Don’t you think it’s time to transition your summer deck from having fun in the sun to a cozy hotspot? Fall is just the ideal time to gather out with the family to enjoy the cool breeze, watch your favorite series when the stars are up, and listen to the birds, which can be so cozy.
Whether your outdoor space is grandiose or small, you can actually turn it into an oasis. The good news is it doesn’t take much time, effort, or money to create a dreamy deck idea that emulates an exotic vacation.
Having furniture alone on your deck isn’t enough. You can change your outdoor space into a magical cozy place by adding a beautifully designed pergola, bright lights, heating accessories, a minibar, multi-colored cushions on the couch, and a small outdoor rug to make your deck homey.
What accessories should I put in my decking area?
Lounge furniture
Grill and meal prep space
Beautiful lamp lights
Outdoor plants and Flowers
Mini outdoor bar
Firepit or bowl
Outdoor rug
Adding a pergola
Pillows
A dining area
How do I turn my deck into an oasis?
Remember your deck is an ideal place to have fun, entertainment, and relaxing outdoors. Here’s what you need to turn your deck into an oasis.
Make your deck brighter with multi-colored décor
I’m sure you’ll agree with me that your deck doesn’t have to be too monochromic; get colorful furniture and place them on your deck to brighten your deck space. Paint your fences with bright colors get rainbow fabrics to have a fashionable decking space. Sunlight reflection on these bright colors makes your decking more inviting, cozy, and romantic.
Get outdoor plants and flowers to make your décor fancy.
Natural plants are great for decorations and beneficial to the health, but they could also attract insects, so sometimes you might need to get faux flowers to make your space cozy and suit your décor colors. You may want to rotate the flowers seasonally to suit your table plates and cushions, leaving your space all cozy.
Add a fire pit or bowl.
Adding a flame to your outdoor space will give it that cozy ambiance. It is amazing how the flames give your deck a twinkling warmth and a perfectly cozy atmosphere as twilight approaches. Using flameless candles too is a great alternative to fire flames in a pot or bowl. Well, either give that comfy ambiance. Many people abandon their outdoor deck space when it’s fall but keeping it warm with fire accessories creates a cozy space to rival your living room.
A mini outdoor bar
Creating a small beverage space will definitely turn your deck into a suitable spot for all-the-time entertainment. You can get a shelving unit for storing glassware and serving drinks. Getting your own small bar outdoor is a vibe, and you’ll be sure that the music is just as good as the drinks your serving. Simply revamp a metal shelve unit by adding wood pallets into an outdoor bar to get that cozy ambiance.
Have many pillows
Using plenty and colorful pillows on your outdoor chairs helps reiterate your décor. Get a collection of bright fabrics to make pillow covers for yourself, friends, and family so they could get to linger along the edge of your deck longer with soft, colorful cushions.
Install a pergola
Installing a pergola not only turns your exposed bare deck into a beautiful, inviting outdoor room but also provides shade from direct sun rays and privacy in your outdoor space. Though it can help shield you from the sun, a pergola still maintains that open feel of the outdoor space. It is also a huge asset if you intend to sell your home as we’ve had some customers testify.
Add an outdoor rug
Get an all-weather, durable, stain-resistant, and easy-to-clean attractive outdoor rug that is cozy and can break up a monotonous floor space. A floor rug too can be used to delineate a dining area from a lounge space on your deck.
Add lighting
Decks are not just for daytime; paying attention to lighting will make your outdoor space as inviting as it were indoors. If you want to maximize the time spent outdoors, get good string lights along the pergola, place flameless candles on the table, or solar lights. Trust me; lighting will transform your outdoor space into an oasis; it leaves your space all cozy, enchanting, and romantic, a magical place to feel warmth and love.
Create a little space for a dining and a grill
Having dinner with family or a loved one when the stars are up is such a vibe. Get a waterproof table and chairs for your dining. Make sure the furniture you select is an all-weather product as it will need to be water-resistant. Creating a little space for your grill next to the dining will definitely turn your deck into an oasis, and of course, you’ll be barbecuing in no time. Invest a little to get that cozy ambiance on your deck.
Add at least one fun feature
if you want your deck area cozy and enjoyable, be sure to add a fun feature. This could include creating a cinema space, a playset for kids, an inflatable hot tub for relaxation, a hammock for swinging, or a small game area. Adding such fun features will give the feeling of your own personal outdoor oasis.
Is it expensive to create an outdoor space?
You can make your outdoor space cozy with a tight budget. Setting up your outdoor space and making it cozy with the use of some accessories and furniture will cost you like $100. Maybe you want to add up a fireplace and a kitchen space, depending on how luxurious you want the space to look. You could be looking at $2000 or more. Note that investing in your outdoor space could add value to your property when you eventually want to move.
