Patios Under Deck Ideas

Shawn Kenyon

Shawn Kenyon is an innovative deck and patio designer and builder who seeks to enhance the outdoor living environments of his clients. Shawn practices what he preaches, as he builds exquisite decks and patios on his properties.

Elevating your deck means you can walk out of your house and have a great view of nature, without needing to take off your slippers. While many homeowners put a lot of focus on the deck space itself, they do not know what to do with under deck space. Fortunately, there are some options that will allow you to better utilize the space below your deck. The deck above makes a great gathering place, so why not turn the space below into another great area? There is roughly an equal amount of space underneath, and you can make that investment into a new deck go even further by putting in a patio down below. Whereas the deck above is still open to the elements, you can provide a bit of a respite from the rain by adding an under deck ceiling. This ceiling doubles as a low-cost drainage system that catches any water that would drip through the boards and redirects it to the outer sides of the deck. After you have protected that space below your deck, you can make it available for many options. Perhaps you want to add some outdoor furniture down there, or even hang a patio swing. Do you have children? Convert that space into an extra play area. Perhaps that space below your deck isn’t all that suitable for relaxing. That’s OK because you can use it for storage instead. By turning that bonus space into a shed, you can store your tools and garden equipment in a convenient location. You will probably want to have concrete flooring down there, and with proper drainage you do not have to worry about water damage. Last, there’s a chance that you don’t need to use that space at all. Nothing says that the space below your deck needs to be used for an extraordinary purpose. However, if you leave that area as is, put some effort into cleaning it up. Cover the ground with weed blocker fabric, and then spread a layer of stone or gravel on top. You do not need to know what to do with the space below your deck immediately, but try to keep it in mind when you are planning on installing your new deck. The builders at Precision Decks and Sunrooms can help guide you through the process, and give you all the advice you need. At Precision Decks, all of our projects bring the strength and durability that you would expect with a fresh addition. For more information on how you can turn your outdoor space into something unique with a custom deck design, call Precision Decks today at 616-874-2300. As a premier remodeling company, it is our duty to provide the customer with their dream construction.

Patios Under Deck Ideas: Enhancing Your Outdoor Living Space

Elevating your deck means walking out of your house and having a great view of nature without removing your slippers. While many homeowners focus on the deck space, they do not know what to do with the under-deck space. Fortunately, some options, like adding patios under decks, will allow you to better utilize the space below your deck.

Your deck makes for a great gathering place to entertain, dine, or relax, so why not turn the space below into another great area? There is roughly an equal amount of space underneath, and you can make that investment in a new deck go even further by putting in a patio down below. In this blog your find some patio under deck ideas that will inspire your next projects.

Key Factors to Consider for Under-Deck Patios

Sufficient Headroom: This is essential for under-deck patios. Aim for a minimum height of 7 feet, though 8-9 feet is ideal for most uses, ensuring comfort and functionality.
Effective Drainage: Implement a water management system to prevent leaks and water damage, such as under-deck ceiling panels or a sloped design to direct water away.
Adequate Lighting: Adding deck lights enhances usability and ambiance. Consider recessed lights, pendant fixtures, or wall sconces to provide sufficient illumination and improve safety.
Account for the Local Climate: Adding heating elements and wind barriers can extend usability in Michigan’s climate.

Material Options for Under-Deck Patios

Concrete: A durable and versatile option, concrete can be customized with various finishes, colors, and textures to match your desired aesthetic.
Pavers: Available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and materials, pavers provide a classic look and can be easily replaced if damaged.
Natural Stone: Offers a timeless and elegant appearance with unique patterns and colors, adding a touch of luxury to your patio.
Composite Decking: Made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite decking is low-maintenance, resistant to moisture, and available in various colors and styles.
Tile: Ideal for creating a sleek and modern look, tiles come in numerous designs and materials, making them suitable for various themes and preferences.

5 Design Ideas for Under-Deck Patios

Outdoor Living Room: Transform your under-deck space into a cozy extension of your indoor area with comfortable, weather-resistant seating such as sofas and armchairs. Define the space with a coffee table, side tables, and outdoor rugs. For entertainment, install a wall-mounted TV or projector screen and add outdoor curtains or privacy screens for a partially enclosed, intimate atmosphere.
Al Fresco Dining Area: Create a dedicated dining area with a large, weather-resistant table and chairs. Incorporate a sideboard or serving station for convenient entertainment. Enhance the ambiance with string lights or lanterns, and consider placing a small herb garden nearby for easy access to fresh ingredients. Add an outdoor dining table and chairs, and you are all set.
Outdoor Kitchen: Set up a compact outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill, countertop space, and storage cabinets. Include a small refrigerator or cooler for beverages and perishables. Add a bar counter with stools for casual dining and socializing while cooking. Ensure the area has proper ventilation to manage smoke and odors effectively.
Relaxation Zone: Design a tranquil retreat featuring a hot tub or spa surrounded by lush potted plants. Add comfortable lounge chairs or a hanging daybed for reading and napping. Incorporate a water feature like a small fountain to mask ambient noise and enhance the serene atmosphere.
Game Room: Convert the space into an entertainment hub with a pool table, dart board, or table tennis setup. Include built-in storage for game equipment and a small bar area. Use durable flooring to withstand foot traffic and potential spills, ensuring good lighting for gameplay and ambiance.

Under-Deck Drainage Systems and Finished Ceilings

While the deck above is still open to the elements, you can provide a bit of a respite from the rain by adding an under-deck ceiling. This ceiling doubles as a low-cost drainage system that catches any water that drips through the boards and redirects it to the outer sides of the deck. Here are some more under-deck ideas:

Waterproof Under-Deck Systems: These systems prevent water from seeping through the deck above, protecting the under-deck area from moisture and allowing you to use the space for more of the year. They typically include gutters and downspouts to manage water runoff efficiently.
Decorative Ceiling Materials: Enhance the look of your under-deck space with decorative ceiling options such as beadboard, vinyl panels, or wood planks. These materials can add a finished, polished appearance and complement the overall design of your patio.
Screened Enclosures: Create a bug-free, comfortable outdoor living area with screened enclosures. These protect from insects while allowing fresh air to circulate, making your under-deck space more enjoyable during warmer months.
Partial Walls for Privacy: Add partial walls to your under-deck patio to increase privacy and create a more intimate setting. Options include wooden slats, lattice panels, or decorative metal screens, which can also enhance the space’s aesthetic appeal.

After you have protected that space below your deck, you can make it available for many options. Perhaps you want to add some outdoor furniture down there or even hang a patio swing. Do you have children? Convert that space into an extra play area.

Enhancing the Functionality of Your Under-Deck Space

Perhaps that space below your deck isn’t all that suitable for relaxing. That’s OK because you can use it for storage instead. Turning that bonus space into a shed allows you to conveniently store your tools and garden equipment. You will probably want to have concrete flooring down there, and with proper drainage, you do not have to worry about water damage. In addition to under-deck storage, here are more ideas to improve the functionality of your space:

Built-in Features: Integrate built-in benches, planters, and storage units to maximize the functionality of your under-deck space. These features provide additional seating space and greenery and help keep the area organized and clutter-free.
Heating and Cooling Solutions: Extend the usability of your under-deck patio throughout the year with heating and cooling options. Install portable heaters or infrared panels for warmth during cooler months. Consider ceiling fans, portable air conditioners, or misting systems to keep the space comfortable for hot weather.
Audio/Visual Setups: Incorporate audio and visual setups to create an entertainment hub. Install weatherproof speakers and mount a TV or projector screen to enjoy movies, music, or sports events outdoors. Ensure proper wiring and protection from the elements to maintain the longevity of your equipment.

Last, there’s a chance that you don’t need to use that space at all. Nothing says that the space below your deck needs to be used for an extraordinary purpose. However, if you leave that area as is, put some effort into cleaning it up. Cover the ground with weed blocker fabric, then spread a stone or gravel layer.

Ready to Explore Any of the Patios Under Deck Ideas? Contact Precision Decks & Patios

You do not need to know what to do with the space below your deck immediately, but try to keep it in mind when installing your new deck. Your local deck builders at Precision Decks & Patios can help guide you through the process and give you all the advice you need about patio or deck design ideas.

Schedule a free design consultation today for more information on how a custom deck design with a patio under deck can transform your outdoor living space into something unique.