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December 29, 2024
How to Utilize the Space beneath your Deck?
A raised deck is a fantastic way to enhance your backyard’s functionality. Not only does it expand your outdoor living area, but it also creates a unique opportunity to utilize the space underneath. With proper planning and design, this under-deck space can become a highly practical and enjoyable part of your home.
In this guide, we’ll share innovative ways to transform the area beneath your raised deck into something extraordinary. From storage solutions to entertainment spaces, discover how this often-overlooked area can make your backyard more useful and beautiful.
Preparing Your Under-Deck Area: The Importance of Under-Deck Drainage
Before diving into design ideas, it’s crucial to prepare the space under your deck. Without proper drainage, rainwater and debris can ruin the area below, leaving it damp and unusable.
Installing an under-deck drainage system is the key to keeping this area dry. These systems use gutters and troughs to direct water away from the space, ensuring it remains clean and ready for use. Once you’ve set up a drainage system, you’ll unlock endless possibilities for how to use the space under your deck.
Creative Ways to Use Your Under-Deck Space
1. Under-Deck Storage Shed
The search for storage space can feel endless, especially if you have a small yard or restrictions on adding new structures. The open area beneath a raised deck offers the perfect solution, transforming unused space into a functional storage shed. This pre-existing frame allows you to store lawn equipment, seasonal décor, or outdoor tools without sacrificing your green space. For those with Homeowner’s Association regulations limiting extra structures, an under-deck storage shed is an ideal way to maximize storage while keeping your backyard open and uncluttered.
2. Under-Deck Screened-In Porch
Screened-in porches are a great option for those that want to have flexibility with their outdoor space. They are a porch that is closed off from the rest of the backyard with screens. By using screens and not full walls, you’re still allowing the breeze into your room, but have protection from rain and bugs. Depending on the screen, it can be an added privacy measure as well. Screened in porches are an extension of your indoor living space. These indoor/outdoor rooms can be enjoyed three seasons of the year in mild climates and left open all year around in warmer areas. By choosing to screen in the space underneath your completely open deck, you are able to keep the best of both worlds.
3. Under-Deck Dining Area
An under-deck dining area is a practical and stylish way to enhance your outdoor space, providing shade and protection from the elements for comfortable meals outside. Pair it with a grill or outdoor kitchen on your raised deck, connected by deck stairs or a compact spiral staircase for easy access between levels. This setup allows you to keep all your entertaining outdoors, minimizing foot traffic inside your home while creating a seamless, functional space for dining and hosting.
4. Under-Deck Hangout Spot
Turn your under-deck area into a cozy retreat where family and friends can gather, unwind, and enjoy quality time together. With the growing popularity of outdoor living spaces, this area is perfect for creating a comfortable hangout spot tailored to your style. Add couches, outdoor rugs, and string lights to set a relaxing, inviting atmosphere. Whether you prefer a casual vibe or a more luxurious setup, the possibilities are endless. For a conversational and engaging layout, arrange a circle of seating to encourage easy communication and connection. This versatile space can quickly become everyone’s favorite spot for relaxation and entertainment.
5. Under-Deck Kids’ Play Area
Transform your under-deck area into a safe, shaded play zone where kids can comfortably enjoy the outdoors, even on hot summer days. This is an excellent solution for families with limited yard space or those looking to maximize their outdoor area. By adding railings and a gate, you can create a secure, enclosed space for younger children, while older kids can enjoy a more open setup. Whether you have a small yard or a spacious one, this under-deck play area provides a perfect retreat from the sun, ensuring a safe and fun space for your children to play and explore.
Read Also: More Kid Friendly Deck Ideas
Conclusion: Create the Backyard of Your Dreams
Your raised deck isn’t just an elevated outdoor area—it’s a gateway to maximizing every square foot of your backyard. With so many creative ways to utilize the space below, you can transform your under-deck area into something that perfectly complements your lifestyle.
Don’t let this valuable space go to waste. Whether you’re dreaming of a storage shed, a relaxing hangout spot, or an under-deck dining area in Pittsburgh, Morgantown or Northern Virginia, Select Decks can bring your vision to life.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let’s create the perfect outdoor living space for you and your family!
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June 18, 2025
Exploring the Top Deck Roof Options for Ultimate Comfort and Style
Your deck should feel like a true extension of your home—comfortable, functional, and beautiful. The right deck roof option can make all the difference, offering shade, shelter, and a space you can use in any season.
