Fresh air does wonders for the soul. If you are lucky enough to have a deck, you can enjoy the splendor of nature all year long, weather permitting, of course. 

Your deck should function as an extension of your living room. Picture spending long evenings, surrounded by friends and family, eating and laughing the night away. 

What is the one thing that could ruin an evening such as this? Clutter and chaos everywhere, that’s what. It is hard to spend a carefree evening when the disorganized disorder surrounds you. Luckily, there are many creative deck ideas for storing items in an attractive and useful way.

Want to hear some good news, though? If you are suffering from a disorderly deck, the answer is close at hand. Those of us at Dupont Construction and Remodeling would like to share with you the wealth of our experience.  

Don’t become bogged down with the chaos. Follow our guidelines for a clutter-free deck. 

If you have an elevated deck, then lucky you! You have twice the storage potential. Or, depending on your needs, you have twice the relaxation potential. We previously outlined the benefits of turning your under-deck into a relaxing oasis here. 

Now, we would like to outline the storage potential, the lower level of your deck contains. But it’s not just the lower level of your deck that could use some creative organization tips. You can turn your entire deck into a neat freaks dream.

Just follow these simple tips and tricks to turn your outdoor space into an oasis of orderliness and relaxation. 

What materials should I use? 

The options for outdoor-ready materials are vast and varied. Bear with us as we run through just a few of the most tried and true options for sturdy outdoor furniture. 

Wood

Wood is an excellent option for outdoor furniture. Just make sure you have correctly weather-proofed your wood, and it will last for years. 

Weather-proofing options include paint, varnish, or stain. Be sure to read the label of the product you choose. It should clearly specify its weather-proofing properties. 

Keep in mind that all of these options will need to be reapplied every few years to continue providing sufficient protection against the elements.

Wicker

While it may not look as natural as wood, wicker is a great, lightweight option for the homeowner who is concerned with saving a little money. Depending on who you ask, wicker is also generally considered a more environmentally friendly option than wood. 

As with wood, wicker will need to be weather-proofed every couple of years to maintain its look. Wicker should be kept under some type of protective covering to extend its life.

Plastic

Plastic is the best option for anyone on a tight budget. It is lightweight and rust-free. Plastic can withstand years of exposure to harsh weather without substantial damage. 

Color-fade is a concern, but fortunately, you can readily and cheaply procure outdoor paint for any touch-ups you need to apply. 

One main downside of plastic pieces is that they are so lightweight that they can be easily carried away by extreme winds. It is best to pull your plastic furniture inside in the face of inclement weather. 

But what kind of storage equipment should I buy?

Boxes

Boxes come in a large variety of shapes and sizes. You can find the perfect one to fit your specific needs. 

If you plan to keep your box out in the open, make sure that the box or boxes you choose are sturdy and heavy-duty enough to withstand the fury of the elements. 

You can find boxes in every color. So, whether you are looking for a piece that will blend in or a showpiece that will stand out, you will be able to find the perfect one. 

Use your box to contain your outdoor toys, tools, or equipment out of the way of prying eyes or reaching hands. Your outdoor space will look more inviting when it is clear of clutter. 

Cabinets

More than boxes, cabinets help to blend your outdoor and indoor living spaces seamlessly. We recommend wood or wood veneer cabinets as they lend a certain charm to your deck. 

Cabinets are an excellent option for smaller decks as they comprise a smaller footprint than boxes. You will be able to store more items in less space with the vertical storage that cabinets provide. 

Cabinets are a great option to store toys, games, blankets, or any other items you want to have at hand when you are spending time outside. If properly placed, a good cabinet will blend into the rest of the decor of your outdoor space. 

Storage bench

In the organization game, any piece that serves more than one function is a big plus. When you are trying to conserve space, an attractive and comfortable bench that does double duty as a storage vessel is a great find. 

As a plus, your new storage unit will be doubly useful at your next party or gathering. Your guests will have a comfy place to perch. As they are sitting and chatting, they will be completely unaware that the sweet seat they are currently occupying is serving double-duty as a storage hamper. 

Keep your deck and yard free of that unsightly clutter by hiding it away when you want to entertain. 

If you are good with your hands, this DIY idea for a storage bench with a cushioned seat is a fun project you should try on your next free weekend. 

Trash

As unpleasant as it is, your trash has to go somewhere. You’d be amazed how often people overlook this simple fact.

Fortunately, you can find many attractive and space-saving options for your trash receptacles. Some of them even double as a storage space. Talk about a win-win! Check out this list for some of our favorite picks. 

Your deck can be a place to relax and unwind. An uncluttered space helps to unclutter your mind, and we hope our list can help you achieve that sense of peace you are desire.

Please contact Dupont Construction and Remodeling for all of your deck storage needs. Let us build you the deck of your dreams.