With a deck, you can entertain friends, have fun, and rest with your family in a beautiful outside space. A well-designed deck can be a beloved aspect of your home, whether you’re hosting a party, want to entertain guests, or just hanging out with friends.
Anyone looking to get the most out of their outdoor living space will benefit greatly from having a deck that is both large and well-designed.
You can use many types of materials such as wood or composite decking to fend off the worst of the weather. Decks are one of the best building projects you can do to add value to your small house.
To make the most of your outdoor living space, your deck should not only be large enough to accommodate additional visitors, but it should also include all of the required fixtures and accessories such as built-in seating space to grill and more.
In our guide, you can learn more about the average size deck and what you need to put one together. By the end, you’ll have all the information on how to get your deck measurements and put them to use to carry out your DIY project. (Learn How To Get Rid Of Rabbits Under Deck)
Is A 10×12 Deck Big Enough?
A large deck typically measures 12 feet by 12 feet, but it can be as small as 8 feet by 8 feet
for specialized uses such as a sitting area or an outdoor barbecue area outside the kitchen.
The deck should not be bigger than the largest room inside your home, as a general rule. In addition, as a rule of thumb, no deck should be more than 20% of the size of the square footage of your home. You can appear out of scale if you go outside of these measurements.
Deck Average Size
A tiny deck for a round dining table should be 144 square feet. A deck should be between 300 and 400 square feet in size. Multi-level designs can be built depending on the deck location and available space. A deck’s width and length should be proportional to the house.
A huge deck might make your home appear smaller, while a little deck can be unnoticeable. A deck should not be larger than your home’s largest room. Due to its intended purpose, an average deck size constructed for amusement may need a different strategy.
Good Entertainment Size Deck
Shape and Layout
Ample room allows you to create your deck any way you wish. For example, you can match the deck’s lines to your home’s lines or add curves to create contrast. Curves offer softness and interest to your deck, while straight lines give it a crisp feel.
Outdoor Furniture
Your idea of fun dictates the size of your deck. Next, you must determine the maximum number of individuals your deck can serve.
Your deck’s size depends on how many areas you desire for outdoor furniture, decorations, and entertainment. For example, to incorporate a kitchen or an outdoor fireplace, you need a larger deck to accommodate all the accessories, such as cabinets and refrigerators. (Learn How Long Does Deck Stain Need To Dry Before It Rains)
Location
The size of your deck depends on where it will be installed. Although most decks are built closer to the home for convenience, they can still be created around a spa, water feature, or pool.
A deck erected next to your house will only be as big as your house.
However, a deck in your yard with a lovely view allows you to increase the size.
Is A 12×12 Deck Big Enough?
Making a list of your entertainment options is the first step in selecting deck size. Others decorate their decks with outdoor furniture and equipment to entertain their guests in more space.
The size of your deck for entertainment depends on the number of guests, how you intend to use it, and the size of your outdoor appliances (grill, hot tub, patio furniture, etc.).
Don’t worry if you want a multi-level deck, but your budget is limited. It’s perfectly usual for homeowners to build the first level first, then add the other tiers as they can afford it.
| Deck Size | Furniture | Length | Width | Square Feet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starter Deck | 2 chairs & small table | 12 Feet | 12 Feet | 144 sq feet |
| Outdoor Life | 1 dining table | 12 Feet | 14 feet | 168 sq feet |
| Party Deck | 1 dining table and 2 chairs with small table | 12 Feet | 16 feet | 192 sq feet |
| Living Outdoors | Large Dining Table, umbrella and more casual chairs with small table | 12 feet | 18 feet | 216 sq feet |
| Grill Station | Dining table, Small table with 4 chairs, BBQ and walking space | 12 feet | 20 feet | 240 square feet |
Building Regulations and Permits
Before you grab your project materials and start building, you’ll need to get a permit, like with most remodeling projects. Check local building codes, regulations, and restrictions.
Lot restrictions could limit the distance between your deck and your neighbors’ property, as well as the size of a deck you can have.
The distance your deck can extend from your house is also affected by the position of a well, septic tank, or drain field.
As you get started thinking of your decking project, here are a few areas you need to think about.
Deck Purpose
Do you want to entertain guests, cook outdoors, or spending time in the open?
