If you are wondering how to get a stylish, comfortable deck in this area, the short answer is that you need to pair a clear idea of how you want to live outside with the right local experts and a realistic budget. Good deck contractors Murfreesboro teams can handle the structure and permits, but you still guide the look, the layout, and how well it fits your everyday life.
Once you see it that way, the whole topic feels a lot less overwhelming.
Why a deck matters more than you think
A deck is not just a platform for a grill. It quietly shapes how you relax, entertain, and even how you start or end your day.
I have seen families use their deck more than their living room once it is done right. Morning coffee outside. Kids doing homework at a small bistro table. Friends gathering for book club. Sometimes with messy plates, sometimes with a glass of wine and a throw blanket.
For women who are already carrying a lot, a good deck can give you:
- A space to breathe that is not another room to clean
- A place to host people without feeling like your whole house needs to be spotless
- A quieter corner for reading, journaling, or working from home
- An outdoor “playroom” where kids or pets are still contained
A stylish deck is not about impressing neighbors. It is about creating an outdoor space that genuinely fits how you live, not how you think you are supposed to live.
Start with how you want to use the deck
Before calling anyone, it helps to answer a few practical questions. This part feels a bit boring, but it saves money and regret later.
Ask yourself:
- What will I do here most often? Read, host dinner, let kids play, work, stretch, or just sit.
- How many people do I realistically host at one time?
- Do I want this space to feel more like a lounge, a dining room, or a mix?
- Do I mind being in direct sun, or do I burn easily and prefer shade?
- Will I use it more in the evenings, mornings, or weekends?
You might notice some tradeoffs.
Maybe you want a big dining table but also dream of a daybed or swing. You might not have room for both. Or you want it to be fully open to the yard, but you also want privacy from a neighbor’s second story window. You cannot have everything perfectly at once, and that is fine.
Tell your contractor what you plan to do on the deck first, not what boards you want. Function always shapes style, not the other way around.
Types of decks that work well in Murfreesboro
Our weather here can be hot, humid, and sometimes a little chaotic. That affects what kind of deck works well and what materials make sense.
Here are a few common deck types and how they usually fit real life.
| Deck Type | Best For | Things To Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Ground-level deck | Easy access from first floor, safer for kids, usually cheaper | Needs good drainage, can feel less “private” without railings or screens |
| Second-story or elevated deck | Great for views, works with sloped yards, nice breeze | More structure cost, stairs to maintain, you often need under-deck storage or skirting |
| Covered deck or porch | Shade, more use in summer, protection for furniture and hair on humid days | Roof adds cost, you have to think about lighting and fan placement |
| Screened deck / screened porch | Fewer bugs, more evening use, safer for toddlers and pets | Screens need upkeep, you lose a fully open outdoor feel |
You do not have to know exactly which type is right before you talk to a contractor. It helps if you can say what problems you want solved.
For example:
- “I need shade and I burn fast.”
- “I want to see the kids in the yard while I cook.”
- “I want somewhere that feels like an extra room most of the year.”
Choosing deck materials without going down a rabbit hole
People often get stuck here. Wood vs composite. Then brands, colors, screws, hidden fasteners, and so on. It can spiral quickly.
Let us keep it simple and honest.
| Material | Pros | Cons | Good Fit If You… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | Lower upfront cost, easy to find, classic look | Needs staining or sealing, can splinter or warp over time | Are on a tighter budget and do not mind some yearly or every-few-years upkeep |
| Composite decking | Less maintenance, no staining, consistent color | Higher upfront cost, can get warm in full sun | Prefer to spend more now and spend less time later on maintenance |
| PVC / vinyl decking | Resistant to moisture and insects, easy to clean | More expensive, some people find it looks less natural | Have a very exposed deck or pool area and want something that handles water very well |
In this climate, composite and quality pressure-treated wood are both common. I think the more honest question is:
“Do I want to deal with regular staining and sealing, or do I want to pay more now and touch it less later?”
There is no perfect answer. Just the answer that fits your patience, budget, and how much time you already spend managing a house and everything that comes with it.
Style ideas that actually work in real life
You can scroll through a lot of perfect deck pictures and feel a bit disconnected from them. White sofas, no bug in sight, no signs of actual life.
So let us talk about styles that can still look good when someone leaves a blanket on the chair or a kid drops crackers.
1. Calm, neutral lounge deck
Think simple, soft, and easy on the eyes.
You might like this if you want somewhere to rest more than host big parties.
Key elements:
- Wide stairs that can double as extra seating
- Built-in bench on one side with storage under the seat
- Light or mid-tone decking with black or dark bronze railings
- Outdoor rug in a neutral pattern and a few textured pillows
This kind of deck works well for:
- Reading in the morning
- Yoga or stretching before work
- A small bistro table for two instead of a large dining set
You can still add color through plants or a throw rather than locking yourself into a bright deck color that might not feel right later.
2. Family-friendly “drop zone” deck
If you have kids, you probably care more about durability than a perfect magazine look.
Here, function comes first:
- Composite or well finished wood and railings that can handle spills and toys
- Gates at stair openings to keep little ones corralled
- Clear line of sight from kitchen or living room windows to the play area
- Hooks for towels and hats, a deck box for toys and cushions
If you build for how your family actually behaves on a bad day, the deck will still feel nice on the good days.
You can still keep it stylish. One matching furniture set is not required. You can mix a simple outdoor sectional with two different chairs and maybe a bench, as long as the colors feel related.
3. Entertaining and dinner deck
Maybe your deck is your main hosting space. You want people to feel relaxed, but you also do not want to juggle chairs every time you have guests.
Think about:
- Room for a real dining table, not just a small round one
- Path from kitchen to grill or dining area that is not blocked by furniture
- Hardwired lighting or at least well planned outlets for string lights and lamps
- A railing height and style that does not block conversation or view
Lighting matters here. Overhead lights can feel a bit harsh. Wall sconces, step lights, or warm string lights usually feel more flattering and calm.
If you like to host women friends for book club, wine, or just talking late, you might also want:
- One area with more privacy, maybe with a screen or a few tall plants
- Cushions that do not slide everywhere when people shift in their seats
- A side table or two so nobody has to hold a plate and drink the whole time
Key questions to ask deck contractors in Murfreesboro
Good contractors expect questions. If someone seems annoyed by them, that is a red flag.
Here are questions that can tell you a lot in a short time.
Ask about experience and process
- “How many decks have you built in Murfreesboro in the last year?”
- “Can I see photos of your recent projects that look similar to what I want?”
- “Who will actually be on site each day? Do you use your own crew or subs?”
- “How do you handle permits and inspections?”
You are not being demanding by asking. You are trying to protect your home and your budget.
Ask about materials and maintenance
- “What materials do you recommend for my yard and sun exposure, and why?”
- “What maintenance will this deck need in the first 5 years?”
- “If something warps or cracks in the first season, what happens?”
You want a straightforward answer, not vague promises.
Ask about schedule and money
- “When could you start, and how long does a project like this normally take?”
- “What is included in your price, and what is not?”
- “What is your payment schedule? How much is due before work begins?”
If a quote feels very low compared to others, do not assume you just found a bargain. It might mean cheaper materials, rushed work, or surprise add-ons later.
You are not just hiring someone to build a deck. You are hiring someone to open up your home, manage a small construction site, and then leave something safe and solid behind.
Setting a realistic budget without feeling guilty
Money is where a lot of people stall. You might feel torn between wanting a great space and feeling guilty for spending on something that feels optional.
It helps to think about three parts of the budget:
- The deck structure
- The extras built in
- The furniture and decor
1. The structure
This is the frame, posts, footings, decking, railings, stairs. This part needs to be safe, no matter what style you choose.
Cutting costs here can backfire. If anything, this is where you want to be careful and maybe stretch a little. A solid structure can last a long time and can be restyled with furniture or stain years later.
2. Built-in extras
These are things like:
- Built-in benches
- Planter boxes
- Privacy screens
- Under-deck storage or skirting
- Lighting and wiring
They add comfort, but they add cost too. It might help to label them in three simple groups for yourself:
| Priority Level | Examples | When To Include |
|---|---|---|
| Must have | Safe stairs, railings, basic lighting | Always. These protect your family and guests. |
| Nice to have | Privacy screen, one ceiling fan, storage bench | If they solve daily problems, not just look nice. |
| Can wait | Built-in planters, fancy pergola details | If budget allows or as a future upgrade. |
3. Furniture and decor
This is where you can be flexible.
You do not have to buy a full matching set at once. You can start with:
- One sturdy table
- Comfortable chairs you actually like sitting in
- One outdoor rug and a few pillows
Then you can slowly add:
- Side tables
- Plants in pots
- Lanterns or solar lights
Try not to blow the budget on decor before the structure and basic function are settled. Cute pillows will not fix a deck that is too small or in the wrong spot.
Design choices that add style without a huge cost
You can get a stylish deck without turning it into a major luxury project. Some details cost more in thought than in money.
Use simple color contrast
Two or three key colors are usually enough:
- Decking color (wood tone or composite)
- Railing color
- Accent color in fabrics or pots
For example:
- Medium brown deck, black railings, cream cushions with a soft blue accent
- Gray decking, white railings, charcoal furniture with muted green pillows
You do not have to chase trends. Neutral bases with one calm accent shade usually age better and work with different seasons.
Plan for shade without closing off the space
Full sun on a summer afternoon can make any beautiful deck almost unusable.
Your options:
- Pergola with slats or a fabric cover
- Retractable awning
- Large umbrella in a stable base
- Roof extension that turns part of the deck into a covered area
If you are not sure, you can have the structure prepared so a pergola or roof can be added later. That way you are not forced to decide everything in one step.
Mix seating types
Most people buy a matching set and it can look nice, but also a little stiff.
You can mix:
- A small sectional with two different chairs
- Bench seating along one side with a couple of loose chairs
- One lounge chair or chaise in a more private corner
That mix looks more natural and adapts better when you host people with different needs. Someone might prefer a firm chair, another person might like to curl up in a corner of the sofa.
Privacy, safety, and comfort for everyday use
People talk a lot about style, but if the deck feels exposed, unsafe, or full of bugs, you will use it less no matter how pretty it is.
Privacy without building a wall
You might want to enjoy an evening outside without feeling like you are on display.
Options that feel softer:
- Horizontal slat screens on one or two sides
- Tall planters with grasses or shrubs
- Offset railings that block direct sightlines from neighbors
- Sheer outdoor curtains that can pull back when not needed
You do not need to hide the entire deck. Often one well placed screen near the most exposed side is enough.
Safety for kids, guests, and pets
This part is not glamorous, but it really matters, especially if you host different age groups.
Consider:
- Railings at code height with baluster spacing that kids cannot slip through
- Gates at the top of stairways
- Step lighting so nobody misjudges a step in the evening
- Non slick treads on stairs
Ask your contractor how they handle this. You should not have to design safety features alone.
Bug control and lighting
Murfreesboro evenings can be beautiful, but insects can cut the night short.
Some ideas:
- Fans on covered decks help move air and keep mosquitoes away a bit
- Citronella candles or torches, used carefully, add both scent and function
- Screened sections for serious bug seasons
For lighting, warm white lights feel calmer than bright, cool lights. Think about layers:
- Soft overhead or wall lights for basic visibility
- String lights or lanterns for mood
- Step or post lights for safety
Working with your contractor as a real partner
Sometimes homeowners stay quiet because they do not want to be “difficult.” That can lead to small regrets that you notice every week.
You are allowed to:
- Ask for a simple sketch or plan and take a day to think about it
- Walk outside, stand by the back door, and imagine the furniture layout
- Change your mind once or twice early in the planning
Where it gets tricky is changing major things during construction. That can cost time and money. So if you are unsure, slow down the planning stage a bit rather than rushing to start.
Try to be clear about:
- Where you expect privacy
- Where furniture should go
- Which direction chairs will face
- Where pets will be allowed
Think about daily patterns. For example, if you usually come home with bags and walk straight to the kitchen, you may want a deck door there, not at the far end of the house.
Murfreesboro specific things people often overlook
Every area has its quirks. Here are a few local points that can affect your deck choices.
Sun exposure and heat
Afternoon sun on a south or west facing deck can get harsh.
If your deck will sit in direct afternoon sun, talk with your contractor about:
- Decking colors that do not get scorching hot
- Shade structures or partial cover
- Fan wiring on a covered section
Sometimes shifting the deck a few feet or turning the stairs a different direction can change the way sun hits the space.
Rain, drainage, and under deck areas
Heavy rain means you want:
- Proper grading away from the house
- Good spacing between boards for drainage
- Thoughtful use of gutters if you have a covered deck
If your deck is elevated, you might want dry storage or a patio under it later. That affects how the structure is built and how water is handled. Bring that up early, even if you plan to finish the space under the deck in a few years.
Simple styling ideas that keep life easy
Once the deck is built, the fun and slightly messy part begins. Furniture, plants, textiles, and those small touches that make it feel like “yours.”
Here are simple ideas that do not require a design degree.
Use plants as decor and privacy
You do not need a full garden. A few larger pots can do a lot.
Try:
- One tall pot with a small tree or large grass for height
- Herbs in medium pots near the kitchen door for cooking
- One or two trailing plants on a corner shelf
Plants soften railings and make the deck feel more grounded without adding clutter. If you are not very plant confident, start with hardy types and see how it goes.
Pick fabrics you are not afraid to use
Outdoor cushions that feel scratchy or fragile will just sit there.
Look for:
- Removable covers that can be cleaned
- Neutral base colors so you can swap accent pillows over time
- Patterns that hide small spills or pet hair
If your life is busy, accept that fabrics will see sunscreen, crumbs, and maybe a bit of marker. That is normal. You want items that can survive that reality.
Keep decor flexible
Life changes. Small kids become teens. Work schedules shift. You might end up working outside more than you expected.
So it can help to keep things movable:
- Use separate pieces rather than one huge immovable sectional
- Choose lightweight but steady chairs you can shift for different gatherings
- Add one folding table that can appear when you host larger groups
That way the deck adapts with you instead of locking you into how life looked when you built it.
One last practical question and answer
Q: What is the single most helpful thing I can do before I meet with a deck contractor?
A: Take 15 or 20 minutes, stand in your yard or by the back door, and picture a normal day on your future deck. Not a party. Just a Tuesday.
Ask yourself:
- Who is out there with you?
- What are you holding? Coffee, laptop, snack, book?
- Where is the sun coming from at that time?
- Do you need quiet, or are you talking and laughing?
Write down what you notice and one or two non negotiables. Maybe it is shade, maybe it is a gate for kids, maybe it is a place to sit alone for ten minutes.
Bring that to your contractor.
It will guide the design more than any inspiration photo and help you get a deck that actually supports your daily life instead of just looking nice in pictures.