Loading

Deck Design Styles

It is important to use a style that matches your house and your personal taste. Here are a few popular deck styles for creative outdoor living.

 
Modern Style
PinterestSave
Contemporary
- Less is more. Use sleek, modern design features, basic shapes and clean lines. Low-maintenance materials, such as composite, PVC, metal and even stone.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Traditional Style
PinterestSave
Colonial - Use elements of classical architecture. Symmetrical design. Consider using white moulded railings with decorative posts caps. Built-in planter boxes, benches and pergolas can be used as accent features.
 
 



Traditional Style2
PinterestSave
Traditional
- Consider a cottage style that embraces decoration. Octagons and chamfered corners help soften sharp corners. Trim moldings and routered rail caps offer a timeless charm. Cedar and redwood are beautiful warm materials for traditional style decks.
 
 
 

 
 
Mountain Deck
PinterestSave
Mountain
- The perfect style for a log cabin in the woods. A mountain design features heavy timber framing with rustic log railings. Mountain style decks look more massive and stronger than most other deck styles. Use nature for inspiration and highlight scenic views with lookout areas.
 
 
 
Coastal
PinterestSave
Coastal 
- Whether you live in Cape Cod or Florida, a coastal deck style is a good choice for a deck overlooking the sea. Use gray composite decking or cedar with white railings to blend into the landscape. Glass and cable rails can work wonders for opening up views. Low-maintenance materials can withstand the extreme weathering of storms for years to come.
   
 
 
 
 

 

 
 
Popular Design Articles
How to Design a Deck

Decking Patterns

Step into the world of deck design and push the limits of your imagination with our collection of deck patterns and ideas. From classic single-width and diagonal layouts to intricate herringbone and chevron designs, we illustrate the wide range of patterns that will unlock your creativity.

How to Design a Deck

Deck Size

Whether remodeling an existing deck or adding a new one to your home, size is one of the most important design elements to consider.

How to Design a Deck

10 Fence Ideas to Add Privacy and Style to Your Yard

10 Fence Ideas to Add Privacy and Style to Your Yard

Next Step: Planning Articles
Building Permits

IRC Code Requirements For Decks

Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!

Building Permits

IBC Requirements For Decks

The International Building Code (IBC) regulates deck additions attached to commercial buildings. Learn how IBC requirements may affect your project at Decks.com.

Contracts

Contractor Problems? How to Communicate with Contractors and Handle Disputes

When working on a large construction project, there are bound to be bumps in the road. Learn how to handle disputes with a contractor with Decks.com.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Popular Design Articles
Pool Decks

Pool Deck Ideas on a Budget

A stylish poolside retreat doesn't have to come with an over-the-top price tag. Allow us to show you some easy and innovative ways to build a stunning pool deck that won't empty your wallet.

How to Design a Deck

Comprehensive Guide to Deck Design

Transform your outdoor space with our comprehensive guide to deck design. Discover whether to DIY or hire a pro, explore essential design elements, assess cost factors, and follow our step-by-step building process for creating a stunning and functional deck tailored to your lifestyle.

How to Design a Deck

Leftover Deck Board Ideas

Have leftover deck boards after building your deck and don’t know what to do with them? Get inspired with 10 ideas for leftover decking from Decks.com.

Next Step: Planning Articles
Landscaping

How to Grade Your Yard

Master the art of yard grading! From choosing the right slope to understanding the costs, this guide covers everything you need to achieve a properly graded yard that protects your home and enhances your landscape.

Building Permits

Residential PSF Deck Requirements

For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.

Building Permits

IRC Code Requirements For Decks

Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic