As the weather gets warmer, you’ll be using the outdoor living spaces of your home more. To prepare for summer, take on some projects to make your deck more attractive and functional. Here are 5 DIY deck upgrades that will make your deck a better place to relax and entertain guests.
Add Storage Benches
Storage benches are useful because they have two purposes. They provide extra seating for guests and also can be used to store items like grilling tools, games, and cushions for outdoor furniture. Add storage benches against the railings of your deck. You may not want to do this if you have small children that may use them to climb up and over the railings.
Build a Bar
A bar built onto your deck is the perfect place to entertain friends. Reclaim old furniture to assemble your bar area, like bookshelves, desks, and dressers. Place bottles on the shelves, put bar tools in drawers, and install a mini-fridge underneath a desk. If the area isn’t already covered, add an awning to protect the bar area.
DIY Deck Upgrades for Shade
Decks without shade can get scalding hot and burn people’s feet. Make your deck more comfortable by creating a shady area. This can be done with a shade sail stretched from the roof of the house and attached to poles, or by adding potted trees or a trellis with vines. You’ll be able to enjoy your deck even on the hottest days of summer.
Deck Maintenance
If you have a wooden deck, maintenance is a mandatory DIY deck upgrade. Depending on the type of wood, the deck should be washed, sanded, and sealed periodically. If these maintenance steps are neglected, a wooden deck will deteriorate.
DIY Deck Upgrades for Lighting
Deck lights make a deck more welcoming and safe. Mount lights to the fronts of steps to help people see when going up or down them at night. String solar lights along the awning or railing to provide a festive glow.
By completing some of these DIY deck upgrades, you’ll be proud to show off your deck this summer. It doesn’t take a lot of money or time to revamp your deck.
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