Coastal Lifestyle Blog

8 Reasons to Consider Adding a Deck to Your Home

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 14:25:25 GMT

Adding a deck to your home can create a comfortable outdoor space for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying time with family and friends. Whether you want a quiet place to drink your morning coffee or an inviting area for weekend gatherings, a well-designed deck can make your property more functional. It also provides an opportunity to connect indoor living spaces with the outdoors while making better use of your backyard. With thoughtful planning, homeowners can choose materials, layouts, and features that complement their existing property. Working with a professional deck contractor can help ensure the structure suits your needs and fits the available space. From improving outdoor entertaining to creating a personalized retreat, a deck offers several advantages worth considering. Understanding these benefits can help you decide whether adding one is the right investment for your home.

1. Expanding Your Living Space

One of the primary benefits of adding a deck is gaining additional usable space without extending the home's interior. A deck creates an outdoor area where household members can relax, read, enjoy meals, or spend time together. It can serve as an extension of a living room, kitchen, or dining area, depending on its placement and design. Homeowners with limited indoor space may appreciate having another comfortable area for everyday activities. A deck contractor can assess the property and recommend a layout that makes practical use of the available yard. The design can accommodate seating, tables, planters, and other features without making the area feel crowded.

Thoughtful planning also helps create convenient access between the house and the deck. This additional space can make a home feel more versatile and welcoming throughout the year.

2. Improving Outdoor Entertaining

A deck provides a dedicated setting for hosting gatherings and enjoying time with guests. Instead of keeping everyone indoors, homeowners can offer an outdoor area for meals, conversations, celebrations, and casual meetups. Adding a dining table, comfortable chairs, or an outdoor serving station can make entertaining more convenient. The layout should allow guests to move around comfortably while leaving enough room for furniture and other accessories. An experienced deck contractor can help determine the appropriate dimensions for the types of gatherings you plan to host. For example, a household that frequently entertains larger groups may benefit from separate seating and dining areas. Railings, stairs, and entry points should also be planned to support convenient movement. With the right design, a deck can become a favorite gathering place for family and friends.

3. Enhancing the Backyard's Appearance

A thoughtfully designed deck can improve the visual appeal of a backyard by introducing structure and creating a defined outdoor destination. Its shape, color, materials, and railing style can complement the home's architectural features. Homeowners can choose a simple design for a clean appearance or incorporate decorative details that create a distinctive outdoor setting. Landscaping around the deck can further improve the overall look by adding greenery, flowers, and natural textures.

A deck contractor can help coordinate design choices with the existing house and yard. The deck's position also matters because it affects views, sunlight, and the relationship between the structure and surrounding landscaping. Coordinating these elements helps create a balanced outdoor environment rather than an isolated platform. The result can be a more attractive and cohesive property.

4. Creating a Comfortable Relaxation Area

A deck can provide a peaceful place to unwind without leaving home. Homeowners can furnish the space with lounge chairs, outdoor cushions, shade umbrellas, or other accessories that support relaxation. Depending on the property's layout, the deck may offer views of a garden, trees, or other appealing outdoor features. Privacy screens and carefully positioned landscaping can help make the area feel more secluded. A professional deck contractor can consider sun exposure, prevailing weather, and surrounding structures when helping plan the space. These factors can influence where seating should be placed and whether additional shade is appropriate. Homeowners may also incorporate lighting to make the deck comfortable to use during the evening. With the right combination of features, the area can become a convenient retreat for reading, resting, or enjoying fresh air.

5. Choosing Durable Decking Materials

Material selection plays an important role in determining how a deck looks, feels, and performs over time. Wood offers a natural appearance, while composite decking provides another option for homeowners seeking different maintenance characteristics. Each material has its own considerations involving cost, appearance, cleaning, and long-term care. Homeowners should also consider local weather conditions and how frequently the deck will be used. According to This Old House, composite decking can remain serviceable for 25 years or longer when it receives appropriate care. This makes durability an important factor to evaluate when comparing decking options. A deck contractor can explain the differences between available materials and help homeowners identify suitable choices for their property. Selecting materials carefully can support a deck that remains attractive and functional with ongoing maintenance.

