Home Garden

Decks That Wrap Around

A deck that wraps around your house dramatically increases your outdoor living space, more than a standard deck. Construction costs are not very high, yet the structure provides a myriad of benefits. Like most decks, a wraparound deck provides a sturdy surface to relax and entertain, while keeping your feet clean and dry. Unlike standard decks, the benefit is extended around several or all sides of your home, providing additional useful space.
  1. Benefits

    • If you have attractive views all around your home, a wraparound deck allows you to take advantage of them from several vantage points. You can step out of any door and onto a level and dry surface to walk or sit. For narrow, sloping home lots, wraparound decks can increase the level area on your property. On hillside properties, they are an economical option for providing a way to walk around your house.

    Design

    • With a wraparound deck you can incorporate multiple features which may not be possible on a standard deck with less square footage. Increase the depth of the deck on one side of your home to construct a gazebo structure for comfortable, shaded seating. Add extra support on one section to accommodate the weight of a hot tub. Keep the deck narrow on the sides of the home with less desirable views and limited function to minimize the amount of decking to maintain. Expand the section closest to your kitchen to accommodate a grill and eating area for family meals and entertaining.

    Entertaining

    • If you entertain frequently, a wraparound deck is an ideal solution to accommodate large groups -- no need to crowd everyone in one area as there is additional space for guests to meander around the home. If the sun moves into a position that makes conditions on the deck uncomfortable for your guests, you can extend your entertainment time with a wraparound deck. Just relocate your party to a part of the deck on another side of the house to take advantage of more sun or shade, as needed.

    Special Uses

    • If you live in a climate that receives regular snowfall, the ground around your home can quickly become a hassle and hazard to traverse, unless you keep it clear with a shovel or snow blower. Areas with frequent rain can have constant, muddy conditions. With a wraparound deck, you can elevate yourself above some of the snow accumulation or wet ground and puddles from the rain, giving you a dry and safe walkway around the perimeter of your home.