A well-designed deck is a gateway to outdoor living and entertainment. Whether you’re hosting summer barbecues, enjoying a quiet morning coffee, or simply unwinding after a long day, your deck provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. However, even the most beloved outdoor spaces can benefit from a refresh now and then. If your deck is feeling a bit lackluster or outdated, we can help breathe new life into it. Here are five easy yet impactful ways to upgrade your existing deck. Get ready to fall in love with your outdoor space all over again!
Refinish Your Deck
Refinishing your deck is like giving it a new lease on life. It revitalizes your outdoor space and protects it from the fluctuating St. Louis weather.
Transforming your deck by refinishing it will increase aesthetic appeal. It also extends the deck’s lifespan, making a refinishing project a smart investment for any homeowner.
The deck refinishing process typically involves three key steps:
- Sanding: Removing old finishes, smoothing out rough spots, and preparing the wood for new treatment.
- Staining: Applying a high-quality stain not only adds color but also penetrates the wood, offering protection against moisture and UV rays.
- Painting: For those seeking a more dramatic change, painting can completely transform your deck’s appearance while providing an extra layer of protection.
While these steps might seem straightforward, achieving professional-quality results can be challenging. That’s where expert deck refinishers in St. Louis come in handy.
They have the tools, expertise, and experience to efficiently complete the job, ensuring a flawless finish that will stand the test of time. By entrusting your deck refinishing in St. Louis to professionals, you can save time and effort while guaranteeing stunning results that will make your outdoor space shine.
Add Some Shade
Adding shade to your deck can transform it from a sun-baked surface to a cool, inviting retreat. Incorporating shading elements into your deck is perfect for those scorching St. Louis summer days.
Not only does it provide relief from the heat, but it also protects your skin from harmful UV rays and can even help control wind. Both of which create a more comfortable outdoor environment!
Beyond the practical benefits, shade structures add a touch of sophistication and visual interest to your deck, elevating its overall style.
There are several popular shade options to consider:
- Awnings: These versatile coverings can be fixed or retractable, offering flexibility in sun protection. They come in various styles and materials to complement your home’s exterior.
- Pergolas: These elegant structures provide partial shade while allowing some sunlight to filter through. They can be customized with climbing plants for added natural beauty.
- Roof coverings: A permanent roof covering provides maximum protection, allowing you to enjoy your deck even during light rain.
While DIY installation is possible for some shade solutions, enlisting the help of a professional can ensure proper design, structural integrity, and seamless integration with your existing deck. St. Louis deck experts can guide you in choosing the best shade option for your space and budget, guaranteeing a result that enhances both the functionality and beauty of your outdoor area.
Enhance Safety and Aesthetics with Lighting
Proper lighting transforms your outdoor space into a magical retreat as the sun sets over St. Louis. Beyond setting the mood, strategic lighting adds crucial layers of security, ensuring safe navigation around your deck after dark. With modern smart technology, you can easily program lights to activate with motion sensors or control them remotely, offering both convenience and energy efficiency.
Popular lighting options for decks in St. Louis include:
- Stair lighting: Illuminating your deck stairs not only prevents trips and falls but also creates a welcoming pathway. These lights can be subtly integrated into the risers or along the sides of steps.
- Rail lighting: Incorporating lights into your deck railing provides a soft, ambient glow that outlines the perimeter of your space. This option improves visibility while adding a touch of elegance to your design.
Although the allure of DIY installation might be tempting, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of professional installation for deck lighting. Improper electrical work can lead to serious safety hazards, including fire risks and electrical shocks.
A licensed contractor familiar with outdoor lighting systems can ensure that your new lights are installed correctly, meet local codes, and are properly weatherproofed for St. Louis’s varied climate.
Upgrade Your Furniture
Getting new deck furniture can turn your outdoor space into a true extension of your home. Comfortable, durable seating is the cornerstone of this transformation, encouraging you and your guests to linger longer and enjoy the outdoors to its fullest.
When considering furniture upgrades, think beyond traditional patio sets. A professionally installed porch swing, for instance, can become the centerpiece of your deck, offering a nostalgic charm and a perfect spot for relaxation.
For a more ambitious project, consider working with a deck professional to create built-in seating along the perimeter of your deck. This not only maximizes space but also provides a custom look that seamlessly integrates with your deck’s design.
To truly elevate your deck’s functionality, consider sectioning it off into distinct areas, each with its own purpose and seating type.
This might involve:
- A dining area with a sturdy table and chairs for al fresco meals
- A lounge section with comfortable sofas and a coffee table for casual gatherings
- A sunbathing area with chaise lounges for soaking up the St. Louis sun
Creating these distinct zones might involve building partial walls, installing pergolas, or even extending parts of your deck. These construction projects are best handled by professionals who can ensure that the new additions are structurally sound and complement your existing deck design.
Liven Things Up with Decorations
Decorative elements allow you to infuse your outdoor space with personality, creating a unique ambiance that reflects your tastes and enhances the overall deck experience.
While string lighting, rugs, and planters are excellent starting points for decoration, consider taking your deck’s personalization a step further with custom-built elements, such as:
- Built-in fire feature: A custom-designed fire pit or sleek gas fireplace can become a stunning focal point, providing warmth and ambiance for year-round enjoyment in St. Louis.
- Water element: A small, built-in water feature like a cascading wall or a bubbling rock fountain can add a soothing sound and visual interest to your deck.
- Custom privacy screens: Beautifully designed latticework or modern slatted panels can provide privacy while doubling as artistic installations.
- Integrated planter boxes: Custom-built planters that match your deck’s material and style can create a seamless look while providing space for a vibrant garden.
- Outdoor kitchen station: A built-in grill area with countertops and storage can elevate your deck into a true outdoor entertaining hub.
- Artistic deck inlays: Skilled craftsmen can create intricate designs or patterns within your deck boards, using different wood species or composite materials for a truly one-of-a-kind look.
By working with experienced contractors, you can bring these unique ideas to life, ensuring that your deck becomes a true reflection of your style and a standout feature of your home.
Upgrade Your Existing St. Louis Deck
Is your St. Louis deck ready for a makeover? At Mosby Building Arts, we understand that your outdoor space is an extension of your home, a place where memories are made and relaxation begins. Our expert team is here to help you breathe new life into your existing deck!
With our years of experience and dedication to quality craftsmanship, we can enhance your deck’s functionality, safety, and overall appeal. Whether you’re looking to expand your space, upgrade materials, or add custom features, our skilled designers and builders are ready to bring your vision to life.
Contact us today or call 314.909.1800.