Deck & Carport Designs

Match House Design

• The design of any outdoor structure should complement the house. From any perspective -- looking back at the house from a distance -- you want the deck areas and carport to blend with house architecture versus standing out in any way. An exterior structure that is overly large, painted too brightly or built in an inferior fashion will devalue the house by thousands of dollars. Build deck or carport designs that will look original to the house construction.

Plan Deck Square Footage

• Deck size and various levels will enhance visual appeal and landscaping. Don't plan a deck that covers most of the backyard lawn area, for instance. Instead, use decking, a stone patio and other landscaping materials in the space. An oversize deck built on one level will overpower the house structure. Sketch multiple layers for deck areas with connecting steps, as one alternative, to help break up the space visually.

Match Roof Architecture

• Roof lines of the home should fit with a carport roof. If the carport is attached, plan its roof design to adjoin the house roof seamlessly. If you attach a carport with a flat roof to a gabled-roof colonial home, for example, build the carport to match house architecture. For instance, design and build carport overhangs that match the home's overhangs perfectly. If the house has generous overhangs with specific moldings, give this same look to the carport overhangs.

Hardware Is a Main Factor

• Building materials will impact the overall design of any structure. For example, a flat carport roof covered with metal is much less appealing than an A-frame roof with cedar shakes. Select ideal materials for a carport or deck, but scale back to fit the real budget. The quality of hardware used is critical for a good outcome. Bolt either a deck or a carport to actual house framing. During a storm, for example, a structure easily can wrench loose from house framing if only screws are used.

Blend All Exterior Structures

• Avoid any clashing between the deck and carport, creating each to look harmonious with the house and surrounding property and any other outdoor buildings. Use graph paper to define every detail before construction begins. For example, place a deck on one side of the house and a carport on the other in most instances. Placing both on one side of the house can create a cluttered look.