What does your ideal outdoor space look like? Is it a sunny deck where you can enjoy your morning coffee, a beautiful yard perfect for entertaining guests, or a peaceful retreat for some personal time? Whatever your vision may be, having a well-designed outdoor area can significantly enhance your lifestyle and increase the resale value of your home. Carefully planning for your deck and fence is the key to turning this vision into reality.
Here’s how to combine these elements to create the perfect outdoor space just for you.
- Determine the Purpose of Your Outdoor Space
Before selecting materials or designs, consider what you will use your outdoor space for. Will it be an intimate retreat where you can sit and relax? Will it be for dining and entertaining? Or will you include functional and visual aspects, such as a deck and a fence for privacy?
Having a vision in mind will help you choose the right deck style, fence, and other elements.
- Choose the Right Materials for Your Fence and Deck
The materials you use for your deck and fence matter to your backyard’s appearance and longevity.
Here are some of the options you may include:
– Composite Decking: A long-lasting, low-maintenance choice, this product is perfect for homeowners looking for a weather-resistant material. Composite decking comes in various colors and textures to mimic the look of wood and is ideal for contemporary, eco-friendly designs.
– Cedar Decking: For people who prefer natural beauty, cedar decking offers a warm, rich appearance that enhances any outdoor style. It is naturally resistant to rot and insects and is an excellent choice for homes situated in climates that change.
– Wood Fencing: Wood fencing gives any backyard a traditional, timeless look. Cedar and pine are both popular, offering a great appearance and privacy. Further, wood fencing is very easily height-adjustable and style-adjustable, so it is simple to incorporate with your deck and home.
– Vinyl Fencing: For those who prefer a very low-maintenance option, vinyl fencing is an excellent choice. It requires minimal upkeep and comes in a vast selection of colors and styles, making it easy to find one that matches your deck.
- Plan Your Layout
Once you’ve determined the purpose and materials for your space, it’s time to plan the layout. Consider the following:
– Flow and Accessibility: Consider how people will move out from the deck, yard, and house. Ensure the plan provides easy flow, whether stepping out for lunch or receiving guests. Depending on the topography of your yard, you should include walkways or stairs.
– Seating and Dining Areas: If you plan on entertaining, build spaces for seating and dining. Consider the number of guests you’re planning to invite in one sitting. Ensure that there is room for outdoor kitchens, barbecue grills and tables and chairs in case you need to cook outside frequently.
– Landscaping Space: Integrate some of your landscape into your deck and fence design. Flower beds, shrubs, or a green living wall strategically placed can be a source of attractiveness and ambiance for the space.
- Privacy and Protection with Fencing
Installing a fence around your deck or patio can provide much-needed privacy, especially in neighborhoods where homes are closely spaced. Fencing also serves as a safety barrier, keeping children and pets safely within your yard. Here are some creative ways to use fences:
– Height: Determine the appropriate height for the fence to ensure privacy while still allowing air and light to flow through the area.
– Style: Choose a style that complements your deck. Whether you prefer a classic picket fence, a modern horizontal slat design, or a rustic cedar privacy fence, aim for a look that enhances your outdoor space. For instance, an open-slat fence pairs well with a modern composite deck, while a tall, solid fence complements a traditional cedar deck.
– Integration: Think about how your fence can extend your deck. Could it have built-in planters or be a host for climbing vines? Should the top of the fence have decorative elements like lattices or trellises? These kinds of clever touches can be an excellent addition to the overall appearance of your deck and fence.
- Lighting and Decorative Features
Don’t forget to incorporate lighting into your outdoor space. Proper lighting can create a magical atmosphere for evening gatherings or late-night hangouts. Here are some tips:
– Deck Lighting: Install LED lighting on stairs, railings, or beneath the deck to create a warm, welcoming light.
– String Lights: For a cozy, inviting ambiance, string lights can be hung over the deck, on fence posts, or above.
– Spotlights: Use spotlights to highlight landscaping features such as trees, shrubs, or decorative fences by strategically placing them.
Additionally, including decorative elements like outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and weather-resistant artwork can help create the feeling that your deck is an extension of your indoor living space.
- Professional Design and Installation
While DIY projects can be enjoyable, when it comes to building a beautiful and sturdy deck and fence that adds value to your home, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Companies like Simple Builds can bring your vision to life using the proper materials, expertise, and touch. Professional installation ensures you have decently built, properly supported, safe, solid decks and fences, giving you the peace of mind that your outdoor space is in good hands.
Creating the ideal outdoor oasis is a journey that culminates in a space that perfectly balances functionality and aesthetics. By selecting the right materials, design, and features for your deck and fence, you can create a space that not only enhances your lifestyle but also boosts your home’s curb appeal. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful morning or hosting a lively gathering, your deck and fence will be the cornerstone of your perfect outdoor retreat, a testament to your vision and effort.