When it comes to designing your perfect outdoor retreat, a well-built deck can be the focal point of your backyard. But with so many types of decks available, it can be difficult to choose which style fits best with your needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, a space to entertain, or a blend of both, there’s a deck type that will suit your vision. Let’s explore the most popular types of decks to help you make an informed decision.
1. Ground-Level Decks
Perfect for smaller yards or level ground.
Ground-level decks are low to the ground, typically no higher than 2 feet above the earth’s surface. These decks are ideal for flat or gently sloping yards, providing a seamless transition between your home and your garden or lawn.
- Best for: Small to medium-sized backyards, relaxing outdoor spaces, and areas where you don’t want a dramatic height difference.
- Benefits: These decks are often less expensive and easier to build compared to elevated decks. They’re also a great way to enhance a cozy outdoor living area without overwhelming the landscape.
2. Raised Decks
Perfect for uneven terrain or creating elevated outdoor living spaces.
A raised deck is a great option for homes with uneven ground or for creating a more expansive outdoor living area. These decks are typically elevated more than 2 feet off the ground and are supported by posts or pillars. They offer an opportunity to create beautiful views and can be accessed by stairs, providing a stylish feature for your outdoor space.
- Best for: Homes on sloped terrain, creating elevated spaces with great views, or adding a unique architectural feature to your yard.
- Benefits: Raised decks provide more privacy and often create beautiful vistas of your backyard or surrounding scenery. They can also double as storage spaces underneath if you install skirting or lattice around the base.
3. Multilevel Decks
Perfect for larger properties and creating distinct outdoor zones.
If you want to create a dynamic outdoor space with multiple purposes, a multilevel deck is the way to go. This type of deck uses different levels or tiers to create distinct zones, such as a dining area on one level, a lounge area on another, and perhaps a hot tub or fire pit on yet another. This layout is ideal for larger yards where you want to separate areas for relaxation and entertainment.
- Best for: Large properties with varying levels of terrain, or homeowners looking for a functional and visually interesting deck design.
- Benefits: Multilevel decks make it easy to divide your outdoor space into separate zones, giving your backyard a more organized and customized feel. They also work well with hilly terrain, allowing for creative designs.
4. Wraparound Decks
Perfect for homes with large or panoramic views.
A wraparound deck extends around the entire perimeter of your home, offering unobstructed views and access to different areas of your property. These decks can connect to multiple doors and offer ample space for outdoor activities. They’re a fantastic choice if you have a scenic landscape or want to create a seamless flow between the inside and outside of your home.
- Best for: Homes with scenic surroundings, larger properties, or those who want easy access to multiple sides of their yard.
- Benefits: Wraparound decks allow you to enjoy a variety of outdoor views and create a unified, spacious feel for your home. They also provide versatile entertaining space and can increase the overall curb appeal of your property.
5. Pool Decks
Perfect for complementing your swimming pool area.
If you have a pool, adding a pool deck is a natural next step. Pool decks are built around your swimming pool, offering a safe and functional space to lounge, entertain, and even barbecue. They can be built with various materials like wood, composite, or even tile, depending on the look you want.
- Best for: Homes with an in-ground pool or hot tub, or anyone looking to create a luxurious poolside experience.
- Benefits: Pool decks are designed to enhance your pool experience by creating comfortable seating areas, pathways, and sunbathing spots. Additionally, they can improve pool safety by preventing slips and offering non-slip surfaces.
6. Rooftop Decks
Perfect for urban spaces or homes with limited yard space.
Rooftop decks are a popular choice for city dwellers or those who have limited backyard space but still want to enjoy outdoor living. These decks are built on the roof of a home or building, offering a private oasis with panoramic views of the city or surrounding landscape. A rooftop deck is ideal for anyone looking to maximize space in a compact area.
- Best for: Urban environments, homes with flat roofs, or people looking for a secluded, high-up retreat.
- Benefits: Rooftop decks offer amazing views and provide a unique opportunity for urban homeowners to enjoy outdoor living. They can also be designed to include seating, gardens, or even outdoor kitchens.
7. Freestanding Decks
Perfect for creating a space away from the house or for sloped yards.
Freestanding decks are not attached to your home at all. They can be placed anywhere on your property, whether it’s in the middle of your yard or at the edge of your garden. These decks are ideal for homes on sloped terrain or those with unconventional layouts.
- Best for: Backyards with unique layouts or when you want a deck independent of the house, creating a focal point or a private retreat.
- Benefits: These decks can be placed in any area of your yard, giving you more flexibility in terms of design. Freestanding decks can also add a unique architectural feature to your property, especially when set in a garden or near a water feature.
8. Screened-in Decks
Perfect for enjoying the outdoors without the bugs.
Screened-in decks provide all the benefits of an outdoor deck with the added bonus of protection from insects and weather elements. A screened-in deck is enclosed with mesh screening, which allows fresh air to circulate while keeping out bugs, debris, and pests. They’re perfect for people who love the outdoors but want to avoid mosquitoes and other critters.
- Best for: Those living in areas with many bugs, people who want to extend the use of their deck into different seasons, or anyone wanting a semi-outdoor living space.
- Benefits: Screened-in decks are great for relaxing, dining, and entertaining without worrying about pests or debris. They also provide some protection from the weather, allowing you to enjoy your deck during rain or wind.