Thinking of transforming your deck into an oasis? Well, if you are located in Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming, feel free to give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit the deck service page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project.
A deck is a great addition to any home. It will give you a place to hang out with your friends and enjoy the fresh air. You can add a grill, creating an amazing outdoor cooking experience. Plus, you’ll be adding value to your home.
But you want to make sure that the deck will fit with your lifestyle. Because of this, you’ll need to make sure that you are designing it correctly. At first, this can be intimidating. Thankfully, there are lots of tips you can use to help you stay on the right track.
Think About How You Intend to Use the Deck
The best place to start is by thinking about the way that you want to use the deck. This will affect every other decision you make, as you want to create the most functional space. Some of the most popular reasons why people want to get a deck include:
Entertaining space
Outdoor dining space
Outdoor kitchen
A place to relax in the sunshine
Multi-purpose deck, combining all of these elements
This is the most fun part of the process. Think about your dream deck and what you will be doing on it. Will there be deck chairs to relax? Or are you planning to have a dining table and eat meals with your family?
During this time, it can help to have a look through social media for inspiration. Look at the decks that you like. Take note of the layout they are using. At this stage, you’re just looking to settle on the way the deck will be used. We can worry about specifics later.
It’s also a good idea to get a clear idea of how many people are going to be on the deck. Are you planning on huge parties? Or just a quiet get-together with a few friends? This will affect how large the deck will need to be.
Decide Where to Put the Deck
After you’ve decided that you are going to get a deck, the next question becomes where you are going to put it. This will often depend on the type of property you have. There are a few elements to consider when making this choice.
First, it’s a good idea to think about which side of the house you want the deck to go on. Sometimes, the positions of the doors will decide this aspect for you. At other times, you might have to consider adding a door. You will need to talk to your builder about the prospect of doing this.
It’s also a good idea to take a look at the surrounding landscape. Is there a spectacular view that you want to take advantage of? In this case, you might want to raise the deck for a better view.
Are there any trees or natural features? Just because a tree is growing in the area doesn’t mean that you can’t build a deck. You can put a hole in the middle of the deck for the tree to grow through. This can be a great way of getting some natural shade.
Getting the Right Deck Size
Now we can move into one of the most contentious issues, how large you want the deck to be. There is no hard and fast rule on deck sizing. But there are a few questions you can ask to find the right deck size.
How Will You Use the Deck?
This is the most important sizing element. If you want to get a deck for lounging and soaking up the sun, you might only need something relatively small. All you’ll need is space for some deckchairs and maybe a table for your drinks. On the other hand, if you want an entertaining space, you’ll need to get a bigger deck, so everyone will be able to fit.
As a general rule, it’s a good idea to give each person around 20 square feet of space. This will ensure that everyone can move around comfortably without bumping into each other.
What Furniture Will Be On the Deck?
Think about the type of furniture that will be on the deck and roughly how big the pieces will be. Also, consider any other items you want to include, like a grill. Online stores will tell you the dimensions in the product specifications, so you don’t need to carry around a tape measure.
General Sizing Rules
There are a few other things to keep in mind when deciding how big the deck will be. You often want to stick to a deck that is a maximum of 20 percent of the square footage of the house. This stops it from visually overwhelming the house.
Usually, a small deck will be eight feet by eight feet. The average is around 12 feet by 12 feet. Though, if you have the space, you can go bigger. For example, a 16 by 12-foot desk might be a good choice for those looking for a space to entertain guests. If in doubt, it’s best to get a larger deck. You won’t regret having a little extra room, but you will have problems if the deck is too small.
When deciding how big you want the deck to be, it’s best to consult with a professional. Your builder will be able to help you assess the property and find the best deck size moving forward.
Get the Right Deck Shape
Once you’ve decided on the size, the next big thing to decide is what shape you are going to get. Again, this will boil down to what you are looking for in a deck. Let’s look at some options that you can explore.
The most common shape will be rectangular. This is the easiest to build. Though there are a few ways that you can spice it up. You can add circular sections. These can be a good place for having conversations. A circular section can also prove useful if you are thinking about adding a spa.
Another way that you can make the shape of your deck unique is by adding more angles. When done right, this can prove to be visually striking, helping to set your deck apart. As we’ll discuss later, it can be helpful to use a CAD rendering. This gives you a good idea of what the deck will look like. You can experiment with changing the size and shape.
Finding What Elements to Include
A deck should complement your lifestyle. There are a few ways that you can do this, depending on how you plan on using it. For example, you might want to get an outdoor kitchen. You ask if these elements can be built into the deck.
Consider the Lighting
The next thing to consider is the way you are going to light your deck. Again, there are lots of options that you can explore. You might want to wire electric lights into the ceiling. Fluorescent lights will provide a lot of illumination. Or you can use downlights for a spotlight glow. Wall sconces can be attached to the house.
