Decks are the quickest and cheapest way to add livable space to your home. Many homeowners have taken advantage of this fact by building new decks or expanding the present ones. As decks are mostly wood framed the renovations can be carried out easily. Now that the basic deck is there many homeowners are realizing that there other ways to both accessorize the deck and make it more useful.

1. Railings

Railings are not only useful and a safety precaution they are the fashion statement for your deck. Just like the trim and crown moldings on the inside of your home, or the detailing on your vehicle, railings provide the lineage and definition of, what is otherwise, a flat surface.

There are many ways to provide railings. The most basic is the rail-and-baluster system which provides the basics of both safety and a distinct profiling for the deck. If the home is a Victorian-style then the carved spindles and 4” X 4” posts give a carriage-house look to the deck. This can be matched by the large 8” X 8” in the veranda as found in most homes of that period. In windy areas glass panels have been added which provide a spacious and modernistic quality while providing protection.

And the rail materials do not have to be wood. Powder-coated aluminum and vinyl are also big contenders and are virtually maintenance-free. Wrought-iron is also a consideration and gives the home a “New Orleans” look. Other materials include polyethylene, composite and recycled plastic.

2. Under-the- Deck Space

If you have a deck higher than 4 feet then there is a good possibility that this space is closed off and not being utilized. Rather than the standard decking more and more homeowners are sealing their deck floors and using this space for a storage area.

There are many choices for a deck covering. Fiberglassing the deck is easy and does not require changing the material because the decking becomes a form for the fiberglass sheets. The the epoxy is applied and, once hardened, the deck can be painted with a non-stick surface. Small gutters around the deck direct the water away from the deck area.

Depending on how much security you require the underside of the deck can be strengthened so that garden tools, a lawnmower and recreational accessories like bikes and camping gear can be stored there. One design showed tempered-glass skylights embedded in the decking allowing light into a greenhouse below.

3. Muli-Levels

Decks used to be a single surface running out from the home. In recent years decks have been transformed into a series of levels which can rise as high as the roof and include different amenities at each level. Small swimming pools, spas, firepits, built-in seating and docks on the lake are many of the changes in decking. The main idea is that the size and scope of your deck is only limited by the money you want to spend, the size of your yard and the covenants of your neighborhood.

4. Deck Living

Traditional uses for decks have been recreational retreats for entertaining and relaxing. However, these uses are being expanded to include many of the activities found inside the home. Huge grills and outdoor ovens are adorning decks, as well as fireplaces complete with overstuffed furniture allow more time to be spent on the deck even when the weather gets colder. Tempered glass is great for adding protection from the winds and small, roofed refuge decks allow a safe haven from the rain while still enjoying the outdoors. In hot climates the cooling effects of misting systems take the heat out of the air.

5. The Shape of Decks

It used to be that decks were square or rectangular. You might see the odd deck of an irregular shape but not like you will now. Oval is a big design and you can guitar-shaped decks and about any shape that you can imagine. In addition, the decking patterns can be inlaid withebony or other exotic wood – or imitation of the same – making the deck a beautiful tapestry below your feet.

6. Movable and Swing Decks

Do you want a deck but need to have some more room on the ground. Well, why not build a swing deck? These neat decks are built on wheels and they can be retracted under another deck to allow for a car or other need for room.

Whatever deck you choose make sure that your plan is approved by your local authorities. There are building codes and property lines to consider and these are very important. It wouldn't be much fun to hear that your deck has to moved back 3 feet or is 1 foot too high. For more information contact Renovation Experts.