Category: Patio, Porches and Decks

Functional and comfortable outdoor living spaces are extremely important to today’s homeowners. Yet you might be feeling underwhelmed by your home’s existing deck or patio.

A deck cover could be what you’re missing. With a simple roof addition or pergola, you can transform your open-air deck into a bonafide outdoor living room. No longer will you need to worry about unexpected rain or excessive UV exposure!

Keep reading for our favorite covered deck ideas that will transform your backyard into your favorite “room” of the entire house.

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1. Install a Ceiling Fan

A ceiling fan can provide much-needed airflow, making your covered deck feel more comfortable and inviting during the hot summer months. It can also add a decorative element to your outdoor space, making it feel more polished and put-together.

When choosing a ceiling fan for your covered deck, consider the size of your space, the style you’re going for, and the level of airflow you want to achieve. You may also want to look for models that come with adjustable speeds or lighting options to customize the atmosphere.

2. Keep the Ceiling Beams

A covered deck with ceiling beams can add a touch of rustic charm to your outdoor space, while also providing shelter from the elements. The ceiling beams can be made of wood or exposed metal, depending on your preferred aesthetic, and can be left natural or painted to match your deck’s color scheme.

Additionally, you can incorporate other rustic elements such as a wooden rocking chair or a vintage metal lantern to complete the look.

3. Install Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting fixtures are typically installed flush with the surface of the ceiling, providing a seamless and unobtrusive appearance that can blend in with your deck’s overall design. They can also provide ample illumination for evening gatherings or simply create a warm and inviting ambiance.

In addition, recessed lighting can be used to complement both modern interior and exterior design elements, making it a versatile choice for any type of covered deck.

4. Bamboo Reed Roofing

Bamboo reed roofing is made of natural materials, which can help to create an airy and open feel to your space, while also adding a touch of rustic charm. This material is durable and long-lasting, making it a practical choice for outdoor use.

You can choose to pair it with other natural materials such as wooden furniture, rattan accents, or sea-inspired decor to create a cohesive and inviting space.

5. Covered Pergola

A covered pergola can provide shade and shelter from the elements while still allowing natural light to filter through. You can choose a corrugated roofing, which is a durable and weather-resistant material that can withstand rain, snow, and wind, making it a practical choice for a covered deck.

6. Pergola

Unlike fully covered decks, pergolas can let light in and allow you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still providing shade and protection from the elements. Pergolas are typically made of wood, but can also be made of other materials like vinyl or aluminum.

They come in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, and can be customized to fit your specific design preferences. Some popular design options for pergolas include adding string lights, curtains, or climbing plants for a more cozy and inviting ambiance.

Pergolas can be used to define different areas of your deck, such as a dining area or seating area, creating a more functional and practical space.

7. Tree Shade

A tree-covered deck can be a wonderful addition to your outdoor living space. It creates a natural and rustic ambiance that’s perfect for relaxing and entertaining.

You can add seating areas, outdoor dining sets, and even hanging swings or hammocks to your tree-covered deck, making it a cozy and comfortable retreat. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, a tree-covered deck can also provide privacy and noise reduction, as the leaves and branches help to absorb sound and create a natural barrier.

8. Hang String Lights

String lights can transform your deck into a cozy and inviting space that’s perfect for entertaining or just relaxing on a summer evening. There are various ways to hang string lights, from crisscrossing them overhead to draping them along the edges of the deck.

You can choose different types of string lights, such as vintage bulbs or colorful fairy lights, depending on the mood and atmosphere you want to create. When it comes to installing them, you can use hooks or clips to attach them securely to the ceiling or the walls.

9. Picnic Umbrella Shade

Picnic umbrellas come in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles, and can provide adequate protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays while adding a fun and playful touch to your outdoor space.

You can choose to place the umbrella in a convenient spot near your outdoor seating area or use it to create a designated shaded area for outdoor activities like reading or enjoying a meal. Picnic umbrellas are easy to set up and can be stored away when not in use.

11. Install Deck Railings

The railings not only add an aesthetic element but also provide a safety feature for kids and pets. Drink rails, cable infills, powder-coated aluminum posts, and classic wood balusters are just a few of the many options you have for your deck’s railing.

12. Slanted Deck Roof

A slanted deck roof offers a dynamic and modern aesthetic while providing practical benefits. Its angled design directs rainwater away efficiently, reducing water accumulation and potential damage. This style also allows for greater headroom and air circulation, making your deck feel more spacious.

It’s a versatile choice, accommodating various roofing materials like metal or shingles to match your home’s exterior. To maximize its appeal, consider adding recessed lighting for a warm, inviting ambiance in the evenings.

