If you have a home that is raised off the ground or one that features multiple stories, then consider a deck that is elevated. It will allow you to access the area from any floor of the home, and there will be space for entertaining and spending time with family and friends on multiple levels instead of only on one level. One of the things to keep in mind about elevated decks is that you need some kind of railing system in place to keep everyone safe since the deck is not sitting right on the ground.
A benefit of this deck design is that you can use the space under the deck for storing everything from bikes to toys that kids play with in the yard without worrying as much about them getting ruined by rain or faded from the sun. You can also install a fence around the perimeter underneath the deck for a place for pets to play outside, especially while you’re mowing or doing other work in the yard. When you design the deck, think about the exterior of the home as you want a design that will blend well instead of one that appears to be simply placed against the background of your house. Newer homes often have an elevated deck already in the plans because they are usually built higher off the ground instead of built closer to the ground like older homes and because many newer homes do have multiple stories.
You can get as extravagant with the deck design as you want with a gazebo at one end and stairs at the other or as simple as you want with a space reserved for entertaining with a grill and patio furniture. Steps that are added to the deck can lead to various rooms of the home that have exterior doors, allowing for easy access from anywhere in the house.
