Deck Features Articles
While a deck itself can be a welcome addition to your backyard, giving you a place to lounge, cookout, or enjoy time with friends and family, adding features to your deck can truly bring the space to life! Cool deck features, such as pergola with built-in benches, planter boxes, and fire pits are just a few ways to make your deck an inviting place to be.
SHOW MORE +
Many deck features are as functional as they are attractive. Purely functional features such as storage benches are ideal for storing cooking utensils or extra towels when lounging poolside, as well as offering up added seating. A pergola can be a great way to add some shade overhead, or as a structure to incorporate natural features like climbing vines for a striking look. To bring in even more of the elements, look to deck water feature ideas like fountains, waterfalls, or even a koi pond to create a backyard oasis. Similarly, a fire pit can also make your deck a warm, welcoming place when cold weather sets in.
If you’re looking for inspiration to add fire features, water features, pergola designs, planter boxes and more, Decks.com has you covered. Browse through our collection of articles for ideas and tutorials on building a deck planter box to installing under deck drainage systems and more! Whether you want to install pergola post cap lighting or are in search of ideas for shading your deck, you’ll find all the information you need and more!
SHOW LESS -
Benches, Planters & Skirting
Deck Skirting Ideas
Deck skirting offers more than aesthetics. From added storage to critter deterrence and concealing structures, explore our top ideas for your backyard's transformation.
Outdoor Ideas
25 Balcony Decor Ideas to Make the Most of Your Space
Make the most of your apartment balcony space with these decor ideas from lighting to furniture to privacy solutions.
Building
Covered Deck Costs
Interested in a covered deck but asking yourself how much it costs? Learn the cost to build a covered deck depending on types of deck covers and add-ons.
Outdoor Furniture
From Litter to Lumber: How Trex® Outdoor Furniture™ Turns Plastic Into All-Weather Furniture
Learn how Trex Outdoor Furniture turns discarded plastic into stylish, long-lasting furniture.
Building
What Does it Cost to Build a Second Story Deck?
Interested in an elevated deck but asking yourself how much does a second story deck cost? Learn the cost to build a second story deck here.
Building
What Does it Cost to Enclose a Deck?
Want to enclose your deck but wondering how much it costs? Learn the cost to enclose your deck, porch, or patio to enjoy it all year round.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
How to Build Deck Planter Boxes
Learn how to build planter boxes to display flowers on your deck that will look nice and hold up well for many years.
Arbors & Pergolas
15 Pergola Ideas to Create a Backyard Oasis
Pergolas can add style and shade to your backyard. Get inspired on how to create a backyard oasis with these pergola design ideas.
Water Drainage Systems
Installing a DIY Under-Deck Drainage System
Whether you're storing outdoor furniture or entertaining guests, you can add a DIY under deck drainage system to your deck to stay dry.
Outdoor Ideas
5 Ways to Cleverly Hide Outdoor Trash Cans
Outdoor trash cans can be an unwanted eyesore. Discover how you can easily cover them up and add an extra touch of beauty to your yard.
Outdoor Ideas
Best Plants & Flowers to Brighten Up Your Deck
If you’re looking to brighten up your outdoor space this summer, try adding one of these plants or flowers to your deck or patio.
Outdoor Ideas
Outdoor Water Features to Enhance Your Space
Looking to add a water feature to your backyard or patio? Check out our top ideas to add some tranquility to your outdoor space.
Outdoor Ideas
Best Outdoor Patio Umbrellas
These are the best outdoor umbrellas for your patio or deck to keep you cool on those sunny summer days. Check out our top umbrella picks at Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
The Best Outdoor Lights for Your Backyard & Deck
Adding lighting to your deck or patio is important for both style and function. Check out our recommendations for the best outdoor lights to illuminate your backyard.
Outdoor Ideas
The 9 Best Porch Swings for 2024
Porch swings are a great way to add charm and comfort to any home. Get our recommendations for how to choose the best porch swing.
Outdoor Ideas
Deck Stain Color Ideas & Inspiration
Choosing a stain color for your deck can feel overwhelming. Get inspired with deck stain color ideas and options.
Outdoor Ideas
Eco-Friendly Backyard: Tips and Ideas to Green Up Your Space
Living a more sustainable lifestyle can start with a few simple changes in your backyard. Learn how to create a more sustainable backyard with Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
The 8 Best Deck Paints for 2024
Painting your deck is a great way to refresh your outdoor space. Get our recommendations for how to choose the best deck paint today.
Building
The 9 Best Deck Boxes for Outdoor Storage
Deck boxes are a great way to add necessary storage to your outdoor space. Get our recommendations for how to choose the best deck box.
Building
Building an Outdoor Kitchen? Here’s What You Should Consider Before You Start
Building an outdoor kitchen is an investment that can add value to your home. Learn what you should consider before building an outdoor kitchen on Decks.com.
Lighting
The Top 10 Outdoor Fireplaces for 2024
Outdoor fireplaces can make your deck or patio cozy year round. Get our recommendations for how to choose the best outdoor fireplace.
Outdoor Ideas
Deck Fire Pit Ideas, Inspiration & Tips
Fire pits can add ambiance and coziness to your deck year round. Get ideas and inspiration for adding a fire pit to your deck.
Building
DIY Patio Table Building Guide
Our DIY guide will show you how to build an outdoor table to entertain guests and make the most out of your deck or patio. Learn more with Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
7 Outdoor Storage Ideas & Tips
Free up valuable space in your home with outdoor storage options. Find unique ideas for outdoor storage as well as some tips for organizing at Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
6 of the Best DIY Outdoor Shower Ideas
Outdoor showers are perfect for cleaning off after the beach or pool. Here are some of our favorite DIY outdoor shower ideas. Find inspiration at Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
9 Best Outdoor Deck Furniture Design Ideas
Make your deck the place to be this year. Find unique outdoor furniture ideas for decks of all sizes and transform your backyard into an outdoor living room.
Outdoor Ideas
Best Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas For 2024
Make your backyard kitchen the place to be this year. Find unique outdoor kitchen ideas for summer BBQs, grilling, and outdoor parties at decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
Best Outdoor Dining Room Ideas For 2024
Create the perfect outdoor dining space for you and your guests. Make the most of your deck or patio with our list of outdoor dining area ideas and pictures.
Lighting
The 12 Best Outdoor Deck Lighting Ideas to Illuminate Your Backyard
Brighten up your outdoor living space and learn how to incorporate lighting fixtures into your deck to enhance your entertainment area.
Fencing
Composite Fencing: Reviews & DIY Installation Overview
Are you considering installing a composite fence? Learn more about composite fencing, as well as how to install a composite fence yourself, at Decks.com.
Water Drainage Systems
What is the Best Under Deck Drainage System?
An under deck drainage system creates a dry space under your deck and protects your substructure from moisture. Read our review of the best under deck drainage systems at Decks.com.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
How to install Deck Skirting
Skirting can be an attractive feature that can be added to any low-level deck.
Lighting
How to Install Recessed Stair Lighting
Step-by-step instructions for how to install low-voltage lights on your deck stair risers.
Lighting
How to Install Deck Post Cap Lights
Follow our step-by-step instructions to install low-voltage post cap lighting.
Lighting
How to Install Solar Post Caps on Decks, Fences, and Deck Stair Posts
Compare the pros and cons of solar deck lights and learn how to install them on post caps and rails at Decks.com.
Lighting
How to Install Low Voltage Deck Lighting
Step-by-step instructions on how to install low-voltage post cap lights. Learn about cutting a groove to hide your wiring.
Arbors & Pergolas
How to Build a Pergola on a Deck
Learn how to build a wood pergola shade feature over your deck.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
How to Build a Built-in Deck Bench
Adding built-in benches can save a lot of space on your deck and give your guests a comfortable place to sit. Learn how to easily build a bench with Decks.com.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
16 Freestanding & Built-In Deck Bench Seating Ideas
Whether built-in or stand alone, deck benches are an excellent seating option. Get ideas and inspiration for your deck bench design with Decks.com.
Arbors & Pergolas
How to Install a Shade Sail
Shade sails are a stylish way to keep your deck cool and shady. Learn how to install a shade sail in your backyard.
Outdoor Ideas
The Best Outdoor Rugs to Buy
Outdoor rugs are a great way to add additional style and protection to your deck or patio. Check out our recommendations for the best outdoor rugs.
