So maybe you’ve had your deck for a few years and it’s starting to show its age. You wish you could build a new deck, but let’s face it, money doesn’t grow on trees. We get it. But don’t despair! There are ways to make an old deck look new. Here are three things you can do to make your deck seem more modern and also make it more enjoyable to use.
Replace the Deck Railing
Replacing the railing will cost a fraction of replacing the entire deck. If your structure is still sound, but you want to make your deck look newer, replace the old wooden railing with a newer style. The good news is you have many options to choose from. Powder coated aluminum railing is maintenance free and comes in classic and contemporary styles to complement just about any kind of deck. Composite railing gives the look and feel of real wood without the worry of twisting, rotting, or splintering. It is scratch and weather resistant so it will look great for years. Cable railing is the perfect choice if you want a more contemporary look. It’s functional and stylish, with the added benefit that it doesn’t obstruct your view. You can even find railing with 4-inch wide glass slats for a totally unique look. You’ll be amazed at the facelift your deck will receive with new railing and friends and neighbors may assume the entire deck is new. Today’s styles are designed for fast and easy installation, plus, you’ll have much less maintenance to deal with.
Lighting Makes a Huge Difference at Night
When you add lighting to your deck, it changes the entire vibe at night. Besides making your deck safer, lighting can take your deck to the next level when it comes to creating a mood. From low voltage recessed lighting to solar accent lights, it’s easier than you think to illuminate your deck. You can install lights on your stair risers, your handrail or even highlight the top of your posts with lighted post caps. Even just adding a string or two of Edison lights will create a party atmosphere around your deck. From enchanting to electric, the mood you set with lighting is yours to choose. Plus, your deck will be so much more inviting and usable after dark.
Change the Entire Feel with a Privacy Wall or Pergola
One of my favorite upgrades to a deck is adding a privacy wall or a pergola with a privacy wall. It changes the entire look and feel of your deck taking it from ordinary to amazing. Adding a wall or pergola creates a living space that feels like so much more than an ordinary deck. It’s like adding an outdoor room to your home. A pergola can create a shaded space for relaxing in the middle of the day without the heat of the midday sun. Privacy walls create a romantic, cozy space that feels so much more inviting. And the great news is, both are fairly affordable ways to completely transform your deck and get much more use out of it.
If you’re trying to make your old deck look new, all of these updates will cost a fraction of what a new deck would cost, but you will enjoy them for years to come with less maintenance in most cases. And don’t underestimate the power of sprucing up your deck with lots of plants and colorful pots. Textiles like a rug, and some new outdoor furniture will do wonders too. Here’s to enjoying the great outdoors on your deck this year!
