Outdoor living is more popular than ever before. As the options grow and change and people’s needs grow and change, an outdoor living space that suited you at one point may not work for you forever. Perhaps your family is growing, a pandemic strikes, or you move into a new house and the existing space is not quite large enough for how you hope to use it. There are plenty of ways to expand or redefine an existing outdoor living space without starting from scratch. Archadeck of Raleigh-Durham offers several options, such as re-decking, patio extensions, or adding complementary adjacent structures. Read further to learn about different ways to leverage an existing space to expand usage while minimizing disruption.
Extend Your Patio
If you have a patio, our team might be able to add more square footage to one or more sides of it. A patio extension can help you fit more furniture for dining and lounging or even add a hot tub. You can use the same materials as your existing patio or choose a different material to create a decorative contrast.
Expand Your Deck
If you have a deck, there are several ways to expand it. One option is to simply add more square footage to the existing deck at the same height. Extending a backyard deck offers unique opportunities for decorative layouts or keeping it in line with the existing deck layout to look like it was always there.
Another option is to build an additional level on your deck, at either a higher or lower plane depending on the grade of your yard and your current structure. This can be a great way to define new spaces for different activities, such as cooking on one level and dining on another. If your yard slopes down, adding a lower-level deck can provide a beautiful transition down to the yard.
If your existing deck's substructure is in good condition, but the materials are starting to look their age, you may want to consider re-decking. Re-decking is a cost-effective way to give your deck a new look and extend its lifespan by replacing the top layer of decking boards. This may also encourage greater use of an existing structure, especially if splinters or general safety are becoming an issue. Many homeowners use re-decking as an opportunity to upgrade to composite decking boards for enhanced aesthetics and lower maintenance over time. If your deck builder agrees it is a viable option, you may also be able to expand your deck’s footprint while re-decking.
Add a Porch Next to Your Deck
If you have a deck, adding a porch next to it is a wonderful way to create a more inviting outdoor space. The porch can be used as a transition area between the inside and outside of your home, or it can be used as a separate space for relaxing or entertaining. Many homeowners prefer the dual benefits of having both a porch and deck to maximize outdoor enjoyment in varying weather patterns.
Add a Covered Patio Under Your Deck or Porch
If you have an elevated deck or porch, such as a second-story structure, you may decide you want to add a patio area underneath it for additional usage. Installing a dry-deck system underneath a deck will prevent water from moving through the decking boards, protecting the space below.
Not all outdoor living projects need to be new projects, built from the ground up. There are many ways to expand your use and enjoyment of an existing deck, porch, or patio, particularly if your needs and interests change over time. If you’re interested in ways to expand your outdoor living space, call Archadeck of Raleigh-Durham today: 919-973-1523. We look forward to working with you!
