7 Best Reasons to Build a Deck in Your Backyard

If you’re looking for reasons to build a deck, you’ve definitely come to the right place!

When the words “backyard deck” echo through the corridors of your mind, what do you picture? Do you see a barbecue party in full swing, adorned with fairy lights, bubbly beverages, and infectious laughter? Or perhaps, a serene retreat nestled under the stars, graced by the whisper of the evening breeze? For most homeowners, a deck signifies a space of leisure and enjoyment, a tangible way to upgrade their home’s value. Yet, as you’ll discover, these traditional views only skim the surface of what a deck can offer. 

What if we told you that building a deck could be your gateway to a deeper connection with nature, an impromptu outdoor gym, or even a sandbox for your kids’ creativity? That it could be an active participant in your quest for sustainable living, an oasis for mental well-being, and even a refreshing workplace. In a world where we’re constantly seeking novelty and new experiences, isn’t it time to reassess the potential of our own backyards?

In this blog post, the experts at Grand Decks are going to help shift the lens to reveal 7 of the best, unconventional reasons why building a backyard deck could be your next best home improvement project. Beyond the typical, standard reasons you might consider building a deck, we’re here to illuminate how a simple deck can remarkably amplify the rhythm of your lifestyle. Let’s step out of the box and venture onto your new deck !

Reason 1: Fosters Connection with Nature

At Grand Decks, we believe that one of the greatest pleasures of building a deck is how it gently bridges the gap between our indoor comforts and the boundless beauty of the outside world by extending your living space into the heart of your yard. A deck naturally invites you to spend more time in the open air, feeling the warmth of the sun, the caress of the breeze, and the symphony of birdsong. Studies show that even spending an extra 30 minutes a day can greatly improve your mood, relieving anxiety and stress. Many homeowners don’t realize the immense power a deck can have on reconnecting you and your family with nature.

Think of a new deck as your very own nature observatory. When designed thoughtfully, your deck can become an absolute paradise for nature lovers. We’ve seen our clients add built-in planters, fostering their green thumbs and turning their decks into lush garden scape. Another favorite feature is the integration of bird baths or feeders, bringing a flurry of avian activity right into your backyard. Lining your deck with wildflowers is another great idea to bring pollinators into your yard, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Each detail helps you to engage with the natural world, cultivating a deep, rewarding connection that’s often missed in our busy, digital age. If you’re looking for good reasons to build a deck, we think this is one of the best ones!

Reason 2: Provides a Venue for Outdoor Fitness

In our years of decking expertise at Grand Decks, we’ve witnessed a refreshing trend: more and more homeowners are transforming their decks into versatile spaces for outdoor fitness. And why not? With fresh air filling your lungs and a gentle breeze to cool you down, the deck becomes a perfect backdrop for a vigorous cardio session, a soothing yoga practice, or a rejuvenating meditation.

Studies have consistently shown the positive effects of exercising in natural settings: enhanced mood, better concentration, and increased likelihood of repeating the workout. With a deck at your disposal, you get a private, outdoor fitness space sans the travel time to the park or gym. With a new deck, your wellness is made convenient and enjoyable right outside your door. If you’re looking to improve your health, this is one of our greatest reasons to build a deck. 

Reason 3: Encourages Sustainable Living

At Grand Decks, we understand that embracing sustainable practices is more than just a trend – it’s a necessity. We’re proud to say that building a deck can align beautifully with this belief. A well-built deck not only lasts for years, reducing the need for replacement but can also be constructed using certified sustainable timber or innovative, eco-friendly composite materials. 

Composite materials are generally made from reclaimed wood, sawdust, or other waste that would otherwise end up in a landfill. Using composite wood also reduces the demand for natural wood. At Grand Decks, we care about the environment and use only the best sustainable materials to help extend the life of a deck by decades, which is a win-win for everyone involved!  But the deck’s role in sustainable living doesn’t stop at construction. Its potential to champion green practices in your everyday life is equally compelling.

 Ever thought about air-drying your clothes? Your deck can offer the perfect space, saving energy consumption from electric dryers. Or consider this: a deck can serve as a charming base for container gardening, allowing you to cultivate your own herbs, veggies, or even a mini orchard! Through these practices, your deck can become a tangible reflection of your commitment to sustainable living, promoting a green lifestyle while adding charm to your home.

Reason 4: Boosts Creativity and Learning Opportunities for Children

One perspective we at Grand Decks love to highlight is viewing your deck as a realm of endless possibilities for your children. Far more than just a play area, a well-designed deck offers a safe, controlled outdoor environment where young minds can explore, create, and learn.

Imagine a corner of the deck dedicated to a chalkboard wall, inviting your kids to channel their inner Picasso. Or a miniature playhouse, letting their imaginative stories come to life. These deck additions foster creativity, social skills, and a love for the outdoors in children, making the deck a vibrant hub for development and fun.

But beyond these delightful features, we understand the paramount importance of safety. When designing a deck with children in mind, we pay close attention to factors like railings, slip-resistant surfaces, and child-friendly furnishings. We also consider the inclusion of shaded areas for protection against the sun and other elements.

In addition to this, the educational potential of a deck should not be underestimated. It can be a fantastic outdoor classroom where children learn about nature firsthand. Think of the myriad of insects, birds, and plants they can observe, the changing seasons, and the weather patterns they can experience. There’s a wealth of knowledge waiting to be discovered right outside your backdoor.

