Whether you’re in the process of having a deck installed, or you already have one in your garden, there are lots of different ways you can enhance a deck to make it more visually appealing, and potentially more functional. From adding a decking handrail or glass balustrade, to installing lights in an array of different colours, the ways that you can customise your decking are almost endless. In this article, we explore what you can do to enhance your decking, and we consider both the practical and aesthetic benefits.
Adding a balustrade or handrail
Practical Benefits:
One of the main benefits of installing a handrail around your decking is that it will make your deck a much safer space. This can be particularly important if you want to build a raised deck or if your deck features steps where people could accidentally trip or fall. Adding a balustrade around the perimeter of your raised deck is perfect if you have pets or small children who need an enclosed area to play in.
Aesthetically Pleasing:
Decking balustrades and handrails add a unique finishing touch to your outside area. There are lots of different materials and styles you can choose from, including glass, metal, and composite – all offering a unique finish. Many people opt for a traditional railing style to enhance a period property, while others choose glass or metal to complement a minimal and contemporary look, but the choice is yours.
Add planters to match your decking
Practical Benefits:
Creating a decking planter can be a great way to use of leftover decking. Equally if you’re planning your deck now then a matching planter can certainly make for an attractive addition, so you might want to plan in some extra boards for this.
Decking planters create space for you to grow flowers, fruit and veg on your deck, which is really useful if you don’t have a lawn or allotment to use, and can add a bit of vibrant colour to your deck. Additionally, if you can use composite decking to create your decking planter, it will require very little maintenance and will look good for years to come.
Aesthetically Pleasing:
You can choose to create your decking planter using the same decking that you have in your garden if you want it to complement your deck, but for a bolder look you could choose a contrasting shade of decking, which will really make your decking planter stand out. Besides the planter itself, you can tailor the flowers, herbs and vegetables you plant to achieve a variety of different looks. Whether you opt for brightly coloured flowers or fruits and vegetables, you can be sure that your decking planter will add natural charm to your decking.
Install deck lighting
Practical Benefits:
Adding lights around your decking will dramatically improve visibility, meaning you can enjoy your garden at all times of day, even in low-light conditions. If your deck has steps or other features that pose a trip hazard, installing lights close to and along these areas will improve safety.
Aesthetically Pleasing:
Decking lights are a very stylish accessory that can be used to define and highlight different features of your deck. If you have a pool, a seating area or plan to entertain guests on your deck, then lights can enhance the mood and create a relaxing atmosphere. Generally, companies who supply deck lights offer a range of different colours, finishes and sizes to achieve different looks.
These are just a few different ways that you can enhance your decking. If you have an idea in mind that isn’t listed here, you should contact an outdoor living company or decking supllier to see if they can help.