20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (2024)

While an open-air deck is great for soaking up the sun, covered decks provide almost endless options for entertaining. A simple covering can add shade to a yard, and, in some cases, even provide protection from the rain so you can enjoy fresh air even on a drizzly day.

Deck coverings also don’t have to completely enclose the space; pergolas make attractive, stylish covers that still allow for plenty of sunshine. It can also help add greenery to your deck with climbing vines and plants. Other deck coverings, such as hanging breezy, opaque curtains, can make your yard feel more private if you don’t already have a fence.

Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly covered deck ideas that can upgrade your patio with simple style, or inspiration for dressing up an existing attached deck covering, these ideas for covered decks will help you create a relaxing, comfortable outdoor room.

The Top Deck Colors for Summer 2023, According to Experts

01of 20

Modern Deck Pergola

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (1)

The white covering extending over the deck from the side of the house has a modern feel thanks to the simple, clean columns used to support it. The mix of wood paneling with white siding also helps the deck feel like its own space separate from the rest of the house. Dressing up the area with colorful throw pillows, furniture, and hanging plants helps a modern deck feel a little more casual.

The 9 Best Deck Stains of 2024 to Protect and Revive Your Deck

02of 20

Provide Shade with Greenery

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (2)

If you’re willing to wait for plants to grow, the draping vines covering this pergola provide natural shade to the covered deck. The leaves and stems hanging through the wood beams also help draw the eye upward and add color to a largely-white area. Since the deck is set up for outdoor dining, a hanging string of lights also helps the area function for day or night.

The Best Vertical Garden Plants for Climbing Any Trellis or Wall

03of 20

Sloped Deck Covering

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (3)

A slightly sloped covering helps add high ceilings to this covered deck. This type of structure adds drama to an outdoor space while also sheltering from rain and sun. The placement of the wood beams also helps frame the pool in the rest of the yard, highlighting the views from the deck.

04of 20

Cozy Covered Deck Ideas

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (4)

The natural wood beams covering this deck fit well with the Bohemian style throughout the space. The beams are also a good opportunity to install outdoor lighting, such as wood pendant lights. Since the deck is completely covered, it’s protected from the elements and easier to style with an outdoor rug, plush furniture, and throw pillows and cushions.

05of 20

Modern Deck Covering

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (5)

A few support beams are all that’s needed to add the sloped wood covering for this deck. Connecting the deck covering to the home makes construction a little easier than a freestanding structure, and provides privacy on one side from the walls of the home. Matching wood flooring on the deck helps this space feel modern and relaxed.

06of 20

Budget-Friendly Deck Covering

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (6)

The existing covering for this deck is just a few simple wood beams, similar to a pergola. But weaving long pieces of fabric (or even curtains) between the beams adds shade and style in a simple DIY. This budget-friendly deck covering idea can also be taken down easily and stored for the winter when the weather turns chilly.

07of 20

Attached Covered Deck

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (7)

This stylish covered deck uses an overhang from the home for shade. The wood beams in the ceiling almost match the wood used on the deck, which gives the space a cohesive, rustic feel. Accents of color, such as the sage green trim, offset with the light green siding used on the home and create a calming feeling.

08of 20

Screened-In Deck

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (8)

Screening in three quarters of this covered deck makes it usable for most of the year. If you want plenty of coverage from the elements, consider adding a similar wooden roof overhang to your deck, then screening in the sides to help keep out pests. Installing a fireplace in the center also creates a great hangout spot for the cooler months of the year.

20 Screened-In Porch Ideas for an Inviting Outdoor Escape

09of 20

Covered Deck with Screens

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (9)

This deck shows several options for creating shade and privacy. The wood beams running across the top still let in plenty of sun, but could be easily enclosed with draped curtains. Adjustable screens hanging along the side of the deck would make a simple addition to most deck designs, and add privacy and protection from the sun when unrolled.

Deck Overhang

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (10)

In a backyard where a pool takes center-stage, a covered deck is a great place to relax in the shade or dry off before heading inside. This design uses a built-in overhang to cover the seating area on the deck. If your home doesn’t already have much of an overhang, you might be able to extend it to cover your deck by adding in a few support beams.

35 Pool Deck Ideas for the Ultimate Backyard Summer Retreat

11of 20

Simple Covered Deck with Balcony

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (11)

Create a deck space under an existing overhang, such as a balcony. This home uses the extra coverage provided by the balcony to add another area for relaxing outdoors. A simple slab in the backyard creates a space to place matching lounge chairs with plenty of privacy from the surrounding trees.

