Decks Across House Fronts, A Style Guide

Adding a deck onto the front of a house can completely transform the exterior. Front decks boost curb appeal, expand entertaining space, and even increase property values over time. But not all front decks are created equal. The style, materials, and size should complement the home's existing architecture and serve the homeowners' needs.

Benefits of Adding Front Decks

Before delving into the specifics, let's review why front decks can be such a great addition to a home.

Boost Home Curb Appeal

One of the main reasons homeowners choose to add a front deck is to improve curb appeal. An attractive, well-designed deck essentially creates an expanded front porch area. This provides a graceful transition from the yard to the front door. Front decks incorporate gorgeous wood tones and natural textures to the facade. They also allow for amenities like planters, benches, lighting, and decor to enhance visual interest.

Expand Entertainment Space

In addition to aesthetic appeal, front decks expand a home's livable footprint. Homeowners can comfortably seat guests for hosting. Kids can play outside within eyesight. And the space allows for grilling, dining, or just relaxing outdoors with lovely front yard views. Front decks essentially deliver usable square footage without requiring an interior addition.

Increase Property Resale Value

Well-designed front decks also boost a home's long-term resale value. Not only does improved curb appeal demand higher asking prices, but front decks are highly desired amenities. Curb appeal plays a pivotal role in attracting potential buyers. So upgrading the home's exterior with a front deck helps ensure a profitable sale down the road.

Popular Front Deck Designs

When planning a new front deck, the finishes and style should align with the home's existing architectural features. The size should also suit the intended purpose, whether mainly improving aesthetics or expanding entertaining space. Here are some of the most popular options:

Classic Wooden Decks

Wood tones and textures make a gorgeous addition to home exteriors. Cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine are all fantastic decking lumber options. Wood decking offers a warm, natural look and feels wonderful underfoot. Though it does require thorough sealing and potential sanding/staining every few years to maintain its beauty.

Composite Decking Materials

For lower maintenance, composite decking offers wood-like looks without all the upkeep. These consist of wood fibers, plastics, and resins fused together. Brands like Trex are leaders in composite decking. The material resists moisture, mold, and mildew. It won't rot, crack, or splinter like wood. And it never needs sanding, staining, or sealing.

Stone and Concrete Decks

For a sleek, seamless look, stone and concrete make intriguing front deck options. Bluestone, flagstone, and granite can create gorgeous layered patterns. Concrete staining also allows for integrated color designs. These hardscaping materials are extremely durable against weather and wear. But the styles tend to skew more modern or industrial.

Deck Construction and Remodeling

While front decks seem straightforward in theory, proper construction is paramount. Otherwise, the deck risks safety hazards, early deterioration, or even collapsing. Here's what to consider for deck construction and remodeling:

Hiring Contractors

Unless highly experienced with structural work, most homeowners should hire a professional deck builder. Red flags like unusually low quotes, lack of credentials, or pushy sales tactics are all warning signs. Make sure to vet potential deck contractors thoroughly. Ask for examples of previous front deck projects and multiple client references.

Building Codes and Permits

Nearly all exterior construction projects require proper permits and compliance with zoning regulations. Building codes dictate specific structural specifications like the footing's depth, railing height minimums, and spacing between decking boards. Reputable contractors will pull all necessary permits and ensure every aspect follows the latest building codes.

Deck Foundation and Framing

A sturdy foundation and framing ensures the front deck can adequately bear loads and withstand weathering over decades of use. Pressure-treated beams connect securely to the house. Concrete footings anchoring posts dug below the frost line prevent shifting. Proper joist spacing, connections, and diagonal bracing make for solid underpinnings.

Deck Features and Accessories

Once the underlying structure is complete, it's time to deck it out with railings, lighting, and furnishings that match the home's style. These elements blend form and function for added safety, ambiance and comfort.

Railings and Stairs

Railings provide an elegant boundary while ensuring safe use, especially for households with small children. Compliant railings stand at least 36 inches tall with balusters no more than 4 inches apart. Stairs with proper tread depth, riser height, and grippy wood treads connect the deck safely to the yard.

Lighting and Ceiling Fans

Lighting enables safe evening use while setting a gorgeous ambiance. Deck-mounted fixtures, post cap lights and integrated step lights are all fantastic options. Outdoor ceiling fans circulate air and keep mosquitoes at bay. These let occupants comfortably enjoy the space long after sunset.

Outdoor Furniture and Decor

Complete the front deck's aesthetic with eye-catching wooden furniture like chairs, tables, and benches. Weatherproof cushions in colorful patterns add comfort and visual appeal. Planters, throw blankets, pillows and candles add homey decor touches to make it an extension of the interior.

Front Deck Style Ideas

When designed properly, front decks feel like a seamless part of the home with finishes that reflect its style. Whether aiming for a relaxed craftsman look or sleek modern statement, here are some gorgeous front deck style options to consider:

Modern and Sleek

For contemporary homes, glass railings, metal balusters and composite decking in gray woodgrain tones create a polished look. Built-in benches lining the deck perimeter make a chic statement. Simple black outdoor furniture and modern exterior sconces or recessed step lighting keep the minimalist style.

Rustic Farmhouse

Channel laidback farmhouse style with a wood deck flanked by charming rocking chairs. Whitewash the planks for a timeworn look. Mix metals like wrought iron and galvanized steel for railings and lighting fixtures. Rough-hewn wood benches and reclaimed furniture reinforce the cozy charm.

Iron accents, warm stucco finishes, and natural stone elements like tile or stacked stone veneers exude Mediterranean flair. Deep emerald or navy deck colors contrast beautifully with neutral walls. Wrought iron railings, an arched bougainvillea-covered pergola and decorative tiles let homeowners soak up the scenery.

Front decks are an addition that improve the look and feel of the home for years to come. Carefully weigh the intended deck size, placement and uses during design. Choose finishes and furnishings that accentuate the home's existing features. Then relax knowing homeowners and visitors alike will adore this new oasis space.