The Power of a Well-Designed Deck
Imagine stepping onto a beautifully crafted deck, where you can enjoy a quiet morning coffee, host lively summer barbecues, or gather around a cozy fire pit with friends and family. A deck isn’t just an addition to your home—it’s an experience that enhances comfort, functionality, and property value.
But with so many deck styles available, how do you choose the right one?
At Decks by Murray, we help homeowners design and build decks that match their lifestyle, space, and budget. Whether you want a simple ground-level retreat or a multi-level outdoor haven, understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you make the best decision for your home.
Let’s explore the nine most popular deck designs, their advantages, drawbacks, and expert tips to help you find the perfect fit.
1. Ground-Level Deck – A Simple Yet Functional Choice
What It Is:
A ground-level or platform deck is built just above the ground and seamlessly extends your living space.
Pros:
- Budget-Friendly: Requires fewer materials and labor, making it more affordable than elevated decks.
- Easy Access: No stairs are ideal for families with children, pets, or mobility concerns.
- Faster Installation: The simple structure allows for a quicker build time.
Cons:
- ❌ Moisture Buildup Risk: Wood can rot over time without proper drainage.
- ❌ Limited Views: It doesn’t offer scenic elevation since it’s at ground level.
- ❌ More Susceptible to Pests: Closer to the ground means more exposure to insects and critters.
💡 Pro Tip: Choose composite decking, which is moisture-resistant, eliminating concerns about rot, warping, and maintenance.
2. Raised Deck
Pros:
- Suitable for Uneven Terrain: Ideal for properties with sloped or uneven landscapes, maximizing usable space.
Cons:
- ❌ Increased Cost: Requires more materials and labor, increasing expenses.
- ❌ Safety Considerations: Necessarily sturdy railings and secure stairs to prevent accidents.
- ❌ Maintenance Challenges: Elevated structures may require more upkeep, especially for the underside and support posts.
💡 Pro Tip: If your raised deck includes storage underneath, consider adding under-deck waterproofing to protect the space.
3. Multi-Level Deck – Best for Large Outdoor Spaces
A multi-level deck consists of two or more connected platforms at varying heights, offering separate areas for dining, lounging, or entertaining.
Pros:
- Creates Designated Spaces: Allows for different uses, such as an outdoor kitchen on one level and a cozy fire pit on another.
- Enhances Visual Appeal: Adds dimension and architectural interest.
- Works Well with Sloped Yards: Makes use of natural elevation changes without requiring excessive excavation.
Cons:
- ❌ More Expensive: Due to the additional framing, stairs, and structural support, more materials and labor are required.
- ❌ More Maintenance: Multi-level decks have more surfaces requiring regular cleaning and upkeep.
💡 Tip: Composite decking resists mold, fading, and moisture damage, reducing maintenance needs.
4. Wraparound Deck – A Classic Choice for Traditional Homes
A wraparound deck extends around two or more sides of the home, offering a spacious, open outdoor living area.
Pros:
- Expands Living Space: Ideal for homeowners who want a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
- Maximizes Sun & Shade: You can move to shaded or sunny areas depending on the time of day.
- Timeless Look: Complement traditional and farmhouse-style homes beautifully.
Cons:
- ❌ Costly to Build: The extensive size means more materials and labor costs.
- ❌ Higher Maintenance: Requires frequent cleaning and sealing to maintain its appearance.
- ❌ Privacy Concerns: A wraparound deck can expose more of your yard to neighbors.
💡 Fun Fact: Historically, wraparound decks were standard in Southern plantation homes to help improve airflow and keep interiors cool during hot summers.
5. Detached (Floating) Deck – A Flexible and Affordable Option
A detached or floating deck is built independently from the house, often in a garden, pool, or quiet yard corner.
Pros:
- Versatile Placement: This can be installed anywhere, allowing creative landscaping ideas.
- There is no need for Permits (In Some Cases). Building regulations may be less strict since they are not attached to the house.