Building
Best Deck Stains for 2024
Looking to breathe new life into your deck by staining it? Check out our recommendations for the best deck stains to protect your wood deck.
Outdoor Ideas
Deck Bar Ideas to Get Your Backyard Ready for Summer
Want to transform your backyard into the perfect space for entertaining? Check out our outdoor deck bar ideas!
Outdoor Ideas
Underrated + Overlooked Features to Consider Adding to Your Deck
Want to give your deck or patio a unique look? These creative deck ideas will upgrade your deck in no time.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
Deck Skirting Ideas
Deck skirting offers more than aesthetics. From added storage to critter deterrence and concealing structures, explore our top ideas for your backyard's transformation.
Outdoor Ideas
25 Balcony Decor Ideas to Make the Most of Your Space
Make the most of your apartment balcony space with these decor ideas from lighting to furniture to privacy solutions.
Building
Covered Deck Costs
Interested in a covered deck but asking yourself how much it costs? Learn the cost to build a covered deck depending on types of deck covers and add-ons.
Outdoor Furniture
From Litter to Lumber: How Trex® Outdoor Furniture™ Turns Plastic Into All-Weather Furniture
Learn how Trex Outdoor Furniture turns discarded plastic into stylish, long-lasting furniture.
Building
What Does it Cost to Build a Second Story Deck?
Interested in an elevated deck but asking yourself how much does a second story deck cost? Learn the cost to build a second story deck here.
Building
What Does it Cost to Enclose a Deck?
Want to enclose your deck but wondering how much it costs? Learn the cost to enclose your deck, porch, or patio to enjoy it all year round.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
How to Build Deck Planter Boxes
Learn how to build planter boxes to display flowers on your deck that will look nice and hold up well for many years.
Arbors & Pergolas
15 Pergola Ideas to Create a Backyard Oasis
Pergolas can add style and shade to your backyard. Get inspired on how to create a backyard oasis with these pergola design ideas.
Water Drainage Systems
Installing a DIY Under-Deck Drainage System
Whether you're storing outdoor furniture or entertaining guests, you can add a DIY under deck drainage system to your deck to stay dry.
Outdoor Ideas
5 Ways to Cleverly Hide Outdoor Trash Cans
Outdoor trash cans can be an unwanted eyesore. Discover how you can easily cover them up and add an extra touch of beauty to your yard.
Outdoor Ideas
Best Plants & Flowers to Brighten Up Your Deck
If you’re looking to brighten up your outdoor space this summer, try adding one of these plants or flowers to your deck or patio.
Outdoor Ideas
Outdoor Water Features to Enhance Your Space
Looking to add a water feature to your backyard or patio? Check out our top ideas to add some tranquility to your outdoor space.
Outdoor Ideas
Best Outdoor Patio Umbrellas
These are the best outdoor umbrellas for your patio or deck to keep you cool on those sunny summer days. Check out our top umbrella picks at Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
The Best Outdoor Lights for Your Backyard & Deck
Adding lighting to your deck or patio is important for both style and function. Check out our recommendations for the best outdoor lights to illuminate your backyard.
Outdoor Ideas
The 9 Best Porch Swings for 2024
Porch swings are a great way to add charm and comfort to any home. Get our recommendations for how to choose the best porch swing.
Outdoor Ideas
Deck Stain Color Ideas & Inspiration
Choosing a stain color for your deck can feel overwhelming. Get inspired with deck stain color ideas and options.
Outdoor Ideas
Eco-Friendly Backyard: Tips and Ideas to Green Up Your Space
Living a more sustainable lifestyle can start with a few simple changes in your backyard. Learn how to create a more sustainable backyard with Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
The 8 Best Deck Paints for 2024
Painting your deck is a great way to refresh your outdoor space. Get our recommendations for how to choose the best deck paint today.
Building
The 9 Best Deck Boxes for Outdoor Storage
Deck boxes are a great way to add necessary storage to your outdoor space. Get our recommendations for how to choose the best deck box.
Building
Building an Outdoor Kitchen? Here’s What You Should Consider Before You Start
Building an outdoor kitchen is an investment that can add value to your home. Learn what you should consider before building an outdoor kitchen on Decks.com.
