How to Utilize the Space Under a Deck

The space under your deck can be useful, no matter what size it is. A second-story deck can be used as an outdoor living space, essentially giving you an upper and lower outdoor entertaining area. Spaces under first-story decks are great for storage. You can store items that you use under your deck, rather than them taking up space in your shed or garage.

Instructions

Second-Story Deck

1. Caulk or cover any spaces between deck boards on the deck. Prevent water and snow from reaching the space under the deck. You can buy kits for this at home improvement stores.

2. Pour a concrete floor, or rake gravel over the area. You can leave the area as is, but adding some sort of flooring will really define the space as separate from the rest of the yard.

3. Decorate your space. Add picnic furniture, planters and lighting, such as candles or old-fashioned kerosene lamps.

First-Story Deck

1. Lay a waterproof tarp down over any exposed rock or soil under the deck. Moisture from the ground can ruin items, especially items made of metal or wood.

2. Place any items that you want to store under the deck directly onto the tarp. You can store items like rakes, snow shovels or unused landscaping materials under the deck if you won't be using them for a while.

3. Place another plastic tarp over top of the items. Use tent stakes to hold the tarp securely over your items. The second tarp protects the items from rain or snow.

References

• The Indy Channel: Make That Space Under Your Deck Useful
• One Project Closer: Under Deck Mud Pit to Decorated Patio