Designing a dream deck

By Emma Peterson. 

Turn your client’s deck into a functional and fashionable space that can be used all year long with a covering.  

Oftentimes, when customers think about outdoor living, they think about barbequing on a warm evening or planting some flowers in the sunshine. But outdoor living is not just for the summertime! If your client has a deck or porch, a great way to elevate that space is by adding a roof or covering. Not only does this make it a comfortable space to be in no matter the season, but it can also extend the lifespan of the deck by preventing things like dirt and algae build-up. In this article, we’ll dive into seven options for covering a deck!  

1 – Consider a pergola 

Pergolas create an elegant outdoor living space. In particular, louvered pergolas (a modern-style structure that can be adjusted to block sun and/or rain out) are a great way to create a dining or lounge space that is sheltered from the elements.  

2 – Go for a gazebo 

When we say gazebo, you might imagine a large structure in a public park with picnic benches under it. But gazebos come in all shapes and sizes! For use on a deck, canvas gazebos are a great balance between affordability and protection. And the best part is they are easy to clean, as canvas can be washed just like any other fabric. 

3 – Add an awning 

Looking for a way to cover a deck and also elevate the privacy of the space? An awning is a great way to screen a deck from both prying eyes and the elements. As home designer Darren Morley puts it, “Awnings are a good option, especially for decks attached to the house. Some of the newer retractable roof systems offer solid shelter and clean lines and can be integrated with lighting or heating if you want a space that works year-round." 

4 – Put a roof on it 

Adding a permanent cover to a deck (essentially a roof) is the ultimate way to extend a home into the outdoors. Not only is it the most permanent and therefore most secure option, it is more often than not the most comfortable for occupants. But it’s not just benefits, adding a permanent cover is the most expensive option on this list and might require you to get a planning permission or permit of some sort.  

5 – Set sail in the shade 

Shade sails are named for the fact that they often come shaped in triangles, like sails on small boats! These sails are a quick and adjustable option that are perfect for small decks. Further, they are one of the most affordable and easy-to-install options on the list. 

6 – Natural protection 

For clients who want to go in a more whimsical, naturalistic direction, you can create a deck covering from plants! The first and easiest way to do this is to build the deck under a tree (or plant a tree that will grow and shade the deck). Garden designer Manoj Malde shared some tips for those who want to go down this route, sharing, “Look at how the sun travels around your garden and position the tree where it casts a shadow at the times when you're going to be sitting there. [Specifically, umbrella trees are] perfect for small gardens, they do not take up much space and will not block the neighbor's natural light.” However, a tree does take more maintenance than some of these options, with factors like leaves, needles, pitch and more to consider. 

If that’s a concern for your client, don’t worry! There’s another natural way to cover a roof – a metal pergola with climbing plants! There are a lot of flowers and foliage that naturally want to grow up an existing structure, such as clematis and honeysuckle. By guiding them onto a pergola, you can grow a covering for a deck. This has a lot of benefits, as Darren explained, “Leafy screens, arbors or even tall planting can also create shade and add a softer, more natural feel. These options take longer to establish but can blend beautifully into the garden and give a greater sense of privacy." 

7 – Perhaps a parasol?  

Another great option is incorporating a parasol or outdoor umbrella into a deck design. These are a great option for clients who need a flexible cover that is simple and affordable. One of the biggest draws for using a parasol is that they can be moved easily, as Darren put it, “A large parasol can offer broad coverage without the need for permanent fixtures, and it can be moved or packed away when not in use.” 

Read more about finding the perfect covering for your next deck project.