4 Most Common Mistakes When Designing a Deck (And How to Avoid Them)

Want to create a unique space around your home that allows residents to enjoy the benefits of sunshine and fresh air? Looking to extend your living room or obtain an additional relaxation zone? If you want to enjoy a durable and aesthetic terrace for years, you must know which mistakes to avoid during its design. From this guide, you'll learn how to arrange an ideal home retreat for relaxation that will serve you for many years without the need for frequent maintenance. Welcome to reading!

Incorrect Material Selection – What to Pay Attention to When Choosing Terrace Boards?

One of the more common mistakes made when arranging a home relaxation zone is improper selection of finishing materials. The floor is particularly important for both the appearance and usability of the terrace. It must be not only durable but also safe, meaning non-slip. Additionally, it should be highly resistant to atmospheric factors such as changing temperatures, rain or snow, and intense solar radiation.

If you want to create a timeless terrace that will provide you with years of peace and comfort, while remaining unaffected by any trends, opt for composite boards. They are an incredibly elegant material that combines the attractive look of wood with the durability of plastic. Unlike traditional wooden boards, they do not require impregnation or painting. Their undeniable advantage is also that they have a non-slip surface. For this reason, composite terrace boards work excellently when there are small children among the household members.

Planning Errors – How to Properly Design the Terrace Layout?

Before starting terrace construction, it's worth carefully thinking through its size and shape. For practical reasons, it is recommended that its surface area be at least 10 square meters. If you have a larger plot, there's nothing stopping you from increasing this area. However, remember that for terrace construction exceeding 35 square meters, you must obtain appropriate permits (otherwise, it may be considered an unauthorized construction).

The shape of the outdoor relaxation space also significantly impacts its appearance. Square and rectangular terraces best suit modern minimalist buildings. In contrast, round terraces look most attractive with classic mansions. Regardless of the composition you choose, ensure you delineate basic zones. In addition to a relaxation area, the terrace can include a dining and recreational corner.

Lack of Protection from Atmospheric Conditions – Ways to Protect for Years

Another frequently made mistake when arranging a terrace is the lack of a well-thought-out roof. If you want to add prestige to your home or want a space suitable for use throughout the year, protection from atmospheric conditions is fundamental. However, a key question arises: what material should it be made of?

Pergolas are an excellent solution for those who want to transform their composite terraces into true oases of peace and relaxation. Such covers provide excellent protection from excessive sunlight and rain, and because they are available in various styles and colors, they can be easily matched to any architecture. Larger areas can be roofed using two or three pergolas, thus creating a large relaxation zone.

To ensure the terrace can be used year-round, regardless of weather, the pergola roof can be additionally enclosed with practical louver panels. Such a solution allows screening the space from wind, rain, and intense solar radiation. Lowered panels will provide coziness and intimacy, while uncovered ones will let you enjoy the view and fresh air.

Improper Lighting – How to Create Functional and Aesthetic Solutions?

Even the most carefully planned terrace will lose functionality if not equipped with appropriate lighting. Small lamps skillfully integrated into the space will not only allow terrace use after sunset but also help create a warm, cozy atmosphere. The right light can also highlight materials and decorations placed on the terrace: composite boards, rattan furniture, bamboo planters, etc.

Those with roofed composite terraces can opt for classic hanging lamps and ceiling lights. They provide plenty of light, making them excellent when you frequently use the home space for social gatherings. If you don't want to waste time searching for switches, choose models equipped with motion sensors.

When lack of proper electrical installation prevents traditional lighting installation, solar lamps can be an ideal solution. Their selection is very wide: from wall sconces to standing lamps, to decorative LED strings that allow creating a unique atmosphere.

When choosing solar lighting, pay attention not only to design. Light efficiency, emitted light color, and lamp construction, which should be durable and meet the appropriate IP seal class, are also important. For areas most exposed to atmospheric conditions, choose lamps with a minimum IP65 sealing degree.

Use YUTRA's Offer and Create a Terrace That Will Stand the Test of Time!

Incorrect material selection, lack of protection from weather caprices, and mismatched lighting – these are the most common mistakes made when designing a terrace. Avoiding them is extremely important if you want to create a functional, safe, and long-lasting space that will become a home decoration and a place for relaxation and meetings with loved ones. If you want to invest in the beauty and durability of your terrace, we invite you to the world of yutra.pl. Here you'll find not only composite terrace boards but also pergolas, awnings, garden furniture, and many other functional accessories that will perfectly complement the terrace arrangement!