Choosing the Right Railing for Your Deck
Decks

Choosing the Right Railing for Your Deck

A well-designed deck isn’t just about the surface under your feet—it’s also about what frames it. Deck railings are not only a crucial safety feature, but they also play a significant role in the overall look, feel, and function of your outdoor living space. Whether you’re building a brand-new deck or upgrading an existing one, choosing the right railing can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal, value, and livability. With so many materials, styles, and building code considerations, the decision may feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you confidently choose the perfect deck railing that suits your home, lifestyle, and budget. Why Your Deck Railing Matters Deck railings aren’t just decorative—they serve several essential purposes: Safety: Prevents falls from elevated decks or stairs Compliance: Required by building codes for most decks over 30...
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Custom deck features
Decks, Outdoor

7 Ways to Personalize Your Outdoor Deck Space

Your outdoor deck is more than just a platform—it's an extension of your home, lifestyle, and personal taste. Whether you're sipping morning coffee, hosting a barbecue, or unwinding under the stars, your deck should reflect who you are and how you love to live. The best part? You don’t need a complete remodel to achieve it. By adding a few key touches, you can transform a standard deck into a customized outdoor retreat. Here are seven creative and impactful ways to personalize your outdoor deck space and make it uniquely yours. 1. Choose a Color Palette That Reflects Your Style One of the easiest ways to personalize your deck is with color. From furniture to flooring stains, your chosen palette sets the tone for the space. Popular Palette Ideas: Coastal Vibes: Soft blues, whites, and sandy neutrals Rustic Retreat:...
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Blend deck with garden
Blog, Decks

How to Blend Your Deck with Your Garden for Ultimate Outdoor Harmony

Creating a seamless connection between your deck and garden transforms your yard into a peaceful, unified outdoor retreat. When done right, your deck doesn’t just sit next to the garden—it becomes part of the natural landscape, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. Whether you're working with a sprawling backyard or a compact space, these expert tips will help you design a deck that harmonizes beautifully with your garden. 1. Use Natural and Organic Materials Start with materials that echo the textures and tones of nature. This creates an effortless transition between your deck and garden. Material Ideas: Wood decking (like cedar, redwood, or ipe) complements natural surroundings Stone or slate inlays for rustic garden charm Composite decking in earthy tones that mimic real wood Pro Tip: Avoid stark or industrial-looking materials. Go for neutral or warm hues that blend into...
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Eco-friendly outdoor living
Decks, Outdoor

Eco-Friendly Outdoor Living: Sustainable Practices for Your Deck and Screen Room

As homeowners become more conscious of their environmental footprint, eco-friendly outdoor living has become popular. Designing a deck or screen room with sustainability in mind helps protect the environment and increases your home’s value and long-term durability. You can create a stylish, functional outdoor space that’s kind to nature with the right choices. Here’s how to make your deck and screen room more sustainable—without sacrificing comfort or beauty. 1. Choose Sustainable Building Materials The foundation of any eco-friendly project is the materials you use. Selecting responsibly sourced or recycled materials helps reduce your environmental impact. ✅ Green Material Options: Reclaimed wood – Gives new life to old lumber while preserving forests. Composite decking – Made from recycled wood fibers and plastics, durable and low-maintenance. Bamboo – A fast-growing, renewable resource great for decking and décor. Aluminum framing – Recyclable...
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Deck Design Ideas
Decks

Designing a Deck That’s Perfect for Entertaining

A well-designed deck can be the heart of your outdoor living space, providing a stylish and functional area for entertaining guests, hosting family gatherings, or simply enjoying a relaxing evening outdoors. Whether building a new deck or upgrading an existing one, incorporating key design elements will ensure it meets your entertaining needs. Here’s how to create the perfect deck for entertaining. 1. Define Your Deck’s Purpose Before you start designing, consider how you plan to use your deck. Will it be a space for intimate gatherings, outdoor dining, or large parties? Your deck’s layout, materials, and features should align with your entertainment style. Common deck uses include:✔ Outdoor dining area with a table and chairs✔ Lounge space with comfortable seating✔ Built-in bar or grilling station✔ Fire pit or outdoor fireplace for cozy gatherings✔ Multi-level design for different activities 2....
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Must-Haves for Your Screen Room
Blog, Decks

