Your new deck is ready to use, but what if you could make it even better? There are some quick and inexpensive upgrades that can boost the efficiency of your deck in ways you can’t imagine.
In this guide, we discuss the top 7 deck accessories that can uplift your outdoor space and improve its functionality, so you’ll have a much better time outdoors, on your dream deck.
Let’s begin!
1. Give Your Deck An Upscale Look With A Pergola
A pergola is an outdoor structure made of four columns and a roof. Pergolas are mostly made of wood, but there are also more expensive pergolas made of aluminum, bricks, or even fiberglass.
Prefabricated pergolas are available in home improvements stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot. They come as a kit and all you’ll have to do is install them. However, if you want a custom made wood pergola, talk with your deck builder and see if they offer that.
At Werner Decks, we’re professional carpenters that can build anything out of wood. We specialize in decks, covered decks, piers, and docks, and we also build some of the finest pergolas in MD.
For your existing deck, a pergola is by far one of the best deck accessories that will make a great impression on your guests. If you have a green thumb, pergolas are also an ideal environment for potted plants, climbing plants, or to cover your deck from the sun rays.
2. Make Shade With An Awning
If pergolas are out of your budget, awnings are more affordable options that you can even install them yourself.
An awning is simply a small roof that’s installed on the side of your home, under your deck. Very often it’s large enough to create enough shade during the whole day, and some of them are retractable, so you can adjust their length depending on what you need.
Retractable awnings are also great if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, where you’ll need to retract or even dissemble your awning.
Awnings are functional and super affordable. You can find them at home improvements stores, and you or your deck builder can install them in less than a day.
3. Create A Cozy Vibe With Deck Lighting
Lighting is not just a great upgrade, but it’s also a requirement for elevated decks that have stairs. Low voltage lighting can create a cozy atmosphere on your deck and it’s ideal for when you have guests over.
We recommend simple, low voltage lighting simply because you don’t want your electricity bills to skyrocket.
Consider the coverage area you want to light up with your lighting and decide what type of lighting you’ll want for this upgrade, as there are different deck lighting options.
4. The Perfect Furniture With Built-In Benches
Built-in benches are some of the most popular upgrades we’re seeing lately. Homeowners love having benches that perfectly match their decks. These create a smooth flow and tie the entire space together, creating consistency and comfort.
The only downside of built-in benches is that they can’t be moved around like normal furniture, so it’ll most likely be there all year round. However, if you’re working with a professional deck designer, you won’t ever need to move outdoor furniture around, as the place will be optimized for 100% functionality.
Tip: Many build-in benches have storage space in them, perfect for a hidden cooler where you can stack anything from beer to ice cream. If storage options are limited, outdoor furniture can be a great solution.
Our experts at Werner Decks can build some of the best deck benches, personalized and custom to your needs and preferences. We have our own designers and carpenters, so we can take care of your project from start to finish.
5. Take Advantage Of Space And Get A Drinking Rail
A drinking rail is simply a wider balustrade for your railing, enough to hold several drinks and act like a small bar.
Although this seems like a small upgrade, the functionality it provides is immense. Having a place to rest your arms and place your drink without risking to knock it off the deck is a really great addition that can make an impression on your guests.
Drinking rails are part of the inexpensive deck accessories that are extremely easy to install. However, you’d want to do it when installing the railing. Although it’s not impossible to do it after, it’ll be much easier for you and your contractor.
6. Wrapped Columns For An Upscale Look
Wrapped columns are oftentimes the pièce de résistance of your deck. These deck accessories are incredible additions that will make a huge impact on the aesthetics of your deck.
Columns will replace the posts of your railings. These are decorative features that bring little functionality, but immense beauty to your outdoor space. When getting wrapped columns, be sure to consult with your deck designer and see what kind of column will work best in your space.
If you have a metal railing, like the products from Westbury or Fortress, wrought iron columns will look incredibly good on your deck, but a wooden wrapped column can also make a difference.
Interested in metal rails and metal frames for your deck? Check out our articles about them!
7. Create The Best Memories Around A Fire Pit
While these are not really deck accessories, fire pits are amazing features that help you and your loved ones create beautiful memories in your outdoor space.
Although building a fire pit on a back deck is not the easiest project, this upgrade is really something that will have your visitors talking.
For a fire pit on a wood deck, you’ll need to work with professionals and you’ll also need a building permit for it. After all, you’ll have a fire on a wood surface, so it’s best to make sure the paperwork and safety issues are in order.
Conclusion
Deck accessories are inexpensive upgrades that will finish the look of your new deck and improve both its efficiency and functionality.
If you’re interested in any of these deck accessories or you have others in mind, you can rest assured that experts from Werner Decks can take care of your project.
We’re offering professional deck building services in Annapolis, Severna Park, Arnold, Crofton, Edgewater, and neighboring counties, and we’ll also take care of any deck upgrade you have in mind.
Contact us today to learn more about the best deck accessories you can get, or request a quote and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!