Whether you're just getting started or planning an upgrade, this guide walks you through the best choices for decking roofs—balancing durability, design, and sustainability.
1. Solid Roof Structures for Full Coverage
Solid roof structures are ideal for homeowners who want full protection from sun, rain, and snow. Built from durable materials like shingles, metal roofing, or polycarbonate panels, these roofs blend seamlessly with your home’s architecture and provide a permanent solution.
Benefits:
- Year-round weather protection
- Long-lasting materials
- Consistent aesthetic with your home
2. Louvered Roof Systems for Adjustable Comfort
Louvered roofs give you total control over light, shade, and airflow. With adjustable slats that tilt open or closed, you can adapt your deck to changing weather in seconds. Many systems are motorized and can be controlled by remote or smartphone.
Benefits:
- Precision light and airflow control
- Modern, sleek appearance
- Ideal for unpredictable weather
3. Retractable Awnings for Flexible Shade
Need a deck cover that you can use on demand? Retractable awnings let you pull shade over your space when needed and fold it back to enjoy the sun. They come in various fabrics, colors, and designs to match any deck layout.
Benefits:
- Instant shade when you need it
- Easy to retract during cooler seasons
- Wide style and color options
4. Pergolas for an Open-Air Vibe
Pergolas add structure and visual appeal to your deck without fully enclosing it. The open lattice roof allows partial sun while offering opportunities for customization—like adding climbing vines, string lights, or draped fabrics.
Benefits:
- Elegant, natural look
- Semi-shade for a cozy feel
- Highly customizable
5. Shade Sails for a Contemporary Touch
Shade sails are fabric canopies stretched between anchor points. They offer a modern, architectural look while blocking out UV rays and reducing glare.
Benefits:
- Budget-friendly
- Modern and minimalistic
- Easily repositioned or replaced
6. Umbrellas and Cantilever Umbrellas
For small decks or specific sitting areas, umbrellas offer fast and flexible shade. Cantilever umbrellas are especially handy since they don't require a central pole, giving you more usable space underneath.
Benefits:
- Portable and adjustable
- Easy to install
- Great for renters or temporary shade needs
Choosing the Right Roofing Option for Your Deck
When selecting a deck roof, think about:
- Climate: Do you need year-round protection?
- Deck use: Are you hosting dinners, relaxing solo, or entertaining guests?
- Style: Do you prefer modern, rustic, or minimalist aesthetics?
- Budget: Some solutions are one-time investments, others offer flexibility over time.
Read Also: What is Composite Decking?
Sustainable Roofing Options for Your Deck
As homeowners look for greener solutions, sustainable roofing options are becoming more popular. Some eco-conscious choices include:
- Recycled metal roofing – Durable and recyclable
- Polycarbonate panels – Lightweight and long-lasting
- Shade sails made from recycled materials
- Wood pergolas from certified sustainable forests
These choices reduce environmental impact without sacrificing comfort or style.
Read Also: Top Brands and Materials for your Deck or Porch
What is the Best Option for Roof Decking?
The best deck roof depends on your needs:
- For permanent weather protection: solid roof structures
- For flexibility and control: louvered roofs or retractable awnings
- For budget-friendly design: pergolas or shade sails
- For portable options: umbrellas and cantilever setups
Let's Build a Better Outdoor Living Space
At SelectDecks, we help homeowners make the most of their outdoor areas with custom-built decks in Pittsburgh, Morgantown and Northern Virginia and thoughtfully designed roof structures. Whether you're seeking full coverage or a stylish shade solution, we’ll recommend what works best for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget. Contact us to get started or you can download our free pricing and project guide
FAQs: Deck Roofs and Shade Structures
1. What is the best type of roof for a deck?
It depends on your goals. Solid roofs are great for full protection, while pergolas or shade sails work well for style and airflow.
2. How much does it cost to add a roof to a deck?
Costs vary based on materials and structure. Contact SelectDecks for a personalized or download our free pricing guide
3. Can I add a roof to an existing deck?
Yes. Many homeowners retrofit their existing decks with pergolas, awnings, or permanent roofing solutions.
4. Is a permit required to add a roof to my deck?
In many areas, yes. We help handle the permit process as part of our design and build services.
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May 27, 2025
Unveiling the Distinctions: Porch, Patio, Deck – What Sets Them Apart?
