Patio and Decking Design Guide

After long weekdays filled with traffic jams and tight deadlines, more and more homeowners are seeking the comfort of a relaxing getaway, right outside their own back door.

A well-designed patio or deck is the perfect retreat for delving into a good book, entertaining family and friends, or enjoying a breathtaking sunset before turning in for the night. Homeowners also want a smoother transition from indoors to out, with patios and decks functioning as “outdoor rooms” that reflect the look and feel of the home’s interior.

Choosing the right decking materials, a durable decks and railing system, the right exterior lighting fixtures and outdoor furniture that fits the space can turn a plain backyard into a true outdoor room. This guide walks through the materials and design choices shaping today’s most popular patio and deck projects.

Planning a patio or deck build? Talk to Mid-City Lumber for help choosing the right materials for your project.

Why Patio and Deck Demand Keeps Growing

Outdoor living space has become a top priority for homeowners. Not surprisingly, contractors have seen robust demand for patio and deck construction in recent years. The Census Bureau reported a 112.5% increase in new homes containing patios and decks from 2010 to 2017.

Here are some of the trends driving patio and deck construction, whether it’s for a new build or an addition to an existing home.

That demand hasn’t slowed. Homeowners increasingly want their patio or deck to function as a true extension of the home’s interior, complete with furnishings, lighting, and finishes that match the style found indoors.

Choosing the Right Patio Materials and Design

Patios can be open, covered or enclosed, and can be made from a variety of materials that affect both appearance and long-term maintenance.

Concrete is a hard, versatile material that can withstand extreme temperatures and humidity, all of which has made it an ongoing patio staple for decades. It comes in a wide range of colors and is easy to clean.
Stone pavers have a naturalistic feel, are relatively simple to install and rival concrete in strength. Large pavers can make small patios look and feel more spacious.
Porcelain pavers offer an upscale look that transitions well from indoors to the outdoor space. Durable and easy to clean, porcelain is also a great choice for pool sides and walkways.
Brick is an environmentally friendly option that can be recycled and gives the patio a timeless, traditional charm.

While patios can be customized for almost any shape and size, the underlying terrain will be a factor. Pathways, walls and built-in benches help to integrate the patio with landscaping design for aesthetic beauty and easy access to garden areas.

Depending on size and layout, the patio may be just a small seating area or a large multifunctional space combining a variety of options.

Dining areas
Firepits or fireplaces
Barbecues and outdoor kitchens
Pools and other water features
Pergolas or gazebos

Outdoor lighting also creates a nice ambience for evening activities, with options including built-in lighting systems, customized landscape lighting or LED string lights.

comparing Decking Materials and Design

The traditional backyard deck has evolved, as clients look for customized designs in a range of materials and styles. Underdeck areas also offer extra living or storage space.

Composite decking made from a wood-plastic blend has grown in popularity. Easier to clean and longer lasting than regular wood, composite decking tolerates moisture and resists rot, cracks and splintering. Streaking effects mimic the grain of natural wood, and complementary color combinations allow for picture-framed edging and other two-tone designs.
Pressure-treated wood is another option that stands up to rot, termites and decay. This material should be cleaned twice a year with a pressure washer, and homeowners should inspect for damage on a regular basis.
Cedar lends an upscale feel with its warm, brownish hue. Maintenance requirements include re–staining every five years, regular removal of dirt and leaves, and allowing the wood to dry thoroughly after precipitation.
Vinyl decking looks like real wood with much less maintenance. It’s also durable, stain-resistant and easy to clean, making it a low-effort option for busy households.

Decks & Railing, Lighting, and Furniture: Finishing Touches

The details around the deck surface itself often make the biggest visual impact. Decks and railing systems are increasingly built with stone, metal and even glass accents on staircases, balusters and post caps for a more custom, upscale finish.

Exterior lighting fixtures add both ambience and safety once the sun goes down. Popular choices include solar or low-voltage post sconces, recessed fixtures and even lighted balusters and post caps built directly into the decks and railing system.

Once the structure and lighting are in place, outdoor furniture completes the space. Weather-resistant seating, dining sets and loungers sized to the patio or deck’s footprint help the area function as a genuine outdoor living room rather than an afterthought.

The underdeck area no longer has to sit unused either. Weatherproofing solutions such as specialized underdeck ceilings, waterproof membranes and between-board flanges create dry, usable storage or living space beneath a raised deck.

Planning Your Own Patio or Deck Project

Whether you’re building new or adding on, a few early decisions make the rest of the project easier.

Assess your terrain and layout before choosing patio materials, since the underlying ground shapes what’s possible.
Pick decking materials suited to your climate and maintenance tolerance, whether that’s composite lumber decking, pressure-treated wood, cedar or vinyl.
Decide on a decks and railing style and exterior lighting fixtures early, since these are easier to plan for than to retrofit later.
Choose outdoor furniture that fits the finished footprint so the space feels proportioned, not crowded.

Ready to Start Your Patio or Deck Project? Mid-City Lumber Can Help

From decking materials and composite lumber decking to decks & railing systems, exterior lighting fixtures, and outdoor furniture, the right combination of choices makes a patio or deck feel like a true extension of the home.

At Mid-City Lumber, our knowledgeable staff can help you compare decking materials so your next build meets both your budget and your design goals.

Stop by or contact us today to talk through materials for your upcoming patio or deck project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is composite lumber decking made of?

Composite lumber decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic. That combination resists moisture, rot, cracking and splintering far better than solid wood, which is why it has become one of the most popular decking materials for homeowners who want low maintenance without giving up a wood-like look.

How do I choose between decking materials for my climate?

Humid or rainy climates favor composite lumber decking or vinyl decking because both resist moisture damage. Pressure-treated wood works well in most climates but needs regular pressure washing, while cedar looks best in drier regions where it can dry out fully between rains and won’t need re-staining as often.

What are the best exterior lighting fixtures for a deck?

Low-voltage or solar post sconces and recessed fixtures are popular because they add ambience without a big electrical project. For a more built-in look, lighted balusters and post caps integrate directly into decks and railing systems and improve nighttime safety on stairs and edges.

Do I need special railing for a raised deck?

Raised decks typically require code-compliant decks and railing systems with specific height and baluster spacing requirements. Beyond meeting code, many homeowners now choose stone, metal or glass accents on their railing for a more custom, upscale appearance.

What outdoor furniture works best for a small patio?

Smaller patios benefit from scaled-down or modular outdoor furniture, such as bistro sets or sectional pieces that can be rearranged as needed. Choosing larger patio pavers can also make a small space feel more open, giving the furniture more visual room to breathe. Mid-City Lumber’s team can help you think through layout before you buy materials.