10 Deck Cover Ideas on a Budget to Elevate Your Backyard

You’re sitting outside on a warm and sunny day, enjoying the view of your backyard. Suddenly, the sun gets too strong, and you start feeling uncomfortable. Plus, you don’t want to risk getting a sunburn. What can be done? That’s where deck cover ideas come into play!

Adding a roof extension or canopy to your deck can enhance its usability and provide shade for additional comfort during hot afternoons – even when the weather doesn’t seem so perfect! 

A well-designed covered deck offers various benefits besides providing shelter from harsh sunlight or rain showers. It becomes an inviting place for relaxing while entertaining guests in any weather condition throughout all four seasons! Covering decks also add value, both in functionality and sale price, according to recent market data.

In this post, we will outline 10 covered deck ideas on a budget that will elevate your backyard without breaking the bank. So keep reading below- there is something here suitable whether you’re simply seeking more shade coverage for your existing outdoor space.

Deck Cover Ideas: 10 Ways to Shelter Your Outdoor Space

From pergolas to bamboo blinds, here are all the tips for adding shade and protection while complementing your deck’s design. Let’s dive in!

• Build a Pergola

A pergola is a great option for adding style and shade to your deck or patio! These structures stand on posts and beams, often with an open slatted roof. They can be freestanding or attached to your home, depending on the layout of the space you have available.

According to research from the National Association of REALTORS®, investing in outdoor living areas like pergolas has been shown to increase home value by up to 12%, making it not only functional but also an excellent return on investment option!

• Stylish Freestanding Canopy

If you’re looking for a more modern design while still enjoying the sun on your deck, a stylish freestanding canopy is a great option. These structures come in many sizes and materials – from wood to metal. They also offer maximum flexibility since they can easily be moved or relocated throughout your yard.

According to research from the American Society of Landscape Architects, outdoor seating areas have been ranked as the most desired feature among homeowners who prioritize function over aesthetics. With this option’s versatility, it’s easy to create shaded seating no matter where obstacles might lay on the otherwise exposed surface!

• Frosted Glass Roof for Modern Elegance

A frosted glass roof can offer a sleek and modern look to your deck while complementing your home’s existing design. This type of roofing material is durable, weather-resistant, and offers UV protection where needed. Thus, create a comfortable seating area throughout the year!

One great example showcasing how this idea combines style with functionality is on multi-level decks. A frosted glass roof on one level pushes light down onto sublevels that may be shaded or have no direct sunlight available.

• Elevate a canvas cover with fairy lights

A canvas cover is a budget-friendly and versatile shade solution for your deck or patio. To elevate it even further, add some fairy lights! These twinkling lights create an inviting atmosphere while providing additional lighting after dark.

You can drape them over the canvas itself or hang them from poles or tree branches nearby – there’s no limit to how creative you can get with this idea!

Plus, outdoor lighting, like fairy lights, has been shown to increase home value, according to the National Association of Home Builders. It not only looks great but adds value as well!

• Overhead Umbrella Options

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly covered deck idea, an outdoor umbrella is a perfect option. Umbrellas come in many styles and sizes – from standard to cantilever – making them versatile enough to fit any space. Portable umbrellas offer the added flexibility of being able to move them around wherever shade is needed.

Additionally, these options are also great when it comes to focusing on blocking the sun on specific seating areas instead of the entire surface!

• Shaded Seating

Shaded seating is an excellent option for homeowners who want to create a comfortable outdoor living space on a small deck or patio. There are many ways to incorporate shaded seating into your covered deck design, from using curtains or blocking the sun with lattice walls to adding extra elements like ceiling fans and misting systems.

When it comes down to making the most of limited space, you need all the components in place while still creating the feeling that it’s spacious. Do it by preserving enough legroom at your disposal, regardless of intermittent shade possibilities.

• Covered Deck with Skylights

A covered deck with skylights can be a fantastic way to enjoy your backyard while remaining sheltered from the elements! Skylights let in natural light, providing a bright and breezy atmosphere without sacrificing much-needed shade. This is especially perfect if you want to keep things as nature intended.

