Your outdoor space is as important as your indoor space, and you should never neglect it. Thus, this is the perfect time to start thinking about freshening up your deck design to start spending time outdoors this summer. In this blog, we will look at stunning deck designs and how to take on the remodeling endeavor. In addition, we will mention other things to keep in mind for your deck remodeling. Before we get started, you can learn more about your best DMV Customer Home Builder here!
Is a Deck Design Makeover Worth It?
Well, yes, a deck design makeover is worth it. On the other hand, the significance of the remodeling effect will depend on your goals, lifestyle, and more. So, we will discuss why you should take on this project and how it can improve your life.
1. Increase Your Property Value
It is widely known that many home remodeling projects increase your property’s value, and having a deck design makeover is no different. Deck remodeling can have an ROI (return on investment) of 70%, but the financial sustainability of the project depends on many factors. For instance, the materials you use for the deck renovation, furniture, accessories, and more. So, this home addition could totally be worth it.
2. Lifestyle and Health Improvement
Several studies show that being outdoors can improve your mental & physical health drastically. Firstly, it has been proven that nature has a positive effect on your thinking, reasoning, and general cognitive abilities. Moreover, being outside reduces your cortisol levels (your stress hormone), leading to lower tension and stress.
3. Provide an Extra Living Space for Activities
Looking at a plain backyard might not stimulate your brain to do many activities. On the contrary, having a place ready and set might encourage you to do so. The activities will depend on the furniture and design of your deck. Firstly, you can use the outdoor space to do sunbathing, pilates, or yoga. Secondly, your new deck can be a hub for hosting family & friends. Think about BBQ parties, game nights around the firepit, outdoor dining, reading on a hammock, and more.
4. Upgrade Your Home Style
No one wants to have an unattractive, uninvested landscape. So, a well-designed deck can be the missing element in your backyard to get the jaw-dropping reaction from family & friends. Also, decks give you customizable options. Starting from the materials you choose, other things that you build on the deck, and all of the accessories you can add. So, an upgraded design will really add texture to your outdoor space.
5 Things to Consider for Your Deck Design Makeover
Before you start looking at inspo for your new deck design, there are a few things that you should consider. Not to mention, any well-designed remodeling project requires good planning and budgeting. So, let’s look at 5 things that you should consider before you start such a project.
1. Inspect Your Foundations
No matter if you are building a new deck or remodeling your old deck, you should start with a strong foundation. Note that you should want your deck to last, and this starts with understanding the various parts that make up the deck. Therefore, you can check out our foundation repair services to assess your home’s foundation.
2. Goal of the Area
The goal behind renovating your deck will determine many things. For example, the design, planning, materials, furniture, and more. Therefore, having this mindset before building or remodeling your deck will support you in budgeting, making the right choices, and planning. To illustrate this, if you want your deck to accommodate large gatherings, you will need a design that utilizes every single space.
On a side note, if you still don’t know how to choose the perfect wall paint color, we’ve got you covered. You can check out our blog on wall paint and learn how to make the best choice.
3. Material Selection
The material you choose for building your deck will determine the ROI (return on investment) you will get from your project. Therefore, we created this table to guide you through different deck materials:
| Material | Pros | Cons | Cost per Square Foot (Installed) |
| Pressure-Treated Pine | – Affordable- Readily available- Resistant to insects | – Requires regular maintenance (staining, sealing)- Can warp or splinter over time | $24.00 – $28.00 |
| Composite Decking | – Low maintenance- Durable- Resistant to fading, staining, and mold | – Higher cost- Limited color and design options | $47.00 – $49.00 |
| Cedar | – Attractive appearance- Resistant to rot and insects- Less prone to warping | – Requires regular maintenance- More expensive than pressure-treated wood | $40.00 – $45.00 |
| Redwood | – Rich appearance- Resistant to rot- Less maintenance | – High cost- Limited availability- Can break over time | $52.00 – $56.00 |
| Ipe (Brazilian Walnut) | – Durable- Resistant to scratches- Attractive color | – High cost- Difficult to work with- Requires regular maintenance | $75.00 – $79.00 |
4. Permits and Regulations
If you live in Alexandria, VA, you will most probably need a permit to build a new deck. When it comes to remodeling the deck, you will need a permit if you are making any structural changes.
5. Drainage, Utility, and More
You should slope your deck away from your home to direct the rainwater away. Furthermore, think about the utilities that you need. Plus, think about your deck and to which area of your home it is going to be connected.
Top 7 Deck Design Ideas for Alexandria, VA
Now that you have taken into consideration all the previous points, it’s time for the fun part. So, let’s take a look at the top 10 designs that will breathe life into your outdoor space.
1. Multilevel Deck Design
Opt for a multilevel deck design if you have a large space to utilize. This option is perfect if your backyard is sloped or if you want to have a designated area for each function. In other words, you can have an outside kitchen area, a barbecue area, and the main area for sitting & entertaining. Also, a multilevel deck will allow you to play around with garden beds to add more texture to this area.
2. Poolside Deck
A poolside deck may be the perfect option for this summer. Furthermore, a poolside deck will help you use the space around your pool. Thus, it will be the perfect space for sunbathing, entertaining, or easing the process of getting in and out of the pool. On top of that, the poolside deck will give you space to enjoy the view of the water. Also, it will add an aesthetic appeal even if you are not using the pool. Moreover, if you are interested in making your home feel like a vacation this summer, refer to our blog.
3. Outside Kitchen Deck
An outside kitchen can really increase your home value and provide you with many benefits. For example, avoid unwanted lingering cooking odors in your house by cooking things such as fried onions, garlic, and fish outside. Moreover, it can be convenient for outdoor dining by reducing the effort and time required to transport food in and out. So, it will make your cooking and cleaning process much easier.
4. Curved Deck Design
A curved deck can be a stunning and unique option, giving you a distinctive design. This design can be a good option to add a layer of dynamism and flow to your deck. In addition, a well-designed curved deck can make your deck stand out in a sea of straight-line and sharp-edged decks. Thus, increasing your home’s marketability.
5. Fire Pit Deck
Breezy summer nights aren’t complete without sitting around an outdoor fire pit while roasting marshmallows or hot dogs. So, a fire pit deck might be the one for you if this is the vibe you are going for. Also, you can check our blog on outdoor firepits if you want this to be your next backyard project.
6. Built-In Seating Deck Design
This option is perfect to maximize space usage on your deck. In addition, it is great if you are not looking for options that require high maintenance. Plus, this option will give you additional storage room, especially if you choose the perfect design for your area. Choose any option from floating to folding benches, or even carved benches.
7. Deck Balcony
If you want to bring that resort feeling into your home, a deck balcony can be a perfect choice. Certainly, if you want to elevate your bedroom and let the breeze come in, this choice will really bring that indoor-outdoor flow.
FAQs on Deck Design
How much does deck remodeling cost in Alexandria, VA?
A deck remodeling might cost anywhere from $570 to $570–$2,600. On the other hand, a deck replacement can cost $5,000–$20,000 depending on size and materials.
Do I need a permit for deck remodeling in Alexandria, VA?
Yes, you probably need a permit if you are doing any structural changes in your deck.
Does a deck need to be sloped?
Yes, a sloped deck design is necessary in most cases to direct rainwater away from your house and reduce water-related risks.
What is the best place for renovating my deck in Alexandria, VA?
Michael & Son Remodeling offers the best deck renovation services in Alexandria, VA, DC, and MD.
What is the best material for building a deck?
Common materials include wood, such as pressure-treated cedar and redwood, composite, and PVC. Each has its pros and cons in terms of durability, maintenance, and cost.
Do you offer attic remodeling services in Arlington, VA?
Yes! Our attic remodeling services are available in Arlington, VA. Plus, you can make your outdoor deck multi-level, adjacent to your attic!
Do you offer home addition services in McLean, VA?
Yes! Our local McLean, VA contractors can build the home addition that you need! So, call us today to get your free quote.
Final Thoughts on Deck Design
You’ve made it to the end of our Deck Design Ideas in Alexandria, VA blog! Your personal home improvement knowledge is the number one priority at Michael & Son Remodeling. Start your remodeling journey with the best name in the game. So, you can contact us right now and get a free consultation for your next remodeling or custom home building project. Lastly, our deck remodeling guide is here for you to check out!