elevated deck decisions -help!

5 years ago

We would like to tear off our small cantilevered deck and put on a larger deck with stairs so we can access the backyard. This will be on the north side of our house in MN.

Our basement family room is below. I would love to make the under deck space into something light, bright and useable, and that won’t take away much of the daylight from the basement family room.

We have had an estimate for a 16x20 and a 16x16 deck (each with a 4’ wide staircase leading to the yard).

I would love feedback on deck size and if anyone has a finished space below. Does the finished space below get used that much? Or is the best investment just a larger deck? Can we spruce up the under deck area on our own in the future without spending $20k on the fancy Trec RainEscape system and finished ceiling? Pic of our current deck and my under deck inspiration

can never have too much outdoor space! both the patio and deck get enough use to justify the money.

deck is the best investment. Go as big as you can

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Comments (4)

onobed
5 years ago
if you can waterproof the ceiling so you can watch rain storms, the lower covered porch will get a to of use. Also - I wouldn't be surprised if the lower level gets more use because of the ability to walk out to the yard.
Maureen
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
You may want to decide on how you will use the deck and calculate how much space is needed. If only for dining and a bbq, the smaller size would work and perhaps allow for more light to filter into lower window. Also consider how the 16 vs 20 ft will affect lawn for playing - how is yard used.

Also suggest, if you have room, to install a staircase that has a landing/turn for safety. Once the patio flooring is added, you can easily enhance. We painted ceiling beams, hung a swinging chair, bamboo rods for curtains (painting sheets from a hardware store), rug, plants, lights and a simple water feature, which was lovely. With children, you’ll probably be on the lower level a lot.
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lbsteen
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks Maureen! Any chance you’d be able to share a pic of your space?
Maureen
5 years ago
Sorry, we moved about ten years ago.