Deck Love in the Summer Leads to Makeover Plans

Ah, the bliss of summer and summer deck love! We are right on the last day of the Dog Days of Summer (marked by the Old Farmer’s Almanac as the 40 days beginning July 3rd through August 11th) and for many of us, there is no place we’d rather be than on our decks; or the deck of our favourite restaurants, pubs, or friends.

As you are circulating decks this season, take note of what you like about the decks you visit. There are more decking options, furniture and accessories available today than ever, so what a great time for a deck makeover!

Ideas for a Deck Makeover

Deck Love is a Long Term Commitment – Outdoor living space has become a favorite part of the home for many North Americans. The old style of constructing decks to a 10 foot by 20 foot single surface has been replaced by a growing number of expansive decks. The best way to increase your outdoor living space is by using your second level deck as a roof for a deck area below.

Deck waterproofing specialists like our Duradek trained applicators can provide a roof-grade deck surface on your upper level deck, enabling you to double your useable space with a protected lower level deck below. This gives you the advantages of catching as much sun as  you can on the top level AND protecting you with some shaded area below when you need it.

Plus, let’s face it, your deck is not a summer romance. You LOVE your deck and want to use it all year, and when you have protection from above that is possible.

Get Creative With Railings – There are many styles of railings available for defining your outdoor living space. There are traditional picket railings made with powder coated aluminum that can provide the classic look of wrought iron without the need for maintenance, or you can choose glass railings, topless glass railings or stainless steel cable railings in some areas.

Go one step further and combine any of the above options for a completely unique look. Durarail powder coated aluminum railings allow for standard or custom designs, and incorporating unique features can provide the best of design and functionality for your individualized deck.

The Shape of Things to Come – There is no need to be stuck in same old rectangular shaped deck with today’s decking options.

Choose octagonal, oval or multiple curves to create a unique shape that brings an element of contemporary style to the traditional feature of a deck. Innovative new railing products like Durarail’s Panorama Universal Post that allows you to define a curved deck with a topless glass railing system that virtually “bends” around corners gives you almost limitless design options!

Multi-Level Decks – Decking trends like outdoor kitchens, permanent (as opposed to seasonal) outdoor furniture and fire features contribute to the use of outdoor living space being used as often as any other room in your home.

Incorporating multiple levels to your deck with distinct separation allows you to treat each level of your deck like a separate room. While your outdoor kitchen is on one level, your lounging area can be another and your spa is on yet another…the possibilities are endless based on your favorite leisure activities. When your deck surface is protected with Duradek vinyl, the area below is kept dry; and even if a lower level of your deck is only elevated a couple of feet, that provides some great dry storage for gardening supplies, camping gear or other outdoor toys.

Want to show your deck a little love? Contact one of our Duradek installers to discuss your deck make-over options.

originally published July 31, 2015