Build a Roof to Enjoy Your Deck 3 Seasons of the Year
Mmm. Outdoor living. There is nothing quite like relaxation in the fresh air. If you have a deck, chances are it's been your family's oasis lately -- the site of cookouts, summery parties, and plenty of just plain unwinding. But even though you may feel as if the al fresco season has just begun,
Posted — UpdatedFor an attractive appearance, have your deck covering blend in with the existing structure -- wooden supports should be made of same material (redwood, cedar, etc) as the deck base and stained or painted to match, with a weather-resistant finish. If you will be topping it with shingles, use the same type as you have on the roof of your home.
With a covered deck, you will limit your exposure to strong sunlight. This means you and your family will be more comfortable and reduce your exposure to harmful UV rays.
You will still be able to grill on your deck. A few cautions, though: Never burn charcoal on any wooden or plastic deck, whether covered or not -- it's a fire hazard. When using a gas grill, keep it as far from your house as possible for fire safety and make sure that you have adequate ventilation.
You will be able to expand the use of your deck in more ways than one. Having a sheltering roof means that you can put newly sprouted seedlings outside earlier in the spring and gradually accustom them to life in the great outdoors before transferring them to your garden for the summer. You can also set up a portable drying rack on your newly covered deck; taking advantage of sunny, breezy days throughout the year to air-dry your laundry will cut your electricity use considerably.
If you are located in an area with mild summers, you may want to take advantage of all the sunshine that's available. In this case, an openwork slat or lattice roof, or pergola with retractable panels of outdoor fabric might be the best option for your deck.