12of 20

Freestanding Deck Cover

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (12)

If you have an open-air deck but want more coverage, consider installing a simple wooden pergola. This deck covering doesn’t shade the entire space, but adds extra structure to one side and partially covers the main seating area. A pergola also adds the possibility of draping fabric or introducing climbing plants for more shade and style.

22 Pretty Pergola Ideas to Update Your Outdoor Space

13of 20

Southwest-Style Deck Cover

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (13)

The design for this covered deck takes inspiration from popular home designs in the Southwest. Sloped tiles on the roof shield sun and rain, while the placement of the white walls and columns almost makes the covered deck feel like a tiny home with open-air windows. Since only half the deck is covered, this type of design also gives the option of soaking up the sun or relaxing in the shade.

14of 20

Deck with Privacy Curtains

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (14)

If you want budget-friendly covered deck ideas, gauzy curtains are one of the best options. With no extra building required, it’s simple to hang several curtains from any existing beams or structure around your deck. Not only do the white curtains on this deck add style, but they also add privacy and shade when closed.

The 12 Best Outdoor Curtains of 2024 For Added Privacy, Shade, and Style

15of 20

Simple Deck Beams

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (15)

This covered deck almost feels like its own outdoor living room. The beams covering the deck help enclose the space a bit, making it feel almost like an indoor room, while still letting in plenty of natural light. Faux grass covering the ground helps the space feel natural, while styling touches such as the bar cart and end tables help make the deck look as polished as a living room.

16of 20

Porch-Style Deck

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (16)

A small overhanging from this home creates an intimate seating area. This small-space covered deck idea can be inspiration for styling a tiny area in your home. Though the overhang for the deck isn’t large, it provides enough space for a couple of relaxing chairs, and feels more complete with hanging pendant lights.

15 Gorgeous Ways to Decorate with String Lights

17of 20

Deck with High Ceilings

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (17)

Your deck doesn’t have to be a huge, grand addition to your backyard. This covered deck utilizes the existing overhang of the home, and is tucked into a corner against two exterior walls, creating an ultra-private outdoor space. Placing the outdoor lounge along the shorter wall helps open up the space and make it feel roomy.

18of 20

Coastal Style Deck

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (18)

This covered deck with coastal style is almost completely enclosed, except for a small open-air space separated by columns. Creating a covered deck with windows adds protection from the elements and helps control the airflow throughout the space. Keeping the walls and ceiling white and using pale wood floors helps bring more light to the enclosed space.

19of 20

Covered Deck Dining Area

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (19)

Since this covered deck has a high ceiling thanks to an existing overhang, it makes a great space for outdoor dining. Complete protection from rain makes it easier to set up a dining table with wood and wicker chairs for warm-weather meals. The dark green hutch even adds a space to store dishes or utensils for dining al fresco.

20of 20

Cozy Deck Overhang

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (20)

An overhang connected to the home helps create a cozy, private space on this deck. Since much of the space is used as a walkway, a hanging egg chair is a great option for adding seating without making the area feel crowded. Brightly colored cushions and pillows also bring brightness to the shaded corner.

20 Covered Deck Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (2024)

FAQs

How do you modernize a deck? ›

Deck Upgrades
  1. Improve the flow of traffic by moving the stairs. ...
  2. Refresh a plain wooden deck with stain. ...
  3. Hide the dead space under the deck by adding a skirt. ...
  4. Fill in blank spaces around the deck with plants. ...
  5. Create privacy with screens. ...
  6. Add architectural details with an overhead structure.

How do you cover a deck on a budget? ›

If you want a budget-friendly covered deck idea, gauzy curtains are one of the best options. With no extra building required, hanging several curtains from any existing beams or structure around your deck is a simple solution.

How much does it cost to add a covered deck to a house? ›

Building a covered deck costs $5,000 to $18,000 on average for a new deck plus a cover. The cost to build a deck alone is $25 to $50 per square foot. Prices to build a home-roof extension over a deck are 2 to 6 times more. *For a 10'x20' size deck.

What is the cheapest way to cover an old deck? ›

Deck tiles are a low-cost way to transform your deck into a safer, more attractive space while helping to protect the actual deck from wear and tear. Installing interlocking outdoor tiles over a wood deck can help to protect you from splinters, while offering the deck protection from sun and wear and tear.

