Deck Design Articles
The first step to building a deck is designing a deck. Maybe you already have the deck of your dreams in mind. Or perhaps you’re looking for a little inspiration to see what’s possible and to get ideas before you enlist the aid of a contractor or prepare to build a deck yourself. In either case, there are endless possibilities for building an outdoor oasis that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
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Decks can range from a simple raised patio to more complex multi-level deck design ideas. With a wide range of materials to choose from, including wood or composite decking like Trex, there are a wealth of options to choose from.
If you’re having a tough time narrowing down your ideas to build a deck that fits your home and lifestyle, Decks.com has you covered. Browse through our collection of articles complete with deck design pictures and information. You’ll find a wide range of outdoor deck design ideas, including inspiration for backyard deck designs, as well as rooftop deck ideas. You’ll also get deck design tips, including deck design lighting tips for illuminating your outdoor space and creating a striking ambiance long after the sun has gone down.
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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
How to Design a Deck
The Ultimate Guide to Mood Lighting for Your Outdoor Space
Light up your outdoor space with effective mood lighting. Our guide covers everything from installation tips to choosing the best lights for a cozy, inviting atmosphere on your deck.
How to Design a Deck
The Best Deck Styles for Every Part of the Country
Deck taste and styles in the US differ across the country. Check out these popular looks from every region.
Pool Decks
From Swim to Sun: 5 Tips for Building a Deck Around Your In-Ground Pool
The pool-deck combo is the perfect outdoor layout for a relaxing, warm-weather hang. Check out these tips on how to design your space.
How to Design a Deck
Deck & Patio Furniture Buying Guide
Interested in buying furniture for your deck and don’t know where to start? Learn how to choose the best deck & patio furniture with our buying guide.
How to Design a Deck
Best House and Deck Color Combinations
Whether you’re adding a deck to your home, repainting your deck, or refreshing the exterior of your home, it’s important to consider all the different design choices you have available to you, so you can choose one that makes your neighbors do a double take (in a good way!)
How to Design a Deck
Deck Design Ideas to Create Your Perfect Outdoor Oasis
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
Inspiring Outdoor Shower Ideas & Designs
Transform your outdoor space into a serene retreat with our guide to inspiring outdoor shower ideas and designs. Discover the versatility of portable, stand-alone, and stationary showers, and explore creative styling tips using materials like stucco, concrete, and natural elements. Weigh the pros and cons of outdoor showers and learn when it's best to consult a professional for installation.
How to Design a Deck
DIY Outdoor Shower: How to Build an Outdoor Shower with Composite Decking
Discover the ultimate guide to creating your own outdoor shower using durable and low-maintenance composite decking.
How to Design a Deck
10 Deck Pattern Ideas to Take Your Deck Layout & Design to the Next Level
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
How Big Should Your Deck Be?
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
DIY Deck Remodel & Renovation Ideas
There are lots of reasons to remodel your deck and lots of ways to do it. If your worn-out wood decking needs replacing anyway, give low-maintenance composite deck boards a try.
How to Design a Deck
11 Deck & Patio Landscaping Ideas
Looking for landscaping inspiration and ideas? Check out our ideas for turning your patio or deck into a beautiful oasis for entertaining and relaxing.
How to Design a Deck
Grey Composite Decking Ideas & Images
Get inspired by our collection of grey composite decking ideas and images. Find the best grey deck designs to fit your home and personal style with Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
Brown Composite Decking Ideas & Images
Get inspired by our collection of brown composite decking ideas and images. Find the best brown deck designs to fit your home and personal style with Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
How to Build a Pergola
Pergolas add a level of elegance and shade to your landscape. Follow our step-by-step instructions for building a pergola on a deck or patio at Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
5 Ways to Use Your Deck In The Winter
Hoping to get use out of your deck all year long? Discover these helpful deck ideas to keep your deck warm and cozy in cold winter weather at Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
Selecting The Best Composite Decking Color For Your Home
There are many composite decking color options. How do you select the right one for you?
How to Design a Deck
How to Build a Raised Deck
Building a raised deck can be a great option for some homeowners. Learn how to build a deck that is elevated above ground level with this guide from Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
How to Build a Floating Deck
Did you know that floating decks are much easier to build than standard decks? View step-by-step instructions for building a floating deck at Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
Deck Design Styles
Learn how to design a deck to match your sense of style and to compliment your house.
How to Design a Deck
Space Planning
Learn how to design a deck to provide enough space for your furniture and different uses.
How to Design a Deck
Budget - Determines Deck Size and Materials
Some tips for designing a deck to fit your budget.
How to Design a Deck
Deck Railing Designs
Learn about the newest and most stylish deck railings on the market. Browse pictures of wood, metal, glass, composite and cable rail systems.
How to Design a Deck
Herringbone Decking Pattern
Learn how to install a herringbone zigzag decking design by installing blocking to the deck frame.
How to Design a Deck
Hanging String Lights on a Deck
Hanging string lights on a deck is a great way to enjoy summer nights. Learn how easy it is to hang any type of string lights on a deck with Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
Small Backyard Deck Ideas & Designs
With the right setup and décor, you can transform a small deck into a perfect outdoor oasis. Get inspired with these design ideas for small decks at Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
10 Ideas for Reusing Leftover Decking Boards
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.
