Exploring Deck Trends to Transform Your Backyard
Decks can completely transform your backyard space. It provides a functional spot for you to extend your home and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. You can also cook, host friends, and create an oasis in your backyard.
The type of deck you build can completely change the vibe of your backyard space, and here are four deck trends to spark inspiration and help you design your dream deck.
4 Deck Design Trends
Whether you are looking for a classic deck that transcends time or a cutting-edge design that makes a statement, below are four deck trends to explore as you design your new deck.
Durable Decks
Wood is no longer the reigning material for decks. Many people are moving towards using composites in their deck construction. Composite deck panels are a mixture of recycled wood and plastic. While they can be more expensive upfront, they’re often more cost-effective in the long run.
Composite decks
Composite decks require less maintenance. They are naturally water-resistant and don’t need to be sanded, stained, or re-treated. While you can add sealant every few years to help maintain their waterproofing, you do not have to. They are low-maintenance and durable.
Even with that, some prefer to use natural materials like wood for their decks. Pressurized wood has been treated to help reduce rot and insect damage. Other common deck woods include cedar, mahogany, and redwood. These woods are harder, meaning they can withstand the elements.
Wooden decks
Wooden decks must be stained every two to three years to maintain their color and re-sealed every one to three years to help preserve their water resistance. Failure to do so can cause your deck to rot.
The materials you choose can depend on your budget, weather conditions, and desired look. For those living in hot climates like Arizona or Nevada, composite decks may be better, as their surfaces do not retain heat as much as more natural materials do.
States with moderate temperatures or seasons, like Illinois or Tennessee, should use rot-resistant materials. Otherwise, you may need to replace your deck materials because of water damage. Pressure-treated wood may be a good option if you keep up with routine maintenance. Composite decks may be the better choice if you want a deck requiring little upkeep.
Local contractors can help suggest what will work best for your home. If you’re not sure where to begin, turn to Google. For example, if you’re in Tennessee, look up “deck builder Tennessee” to get started. Change out the state for where you are to see results near you.
Mixed Materials
Don’t feel limited to one material type when designing your deck. Many people use different colors and a mixture of wood, composite, stone, and other deck materials. They also use different patterns to lay the materials, providing a unique look and feel to any deck. The most common patterns include herringbone, vertical, and horizontal—or a mixture of these in different areas and levels.
Mixed materials are a great way to make your deck feel more natural. Consider laying a stone area where you can put a firepit. Use varying colors to add dimension to your deck. It helps create designated areas without specifically walling off parts of your deck.
Multiple Levels
Another way to add dimension to your deck is to integrate multiple layers. Larger decks can span multiple floors, while smaller decks may use a few steps to create new areas. A firepit can be sunken into the deck, and the steps can help create natural seating to enjoy the heat.
Cooking areas, dining rooms, and even hot tubs are all features that can be offset with multiple levels. You can integrate more features and increase the available space with multiple levels. Connect the area with staircases and similar designs to help them flow together and feel cohesive.
Built-in Lighting
Lights can be built directly into the decks, providing illuminated paths down stairwells or along the edges. Depending on your preference, these can be powered by electricity or solar energy. You can create a permanent ambiance on your deck by building in the lighting.
These lights can be used in conjunction with other features to help you enjoy your outdoor space at any time of day. If you are technology savvy, you can integrate smart lights and control them directly from your phone.
Wrapping Up
Your deck can add value to your home and create an outdoor space you want to hang out in. As you start the deck-building process, consider what type of deck makes the most sense based on where you live.
From there, you can explore different designs, sizes, and features to help meet your needs. You can even integrate smart technology and control the new additions directly from your phone. If you aren’t sure where to start, consult an expert to brainstorm ideas on transforming your deck into your backyard oasis.
Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014 and the luxury interior design blog All The Pretty Homes in 2024. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.
