When planning a multi-level deck, most homeowners focus entirely on the top view: the color of the premium boards, the sleek look of the railing, or where the grill will sit. But if you are only utilizing the top of your deck, you are missing out on half of your investment. Traditionally, the space under a deck has been relegated to an eyesore – a dark, damp zone meant for hiding lawnmowers, wheelbarrows, and plastic storage bins.
If you want to maximize backyard living space and add a covered outdoor living area, you need a true watertight deck system rather than a traditional water management system.
Watertight Decking vs. Traditional Under-Deck Drainage Systems
The biggest mistake homeowners make when looking for a dry deck system is choosing an alternative that catches water after it breaches the deck boards. Traditional under-deck drainage systems use retrofitted vinyl or aluminum troughs installed underneath the joists or flexible plastic bladders draped between them. These systems handle water after it leaks through the gaps, letting dirty water sit directly against your deck’s framing.
Admiral SpaceMaker Outdoor Flooring™ is engineered as a complete, unified surface system. With a patented tongue-and-groove design, it stops water from penetrating the surface in the first place. Our unique interlocking planks feature a beautiful pebble-grained bottom surface that acts as a clean, finished ceiling.
Design Tip: For homeowners who want a completely customized look, SpaceMaker’s dry under-deck space pairs beautifully with premium finished ceiling solutions like Haven Underdeck, allowing you to conceal structural beams while keeping the area underneath completely dry.
If you are ready to explore how to use the space under a second-story deck, here are premium ways to design a functional, covered patio under your deck.
1. The Ultimate Under-Deck Outdoor Kitchen
Cooking outside shouldn’t be limited by a sudden rain shower. With a reliable dry space beneath your upper deck, you can build a true gourmet kitchen and covered outdoor entertaining area. Because SpaceMaker sheds water away from the substructure, you can safely install high-end stone countertops, custom outdoor cabinetry, and premium appliances without worrying about dirty water dripping onto food prep areas.
2. An Elegant Under-Deck Entertainment Area
Imagine watching the big game or hosting a movie night outside while listening to a summer rainstorm right next to you. A dry under-deck area provides the perfect canvas for a luxury outdoor living room. Traditional under-deck bladders trap moisture and high humidity, which can wreak havoc on outdoor electronics. SpaceMaker keeps the area below protected, allowing your contractor to safely run conduit, mount media equipment, and set up premium sound systems.
3. A Screened Porch Under the Deck
If you want to completely escape the bugs and wind, the space under your deck can easily be framed into a three-season room. Unlike traditional decks where water filters down through the gaps in the boards – making an enclosed room underneath impractica – SpaceMaker serves as a solid, unified roof. Add some comfortable wicker furniture and an outdoor rug to effectively increase outdoor living space at a fraction of the cost of a traditional home addition.
4. The Luxury Poolside Cabana
If your multi-level deck overlooks a backyard pool, the under-deck area is prime real estate for a shaded oasis. You can design a resort-style cabana complete with lounge chairs, a towel storage station, and a refreshment bar. Swimmers can step out of the hot sun and into the shade without worrying about dirt, debris, or water dripping down on them from deck occupants above.
5. A Private Under-Deck Hot Tub Haven
Placing a hot tub under an open-slat deck is a recipe for disaster, as debris and dirty water from above will constantly contaminate your hot tub water. A SpaceMaker ceiling keeps your hot tub pristine. Alternatively, it serves as an excellent, well-ventilated outdoor gym or yoga studio where you can exercise outdoors while staying fully protected from the elements.
Elevate Your Outdoor Living Renovation Ideas
Don’t settle for a deck that only works on one level. By choosing a watertight deck board system that prioritizes protection from the top down, you aren’t just buying a deck – you’re gaining a brand-new luxury living space.
Ready to see the SpaceMaker difference in person? Click here to Request a Free Sample Product Packet or connect with one of our regional representatives to discuss your upcoming project.