A deck is a great extension of your home where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. However, you may avoid this space when inclement weather rolls into town. Thankfully, you can enhance this space with the right deck covering, providing shade, style, and functionality.

While you might know that a deck covering is the right addition to your outdoor space, there are many options on the market to choose from. With options like pergolas, awnings, and patio covers, how do you determine which one is right for your property? If you are considering adding a covering to your deck, keep reading to find the best choice for your space. 

Pergolas: A Stylish and Sturdy Addition

What is a Pergola?

A pergola is a deck covering with an open roof, typically made of slats or beams, that allow sunlight to filter through while offering some shade. They consist of four vertical posts or columns that support cross beams and may be open or have slats. Pergolas are an excellent choice for homeowners who want to add architectural interest to their decks.

The Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Pergolas are a great way to bring a touch of elegance and charm to your deck. These deck coverings can be customized with plants like vines and other climbing plants for a natural, earthy feel. 
• Airflow: With their open roofs, a pergola allows plenty of fresh air while reducing exposure to harsh direct sunlight. If you or your loved ones are sensitive to sunlight, this deck covering can create a buffer. 
• Versatility: If you choose to install a pergola on your deck, you have several options for creating shade. Whether you like canopies or retractable covers, both are a great addition to the structure. 

The Drawbacks

• Limited Shade: Even though these coverings can be customized with retractable covers and canopies, these structures can only offer so much shade. Without a great deal of shade, they may not be ideal for people looking for total sun protection. 
• Less Protection from Weather: Without a solid roof, a pergola won’t keep you dry in the rain. If you live in a place that receives a great deal of precipitation, this may make you weary of adding this deck covering to your home. 

Awnings: An Adjustable Deck Covering

What is an Awning? 

An awning is a fabric or metal cover attached to the side of your home. In most cases, this deck covering is fully retractable, meaning you can extend or retract it depending on your needs. Awnings come in many styles, from traditional to modern, making them the perfect addition to a variety of homes.

The Benefits

• Adjustable Shade: Awnings give you full control over how much shade or sunlight you want. When it is too sunny and intense, you can extend the awning; when you want to enjoy the sunshine, you can retract it.  
• Weather Protection: Awnings can protect you from rain or intense sun. This makes this deck covering incredibly beneficial if you want to use your deck year-round or if you enjoy being outside, regardless of the weather. 
• Energy Efficiency: If you’ve noticed your home’s cooling bills rising over the last few months or years, an awning may be able to help. By shading your deck and windows, awnings can help reduce cooling costs inside your home.

The Drawbacks

• Maintenance: While there are many benefits to adding an awning to your home, they can be high maintenance. Fabric awnings may require more upkeep than you’re interested in, including cleaning and replacing over time. 
• Wind Sensitivity: Although these covers are a great way to avoid exposure to inclement weather, they aren’t built to withstand all weather. Some awnings, especially retractable ones, can be damaged by strong wings if not properly secured. 

Patio Covers: Solid and Sturdy

What is a Patio Cover? 

A patio cover is a permanent deck covering with a solid roof that attaches to your home or can stand independently. When installed, these coverings provide shade and are typically made of materials like wood, aluminium, or vinyl. 

The Benefits

• Complete Shade: If you want full protection from the elements, a patio cover is a great option. This deck cover shields you from the sun and rain, making your deck usable throughout the year. 
• Durability: With materials like metal or vinyl, patio covers are sturdy and long-lasting. You won’t have to worry about maintaining this structure as much as you would with other deck covering options.
• Customization: While you may want to add a covering, you may worry about their appearance blending well with your home. With a patio cover, you can choose from various designs, including insulated panels, to keep your deck cooler in the summer.

The Drawback

• Less Flexibility: Unlike some covering options, patio covers are permanent. This permanence means you won’t have the option to open your deck to the sun, even when the weather is nice. 
• Cost: Patio covers can be more expensive than other covering options due to their solid construction and permanence.

Which Deck Covering is Right for You? 

Choosing between a pergola, awning, and patio cover depends on your lifestyle, budget, and design preferences. Pergolas are perfect for adding beauty and a natural feel while allowing sunlight and airflow. Awnings are ideal for those who want flexibility, with the option to retract the cover when desired. Patio covers offer maximum protection from the elements and a solid, permanent solution. 

If you are on the fence about which is best for your home, it is best to reach out to a home remodeling expert. They can listen to your needs and make recommendations based on what they believe is best for your home. No matter which option you choose, a deck covering can transform your outdoor space into a functional and beautiful extension of your home.

Your Deck Covering Expert in Greenville

No matter what deck covering you choose for your home, our team at Surface Bella is here to help. With years of experience installing custom home upgrades, we’re confident that our team is the perfect choice for your property. If you are ready to install a beautiful new pergola, awning, or patio covering, don’t hesitate to contact our team today to schedule an appointment. 

A custom deck is a wonderful addition to your home. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, it is a great way to increase the time you can spend in your yard on the nicest days of the year. However, without proper deck maintenance, the space may end up in disrepair, making it difficult or impossible to use it when the weather is nice. 

At Surface Bella, our team understands that a deck is a significant investment in your home’s outdoor space. Failing to take proper care of it may render this space completely unusable. If you have recently made the investment in a custom deck for your home and you want to learn more about what deck maintenance you should perform as the seasons progress, keep reading to see what we recommend. 

Spring Deck Maintenance

Spring is the perfect time to perform some necessary deck maintenance, especially following the harsher winter months and colder, more inclement weather. Some things you should do when performing deck maintenance in the spring include:

• Deep Cleaning: To start your maintenance, give your deck a deep cleaning. Remove any dirt, debris, and mold that may have accumulated over the winter months. Clean the surface of your deck with a deck cleaner or a mixture of mild soap and water. You may also use a pressure washer, but it should be set to a low setting to avoid damaging the decking material 
• Inspect for Signs of Damage: Once your deck is cleaned off, check for any signs of damage. This damage may include loose boards and missing nails or screws. Look for cracks, splinters, and areas of rot. It is important that you address this issue as soon as possible, as putting off repairs can lead to further deterioration. 
• Reseal and Stain: If your deck is made of wood, spring is the perfect time to reseal and stain it to protect against moisture and UV rays. When picking a new stain or sealant, choose a high-quality product that suits your deck’s material. By doing this, you can enhance the appearance of your deck and extend its lifespan. 

Summer Deck Maintenance

During the summer, you want to ensure you can enjoy your deck to the fullest. Some of the most important steps to take to ensure your deck is ready for the season include:

• Regular Cleaning: Even though summer is known for being an especially warm season, it is still important to keep your deck clear of leaves, dirt, and other debris. Remember to sweep the surface often to prevent staining and maintain its appearance. 
• Shade and Cover: If your deck is exposed to direct sunlight, you may want to consider using umbrellas, awnings, or pergolas to provide shade. This reduces the risk of UV damage and keeps the deck surface cooler.
• Furniture Care: While you may like the way your deck is set up, you may need to move furniture throughout the year to prevent uneven wear and tear. Place protective pads under heavy items to avoid scratches and dents.

Fall Deck Maintenance

As the weather begins to cool down, it is time to prepare your deck for the upcoming winter months. When fall begins, consider doing the following: 

• Clear Debris: Remember to remove leaves, branches, and other debris that can trap moisture and lead to mold and mildew growth. As long as your deck is clean, it is safe from water damage. 
• Check for Repairs: Before inclement weather rolls into town, inspect your deck for signs of wear and tear that may have occurred during the summer. Make sure you tighten loose screws, replace damaged boards, and address any structural issues.
• Apply a Waterproof Sealant: The fall and winter months may bring more rain and ice to town. Applying a waterproof sealant can provide an extra layer of protection against this weather, keeping it dry before the first frost sets in. 

Winter Deck Maintenance

Even when the weather gets colder, your deck still requires regular maintenance to ensure it can withstand the winter as well. This deck maintenance should include: 

• Snow and Ice Removal: Gently remove snow and ice using a plastic shovel to avoid damaging the deck surface. Avoid using metal shovels or sharp tools, and use a deck-friendly ice melt product to prevent slips without causing harm to the wood.
• Keep It Dry: While this isn’t possible for everyone, try to keep your deck as dry as possible through the wet winter weather. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and rot. 
• Monitor for Issues: Periodically check your deck for any signs of damage caused by harsh winter conditions. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.

Build the Best Deck for Your Greenville Home

When deck maintenance is no longer cutting it, you need to work with a reliable team to replace the structure. If you’re ready to invest in a new deck for your home, turn to our team at Surface Bella for support. For years, we’ve provided a variety of home improvement services to homeowners across the Greenville, SC, area. 

With this experience, we’re confident that our team can provide you with the most beautiful and reliable deck for your home as well. In addition to our custom decks, our team can perform bathroom remodels, vinyl window installation, vinyl siding updates, and more to create the home of your dreams.

If you would like to schedule a custom deck installation for your home or if you have questions about what deck maintenance you should perform for your space, don’t hesitate to contact us today.