6. Supporting Outdoor Dining Activities

An outdoor deck can make everyday meals more enjoyable by creating a convenient place to eat outside. Homeowners can use the area for family breakfasts, casual lunches, evening dinners, or weekend barbecues. A table and chairs provide a practical starting point, while additional features can be selected according to the available space. Some households may prefer a dedicated dining area, while others may want a flexible layout that accommodates different activities. A deck contractor can help position the structure near an appropriate entrance to improve access between the kitchen and outdoor dining space. Planning for enough clearance around furniture helps guests sit comfortably and move safely. Homeowners should also consider exposure to sun and rain when selecting furniture and accessories. A well-planned deck can make outdoor dining more convenient and enjoyable.

7. Increasing the Property's Appeal

Outdoor living features can influence how prospective buyers perceive a property. A well-maintained deck may help demonstrate that the backyard offers usable space for recreation, relaxation, and entertaining. Its appeal depends on factors such as design quality, condition, material selection, and compatibility with the rest of the home. Homeowners should avoid assuming that every deck will produce a specific financial return because property values vary by location and market conditions.

Instead, it is helpful to consider how the addition could improve everyday enjoyment while supporting the home's overall presentation. A knowledgeable deck contractor can help develop a design that complements the property rather than overwhelming the yard. Durable materials and appropriate maintenance can also help preserve the deck's appearance. A functional outdoor area may make the property more attractive to people who value outdoor living.

8. Customizing the Space to Your Needs

A deck can be designed around a household's specific preferences, making it a flexible addition to the property. Some homeowners prioritize a spacious entertaining area, while others want a compact platform for a few chairs and potted plants. Features such as built-in benches, planters, railings, steps, and lighting can help tailor the finished structure to its intended purpose. The available yard space and the home's existing layout will influence which options are practical. A deck contractor can discuss these considerations and help homeowners establish priorities before construction begins. It is also important to consider access, drainage, structural requirements, and any applicable local building codes. Establishing a realistic budget early can help determine which design features offer the greatest value for the household. With careful planning, a customized deck can support daily routines while reflecting the homeowner's personal style.

Adding a deck can transform an underused backyard into a functional extension of your home. From providing more room for entertaining to creating a relaxing outdoor retreat, this improvement offers opportunities to make everyday living more enjoyable. Choosing appropriate materials, planning a practical layout, and considering long-term maintenance can help you get more from your investment. Professional guidance can also make it easier to coordinate the deck's appearance with your home and landscape. Whether you envision a welcoming dining area or a peaceful place to unwind, the right design begins with understanding how you want to use the space. Contact Coastal Outdoor Spaces today to discuss your outdoor living goals and explore options for creating a deck that complements your home and lifestyle.

Keep the Bugs Away With a Screened-in Porch

Tue, 23 May 2023 14:34:00 GMT

With school coming to a close and summer almost here, it’s time to start thinking about what comes with the warmer temps: bugs. As great as it is to be outside in the summer and fall, it’s even better to have a place to hang out without worrying about bugs. Enter screened-in porches.

The examples below show the different designs and how they relate to the rest of the home. Given that screened-in porches are ideal as additions, how they flow is particularly important, both architecturally and in terms of how the spaces mesh from inside to out.

Screened-in porches provide not only a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors bug-free, but they also protect against harmful UV exposure, rain and moisture, glares and extreme heat and add instant value to your home.

We can provide whatever outdoor living design and structure that enables you to reach your goals. To learn more about your options for a new addition or to build on to an existing deck, call us today or visit us here .

Decking material options

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 14:07:00 GMT

If you’re looking to build a deck this summer, you may have noticed that choosing a decking material has become much more difficult than ever before. Just a few years ago the only option was wood, which came in perhaps two or three species. Today, there are dozens of different decking materials available, including composite lumber and plastic decking

Before breaking ground on your new deck, let’s take a close look at basic types of decking, each with its own aesthetics, maintenance requirements, and price range.

Pressure Treated Lumber

The most affordable option is pressure treated (PT) lumber. It is readily available in almost any home supply store or lumber yard. It is also easy to stain or paint in virtually any color.

