Decks and balconies are great places to hang out in and hold small gatherings with friends and loved ones, especially if you live in a state with a pleasant climate like California. Moreover, these areas provide a perfect balance of the advantages of indoor and outdoor spaces. For instance, a balcony offers fresh air and a wonderful glimpse of plants in your yard, but at the same time, has the roofing to safeguard you from glaring light and sudden downpours. Thus, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
However, for your deck or balcony to stay comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, it’s a must to spice it up every once in a while with a few home improvement projects. Below, we’ll discuss several helpful tips to enhance your space’s appearance and durability.
Accessorize with Decorative Accents
There are plenty of accessories you can add to a deck. For instance, you can install pretty outdoor lights in stylish strings or fancy posts. You can also add canopy umbrellas, fluffy pillows, and throw covers on your chairs or benches. Another good idea is putting a centerpiece on your table, such as a basket or vase of fresh blossoms. But, avoid leaving fruits and other perishable food items that are usually used as décor since they may attract pests.
Place Dainty Furniture
The style of furniture pieces that you should place in a deck or balcony should not be too striking or distractingly ornate. Opt for simpler designs and forms that blend well with the outside environment, such as dainty metal chairs, a small glass round table, or wooden benches. Pieces that are too bulky or have been painted with vibrant colors and multiple patterns will make the space look chaotic and crowded.
Greenery is the Key
The fastest and easiest way to enliven an area is by adding plants. Choose certain plants that match the season and fit your balcony’s overall vibe. It’s also best to select ones that are easy to care for and don’t grow too big. Some great options are vines, succulents, and potted plants and flowers. However, don’t overdo it, as too much foliage will drown the space. It may also look redundant, considering that most decks and balconies face gardens.
Inspection Your Flooring
Check the floors for cracks and other damages. If your flooring is wood, try looking for scratches, dents, and loose panels. Have these repaired accordingly. In addition, you can make the floors look more polished and attractive by using protective coatings and sealants such as epoxy resin and urethane. Aside from the added aesthetic value, these materials protect the surface of your floor from further damages and harsh fluids like chemicals and oil.
Update Your Railing
If you notice that your railing have damages or peeling paint, do the necessary repairs. However, if they’re too worn and old already, it may be time for an upgrade. For superior output, it’s important to choose a suitable material. Although people commonly think of wood, there’s a wide assortment of corrosion-resistant materials available for residential deck railings. Popular examples are aluminum, vinyl or acrylic, polished brass, stainless steel, copper, and wrought iron.
Aluminum railings frame surrounding spaces efficiently and are easy to install due to their lightness. As for wrought, it provides a sleek, metropolitan vibe, and is known for its durability. You can find high-quality, prefabricated wrought railings all over Beverly Hills and other cities in Los Angeles County.
All parts of your house need proper maintenance care; thus, you should not limit your upkeep routine to interior rooms. If you’re thinking of a major remodeling for your deck or balcony, such as a structural extension, be sure to consult an expert contractor first.
