Is it time for a backyard refresh? If you’re getting ready to pull out the grill and spend some serious time outdoors this summer, now is the perfect time to spruce up your deck with those little extra upgrades that can make such a big difference. From deck railings to accent lighting, screens, and more, here are 5 ways you can take your deck to the next level and upgrade your outdoor backyard space.
1. Deck Railings
First on our list of deck upgrade ideas is to consider a deck railing. Beyond providing safety, deck railings can also create a point of interest for homeowners and their guests. From wood or composite railings that catch the eye to seamless cable or glass railings that don’t obstruct your view, deck railings are available in a wide range of styles and shapes to complement any taste. Check out our gallery of decking ideas for more inspiration.
While deck railings can add a beautiful architectural element to your outdoor space, they are also required for any finished deck that is 18” above grade and for decks with stairs. At Zeeland Supply & Lumber, our experts make sure our deck railings meet all code requirements for height and durability while also offering you a variety of material options to choose from, including:
- Trex Signature aluminum railing
- Trex Select composite railing and aluminum balusters
- Trex Transcend composite railing
- Atlantis cable railing
- Fairway steel, composite, PVC, aluminum, or vinyl railing
- AZEK capped polymer railing
2. Upgrading or Adding Screens
Upgrading the screens on your screened-in porch, or adding a new one altogether, is a great idea for upgrading your deck. Screened-in porches enable homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces without annoying pests like mosquitos, flies, blowing leaves, and other debris. Enjoyable summer activities like outdoor dinners and evening drinks are free from pesky flies and mosquitos.
Not only do screened-in porches add more function to your deck, but they also provide a striking architectural element to your outdoor space. They add more living space to your home by acting as another living room while also allowing you to spend more time enjoying the beautiful weather. Pro tip: Check out our guide to building a screened-in porch on an existing slab.
3. Accent Lighting
The third item on our list of deck upgrade ideas is accent lighting. Light the way on dark evenings with lighting on the stairs, railings, landings, and even underneath the deck. Not only do accent lights help prevent slips, trips, and falls, but they also elevate the space with intentional, elegant illumination.
From deck lights to landscape lighting, Zeeland Lumber & Supply carries all of the materials you need to incorporate accent lighting into your decking space, including a line of Trex Outdoor Lighting. Visit our showroom in your area to view all of the accent lighting options for your deck!
4. Shade Elements
Extend the amount of time your family is comfortable on the deck with a stylish shade element. Elaborate shade elements like pergolas with drapery are perfect for a stately home, while a simple umbrella spruces up any casual backyard deck. There are a variety of ways to add shade to your deck that match your home’s style and your desired investment level for this deck upgrade project.
Adding a pergola or other overhead structure to your deck not only provides shade in the hottest parts of the day, but it also adds an interesting structural element to the space. In addition to offering refuge from hot summer rays, drapes also add an element of privacy to your deck. This is especially helpful if your deck is located in your neighbor’s view.
Whether you’re going for cozy, elegant, or rustic, the shade element you choose can help take your deck to the next level.
5. Seal or Stain Your Deck
In addition to protecting your deck boards from UV rays, mold, water, and other potential damage, paints, seals, and stains can also upgrade a tired deck appearance. Before choosing a new paint or stain for your treated lumber or wood deck, you’ll want to research which types are compatible with your decking material. Depending on the type of decking material you have, you might need a specific type of stain, or even no stain at all.
Upgrade Your Deck at Zeeland Lumber & Supply
Looking for ways to take your deck to the next level? From beautiful railings and trim accents to stunning lighting, Zeeland Lumber & Supply has all of the options from top brands like Trex. Contact our team to learn more.