PT lumber does come with some down sided. It is not the most stable of material. It does tend to shrink, swell, split and crack as it is exposed to the elements.

Like any decking material, PT lumber will need routing maintenance. Power wash it once a year, and a new coat of stain or paint every two to three years will help keep your deck looking like new.

Redwood & Cedar

Redwood and Western red cedar are the most popular option for a wood deck. The are beautiful with deep, rich colors. A natural beauty that doesn’t need to pumped full of chemical. They are resistant to rot and decay.

Prices range from high to low quality of the wood specified. B-grade redwood is a solid choice, and is the most common choice.

Pressure washing once a year. New clear finish every three to four years. If you want to maintain the natural colors of your redwood or cedar, then you need to use a semi-transparent stain that is tinted and formulated for use on cedar or redwood.

Composite Decking

Composite Decking or PVC (Plastic Decking) are a popular choice because they are mostly maintenance free. Composites are weather resistant, easy to clean, and will not warp or rot. All of which makes it a easy and practical choice.

Prices vary with the quality of the decking and it’s mixture of recycled material. Some will definitely absorb and give off more heat than other. Composites may also be heavy and need more effort to install.

Maintenance is a snap, and composites come in a wide range of colors and style.

At Coastal Outdoors, we work with all deck material variations and would be happy to discuss what would work best for you. Visit coastaloutdoorspaces.com for more information.

Why You Should Start Planning For Your Spring Outdoor Project Now

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 14:00:00 GMT

With warmer temperatures right around the corner, it is likely you are itching to be able to enjoy the outdoors again. There is a chance you have been dreaming up ideas or even planning exactly what you might want all winter. Now is the perfect time to start planning your outdoor home improvement projects for spring! A patio, deck, or even a sunroom is an excellent addition to your home that can provide you and your family with more functional living space and add value to your home.

Spring is the busy season for most patio, deck, and outdoor living contractors. Now is the time to get your project on the books to ensure you can enjoy it during the peak outdoor season.

Planning takes time – and with some properties that can include permits, HOA approvals, and the like – so it is important to work out these details with enough time before construction begins. Similarly with design, taking your time to research designs, and customizations, you’ll end up with a deck or patio that truly fits the needs of your family.

Coastal Outdoor Spaces builds decks, porches, pavilions, gazebos, and sunrooms that will fit perfectly with your vision for a custom-designed outdoor living space. From start to finish our crew will keep the lines of communication open. We will listen and devise a plan that combines your ideas and the industry’s best practices. It is important for you to know that we can grow with your ideas. What starts out as a deck project may turn into a deck with screened porch and patio. We can provide whatever outdoor living design and structure that enables you to reach your goals.

Interested in learning more about how Coastal Outdoor Spaces can transform your outdoor spaces? We serve clients in Annapolis and all over Anne Arundel County. We look forward to helping you. Click here or call us today: 443-223-9518

Outdoor Updates That Add Value to Your Home

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 17:17:00 GMT

Looking to add value to your home in 2023? While a home’s value depends heavily on its interior square footage, having functional and attractive outdoor spaces can add a lot to the value of your house. Investing in these outdoor upgrades now means you have the time to enjoy them, and they’ll produce a high return on investment later. It’s a win-in!

Here are a few updates that the Coastal Outdoor Spaces recommends:

1. Make your yard functional: Use landscaping, hardscaping, outdoor kitchens, firepits and other add-ons to create new outdoor zones! These spaces can then be used to entertain, for kids to play, exercise and more.

2. Create an outdoor living space: According to a recent survey from Rocket Homes, an attached outdoor living space, such as a deck or porch, can add almost $20,000 to the value of your home. The team at Coastal Outdoor Spaces can help you determine which type of outdoor space is best for your home. Click here ( https://coastaloutdoorspaces.com/design-build-services-outdoor-living-spaces/decks-porches-pavilions-gazebos-sunrooms/ ) to learn more about our deck, porch, pavilion, gazebo and sunroom design and installation.

3. Enhance your landscaping: Landscaping is an easy way to not only add a lot of visual appeal to your house but can also build equity in your home. Low-maintenance plantings for colorful but easy upkeep can help keep your landscaping looking great. The experts at Coastal Outdoor Spaces can help you design landscaping that is a perfect reflection of you and your home. Click here ( https://coastaloutdoorspaces.com/design-build-services-outdoor-living-spaces/landscape-design/ ) to learn more about our landscape design capabilities.