If you're looking to expand your living space and boost your home's value, adding a deck or porch can be your best bet. But before you decide, it's important to understand the differences between the three. While all three enhance outdoor living, each offers unique features, costs, and functions.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about porch vs patio vs deck to help you choose the right fit for your home and lifestyle.
What is a Deck?
At SelectDecks, this question is even hard for us to define.
A deck is no longer just a simple outdoor platform. Over the years, decks have evolved into fully functional outdoor living spaces—extensions of your home that can be customized to fit your lifestyle. From multi-level layouts to specialized zones for relaxing, dining, or entertaining, decks can include features like:
As the owner, you can design your deck to fit your lifestyle, wants and needs. Featuring railings, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, outdoor bars, and more, custom decks have transformed into something that can be hard to define. One thing that’s for certain though, is that they’ll transform the appearance of your backyard and make the backyard your favorite room of the house.
Checkout the Multi-level Deck Built by SelectDecks' Deck Builders in Morgantown
What is a Patio?
A patio is a paved outdoor area that typically sits at ground level and adjoins the house. They can be made from pavers or stamped concrete.
- Paver patios are made of stones that are placed very close together to form a concrete surface.
- Stamped concrete patios are made when concrete is poured, allowed to nearly dry, and then stamped with templates that leave a stone pattern behind.
Patios can be used for recreation, hosting, dining and can often serve as a transition to the outdoors from the home, or connect to something else outside, like a deck.
As leading patio contractors in Pittsburgh, SelectDecks often work on patios as part of a larger project. These patios can connect to a larger deck, or serve as an extension of them.
What is a Porch?
Porches are usually enclosed areas with some form of walls surrounding them. These structures are also usually covered with a roof, and enclosed in some way with walls of some sort.
They can be three season rooms or four season rooms, depending on the type of walls the porch has. These walls can be built like the traditional “screened-in porch”, or they can be built up and fully loaded like the walls in your home. Outlets, heating/cooling, and lighting can all be a part of a porch’s design.
Read Also: Top Brands and Materials for your Deck or Porch
Porch vs Patio vs Deck: Key Differences
Porches, patios and decks all have their own unique features, and with these features, have sets of differences between them.
Deck vs Patio vs Porch: Cost Comparison
Cost is something that everyone is considering. When it comes to a porch, deck, or patio, this often leaps to mind. The cost can vary based on many factors, but a couple rules of thumb can serve as a guide. A porch will be the most expensive of the three. Because of how they’re built, they use the most material. Deck prices depend on your design and needs. Choosing deck boards based on their benefits, quality, and the amount your project needs all take an effect on price. When considering one of these three, your deck builder or contractor should be able to give you a pretty close estimate to where the actual cost of the project will lie.
Deck vs Patio vs Porch: Home Value Impact
When it comes to boosting home value, all three outdoor spaces—a deck, patio, and porch—offer solid returns.
But, the value may not come from where you think. All three of these options can provide immense value for you and your family. They can provide a place for your family to gather, a place to host your friends, and everything in between.
However, decks tend to deliver the highest return on investment (ROI) according to national data.
As per TimberTech survey:
- Wood decks provided an average ROI of 75.6%
- Composite decks followed closely with 69.1%
- Backyard patios offered around 55.2%
Which One Is Right for Your Home?
Deciding on whether a deck, patio, or porch comes down to your lifestyle and what you’re going to be using your new outdoor living space for.
If you love to have lavish parties and be an extraordinary host, perhaps a multi level deck with an outdoor kitchen is exactly what you need to bring your hosting to the next level.
If you prefer intimate gatherings with friends, maybe a paved patio with outdoor lighting and heating could be perfect. What’s right for your home depends entirely on your lifestyle, taste and needs.
Final Thoughts
A porch, deck, or patio can transform your home and turn your backyard into an incredible outdoor living space. While each one has its differences, they all add value to your home and can be a quality of life improvement.
Let’s Build the Right Outdoor Space for Your Home
Whether you need a porch, deck, or patio, SelectDecks is the right call for your home. Visit our website to download our free pricing and project guide!
Contact us today to get started with transforming your backyard.
May 27, 2025
Composite Decking - The Only Way to Go
When it comes to building the perfect outdoor living space, the material you choose makes all the difference. From pressure-treated lumber to PVC, there’s no shortage of options—but at SelectDecks, we believe composite decking is the clear winner. It offers the ideal blend of durability, low maintenance, and modern style.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what composite decking is, why we choose it for our projects, and what you should know before starting your next deck build.
What Is Composite Decking?
