There is a great trick to utilizing your outside space – go vertical! In some homes, it is possible to build a deck off the upstairs and create a relaxing patio underneath for two separate outdoor spaces. This is ideal for those who want a shaded oasis for hot summer days, or extra dining space off of their kitchen. In addition, an upstairs deck can create a private, serene area for reading, sunbathing, or just enjoying nature in your own home.
The Basement Patio
Whether it’s your basement or just the first level of your home, creating a patio on the ground level is a good option as it deters wild critters, such as skunks, groundhogs, and snakes from taking up tenancy in your home! The trick is to elevate a deck to your second level and create the oasis underneath.
The elevated deck can provide shade and shelter for your lower patio for cool outdoor living in the hot summer. Whenever you have a finished lower level with a basement entrance from the house to the outdoor, the space under a deck can become a great extension of the basement living space. Whether your basement is a man cave, a kid’s playroom, or an in-law suite, the lower-level patio will make a great space for your family to enjoy the outdoors.
Creating the Space
While there are many DIY outdoor construction projects that are safe to tackle as a homeowner, this isn’t one of them. We highly recommend partnering with a licensed contractor for this – so get in touch with us today for a free quote!
Here’s how to get started:
- Measure the height from the bottom of the deck beam to the ground
- Measure the height from the bottom of the deck floor joists to the ground at the house wall
- Measure the distance from the house wall to the deck posts
If the height is greater than 7’0″ to the beam there should be almost 8’0″ to the ceiling. This is enough headroom to use the space.
If the posts are at least 10’0″ from the house wall, you can create a cozy space for furnishings. Of course, the patio can always extend beyond the deck for additional space downstairs.
Don’t Let Your Summer Go to Waste
If you don’t love your outdoor space, it can be easy to let the summer go by without ever really enjoying it. Let the team at Milanese Remodeling help you create the perfect summer oasis right in your backyard. Whether you have the desire for an elevated deck and patio, an outdoor tv space, or you just need to enhance your patio living space with a fire pit – schedule a free quote today.