How to Design a Deck
Maximize Your Space with These 8 Under Deck Ideas
If you have an elevated deck, maximize the empty space below it with our top under-deck design ideas, from storage to landscaping.
How to Design a Deck
6 Ground Level Deck Ideas to Transform Your Space
Ground level decks are a more budget- and time-friendly way to take your backyard to the next level. From a private backyard getaway to a minimalist zen design concept, check out these ground level deck ideas to inspire your upcoming project.
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
How to Design a Deck
The Ultimate Guide to Mood Lighting for Your Outdoor Space
Light up your outdoor space with effective mood lighting. Our guide covers everything from installation tips to choosing the best lights for a cozy, inviting atmosphere on your deck.
How to Design a Deck
The Best Deck Styles for Every Part of the Country
Deck taste and styles in the US differ across the country. Check out these popular looks from every region.
Pool Decks
From Swim to Sun: 5 Tips for Building a Deck Around Your In-Ground Pool
The pool-deck combo is the perfect outdoor layout for a relaxing, warm-weather hang. Check out these tips on how to design your space.
How to Design a Deck
Deck & Patio Furniture Buying Guide
Interested in buying furniture for your deck and don’t know where to start? Learn how to choose the best deck & patio furniture with our buying guide.
How to Design a Deck
Best House and Deck Color Combinations
Whether you’re adding a deck to your home, repainting your deck, or refreshing the exterior of your home, it’s important to consider all the different design choices you have available to you, so you can choose one that makes your neighbors do a double take (in a good way!)
How to Design a Deck
Deck Design Ideas to Create Your Perfect Outdoor Oasis
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
Inspiring Outdoor Shower Ideas & Designs
Transform your outdoor space into a serene retreat with our guide to inspiring outdoor shower ideas and designs. Discover the versatility of portable, stand-alone, and stationary showers, and explore creative styling tips using materials like stucco, concrete, and natural elements. Weigh the pros and cons of outdoor showers and learn when it's best to consult a professional for installation.
How to Design a Deck
DIY Outdoor Shower: How to Build an Outdoor Shower with Composite Decking
Discover the ultimate guide to creating your own outdoor shower using durable and low-maintenance composite decking.
How to Design a Deck
10 Deck Pattern Ideas to Take Your Deck Layout & Design to the Next Level
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
How Big Should Your Deck Be?
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
DIY Deck Remodel & Renovation Ideas
There are lots of reasons to remodel your deck and lots of ways to do it. If your worn-out wood decking needs replacing anyway, give low-maintenance composite deck boards a try.
How to Design a Deck
11 Deck & Patio Landscaping Ideas
Looking for landscaping inspiration and ideas? Check out our ideas for turning your patio or deck into a beautiful oasis for entertaining and relaxing.
How to Design a Deck
Grey Composite Decking Ideas & Images
Get inspired by our collection of grey composite decking ideas and images. Find the best grey deck designs to fit your home and personal style with Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
Brown Composite Decking Ideas & Images
Get inspired by our collection of brown composite decking ideas and images. Find the best brown deck designs to fit your home and personal style with Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
How to Build a Pergola
Pergolas add a level of elegance and shade to your landscape. Follow our step-by-step instructions for building a pergola on a deck or patio at Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
5 Ways to Use Your Deck In The Winter
Hoping to get use out of your deck all year long? Discover these helpful deck ideas to keep your deck warm and cozy in cold winter weather at Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
Selecting The Best Composite Decking Color For Your Home
There are many composite decking color options. How do you select the right one for you?
How to Design a Deck
How to Build a Raised Deck
Building a raised deck can be a great option for some homeowners. Learn how to build a deck that is elevated above ground level with this guide from Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
How to Build a Floating Deck
Did you know that floating decks are much easier to build than standard decks? View step-by-step instructions for building a floating deck at Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
Deck Design Styles
Learn how to design a deck to match your sense of style and to compliment your house.
How to Design a Deck
Space Planning
Learn how to design a deck to provide enough space for your furniture and different uses.
How to Design a Deck
Budget - Determines Deck Size and Materials
Some tips for designing a deck to fit your budget.
How to Design a Deck
Deck Railing Designs
Learn about the newest and most stylish deck railings on the market. Browse pictures of wood, metal, glass, composite and cable rail systems.
How to Design a Deck
Herringbone Decking Pattern
Learn how to install a herringbone zigzag decking design by installing blocking to the deck frame.
How to Design a Deck
Hanging String Lights on a Deck
Hanging string lights on a deck is a great way to enjoy summer nights. Learn how easy it is to hang any type of string lights on a deck with Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
Small Backyard Deck Ideas & Designs
With the right setup and décor, you can transform a small deck into a perfect outdoor oasis. Get inspired with these design ideas for small decks at Decks.com.
How to Design a Deck
10 Ideas for Reusing Leftover Decking Boards
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.
How to Design a Deck
Maximize Your Space with These 8 Under Deck Ideas
If you have an elevated deck, maximize the empty space below it with our top under-deck design ideas, from storage to landscaping.
How to Design a Deck
6 Ground Level Deck Ideas to Transform Your Space
Ground level decks are a more budget- and time-friendly way to take your backyard to the next level. From a private backyard getaway to a minimalist zen design concept, check out these ground level deck ideas to inspire your upcoming project.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights