Deck Cover Ideas: What Are the Current Trends?

Kevin Wise

Kevin Wise

Kevin is the Owner of Deck Pro Construction and has been serving families in Tri-County, Ohio since 2009.

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Looking for new ways to improve your outdoor spaces? A covered deck is a great place to start! Deck coverings can improve your outdoor experiences while adding value to your property.

At DeckPro Construction, we build fantastic decks from the ground up for homeowners in Northeast Ohio. Our team has several creative deck cover ideas to help you combine function with style. Check out the following covering ideas and see if they pique your interest! 

#1 Create a Canopy

If you aren’t ready to commit to a full, permanent coverage fixture, try a fabric canopy made from materials that will withstand the outdoor elements for years. It offers filtered, adjustable shade and adds a little extra romance to the outdoor area. Choose from various designs, like:

  • Shade sails
  • Full canopies
  • Adjustable canopies

Some homeowners choose a classic white canopy. Others prefer a fabric that adds a pop of color to their deck area.

Canopies can also protect outdoor furniture and decorations from shifting weather patterns. They add a gorgeous backdrop to romantic outdoor dinners and cookouts.

#2 Captivate with Curtains

Outdoor curtains and shades provide a graceful, attractive way to filter out sunlight from any direction. You can easily hang them from the overhead scaffolding and take them down during cold weather. They come with the perk of endless color choices to match any occasion or aesthetic preference.

You can also conveniently adjust them according to the sun’s position. This flexibility ensures a consistent flow of fresh air and a nice view of the scenery. 

#3 Influence with Bold Decor

deck with solid covering

Decks with solid coverings come with a few perks. Among them is protection from outdoor elements like sunlight, extreme temperatures, and precipitation. You can invest in better, bolder deck furniture as a result.

Why settle for a plain setup that will quickly show wear and tear? Make your deck area truly remarkable with interesting furniture pieces, plant stands, chimeneas, and other accents. Investing in stylish, comfortable decor will truly transform a typical covered deck into a lavish outdoor living space

#4 Try Some Tree Cover

Tree cover

An open, exposed deck begs for some natural shade. But what if you don’t have the space for nor want a large oak next to your deck as it stretches toward the sky? Well-placed potted trees offer an excellent alternative.

Invest in trees at least six feet high with broad crowns. Some tropical varieties double as houseplants, adding an arboreal appeal to your home.

Many of these trees thrive indoors during cold weather while offering shade and forest-inspired charm to your deck. Experiment with these leafy giants:

  • Elephant ears
  • Palms
  • Umbrella trees
  • Mature hibiscus plants

If you crave greenery but potted plants aren’t your preference, look into vines that climb. These plants will grow up your supports and around any rafters. May vines bloom seasonally, adding some vibrant color to your deck area. 

#5 Modernize the Framework

Deck covers

If you haven’t yet built a permanent deck covering or want to update yours, consider a more modern approach to the architectural design. Many built-in deck covers don’t stand out, but you can customize yours with the following design concepts:

  • Diagonal lines
  • Asymmetry
  • Peaked points
  • Flat, vented slats

A skilled deck contractor can bring your architectural inclinations to life! You’ll achieve an aesthetically exceptional deck area that flaunts your unique vision.

#6 Flex Your Artistic Skills

Get creative with your deck cover ideas, especially for full, permanent covers! Experiment with various color schemes and stencil work to turn a plain, raw structure into a personal cathedral of gorgeous, unique art. Become your own version of Micheal Angelo and paint the deck cover’s ceiling with personalized details. 

Include your kids and spouse in the project to make fun, family memories that last for years. The paint job and artwork will also make for a great conversation starter.   

#7 Install a Retractable Awning

retractable awnings

If you prize flexibility, you’ll love retractable awnings. They offer an adaptable solution that facilitates full and partial shade. Plus, you don’t have to worry about storage options or assembly struggles. 

Many models have manual operating functions that allow you to pull the cover out by hand. Meanwhile, automatic models only require the touch of a button to operate. Regardless, you’ll enjoy easy, smooth transitions that let you adjust how far out your awning goes.  

#8 Light It Up

Light strings

Dress up your deck cover with strings of glittering lights! Light strings come in several different styles, including:

  • Bistro lights for a bold, fun-loving atmosphere
  • Fairy lights for a delicate, mystical ambiance
  • Industrial lantern lights for a hip, industrial vibe

Add these to your overhanging scaffolding and string them around the support posts and beams.

Light strings add just enough illumination to increase visibility without overpowering the hypnotic mystery of the night. Well-placed strings are a cost-effective, functional, and attractive addition to any deck covering. 

#9 Add a Swing

Porch swing

A porch swing or two is the perfect spot to converse with and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Iced tea in hand, you’ll allow a sturdy swing to lull you into a meditative, peaceful state of mind. An equally well-constructed deck covering will have no trouble supporting your swing.

#10 Use an Umbrella

Umbrella classic deck design

Would you prefer a covering that you can easily store when not in use? An umbrella creates the perfect patch of shade while you bask in your yard’s serenity. Umbrellas are classic deck pieces that can fit with almost any seating area.

Couple their practicality with a diverse array of styles, fabrics, colors, and patterns, and you’ll have a unique deck piece that provides function and fashion. 

Bring These Deck Cover Ideas to Life with DeckPro Construction

At DeckPro Construction, custom decks aren’t just our specialty. They’re also our passion. We want to apply over a decade of experience, skill, and talent to your deck project.

Share your deck cover ideas with us at 330-846-5585. We’ll provide a free estimate before starting your custom deck project.