Together, we can make your outdoor living dreams come true. Contact us today ( https://coastaloutdoorspaces.com/contact-us-outdoor-living-spaces/ ) to get your patio, deck, porch, or landscaping project started today!

A New Year, Another Happy Client!

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 15:45:00 GMT

Recently, Coastal Outdoor Spaces received a 5-star Google Review from another happy client. Click here or read below to learn about their positive experience with Coastal!

We contracted with Coastal to replace our large wood deck with a new composite deck, paver patio, and firepit. We also contracted with them to replace our front walkway. We chose Brandon and Coastal after conducting a lot of research and getting quotes from many companies. Brandon was by far the most thoughtful, creative, and knowledgeable of all bidders. His price was competitive and the creativity of his design was outstanding. He was so knowledgeable about functional and aesthetic aspects of the work– he informed us about things we would have never known, even after extensive research.

Once the Coastal team came onsite to do the work, the efficiency of the delivery of the material, combined with the execution of their work schedule, were exceptional. They showed great pride in their work, and were open to input from us while they were executing the design. The team cleaned up after each day, and were so respectful and nice throughout the entire process. The music they played contributed to a festive atmosphere.

When we think about the value we received, we are so pleased. Here are a few examples:

Other companies were going to use the existing wood platform and overlay the new composite material to replace the existing deck, but Brandon’s team took the time and material to replace everything. During the demolition process, his team found several potential entry points for mice, which they sealed for us.

The original patio design was smaller, but Brandon’s team enlarged it to make it so much more stunning and beautiful. They also added a landing area in the front of the deck which tied the entire space so beautifully
The original front walkway was a basic rectangular design that had fallen. Brandon and his team opened the design adding movement and flair, and used a concrete base to ensure it never falls again.

After a week or so, we thought we needed one more light to illuminate a tree. We called Brandon, and within a week he sent one of his team out to install the extra light.

We recommend Coastal Outdoor Spaces so enthusiastically to everyone! Thank you Brandon and team for our beautiful outdoor spaces!

Hosting Thanksgiving Dinner Outdoors

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 17:04:00 GMT

With the warm Indian Summer we are having here around the Chesapeake Bay, you might consider hosting your Thanksgiving outdoors. Of course, here at Coastal Outdoor, we love that idea. Food Network published some great tips for hosting your Thanksgiving celebration outdoors so we thought we would share a few!

Keep the food warm! If you live in a cool climate, your food will cool down surprisingly quickly when you take it outside. And no one wants to eat stone-cold mashed potatoes. It’s worth using serving dishes with lids and investing in a few different insulated serving dishes for each table. You might want to get some insulated glasses, too, for warm beverages (tea and piping hot cocktails are a great way to keep people warm).
Keep the people warm, too! Warm diners are happy diners, so consider stashing a few washable blankets at each table. If you want to really up the ante, invest in some matching seasonal colored blankets and drape one over the back of each chair. One or two heat lamps are also a great investment. You can reuse the blankets and heat lamps well into the fall as you entertain outside. Coastal Outdoor Spaces has designed and built many custom porches, gazebos, and outdoor fireplaces that can certainly keep your guests warm for many Thanksgivings to come! Get some inspiration here.
Set the mood with magical ambiance. Vases of flowers and twinkly lights will go a long way. But here are a few more ways to really stun everyone. First, if you’re dining at night, you’ll want to make sure the tables are well-lit. Chic battery-operated lanterns placed on each table will do the trick. Second, a firepit is a great way to pull your dining scene together and provide more light and warmth. See our projects here.
Protection against rain is important! Not to rain on the parade, but unless you’re hosting Thanksgiving on your porch or have an indoor backup plan, it’s a good idea to put a plan in place for inclement weather. Coastal Outdoor Spaces can design and build pavilions and sun rooms to ensure you can enjoy the outdoors but keep you sheltered from the elements!

Don’t wait. Contact Coastal Outdoor Spaces today to start planning your next project!