In addition, research from Houzz states that adding a skylight or two can bring more spaciousness into your living space by allowing sunlight in simultaneously. This creates just enough of both worlds for those looking for secure private retreats.

• Go natural with bamboo blinds

For a more natural-looking option, bamboo blinds are an excellent choice to provide some relief from the sun. These lightweight roll-up shades can be hung on any part of your deck or patio where you want to create shade and contrast with other elements.

Bamboo offers several benefits, like being eco-friendly as well as giving a warm texture both during the day and at night, like curtains! These materials dry out quickly – unlike fabric substitutes that may show wear and tear over time too quickly. So you won’t have to worry about them getting damaged by rain!

• Complement Tree Cover

If you already have existing trees in your backyard, take advantage of them! Complementing these natural shades can be a great way to provide additional respite and protection from direct sunlight when it gets too much!

Consider installing outdoor curtains on posts or creating a seating area under an overhanging branch. By doing so, you not only save some budget for building creative shelters but also preserve the aesthetic value that is given by natural reiterations around your residential space.

• Sail Into the Shade

Shade sails are a fun and unique way to provide shade for your outdoor deck or patio. These triangular pieces of fabric are attached to posts or anchor points, creating a floating canopy above your seating area. They come in various sizes and colors, adding a touch of contrast while complementing the style of your outdoor space.

While not specifically backed by research data, there is no doubt that they offer an alternative solution that can transform limited space into something extraordinary. It can be done with traditional patterns like lattice blocking off sunlight from side paths leading up from the house. Or maybe you can obtain new areas through subtly slanted roof-type covers covering much more surface.

What is the average cost of covering a deck?

Adding a cover to your deck is an excellent investment. The cost of covering a deck depends on various factors, such as what type of cover you prefer or the size and condition of your existing deck. According to HomeAdvisor.com, the average cost for patio and decking covers in the USA ranges between $1,500 – $7,000 based on different designs and materials used. 

For example, lattice covers are less expensive than pergolas with retractable roofs or enclosed sunrooms. That’s because of the added complexity/costs associated with more extensive customization demands during installation.

Will a covered deck add value to my property? 

Certainly! A covered deck can increase your home’s value as an additional functional living space. According to a recent report, homeowners see up to an 80% return on investment after building a new deck (source: Remodeling Magazine). 

Adding shade and protection from the elements will make the outdoor seating area more appealing, enabling you to enjoy your outdoor space throughout all four seasons. So not only does it add monetary value, but it also extends how long it can be used—no matter what kind of weather or temperature comes around!

Can I install a grill or hot tub on a covered deck? 

Yes, you can install a grill or hot tub on a covered deck, provided it has enough clearance and ventilation. It’s important to ensure that the cover material is heat-resistant and that the area around your grill or hot tub is fireproof for safety purposes. 

A pergola with an open roof design can allow smoke from cooking on grills to disperse more efficiently, providing shade while keeping everyone cool in the summer and looking great as well!

How can I keep mosquitoes away from a covered deck?

Don’t let pesky mosquitoes ruin your covered deck experience! Try incorporating some natural repellents into your outdoor space, such as citronella candles or plants like basil and lemon balm. 

You can also install a ceiling fan to keep them from hovering around and install screens to protect the perimeter from entry. 

Conclusion

We’ve covered ten budget-friendly deck cover ideas that can elevate your backyard and provide numerous benefits. Whether you prefer a pergola, freestanding canopy, frosted glass roof, or other options, each choice offers unique advantages in terms of style, functionality, and increased home value. 

Remember, these ideas are just a starting point, and you have the freedom to explore different options and design a personalized covered deck that suits your taste and needs. 

Brewer Built LLC is ready to transform your backyard into an inviting haven with our customized deck-building services. We have been serving the Twin Cities area for more than two decades. Our coverage includes but is not limited to Deephaven, Minnetrista, Lake Minnetonka, and adjacent areas.

Contact us today for a consultation – learn more about how we can create a patio or covered deck that fits both your style and budget.

Go ahead, get creative, and transform your outdoor space into a comfortable and inviting haven for all seasons!