From humble beginnings…
The residential backyard deck has come a long way in America over the past century. Deck ideas of the past consisted of a simple platform attached to the back of a home. The modern deck, by contrast, has evolved into a multi-functional outdoor living space that has become an integral part of many homes.
The first backyard decks in America were built during the early 20th century, primarily in the form of simple platforms attached to the back of a home. These early decks were often made of wood, and were primarily used for entertaining guests or as a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
During the 1950s and 1960s, the popularity of backyard decks grew as more and more Americans sought to expand their living spaces and improve their outdoor living experiences. The suburban life’s rising appeal, alongside new construction materials and methods, made it more practical and inexpensive to construct decks.
One of the biggest innovations in deck construction during this time was the use of pressure-treated lumber. This type of wood is treated with chemicals that help it resist rot, decay, and insect damage, making it a much more durable and long-lasting material for deck construction. This, in turn, allowed homeowners to build larger and more complex decks that could withstand the elements and last for many years.
As the popularity of backyard decks continued to grow, so too did the variety of designs and styles available. In the 1970s and 1980s, homeowners began to experiment with different decking materials, including composite materials and synthetic woods. These materials offered a number of advantages over traditional wood decking, including increased durability, low maintenance requirements, and a wide range of colors and styles.
The 1990s and 2000s saw a continued evolution in the design and construction of backyard decks. Homeowners began to incorporate a wide range of features into their decks, including built-in seating, lighting, and even outdoor kitchens and fireplaces. Decks also began to be built with a variety of different shapes and levels, creating a more dynamic and interesting outdoor living space.