A front deck is the first thing guests see and the last thing you pass on your way inside. Treated as an outdoor room rather than a walkway, it becomes a place to enjoy morning coffee, greet the neighbors and watch the sunset after a long day.
Choose materials that suit the climate
Hot sun and sudden storms are hard on outdoor surfaces. Composite boards and well-sealed hardwoods resist fading and splintering, while light colors stay cooler underfoot. Make sure boards are spaced and fixed properly so water drains away quickly after a monsoon shower.
Add shade where you sit
A deck without shade is a deck nobody uses in the afternoon. A pergola, a shade sail or a sturdy umbrella creates a comfortable spot even on bright days.
- Angle shade to block the late afternoon sun, when the heat is strongest.
- Pair shade with a ceiling or wall fan for a gentle breeze.
- Climbing plants on a trellis offer natural shade that grows fuller each year.
Outdoor cushions with quick-dry foam and fade-resistant covers stay comfortable season after season and dry fast after rain.
Furnish it like a living room
Arrange seating to face each other rather than the street, add a small table and lay down an outdoor rug. Suddenly the deck feels like an extension of your home, not just the space in front of it.
Light it for the evening
String lights, wall lanterns and low path lights make the deck inviting after dark and help everyone find their footing safely.
Whether you want a brand new deck or a refresh of the one you have, our exterior team can help you plan a space you will love spending time in.