If you aren’t going to use it at night, you can use lanterns or some fairy lights. These can run on solar power. Though it’s not a long-term solution, you can use candles to set a romantic atmosphere.
Create a Private Space
While you might be creating an elevated space, you don’t want all the neighbors to be watching you lazing about in your underwear. Because of this, you should be designing your deck with privacy in mind.
There are a few ways you can keep the deck as your private zone. First, you can have natural foliage, like trees or hedges, to help obscure the view. If this isn’t possible, you might want to consider using a privacy screen. This can be installed yourself, often within a few minutes.
Think About Shade
The next thing to consider is how you will be shading the deck. After all, you don’t want to be getting sunburnt during the summer months. This shade can also provide some protection from the wind and the rain.
There are a few options that you might want to explore. For example, you have an established tree. You can allow this to grow up through the middle of the deck. The leaves will provide shade. It’ll also provide a focal point and prove to be a conversation starter.
If you don’t already have trees, you can transplant some from your local nursery. Within a few years, you will have a reliable source of shade for generations to come.
Another option is to use a patio umbrella, rather than some permeant structure. This will save you money while allowing you to enjoy the summer sun. If you want a more long-term solution, you can install shade sails. You might even want to use rolling shades. These look beautiful and you will be able to install them yourself.
The best and arguably the most appealing option is to install a more permanent roof over the deck. A good example of this is a pergola. Though this can be a more expensive option when compared to a large umbrella, it will last for a long time. Your builder can talk you through some permeant shade options that you can explore. If you live in Northern Colorado or Southern Wyoming, TNT can be that builder.
Pick the Right Decking Material
There are lots of decking materials that you can choose from, each with its own unique sets of pros and cons. For example, wood is a natural material and will have a beautiful color. But it will take a lot of work to maintain. You’ll need to seal it once a year.
Because of this, it’s best to get a deck that is made from TimberTech’s composite material. There are plenty of benefits that this material can provide. It looks like natural wood, but it will be sealed so you don’t need to worry about the risks of moisture and mold. Because of this, it will last for a long time. Even better, it’s made from recycled materials.
Consider the View From Inside the House
It can become easy to focus on what you can see from the deck. But it can be easy to overlook what you will be able to see when you are inside the house. You don’t want to have the indoor windows blocked by unsightly things like railings or supports for the decking.
Sometimes, you will be able to change some aspects of the deck to avoid these problems. For example, you might be able to lower the deck. Or you can use glass railings, so you can see through them.
Know Your Budget
It’s important to make sure that you have a clear understanding of your budget. This means that there are some features that you might not be able to get. For example, you might not be able to create a curved area on your deck.
But that doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to get a nice deck. At TNT Home Improvement, we know that not every client will be Warren Buffet. Because of this, we pride ourselves on offering a service that will be able to suit any budget type.
Blend the Deck and the Yard
Moving between the deck and the house should be a seamless experience. The same should be for moving between the house and the yard. There are a few ways that you can do this. You can include stairs, leading down into the yard.
You can also use some landscaping elements to help tie the deck into the yard. For example, you can create a path, leading the way to the deck. You can tie other elements into the deck. If you are making a firepit or bench you can use the same wood color.
Use a Solid Stain
It’s a good idea to consider the color of the wood that you will be using to create the deck. You want to get something that will gel with the exterior of the house. Instead of painting, you should try using a solid stain. This will bring out the natural colors in the wood. It will also be easier to maintain, lasting longer than paint.
Do a 3D CAD Design
Once you have a fairly good idea of what you want the deck to look like, it’s time to get in contact with the TNT Home Improvement team. We’d love to come to your house and talk about the project in more depth. We can also do a CAD design. This is a 3D illustration of what the final deck will be.
These renders look very similar to the finished product. This is the ideal time to make any final adjustments and experiment with different designs. Usually, this is one of the last steps in the planning process. Once you have a design that you are happy with, the builder can start creating the deck of your dreams.
Get an Engineer to Approve
While a deck might look great on paper, we don’t want it to collapse after a few years. Before we can start building, we need to get an engineer to take a look at the design and give it their tick of approval. That’s why TNT Home Improvement has our own in-house engineer, to help speed up the process so you can get to building faster.
Think About Traffic Flow
Once you have a completed deck, it’s time to think about the type of furniture layout you are going to use. There are a few ways you can make sure that everything is in the right place. One of the most important principles is to think about the way that people will move through the deck. You don’t want to design the space so you end up smashing your shins into tables. Because of this, you need to have a clear walkway.
It can also be a good idea to have designated zones. This helps keep the deck looking coherent, so you’ll be able to navigate through it easily. For example, you might want to have one part of the deck dedicated to cooking and preparing food. Another section will be used for sitting together and eating the meal.
