If you are planning a covered deck project, there are tons of design ideas that can make your outdoor space the best looking, and longest lasting, it can be. Check out these deck design ideas and pro tips to plan and build your dream covered deck design.
Adding an overhead structure like a gazebo, roof overhang, or pergola adds shade, privacy, and fantastic, good looks to your wood deck design. From waterfront pier to ski lodge to custom historic homes, we have 19 amazing design inspiration using sustainable, high durability wood decking to get you started.
A large gazebo at the end of a pier offers a place to entertain or enjoy the sunset solo
Adding a large, pavilion style gazebo at the end of a pier offers a place to entertain or enjoy the sunset solo. Real wood decking is used for the gazebo legs and frame, with a metal roof. It offers shade, a place for lighting to be added, and a designated spot for gatherings. The size gives flexibility for different event needs.
Why consider hardwood and comparable decking material over softwoods for your decks, overhangs, and overhead structures? Because they:
have the lowest maintenance required
do not require painting or staining, ever
can be naturally weathered to satiny silver gray without needing additional maintenance
have a higher return on your investment over the lifecycle of your deck
can be used on a rooftop deck design
have incredibly higher resistance to insect damage, mold, rot, and decay
come in a range of prices, some the same as better softwood materials
outperform softwood and composite decking in resistance to wear and tear, fading, bending, and gouging
Compare these options to popular softwoods (Cedar, Redwood) or composite decking, for example. Hardwood species such as Ipe wood, Cumaru, FSC Machiche, Jatoba, and Garapa outlast and outperform softwoods naturally.
RELATED: Compare Decking Materials
Hang out at this covered rooftop deck with a warm drink and a view of the mountain? Yes, please.
Mataverde ThermaWood Hem-Fir thermally modified wood was chosen for this rooftop deck, and overhang and soffit, and the siding. Warm and welcoming, its perfect after a day of winter sports.
Sustainable ThermaWood Hem-Fir decking has comparable features and characteristics to hardwood, especially compared to non-modified softwoods. It has high moisture and insect resistance and can handle all seasons without a lot of extra maintenance.
Consider ThermaWood Hem-Fir because it:
RELATED: Rooftop Deck Design Picture Gallery
Who wants to come join me on this porch? Bring your morning coffee and your book, I'll meet you there.
This Garapa hardwood deck is as traditional as they come, with a place to gather with family, neighbors, and friends, morning, noon, or night. What makes it that much more inviting is the overhang roof soffit made with the same Garapa wood as the decking and the siding. Garapa is the lowest priced premium hardwood option, comparable to some of the higher end softwood or composite decking but with much more durability. Garapa's golden blonde to light brown tones and budget friendly price range can meet both exacting design and budget criteria for your deck project.
Pictures don't do the beauty of real wood decking justice.
Compare your options side. Request Mataverde decking samples now.
This homeowner chose to wrap their deck overhang in Ipe decking hardwood to match their vertical siding. Even if your existing siding or decking isn't wood, a hardwood soffit on your overhang gives the warmth and designer look you are looking for, plus saves time and labor on maintenance.
RELATED: Ipe Wood Decking Ideas Picture Gallery
Extend your entryway to a deck overhang and create designated outdoor dining space plus shade for your interior. This residence is sided in Garapa wood and the owners extended that to the overhang and supports for a custom look.
A great example of a thermally modified wood deck, this ThermaWood outdoor room and dock offers and all-season gathering place. ThermaWood was used for the dock, the decking, the interior siding and the covered soffit above. Large, glass, moveable walls create an indoor outdoor space.
This upper level outdoor room needed additional warmth and privacy. FSC Machiche was used to create a lovely roof overhang with wood covered soffit, and an added privacy wall. Can you picture sitting by the fire on a cool evening to unwind away the long day?
Decks that run along your home exterior are ideal for a wood overhang. Give yourself the cool and shaded spot you are dreaming of in outside, and shade your interior rooms from strong UV, too. This hardwood pergola- style overhang lets you allow some sun and sky in while giving you shady space.
A rooftop deck with scattered gathering areas and visually cold stone pavers needed a standout focal point that would create warmth and be inviting. The Ipe wood deck has a matching asymmetrical Ipe pergola, both stained in two tones for contrast. Starting with the picture-frame border deck areas, the eye travels up the stacked-look columns, and rests on the to chevron style pergola. Pergolas can define a dining or seating area, and create visual breaks on an expansive deck area for a more intimate feel.
Rooftop decks require more pre-planning with heavy load items like pergolas, overhangs, planters, and other items, so discuss your design with your architect or engineer first!
RELATED: Pergola and Overhead Design Idea Picture Gallery
Outdoor kitchens allow you to dine al fresco at home every day you choose. To add a little UV shade to your cooking and dining area, add a wood pergola overhang that allows smoke and heat up and out. This stained Ipe hardwood pergola covers an Ipe deck, which extends to cover the cabinets and counter faces for a custom look.
Creating a multi-level deck, like this one using Garapa decking, lets you make separate areas for dining, relaxing, or yoga. Whatever it is you want to use your deck for! The classic columned overhand shades your entryway and gives you a comfortable seating area when the sun is high.
A backyard entertaining space has a balcony deck off the bedroom above. Note the wood soffits on the overhand to bring the design together and soften the stone elements.
An architect's rendering of an award winning home. This rooftop deck and home was designed to look and perform like Teak, but they needed a down-to-earth budget. Garapa wood to the rescue! Garapa was such a hit with the architect and builder that they covered the once-plain soffits, too.
Architect's rendering
A historic mid-century modern architectural masterpiece in Kentucky need a major renovation. The second level covered rooftop deck was built over a flat roof on a workout room. For the new look, the architect chose Ipe wood decking and siding, including the rooftop decks, privacy wall, and covered soffit.
Architect's rendering
This rustic mountain style home has impressive views as you come up to the deck. Inviting and strong Ipe wood columns contrast with the lower level stone patio while support the upper level Ipe wood deck. Wood decking elements can be used in any home style from rustic to ultra modern.
From the grand pavilion-style gazebo overlooking the water to the cozy rooftop deck designed for après-ski relaxation, these 19 covered deck ideas showcase the versatility and beauty of incorporating overhead structures into your outdoor living space. Whether you're drawn to the classic elegance of a pergola, the inviting charm of a gazebo, or the seamless integration of a roof overhang, the possibilities for creating a deck that perfectly suits your style and needs are endless.
Remember, the key to a successful covered deck project lies in careful planning and material selection. Choosing durable, low-maintenance decking like sustainable Mataverde hardwood or thermally modified ThermaWood Hem-Fir wood ensures that your investment will last for years to come, providing a beautiful and functional space for relaxation, entertainment, and making memories. Consider your home's architecture, the surrounding landscape, and your personal preferences as you explore the various design options.
We hope this collection of ideas has inspired you to envision your own dream covered deck. With a little creativity and the right resources, you can transform your outdoor space into a haven of comfort, style, and lasting enjoyment. So, start planning today and get ready to elevate your outdoor living experience!
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