It’s important to have an understanding of what composite decking is before it’s discussed any further. Composite decking is what the name sounds like - it’s a composite deck board made of multiple materials. Composite deck boards are typically made from a mixture of wood fibers and plastic, and sealed off with a plastic cap overtop. Composite boards have many benefits over pressure-treated decks or PVC decks. This includes stability (very little expansion or contraction), and increased traction.
At SelectDecks, one of the types of composite deck boards we like to use are Deckorators Surestone boards. Surestone has another benefit, with it being cool to the touch. This is because Surestone boards are made of crushed limestone. If you’ve had or been on a deck near a pool in the summer, you’ll know how beneficial deck boards being cool to the touch are.
Why We Choose Only Composite Decking
As the leading custom deck builders in Pittsburgh and Morgantown, at SelectDecks we choose only composite decking because of its quality, durability and the benefits it offers that include:
- Long Lifespan -These days, composite deck board manufacturers offer lengthy product warranties in excess of 25 years. This means your deck will look and feel as good on year ten as it did on day one.
- Low Maintenance - Unlike wood, composite decking doesn't need sanding, staining, or sealing. A quick wash with soap and water is usually all it takes to keep your deck looking great.
- Fade & Stain Resistance - Thanks to its protective cap, composite boards resist fading from sun exposure and staining from spills—making it a great choice for families and entertainers alike.
- Eco-Friendly Materials - Many composite deck boards are made from recycled wood and plastics, reducing environmental impact while still delivering superior strength and style.
- Increased Safety - Composite boards typically offer greater slip resistance and don’t splinter, making them safer for bare feet, children, and pets.
- Wide Range of Colors and Finishes - Composite decking comes in myriad colors, has increased traction, lasts for decades and has a luxurious look and feel that you deserve
- Clean, Hidden Fastening Systems - Composite decking allows for hidden fasteners that leave no visible screws or nails, giving your deck a clean, polished finish. At SelectDecks, we use no-show fastening systems for a luxury look.
Note: At SelectDecks, we also offer a 3-year warranty on any deck construction. If a deck board pops up, give us a call. If a piece of trim looks off, give us a call. We’re here to ensure quality and stand by our work.
How much Does Composite Decking Cost?
The cost of your new composite deck will come down to a few different factors. Many deck board companies make "good, better, best deck" boards. What you choose for your deck will have a significant impact on the price of your outdoor project. Also, it will come down to the type of deck boards you choose. Another factor to consider is the size of your project. For example, a multi level wraparound deck will cost much more than a deck with a single zone. It comes down to the amount of material needed for the project. When considering a deck, your deck builder or contractor should be able to give you a good idea of what your project will cost depending on what kind of deck boards you decide to build with.
The cost of decks at SelectDecks start from $30,000 and can reach well over 6 digits depending on your requirements. However, contact us to get the exact and transparent quote.
Read Also: Top Brands and Materials for your Deck and Porch
Your Long-Lasting Deck Starts with SelectDecks
Ready to make the move to composite decking? Contact our team of best deck builders in Pittsburgh to setup a consultation. You can also checkout our free pricing and project guide! We’re ready to help you transform your outdoor living area.
Common Questions Asked about Composite Decking
1. How long do composite decks last?
It’s agreed upon that composite deck boards will last 25-30 years without maintenance.
2. Are composite decking materials eco-friendly?
Composite deck boards can be considered eco-friendly, especially if the composite is being made of recycled wood and plastic. These would be far more eco-friendly than something made of new wood or plastic.
3. Can you paint a composite deck?
Painting a composite deck board is not recommended, nor is it advised. Deck boards expand and contract with heat and cold. Paint will also not stick to the cap on the deck boards. However, this doesn’t mean there isn’t room for customizing your deck. Deck boards come in so many different colors, you won’t even need to consider painting it. There’s a deck board for every style and aesthetic.
Read Also: Questions you should be asking your Pittsburgh Deck Builder
4. How to install composite decking?
Composite deck boards are installed onto your deck through a system of clips and screws, or screwed into a substructure with a product like Cortex screws. A clip system holds onto your deck boards from the side, and is invisible from the top down. Each system is designed to affix your deck boards together in a clean way. At SelectDecks, we use no-show fastening for all of our materials. This means you won’t see a single screw head, fastener, or nail on your deck. This keeps the appearance of the deck clean and luxurious.
Ready to Create Your Dream Outdoor Space? Contact Us Today!