Home is where we find ultimate comfort. It’s where we can loosen up, be ourselves and expect not to be judged. And it’s for this reason that I feel the need of making my home as comfortable as possible, both from the interior to the exterior spaces. One way I have managed to enjoy time outdoors is by spending some quality time with family and friends under my covered deck. It sounds like fun, right? Here are some of the amazing reasons I love a covered deck and why you should too: 

“Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love.” – Nate Berkus

Dry Outdoor Space  

We cannot control the weather throughout the various seasons of the year. It rains a lot in Virginia, and it snows from time to time during the winter months. The unpredictable weather can totally disrupt our outdoor activities and force us to remain indoors. But with a covered deck, I get to enjoy watching the kids play in the backyard to include riding their quads, playing football, catching fireflies or just running around barefoot (grounding).  After a long day at work and school, our backyard, specifically the covered deck, is our little reprieve.

With a covered deck, I don’t have to worry about my patio furniture getting soaked or wearing out too soon.  I can leave my indoor/outdoor pillows on the furniture pretty much the entire summer; however I will bring them in for the colder/damp winter months.  If you don’t have a covered space, your patio or deck furniture will require a cover to protect it from the elements or run the risk of showing its age prematurely.  

Protection from the Heat   

If you have ever lived in a home with an open deck or patio, then you must be aware of how harsh direct sunlight can get, especially during those hot summer months. I’ve had both an open deck and patio, and the summer months can be brutal.  When I lived in Texas, I rarely used my patio/courtyard due to the heat (and mosquitos).  

Installing a roof or cover not only keeps my deck cool but also safeguards family, friends and the furniture from the harsh ultra violet lights.  We don’t have to worry about sun damage of our skin or our outdoor furnishings. Since outdoor furniture can be pricey, I want to ensure that I protect it from the elements as much as possible. So outdoor furniture actually looks and feels like indoor furniture, so it’s imperative that it is covered and protected from the harsh weather.

Ability to Spend More Time Outdoors  

I particularly love that my covered deck allows me to spend more time outside, be it for some “me” time or with family and friends. We can decide to set the breakfast table outside over the weekend or holidays, or dine late, whichever suits our mood.  

With a covered deck, I get to enjoy watching the kids play outdoors and truly make great use our outdoor living space.   

If you enjoy entertaining friends and family or hosting a watch party, a covered deck allows you to plan and host a fun-filled gathering with minimal cleanup.  We’re currently looking to invest in a television and outdoor entertainment system for our weekly movie/game night.  It will be so fun to watch our favorite Disney movie on the deck on a nice, starry night.  We could also host a movie watch party with a projector and lots of popcorn for the kids in the fall.

Adds Value to Your Home  

Not that I am planning on selling my house anytime soon, but knowing my covered deck has tremendously increased its resell value, is the best feeling ever. I’ve learned from real estate professionals, that the more comfortable and usable your outdoor space is, the more valuable and attractive it becomes, especially to high-end investors/ buyers.   

There you have it! I hope you find the above benefits useful in helping you consider investing in a covered deck or patio. Eating and having fun outside, couldn’t be more amazing!