13. Add a Skylight

Introducing a skylight to your deck’s design brings in natural light, creating a bright and airy space. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the sky views, whether it’s a sunny day or a starlit night, directly from your deck. For practicality, choose energy-efficient glass to maintain temperature control.

Skylights can be a centerpiece in your deck design, combining functionality with a touch of luxury. They also offer a unique opportunity to grow sun-loving plants, adding a green touch to your outdoor area.

14. Elevated Deck

An elevated deck transforms your outdoor space, offering a grand view and a fresh perspective. It’s ideal for homes with uneven terrain or those wanting to utilize their vertical space effectively. Design it with safety in mind, using sturdy railings and non-slip flooring.

An elevated deck is an opportunity to create a multi-level entertainment area, with steps leading to different zones like a dining area or a fire pit lounge. Use strategic lighting to highlight architectural features and ensure safe navigation at night.

15. Bungalow-Style Roof

A bungalow-style roof on your deck nods to classic charm while providing ample shade and protection. Its low-pitched, broad design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, shielding the area from direct sunlight and rain.

This style is particularly suited to homes with a cottage or craftsman aesthetic. You can personalize it with decorative rafters or exposed beams for a more rustic feel. This roof type also allows for easy installation of ceiling fans or hanging plants, adding comfort and style to your deck.

16. Enclose With Mesh Screen

Enclosing your deck with a mesh screen is a smart way to enjoy the outdoors without the annoyance of insects. This addition is especially beneficial in areas prone to bugs or mosquitoes.

Mesh screens provide ventilation and natural light while maintaining a connection to the outdoors. They can be customized to fit any deck size and style, ensuring a seamless look with your home’s exterior. For added convenience, install screen doors for easy access in and out of your deck area.

17. Use Privacy Blinds

Installing privacy blinds on your deck creates a secluded haven, perfect for relaxation. These blinds offer control over light and visibility, allowing you to adjust them according to your needs. They come in various materials, from bamboo to fabric, each adding a different texture and style to your space.

Privacy blinds are also a practical solution for controlling temperature and protecting furniture from sun exposure. Choose a color and pattern that complements your deck’s theme for a cohesive look.

18. Set up Furniture With Cushions

Furnishing your deck with comfortable seating and plush cushions invites relaxation and social gatherings. Choose weather-resistant furniture that stands up to the elements while maintaining style. Cushions add a pop of color and comfort, making your deck an inviting space for extended lounging.

Mix and match cushion patterns for a vibrant, eclectic look, or choose a monochromatic scheme for a more sophisticated style. Remember to store cushions in a dry place during inclement weather to preserve their quality.

19. Keep It White & Bright

Adopting a white and bright theme for your deck creates a fresh, clean look that reflects light and heat, keeping the area cooler. This color scheme gives a sense of spaciousness and offers a versatile backdrop for any decor style.

Use different textures and shades of white to add depth and interest – think white wicker furniture, creamy outdoor rugs, and ivory cushions. For a touch of elegance, incorporate silver or glass accents. Solar-powered white lights can add a magical touch to your evenings.

“I return to my front porch to find a place where the air smells sweeter and the sun feels warmer than at any other bend in life’s long road.”  –  John Sarris

A home with a beautiful front porch always feels more welcoming than a home without one. Your front porch is a place to relax, to drink in the sunshine and fresh air, to wave at your neighbors, and converse with friends. It is also the first impression people have of your home and the people who live inside.

Creating a welcoming front porch is an art that all can master. Front porch decorating ideas can be simple or complex, but they should reflect your personality. Our front porch décor ideas are sure to draw you in as you gain inspiration for making your front porch your home’s first haven.

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1. Choose a Seasonal Wreath for Your Door

A seasonal wreath serves as a charming focal point, reflecting the current season or holiday. Consider a blooming floral wreath for spring or a pinecone and berry design for winter, adding a welcoming touch of nature to your entrance.

2. Decorate with Holiday Porch Swag or Garland

Adorn your porch with swags or garlands to create a festive atmosphere. For Christmas, intertwine lights within evergreen garlands, and for autumn, use garlands made of leaves and miniature pumpkins, lending a seasonal warmth to your space.

3. Create Wood Pallet Seating

Reimagine your porch seating with wood pallets, offering a rustic and eco-friendly option. Add weather-resistant cushions for comfort and a splash of color, creating a relaxed and inviting nook for guests and family.

4. Install a Hanging Porch Swing

A hanging porch swing adds a nostalgic and relaxing element. Choose a style that complements your home’s architecture, and make sure it’s securely installed. Add plush pillows for extra comfort and visual appeal.