Lighting
The Top 10 Outdoor Fireplaces for 2024
Outdoor fireplaces can make your deck or patio cozy year round. Get our recommendations for how to choose the best outdoor fireplace.
Outdoor Ideas
Deck Fire Pit Ideas, Inspiration & Tips
Fire pits can add ambiance and coziness to your deck year round. Get ideas and inspiration for adding a fire pit to your deck.
Building
DIY Patio Table Building Guide
Our DIY guide will show you how to build an outdoor table to entertain guests and make the most out of your deck or patio. Learn more with Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
7 Outdoor Storage Ideas & Tips
Free up valuable space in your home with outdoor storage options. Find unique ideas for outdoor storage as well as some tips for organizing at Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
6 of the Best DIY Outdoor Shower Ideas
Outdoor showers are perfect for cleaning off after the beach or pool. Here are some of our favorite DIY outdoor shower ideas. Find inspiration at Decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
9 Best Outdoor Deck Furniture Design Ideas
Make your deck the place to be this year. Find unique outdoor furniture ideas for decks of all sizes and transform your backyard into an outdoor living room.
Outdoor Ideas
Best Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas For 2024
Make your backyard kitchen the place to be this year. Find unique outdoor kitchen ideas for summer BBQs, grilling, and outdoor parties at decks.com.
Outdoor Ideas
Best Outdoor Dining Room Ideas For 2024
Create the perfect outdoor dining space for you and your guests. Make the most of your deck or patio with our list of outdoor dining area ideas and pictures.
Lighting
The 12 Best Outdoor Deck Lighting Ideas to Illuminate Your Backyard
Brighten up your outdoor living space and learn how to incorporate lighting fixtures into your deck to enhance your entertainment area.
Fencing
Composite Fencing: Reviews & DIY Installation Overview
Are you considering installing a composite fence? Learn more about composite fencing, as well as how to install a composite fence yourself, at Decks.com.
Water Drainage Systems
What is the Best Under Deck Drainage System?
An under deck drainage system creates a dry space under your deck and protects your substructure from moisture. Read our review of the best under deck drainage systems at Decks.com.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
How to install Deck Skirting
Skirting can be an attractive feature that can be added to any low-level deck.
Lighting
How to Install Recessed Stair Lighting
Step-by-step instructions for how to install low-voltage lights on your deck stair risers.
Lighting
How to Install Deck Post Cap Lights
Follow our step-by-step instructions to install low-voltage post cap lighting.
Lighting
How to Install Solar Post Caps on Decks, Fences, and Deck Stair Posts
Compare the pros and cons of solar deck lights and learn how to install them on post caps and rails at Decks.com.
Lighting
How to Install Low Voltage Deck Lighting
Step-by-step instructions on how to install low-voltage post cap lights. Learn about cutting a groove to hide your wiring.
Arbors & Pergolas
How to Build a Pergola on a Deck
Learn how to build a wood pergola shade feature over your deck.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
How to Build a Built-in Deck Bench
Adding built-in benches can save a lot of space on your deck and give your guests a comfortable place to sit. Learn how to easily build a bench with Decks.com.
Benches, Planters & Skirting
16 Freestanding & Built-In Deck Bench Seating Ideas
Whether built-in or stand alone, deck benches are an excellent seating option. Get ideas and inspiration for your deck bench design with Decks.com.
Arbors & Pergolas
How to Install a Shade Sail
Shade sails are a stylish way to keep your deck cool and shady. Learn how to install a shade sail in your backyard.
Outdoor Ideas
The Best Outdoor Rugs to Buy
Outdoor rugs are a great way to add additional style and protection to your deck or patio. Check out our recommendations for the best outdoor rugs.
Building
Best Deck Stains for 2024
Looking to breathe new life into your deck by staining it? Check out our recommendations for the best deck stains to protect your wood deck.
Outdoor Ideas
Deck Bar Ideas to Get Your Backyard Ready for Summer
Want to transform your backyard into the perfect space for entertaining? Check out our outdoor deck bar ideas!
Outdoor Ideas
Underrated + Overlooked Features to Consider Adding to Your Deck
Want to give your deck or patio a unique look? These creative deck ideas will upgrade your deck in no time.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights