Maximize Outdoor Living
Angi's Expert Guide Helps Homeowners Maximize Deck and Porch Enjoyment This Summer
Decks and porches become the most-used spaces in the home every summer, but most homeowners skip the basics that keep them safe and enjoyable, according to Journal Now. A new guide from Angi, syndicated by The Associated Press, lays out simple steps to get outdoor spaces ready for the season — from checking boards for rot to adding shade and seating.
Angi home expert Mallory Micetich says homeowners should decide early whether to do work themselves or hire a pro. "Plan ahead," Micetich advises, because quality contractors book up fast once summer demand peaks, according to Bismarck Tribune.
Start With a Safety Check Before Anything Else
Before buying new furniture or string lights, walk your deck and look for trouble. Check every board for soft spots, cracks, or rot. Push on the railing — it should not wobble. Look at the posts and joists underneath if you can. A structurally sound deck is the foundation of everything else, according to Elko Daily Free Press.
Composite decking — made from up to 95% recycled plastic and reclaimed wood — holds up better than traditional wood in heat, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles, according to Press of Atlantic City. Wood decks need annual cleaning and re-sealing to prevent moisture damage. Skipping that step speeds up rot significantly.
Shade and Comfort Turn a Hot Deck Into a Cool Retreat
A deck in full sun can feel unbearable by midday. Adding a pergola, shade sail, or large umbrella cuts heat fast. Outdoor rugs and cushioned seating also make the space feel like an actual room, not just a platform of boards, according to Kenosha News.
Lighting matters too. Solar-powered string lights or low-voltage path lights let the space stay usable after dark. The goal is to treat the porch or deck like an extension of the home's living room — not an afterthought, according to Fremont Tribune.
Plants and Landscaping Make the Whole Outdoor Space Feel Bigger
Container plants are one of the easiest ways to upgrade a porch or deck. Tall planters with native grasses or flowering perennials add color without much upkeep. Native plants need less water and survive heat better than exotic varieties, according to Beatrice Daily Sun.
The landscaping around the deck matters just as much as the deck itself. Keeping the area underneath clear of debris prevents pests and moisture buildup. Drip irrigation systems can cut outdoor water use by up to 80% compared to standard sprinklers, according to Greensboro. That saves money and keeps plants healthier through dry stretches.
Hiring a Pro vs. DIY: Know the Difference Before You Start
Small jobs — cleaning, painting, adding planters — are easy DIY projects. Bigger jobs like replacing boards, fixing a railing, or building a pergola are better left to professionals, according to La Crosse Tribune. Mistakes on structural work can be costly and dangerous.
The landscaping and outdoor improvement market is growing fast — projected to jump from $100 billion in 2024 to $150 billion by 2033, according to Chippewa Herald. That means contractor demand is high. Homeowners who book early get better prices and more choices. Waiting until July often means settling for whoever is still available.
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