5. Arrange Potted Plants and Flowers

Introduce potted plants and flowers to add life and color. Use varying sizes of pots for visual interest, and select plants suited to your porch’s sun exposure, ensuring they thrive and add beauty to your entrance.

6. Select a Welcoming Outdoor Mat

Select a durable and stylish welcome mat to greet your guests. Choose a design that reflects your personal style and complements your home’s exterior, providing a functional yet decorative element.

7. Add Classic Rocking Chairs with Cushions

Position classic rocking chairs to create a relaxing ambiance. Select cushions that resist fading and mildew, and pick patterns or colors that tie in with your overall porch aesthetic.

8. Install a Cooling Front Porch Fan

Install a front porch fan to ensure comfort during warmer months. Opt for a design that aligns with your porch’s style, whether it’s traditional or modern, providing both functional cooling and a stylish touch.

9. Design Your Front Porch Roof

Consider the style and material of your front porch roof. It should not only protect against the elements but also complement your home’s architectural design, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look.

10. Lay a Cozy Outdoor Rug

Place a cozy outdoor rug to define your seating area and add texture. Look for materials that are weather-resistant and easy to clean, selecting a design that complements your porch’s color scheme and furniture.

11. Place a Cushioned Front Porch Bench

A bench with comfortable cushions offers additional seating and can be a space-saving solution. Choose cushions that withstand outdoor elements and complement the bench’s style, creating an inviting space.

12. Embrace Fall and Halloween Decor

Decorate your porch with seasonal items like pumpkins, gourds, and cornstalks in the fall, and use whimsical or spooky decorations for Halloween, creating a playful and seasonally appropriate atmosphere.

13. Illuminate with Front Door Sconces

Install sconces beside your front door to provide ambient lighting. Select fixtures that match your home’s style and provide adequate illumination, adding both safety and elegance to your porch.

14. Plan Front Porch Landscaping

Enhance your front porch with thoughtfully planned landscaping. Use shrubs, flowers, and ornamental grasses that complement your home’s exterior, creating a harmonious and inviting entrance.

15. Install a Stylish Front Door Awning

A front door awning offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Choose a style and color that suits your home’s facade, providing shelter from rain and sun while adding a distinctive touch.

16. Choose Comfortable Adirondack Chairs

Adirondack chairs are a classic choice for relaxed seating. Select durable materials and colors that blend with your porch’s theme, creating a laid-back, yet stylish, lounging area.

17. Decorate Your Front Porch Steps

Dress up your front porch steps with decor that suits their style. For rustic steps, consider lanterns (or pumpkins for an autumn theme) and natural accents; for brick or stone, sleek metal or glass accessories work well.

18. Paint or Refresh White Porch Railings

White railings offer a clean and classic look. They pair well with various house colors and styles, providing safety and a visually pleasing boundary to your porch.

19. Personalize with a Front Porch Sign

Personalize your space with a front porch sign. Choose a message or design that reflects your family’s personality or the home’s character, making your porch feel uniquely welcoming.

Isn’t it time you did something with your backyard? It’s your property, so it’s time you start enjoying it. Perhaps it’s a dirt patch where grass only grows on part of it. Or maybe you have a concrete patio that’s just ugly.

What you need are some patio furniture ideas. Once you place some outdoor furniture, you’ll begin to see your outdoor space start to take shape. Similar to the rooms inside your home, your outdoor space will become a welcoming spot for hanging out and entertaining. Which one of these ideas will work in your backyard?

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1. Choose Adirondack Chairs

For a timeless look, choose adirondack chairs in durable materials like teak or HDPE lumber. Their angled design is perfect for lounging. Place them in a cozy corner with a view or around a fire pit. To maintain, regularly clean and apply protective oil for wooden variants.

2. Select Weather-Resistant Wicker Chairs

Select weather-resistant wicker chairs with a sturdy frame, ideally aluminum for longevity. Pair them in a garden nook with soft cushions for comfort. Keep them under a canopy or use furniture covers to protect them from harsh weather.

3. Pick a Wicker Patio Set

Ideal for entertaining, a wicker patio set offers both comfort and style. Choose a set with a coffee table for easy cleaning and maintenance. Position the set under a pergola or patio umbrella to shield from the sun and rain.

4. Arrange a Conversation Set

For a sociable patio layout, a conversation set with deep seating and plush cushions is key. Opt for weatherproof fabric and rust-resistant frames. Arrange the set to face each other to encourage interaction, with a coffee table in the center for convenience.

5. Set Up an Outdoor Side Table and Chairs

A compact side table with chairs is perfect for small patios. Look for lightweight, durable materials. Place them in a sunny spot for morning coffee or a shaded area for afternoon relaxation.