Outdoor Living Essentials: Must-Haves for Your Screen Room

A screen room is a perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor living. Whether you're looking for a cozy retreat, an entertainment space, or a bug-free area to enjoy fresh air, having the right essentials can make all the difference. Here are some must-haves to transform your screened-in porch into a functional and stylish outdoor oasis. 1. Comfortable Seating Your screen room should be a relaxing space, so investing in comfortable seating is key. Consider: Outdoor sofas and lounge chairs with weather-resistant cushions Swivel rockers or recliners for ultimate relaxation Hammocks or hanging egg chairs for a unique touch Opt for durable, moisture-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella to ensure longevity. 2. Weatherproof Flooring A well-chosen flooring option enhances the look and feel of your screen room. Some great choices include: Outdoor rugs – Adds warmth and defines seating areas Composite decking...
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Plants for Screen Rooms and Decks
Decks

The Best Plants for Decorating Your Screen Room and Deck

Plants for Screen Rooms and Decks Transforming your screen room or deck into a lush, green haven can significantly enhance its appeal, creating a welcoming and serene environment. At American Services of TN, we understand the transformative power of plants in outdoor spaces. By choosing the right greenery, you can elevate the aesthetics and functionality of your screen room or deck. Here’s an extended guide to help you select the best plants and incorporate them effectively into your outdoor living spaces. 1. Factors to Consider When Choosing Plants Selecting the right plants for your screen room or deck involves more than picking your favorites. Consider these factors to ensure your plants thrive: Light Exposure: Assess how much natural light your screen room or deck receives. For areas with direct sunlight, opt for sun-loving plants. In shaded spaces, choose...
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Deck Building Tips
Decks

Building a Deck: What You Need to Know Before You Start

Deck Building Tips Building a deck is an exciting way to enhance your outdoor living space and increase the value of your home. At American Services of TN, we understand that starting a deck project involves more than just hammering nails—it requires thoughtful planning, quality materials, and expert craftsmanship. Whether you envision a simple space to relax or a large area for entertaining, proper preparation is the key to ensuring your deck meets your expectations. Here’s what you need to consider before embarking on your deck-building journey. 1. Define Your Purpose The first step in building a deck is identifying its primary purpose. Knowing how you plan to use your deck will guide the design and features. Entertainment: If your deck will be a hub for social gatherings, consider a larger design with features like built-in seating, outdoor lighting,...
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deck addition
Decks

The Return on Investment: How a Deck Can Increase Your Home Value

Deck Addition ROI Building a deck isn’t just about creating a beautiful outdoor space; it’s also one of the most effective ways to increase the value of your home. At American Services of TN, we specialize in designing and constructing decks that combine aesthetic appeal, functionality, and a strong return on investment (ROI). Whether you’re looking to enjoy a new outdoor living area or make your property more attractive to potential buyers, adding a deck is a choice that pays off in multiple ways. Here’s how: 1. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal A well-built deck significantly enhances the look of your home, making it more inviting and visually appealing to prospective buyers. Curb Appeal: A deck adds an eye-catching feature to your home, making it stand out in the neighborhood and real estate market. Custom Design: Decks can be customized...
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Deck Maintenance Tips
Decks

Deck Maintenance 101: Keeping Your Outdoor Space in Top Shape

Deck Maintenance Tips A well-maintained deck enhances the aesthetics of your home and extends the life of the materials, whether you have a traditional wood deck or a modern composite one. At American Services of TN, we understand that proper deck care can prevent costly repairs and ensure your outdoor space remains a beautiful, safe place to relax and entertain year-round. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you maintain your deck and keep it in pristine condition. 1. Routine Cleaning One of the most essential aspects of deck maintenance is routine cleaning. Over time, dirt, leaves, and other debris can accumulate on your deck, leading to stains, discoloration, and deterioration. Regular Washing: Regularly sweep off debris and hose down your deck to prevent staining and dirt buildup. For wood decks, use a soft bristle brush and mild soapy...
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