- Less Structural Stress: Unlike attached decks, floating decks don’t put weight on your home’s foundation.
Cons:
- ❌ Stability Issues: Requires a strong foundation to prevent shifting, especially in areas with freezing temperatures.
- ❌ Exposed to Elements: Floating decks aren’t naturally shielded by the home’s structure, making them more vulnerable to wear and tear.
💡 Pro Tip: Using concrete deck blocks instead of traditional footings can make installation easier and more stable.
6. Rooftop Deck – Ideal for Urban Homes
A rooftop deck is built on a flat-roofed home, garage, or building. It provides an elevated outdoor space with great views.
Pros:
- Maximizes Limited Space: Great for homes with small or no backyards.
- Spectacular Views: Offers a unique perspective and a private escape from the ground level.
- Energy Efficient: Helps insulate the roof, reducing cooling costs.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires Strong Structural Support: Not all roofs can support a deck without reinforcement.
- ❌ Exposure to Weather: Needs durable, waterproof materials to withstand sun, rain, and wind.
💡 Fun Fact: A rooftop deck can increase home value in urban settings where outdoor space is limited.
7. Pool Deck – The Perfect Poolside Addition
A pool deck surrounds a swimming pool, providing a slip-resistant, stylish surface for lounging and safety.
Pros:
- Prevents Slipping: Certain materials, like PVC decking and textured composite, are slip-resistant.
- Enhances Aesthetics: A well-designed pool deck makes your backyard feel like a luxury resort.
- Cooler Underfoot: Some decking materials reflect heat, making them more comfortable to walk on barefoot.
Cons:
- ❌ Constant Exposure to Moisture: Requires water-resistant materials to prevent mold and rot.
- ❌ Potential for Chemical Damage: Chlorine and salt water can cause premature wear on certain materials.
💡 Tip: Consider light-colored composite decking, which stays up to 30% cooler than darker boards.
8. Screened-In Deck – A Bug-Free Outdoor Space
A screened-in deck features mesh walls or panels, offering protection from insects and the elements while still feeling open to nature.
Pros:
- Keeps Mosquitoes & Bugs Away: Essential in warm, humid climates.
- Weather Protection: Shields against **wind, rain, and excessive sun.
- Comfortable Year-Round: A screened-in deck can be used in multiple seasons with added heating or cooling.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher Initial Cost: Screens and framing add to the expense.
- ❌ Reduced Open-Air Feel: Enclosed decks offer comfort but can feel less like a traditional outdoor space.
💡 Pro Tip: Install removable screens or retractable panels for versatility in warmer months.
9. Covered Deck – The Ultimate Year-Round Deck
A covered deck includes a roof or permanent awning, protecting it from the elements and extending outdoor usability.
Pros:
- Shields from Rain & Sun: Makes the deck usable in all seasons.
- Increases Home Value: A well-built covered deck is an attractive selling point for homebuyers.
- Supports More Features: Perfect for outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and TVs.
Cons:
- ❌ More Expensive: Requires additional framing, roofing, and waterproofing.
- ❌ Possible Permit Requirements: Some towns in North Jersey require permits for covered decks.
💡 Fun Fact: Adding a covered deck can boost home value by up to 10%, especially in areas with four-season weather.
What Would Your Dream Deck Look Like?
At Decks by Murray, we specialize in creating your dream outdoor space. Whether you envision a modern composite deck with sleek railings, a rustic cedar deck featuring a cozy fire pit, or a sprawling multi-level area for entertaining, our team is here to make it happen.
We proudly serve North Jersey, including Clifton, Florham Park, Franklin Lakes, Kearny, Livingston, Mahwah, Montclair, Paramus, Ramsey, Upper Saddle River, West Orange, and Woodcliff Lake. We are committed to delivering custom deck designs tailored to your needs. See all the areas we serve.
Our decks are crafted using high-quality materials for durability and beauty, ensuring a seamless, stress-free building process.
Don’t let anything hold you back from creating the deck of your dreams. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward enhancing your home’s outdoor living experience. 🚀