Though adding furniture can be a lot of fun, it can also lead to a lot of disagreements. Be prepared to move your things around, trying to find the perfect place for everything. During this time, you should take a look at social media. Seeing how other people have arranged the furniture on their deck can give you some inspiration.
Give TNT Home Improvement a Call
Hopefully, you now have a better idea of what to consider for your next deck and or patio cover project. Thankfully, this doesn’t have to be a pipe dream. At TNT Home Improvement can help you create the deck of your dreams. We have the team and experience to handle any project and suit any budget. So, if you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit the home page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project.
Anytime you begin a project that is meant to improve or add to your home, there are a number of factors that might contribute to your motivation to complete the job. Some jobs can increase your home’s efficiency, others might improve its curb appeal or value and many can do both. Another reason why you might want to complete a home improvement project is to add a unique home feature that accents your taste and sets your house apart from those around you. If you are considering constructing a deck, you probably don’t want something that looks identical to all of the other neighbors on your block. If a unique deck design in Loveland, CO is at the top of your list of priorities, you might want to consider constructing a curved deck.
What is a curved deck?
Traditional decks are usually constructed with hard edges in square and rectangular shapes. This is mainly due to the fact that the wood planks that are used in deck construction are shaped with rigid edges and corners that are conducive to angular designs. Today, there are more options available to homeowners who are having decks constructed thanks to developments in fabrication technology and material composition. Curved decks are constructed with wood or decking material that has been bent to create a curved front. This can be a much more appealing look for your home’s exterior.
Considering a curved deck
The kind of deck that you choose to have constructed in your home is largely dependent on your own preferences and how you want to use your deck. There are a number of features that you can add, like railings and covers, to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your deck. One reason why you might want to consider investing in a curved deck is that it can give you a home feature that is distinct from your neighbors.
Even if you live in a neighborhood where homes look similar to each other, a curved deck can make your house distinguishable from the homes around you. Not only can this give you a greater sense of individuality and creativity when it comes to your home, it can also increase its appeal to others. You can impress friends and family members with your beautiful new deck, and even boost your home’s curb appeal. Having a distinct feature like a curved deck may just make your home stand out to potential buyers.
Learn more about deck design in Loveland, CO
At TNT Home Improvements, we understand how important it is to have home features that reflect your style as a homeowner, and that’s why we are committed to designing our projects around your needs and preferences. Our fully licensed and insured team can work with you to determine exactly what you are looking for and then deliver an exceptional design and outstanding construction, all within your specific needs and budget. If you want to find out more or get a free estimate for our services, just contact us today.
Adding a deck to your home can greatly enhance your outdoor living space. While deck design in Fort Collins, CO is dependent on the space you have available in your backyard, you do have several choices of styles and creations to choose from that offer a variety of functionality and convenience for you and your family. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or a spot to entertain, there is a deck model designed to give you what you are looking for. Think about these deck styles when you are looking to add to the outdoor living space of your home:
Attached:
This popular deck design in Fort Collins, CO makes for easy access from your home, as it is attached to the house in the rear. It provides an entryway from the inside of your home and is the perfect choice to add some outdoor living space to your house. It is usually raised up and acts as a patio area that is made of wood or wood composite. It works well in an L- or U-shaped home.
Detached:
This type of deck design in Fort Collins, CO is separate from the home and works well to add space to entertain or relax in a backyard. It is often referred to as an island deck, as it literally seems to be floating in your yard. It can carve out a special area in your property or designate a space for you to place patio furniture.
Wraparound:
As the name suggests, this style of deck wraps around your home. You may have several access points to it from inside your home. A wraparound deck truly expands your living space and offers multiple ways in which to enjoy the outdoors. This allows you to enjoy the sun, no matter if it is setting or rising, and may give separate rooms in your home access to the outdoors from different vantage points.
Multi-level:
If you have a lot of land, a multi-level deck design in Fort Collins, CO may be just right for you. This deck configuration has different elevations that are typically adjoined by stairs or pathways. This is an ideal deck type for elevations that have hills, slopes or rocky terrain. A multi-level deck can get you from one point of your yard to the other with ease and can provide sitting areas throughout.
Entryway:
Make a grand statement with an entryway deck design in Fort Collins, CO that will welcome your This deck style can be simple or elaborate and is designed to complement the architecture of your home. Wood deck platforms can be used to outline the entrance to your home and can incorporate benches and planters along the way.
With so many deck designs to choose from, it may be hard to pick just one. A deck builder will be able to advise on what type of deck design in Fort Collins, CO will work best for your yard and can custom design features that offer you everything you are looking for. To have a deck installed at your home, contact TNT Home Improvements. We are a home improvement company that specializes in deck building and much more. Call today for a quote!
Looking for local deck builders for your next project? Give TNT Home Improvements a call at 970-663-2868 or fill out the contact form at https://tnthomeimprovements.com