What can I cover my old deck with? ›

  • Decking Tiles. Decking is considered by many as one of the best options for outdoor flooring. ...
  • Outdoor Rugs. Whether your decking needs covering or not, you can always rely on an outdoor rug or carpet to cover your decking. ...
  • Artificial Grass. ...
  • Consider an Upgrade.
Mar 19, 2021

How do you make an old deck look modern? ›

7 Deck Updates to Transform Your Space
  1. Improve Railings. Most old decks often have the original railings that came with them. ...
  2. Update Furniture. Sometimes the biggest impact comes from something simple. ...
  3. Replace Deck Boards. ...
  4. Clean the House Siding. ...
  5. Place a Pergola. ...
  6. Find a Centerpiece Accessory. ...
  7. Design Your Lighting Scheme.

How do you make an old weathered deck look good? ›

How to Restore a Weathered Deck
  1. Inspect the Deck. ...
  2. Supplement Existing Deck Supports. ...
  3. Tighten or Replace Screws, Brackets, and Fasteners. ...
  4. Replace Rotted or Damaged Boards. ...
  5. Fix Minor Cracks with Polyurethane Caulk. ...
  6. Prepare the Area. ...
  7. Strip Previously Painted or Stained Decks. ...
  8. Clean the Deck.
Jun 20, 2023

How much does a 14x20 covered deck cost? ›

Average Cost to Build a Deck by Size
Deck SizeSquare FootageNational Average Cost Range*
16' x 16'256$10,240 – $15,360
14' x 20'280$11,200 – $16,800
12' x 24'288$11,520 – $17,280
16' x 20'320$12,800 – $19,200
6 more rows

What is the easiest way to cover an old deck? ›

Some good ways to finish and cover up old wood deck boards include:
  1. Staining or painting: Apply a fresh coat of stain or paint to the deck boards. ...
  2. Resurfacing with composite decking: Install composite decking boards over the old wood deck boards. ...
  3. Deck tiles: Use interlocking deck tiles to cover the old deck boards.
May 25, 2023

Is a covered deck worth it? ›

One big way to make a deck last long is to get a deck or patio cover. Even though they cost money as well, you won't have to have as many repairs. A cover will protect your deck from rain and potential debris, and it will keep the sun off of it on hot days. This will be a sure-fire way to keep your deck protected.

Does a covered deck increase home value? ›

Generally, yes — a high-quality deck can increase your property value. It also improves the look and enjoyment of your property for years to come.

How much does a 12x12 covered deck cost? ›

The cost to build a new deck is $25 to $50 per square foot total, depending on the material and type. Deck replacement costs $30 to $55 per square foot installed. Building a 12'x12' deck costs $3,600 to $7,200 on average.

What is the longest lasting deck material? ›

Aluminum decking is the most expensive out of the deck material and will last the longest with a lifespan of 30+ years. Steel decking can have a lifespan of 60+ years when correctly installed by a professional builder.

What is the most durable material to build a deck? ›

Pressure Treated Decking

Pressure treated lumber can give you many years of use and enjoyment of your deck. Often made from southern pine, a wood variety known for its load-bearing strength and durability, pressure treated materials can be the best wood for decking in high-traffic spaces.

What is the most durable finish for a wood deck? ›

When it comes to the most popular choice, clients tend to opt for stains. This is mainly because stains offer a color variety including solid and semi-transparent stains that highlight the natural beauty of the wood grain. Compared to sealants, stains are absorbed directly into the wood so it tends to last longer.

What is the most durable type of decking? ›

Trex composite decking is one of the longest-lasting deck materials and can last 25 to 50 years with minimum care. Unlike decks from even the most durable wood, such as teak, mahogany, and Ipe, Trex composite decking won't rot, warp, or splinter.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Fr. Dewey Fisher

Last Updated:

Views: 5986

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (42 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Fr. Dewey Fisher

Birthday: 1993-03-26

Address: 917 Hyun Views, Rogahnmouth, KY 91013-8827

Phone: +5938540192553

Job: Administration Developer

Hobby: Embroidery, Horseback riding, Juggling, Urban exploration, Skiing, Cycling, Handball

Introduction: My name is Fr. Dewey Fisher, I am a powerful, open, faithful, combative, spotless, faithful, fair person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.