I think the perfect deck is one that has both a covered and uncovered area. Or has a retractable awning (not cheap BTW).
The problem with a covered deck is cost. No matter how you go about covering your deck, even with an awning, it’s going to cost you. In some cases it can be very, very expensive.
BUT, the benefits are considerable since you can enjoy the deck much more in hot and wet weather. In my view, it’s well worth the cost regardless of your climate.
FYI, we don’t have a covered deck. I sure wish we did. We have 2 large umbrellas, but that doesn’t really count.
Related: Covered Patio Ideas | Deck Material Options | Online Patio Furniture | Patio Edging Ideas | Cost to Build a Deck | Patio Border Ideas
7 types of covered decks
1. Roof extension
The roof extension is usually the case where the second floor extends over the deck area. That said, it’s not always the case. Either way, a roof extension is a great way to cover a deck, but often it’s darker than a pergola, awning or pavilion because there are usually 2 solid walls and sometimes 3.
Example: The featured deck above is an example of a roof extension.
2. Awning
The awning (see our post setting out the 5 different types of awnings) is a great option because you can extend and retract it. This way you get the best of both worlds. While you might think they’re not terribly expensive because it’s fabric, think again. I only say this because my wife and I looked into awnings for her parents. Since you’d probably want a motorized retractable awning, it’ll cost several thousand dollars.
3. Pergola
Other than appearance or structure upon which to grow some greenery, I struggle to see the point of pergolas. They’re popular, but they don’t really provide much shade and don’t protect from rain. Yet, they cost money and need to be maintained. Okay, if you love the look of them, great, but from a functional perspective, I don’t get them.
4. Pavilion
The pavilion is a great option. You can have a permanent pavilion constructed on your deck or buy a portable pavilion that you set up. A pavilion that takes up part of a deck is pretty good because you can have both a covered and uncovered option. The downside, unless you have a massive one built, is they aren’t that big. You’ll be pretty tight inside.
5. Gazebo
Gazebos are awesome, especially for outdoor dining rooms. Growing up, we had a gazebo at our lake place, which was a terrific place to eat dinner. It wasn’t huge, but comfortably fit the five of us. It’s not that common to add a gazebo to a deck because it’s quite a structure. Gazebos are typically stand-alone structures on a property.
6. Screened in Deck
Screened-in decks are popular in places with lots of bugs. While they don’t provide shade and aren’t waterproof, they do provide some form of protection. While not technically a covering, we include it here because it’s an option for protection from the elements. See more screen-in pool examples here.
7. Louvered Roof
A louvered roof is one that can open up or close up with interlocking sheets. Check it out.
Covered Deck Examples (Photo Gallery)
Below is our extensive and growing photo gallery of covered decks. There are many examples for you to get inspired for your ultimate covered deck.
See this house and layout here.
This modern covered deck features a dining table set and glass railings.
Covered deck set on the home’s second floor overlooking the lovely ocean view.
Covered deck featuring white seats and a bench seating.
Large deck featuring classy seats and lounger surrounded by beautiful greenery.
Covered deck with cozy seats overlooking the beautiful backyard area of the home.
Sea-side covered deck with hammocks all over the place.
This deck offers comfortable seats and a lovely sight of the nature surrounding the property.
Sea-side covered deck with stylish decors and classy lounging seats.
Large covered deck featuring a dining table set.
Large modern deck offering a classy dining table set with glass top table.
This deck offers cozy seats and a gorgeous view of the home’s garden area.
This sea-side deck has a lounging seat overlooking the beautiful ocean view.
Elegant deck featuring rattan seats with foam seats and backrests along with a stylish fire pit.
Small covered deck featuring classy seats overlooking the beautiful outdoor area.
This modern deck features a couple of seats overlooking the gorgeous garden area and trees surrounding the property.
A classy deck featuring a swing and cozy seats.
This deck boasts a large dining table set lighted by lined up recessed ceiling lights.
This deck offers cozy and classy seats lighted by wall lighting.
This deck offers lovely seats and throw pillows along with classy pendant lights.
A gorgeous deck overlooking the stunning garden area of the property.
This covered deck features an iron railing with wooden frame.
This covered deck offers interesting seats and a grill stove.
