A deck is an elevated outdoor platform attached to a building, typically a house. It extends indoor living space into the open air, serving as a versatile area for activities like dining, entertaining, sunbathing, and relaxation.

Decks are constructed using materials like wood, composite, PVC, or other decking materials, each with its own strengths in terms of durability, maintenance, and appearance. They can be either elevated, supported by posts or pilings, or ground-level.

The support structure, comprising posts, beams, and joists, bears the deck’s weight and transfers it to the ground, determined by the deck’s height and design. Railings, made of wood, metal, glass, or composite, are added for safety and aesthetics.

Access to elevated decks is provided through stairs or ramps, while ground-level decks may have a direct entry from the house. Decks come in various shapes and sizes, with layouts tailored to factors like available space, intended use, and natural surroundings.

To withstand weathering, moisture, and insects, decks require maintenance such as sealing, staining, painting (for wood), or protective coatings (for composite materials). Outdoor furniture like tables, chairs, lounges, and sometimes built-in features like benches or planters are often added to decks.

Decks are favored home additions, offering a flexible outdoor space for leisure and socializing. They can be customized to suit individual preferences and property characteristics, ultimately adding value and visual appeal to a home.