Types of Deck Design Ideas for the Backyard
A deck can extend your home space and environment. You can decorate your outdoor space in a variety of ways, but first you must decide what shape your deck will take. It can be as simple or as elaborate as your house design, garden area and budget will allow. You can create an entertainment area or a private retreat in your garden.
Platform Deck
These are built on level ground, have the simplest design and are attached to the house. Because the deck is low to the ground, railings are usually unnecessary. Because the platform deck has a simple structure, it gives room for creativeness.
Additionally, a deck does not need to be large. If you have a smaller home, or small property area, a small deck that provides an area for a couple of chairs, a bench or two, or perhaps a bistro table and plants adds a fresh space to relax in.
Raised Decks
This is the most common form of deck because most houses sit on foundation walls, which positions the main floor above ground level. Keep in mind, unlike a platform desk, raised decks require railings for safety and stairs for accessibility.
Raised decks can provide an enjoyable view of the surrounding area.
Two-Story Decks
Two-story decks provide unique access to your outdoor area from the lower and upper levels of your home, and if desired, access to the upper and lower decks via staircases. If your home can support such a large feature both structurally and aesthetically, this may be the visual interest and outdoor living space you are looking for.
Multilevel Decks
A multilevel deck, also known as a terraced deck, is two or more decks connected by steps, stairways or walkways. This style of deck is the perfect solution if you property is sloped. Multilevel decks follow the shape of the land. This style can create the feel of multiple outdoor "rooms". Homeowners can use the level closest to the house for entertaining, while creating a cozy shaded nook on another level, and a third level can located in a sunny spot for potted plants and planters, with a lot of seating offered throughout.
Freestanding Deck
A freestanding deck is separate from the house. This is beneficial when it is not possible to bolt the ledger board to the house's framing. Additionally, these make good use of a large outdoor area. If located some distance from the main living area, they can feel like a small oasis of solitude. This can be especially true if it is located in cluster of shady trees or overlooking a beautiful garden. You can create a cozy, quiet retreat by using trees, bushes, decorative screens, trellises and planters.
Keeping the deck open and free of railings will help create a greater sense of unconfined openness and flow between garden and deck environment. To avoid the need for railings, check local building regulations to find out what at what height railings become a requirement.