6. Install a Freestanding Patio Swing

A standing patio swing brings a playful and relaxing element to your outdoor space. Opt for a model that combines robustness with weather-resistant materials. Its freestanding design allows flexibility in placement, ideal for creating a serene retreat. Position it in a spot that enjoys both sunshine and shade for optimal enjoyment.

7. Craft DIY Wood Pallet Furniture

Create unique, eco-friendly furniture with repurposed wood pallets. Sand and treat the wood for outdoor use. Add cushions for comfort. Pallet furniture is versatile; you can create sofas, tables, or loungers based on your space.

8. Integrate Woven Furniture

Woven pieces add texture to your patio. Select synthetic resin for durability. Combine them with bold cushions for a modern look. Position them in sheltered areas and clean regularly to prevent mold and fading.

9. Add Outdoor Stools

Ideal for bar-style seating or as side tables, choose lightweight, stackable outdoor stools. Materials like powder-coated aluminum resist rust and wear. Store them under a covered area when not in use to prolong their life.

10. Mix Mismatched Furniture

Embrace a bohemian vibe with mismatched furniture. Mix and match different styles but maintain a cohesive color palette. Use throw pillows and area rugs to tie the look together. Treat different materials accordingly for upkeep.

11. Select an Outdoor Daybed

An outdoor daybed is a luxurious addition. Look for a model with a canopy for sun protection. Opt for moisture-resistant fabric and quick-dry foam. Place it in a secluded part of the patio for a private retreat. Cover when not in use.

12. Create Patio Seating with Umbrella Shade

Arrange comfortable seating around a large, durable umbrella for protection against sun and rain. Choose a heavy base for stability. Tilt-and-crank features add versatility. Regularly clean the umbrella fabric and close it when not in use.

13. Design Patio Seating with Pergola

A pergola offers a structured area for seating. Outfit the space with weather-resistant sofas and chairs. Add climbing plants for a natural canopy. For added comfort, include outdoor rugs and lighting.

14. Accessorize with Outdoor Cushions and Pillows

Add comfort and style with outdoor cushions and pillows in weatherproof fabric. Mix patterns and colors for a vibrant look. Store them inside or in a deck box during inclement weather to prevent mildew.

15. Incorporate a Half-Moon Wood Chair

A half-moon wood chair is a statement piece. Choose durable wood like teak or eucalyptus. Place it as a solitary focal point or pair it with a small table. Regularly clean and apply wood protector to maintain its appearance.

16. Choose a Metal Patio Set

A metal patio set is sleek and durable. Look for powder-coated steel or aluminum to prevent rust. Add cushions for comfort. Position it in a sunny spot for dining or entertaining. Touch up any chips in the paint to prevent rust.

17. Arrange Patio Seating Around a Fire Pit

Create a cozy gathering space with chairs arranged around a fire pit. Choose fire-resistant materials and ensure adequate space for safety. The set should facilitate easy conversation and provide warmth on chilly nights.

18. Place an Outdoor Loveseat

An outdoor loveseat is ideal for intimate spaces. Select a model with a sturdy frame and weatherproof cushions. Position it to overlook a garden or under a shade structure. Use furniture covers to protect it from the elements.

19. Repurpose Barrels for a Coffee Table

Transform a wooden barrel into a rustic coffee table. Seal the wood to withstand outdoor conditions. Place it centrally in a seating area for a unique and functional focal point.

20. Add Rocking Chairs

Rocking chairs add a classic touch. Choose durable materials like hardwood or metal. Place them on a covered porch or patio for leisurely relaxation. Maintain by tightening hardware and applying protective sealant to wood models.

21. Set Up a Bistro Set

A bistro set is perfect for small patios or balconies. Select foldable designs for easy storage. Metal or weather-resistant wood are practical choices. Place it in a sunny spot for breakfast or in a shaded area for evening drinks.

22. Install a Hanging Rattan Chair

A hanging rattan chair creates a relaxed vibe. Ensure the stand is sturdy and the material is treated for outdoor use. Hang it in a quiet corner for a cozy reading or meditation spot.

23. Choose an Outdoor Patio Swing Bed

An outdoor swing bed is luxurious and relaxing. Choose a sturdy, weather-resistant design. Hang it in a shaded area or under a gazebo. Regularly inspect the hardware for safety and comfort.

24. Hanging Wicker Chairs with a Stand

Hanging wicker chairs are both fun and stylish. Ensure the stand is strong and the wicker is treated for outdoor durability. Place them in a spot with a pleasant view for maximum enjoyment.

25. Organize a Dining Area

For outdoor dining, a wooden table with matching chairs is classic. Choose hardwoods like teak or acacia for durability. Position it under a canopy or umbrella for protection. Maintain with regular cleaning and wood treatment.