In essence, a deck isn’t just an investment for your home but also for your children’s growth and development. It’s an outdoor extension of your home that stimulates imagination, encourages active play, and instills a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. With the right design, your deck becomes more than just a structure; it becomes a cherished part of your children’s childhood. If that’s not one of the top reasons to build a deck, we don’t know what else is!

Reason 5: Enhances Mindfulness and Mental Health

We’ve often heard from our clients at Grand Decks how their decks have turned into tranquil havens for mindfulness and mental well-being. In a world that’s increasingly busy and connected, a deck offers a sanctuary where you can unwind, meditate, and engage in self-reflection amidst nature’s calming presence.

Science supports these personal anecdotes. There are myriad mental wellness benefits associated with being outside in green spaces. Studies indicate a lower risk of depression and faster psychological stress recovery when spending time outdoors. It’s as if nature has its unique healing rhythm, syncing with our internal beats to restore mental balance and calm.

Beyond recovery, being in nature also has the power to strengthen our mental capacities. Research shows that it can increase focus, attention, and even creative problem-solving skills. Imagine working on a challenging task or pondering a life decision on your deck, with nature as your guide and inspiration.

These therapeutic effects aren’t just abstract concepts – they’re tangible benefits that your deck can bring to your daily life. By providing an inviting, natural space for you to spend time in, a deck can seamlessly weave these benefits into your routine. It’s not just about these great reasons to build a deck; it’s about building a healthier, happier state of mind.

Reason 6: Creates a Space for Outdoor Entertainment and Hobbies

At Grand Decks, we encourage you to see your deck as more than just a stage for BBQ parties (though they’re fantastic). It can be an extension of your personality and hobbies, a versatile space that evolves with the seasons.

Consider this: your deck could turn into a celestial observatory on clear summer nights, with a telescope set up to map the constellations and track shooting stars. Or as the hues of autumn set in, imagine transforming it into an outdoor studio, where you paint in the soft light, inspired by the vibrant fall foliage.

But the allure of your deck extends beyond personal hobbies. It can be a wonderful space for community engagement and social activities. Ever thought about hosting an open-air book club, or a deck-top gardening workshop? Maybe even an outdoor cooking class, using fresh herbs from your own deck garden?

As temperatures drop, don’t let the charm of your deck hibernate. A fire pit can create a cozy ambiance for winter gatherings, whether you’re toasting marshmallows or sipping hot cocoa. Or imagine transforming it into a winter wonderland for the little ones, complete with fairy lights and seasonal decorations.

Indeed, your deck is a chameleon, changing its colors with the seasons and your needs. Its potential as a space for unique outdoor entertainment and hobbies is as broad as your imagination. With careful planning and design, your deck can become a vibrant hotspot for year-round enjoyment, fostering a lifestyle that celebrates outdoor living in all its varied glory.

Reason 7: Supports Work from Home (WFH) Culture

With the recent shift towards remote working and studying, we’ve discovered a new dimension to the usefulness of decks. They can be transformed into inspiring outdoor offices, offering a refreshing change of scenery from your typical indoor workspace.

As our clients at Grand Decks have found, working amidst nature’s backdrop can boost focus, creativity, and productivity. The gentle chirping of birds, the rustle of leaves, and the fresh air – all work together to create a harmonious work environment right in your backyard.

Delving deeper into the benefits of this outdoor work setup, we find that working in a natural environment can reduce stress levels. A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that viewing green spaces can help restore attention and decrease stress levels. That’s precisely the kind of environment a deck office can provide. 

Another reason a deck makes a fabulous workspace is the natural light available outdoors. Not only can it help regulate your sleep cycle and improve your mood, but it can also reduce eye strain commonly caused by artificial indoor lighting. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain physical health while working long hours.

What’s more, a deck office offers a unique opportunity for movement throughout the day. Instead of being confined to a desk, you have the flexibility to stand, stretch, or even walk around during a call, keeping you active and reducing the harmful effects of prolonged sitting.

Lastly, an outdoor office on your deck allows you to fully capitalize on the benefits of flexible working hours that come with remote work. Enjoy the morning coolness, work under the starlight, or catch the golden hour for an energy boost – it’s up to you to set your preferred work schedule.

Indeed, creating a deck office is a strategic move that not only enhances your WFH experience but also your well-being. It’s about shifting the boundaries of your work environment and integrating it seamlessly with your lifestyle, all the while reaping the benefits of being close to nature.If you’re looking for reasons to build a deck, this may be the one that tops your list!

The Grand Deck Conclusion: Your Deck, Your Canvas

From fostering a profound connection with nature to creating an outdoor fitness arena, boosting children’s creativity, championing sustainable living, offering a mental health retreat, evolving into a platform for unique hobbies, and even supporting the WFH culture – a backyard deck is much more than meets the eye.

What we’ve discussed are not just reasons to build a deck, but a vision of a lifestyle that embraces outdoor living in its diverse forms. At Grand Decks, we’ve seen these possibilities come to life, creating spaces that mirror each homeowner’s unique tastes, interests, and values.

A deck isn’t merely a home addition. It’s a canvas for your creativity, a stage for your memories, and a testament to your love for nature and outdoor living. It’s your personal retreat and your social hub, your children’s adventure playground, and your serene sanctuary all rolled into one.

Now, we invite you to share your deck dreams and stories. Have you discovered any unique benefits or uses of a deck that isn’t on our list? Have you crafted or envisioned a deck design that reflects your unique lifestyle? We’re eager to hear your thoughts, experiences, and ideas in the comments below. Contact Grand Decks today, and let’s reimagine your backyards together!