and invigoration, but all have one thing in common: the decks bring years of joy and outdoor fun. Make sure you do your diligence and research to creatively plan your next deck adventure.
Sources:
https://trexrainescape.com/double-your-outdoor-space-uk/
https://trexprotect.com/blog/how-much-weight-can-a-deck-hold/
https://www.trex.com/deck-ideas/deck-inlay-designs-patterns-gallery/
https://trexrainescape.com/resources/trex-deck-railing-ideas/