Different activities determine different deck dimensions and accessories.
Budget
Budget can reflect on every decision, from the deck board size to the design of your deck building to building the right size deck for the best price.
Many individuals can settle for boards of even lengths when building at ground level, although you can opt for wider deck boards to create a design and even add stairs to another tier.
A small deck intended for lounging outside doesn’t have to be elaborate, but it can change the feel of your home by adding more usable square footage. (Read Wrench Sizes In Order Chart)
Location
The size of a property usually dictates deck placement. However, the initial considerations are practical: the deck’s closeness to multiple home entrances, privacy possibilities, and the view.
Then there’s the weather. Consider the wind, the amount of rain/snow, and the availability of shade. Besides you and your guests’ comfort, you need to consider exposure to the weather for your decking boards.
DIY or Contractor?
Deciding between hiring a contractor or undertaking a large DIY project is usually the most crucial consideration and offers pros and cons of each.
Contractor Pros
- A licensed professional ensures quality and is insured.
- You can generally get better pricing of deck boards and other materials than a regular homeowner.
- A good contractor will be acquainted with local building codes and handle deck building permits on your behalf.
- A contractor can build a 400 square feet decking structure quicker than a DIYer.
Contractor Cons
- A deck of the same size as square feet can cost more.
- You need to vet numerous contractors to find the right one.
DIY Pros
- You determine the right size of your decking attached to your home and have total project control.
- Your DIY project offers a sense of accomplishment.
- You learn new skills.
- Your yard decking will cost less to install as you are the labor.
DIY Cons
- If there are mistakes when you install, you have no insurance to cover this.
- To make the project cost-effective, you may have to purchase or hire specific tools.
- Before you build in your yard, you’ll need to understand any local building codes.
- It will take you longer to build any square foot size deck than it would a professional.
Accessories
A deck can transform your yard regardless of the shape. Accessories can add those finishing touches to transform your decking.
- Railings
- Lighting
- Roof or partial enclosure
- Built-in seating
- Table
- Hot-tub
- Planter boxes
Here you can find more deck sizes for specific purposes:
Deck Size for Lounging
A modest chair to enjoy the sun takes up the least area.
A deck chair is 9 sq’, or 3’x3′ (0.90.9m). Therefore, a deck at least 4′ (1.2m) deep is required for your feet.
To accommodate special guests, your deck must be at least 9′ (2.7m) wide and 4′ (1.2m) deep. Ideally, the home door is in the deck’s center.
Enjoy sunbathing while rocking back and forth? A swaying deck chair requires 1′ (0.3m) more depth—5’x9′ (1.52.7m) deck for two.
This is big enough for two, but you’re near to the railing. You can see over the top rail with a 36′′ (915mm) low railing. To be taller would need a larger deck and a closer railing.
On a deck, a chaise lounge chair takes approximately 3′ by 7′ (0.92.1m). Also, walkway access requires the same amount. A lounging deck can be 9′ by 7′ (2.72.1m) to enjoy the outdoors with a companion.
But a somewhat wider deck, 10′ or 12′ wide and 8′ deep (3-3.62.4m), would be much preferable. Allowing you to position the loungers and have access to extra space to stretch your legs.
Ideal Dining Size Deck
Deck dining is a great way to share food, pleasure, and companionship. You can sit on the deck rail, steps, or other areas for fun, yet a table with a few seats and a deck umbrella takes it up a level.
Assume a table and chairs for everyone when building a good-sized deck for dining.
First, how many are you expecting? Plan for a table and deck size to accommodate your family and add in some overflow space for when friends visit.
Grilling on a Good Size Deck
A grilling space outside your house opens up a world of opportunity. While the deck can be attached to your kitchen, the smoke doesn’t need to go in your house.
If you have a roof, you can grill outside your house in any weather. However, the grill and fuel type can affect the deck size and shape.
Gas grills are safe and small so that you can get away with a smaller deck connected to your house.
You may need a good size deck for a large 6′ wide BBQ. However, it is wiser to build your deck around your grill and avoid house fires rather than try to squeeze a BBQ on a deck that is too small. (Learn How To Clean Unfinished Wood)
Best Deck Size for Multi-Use
Rarely do we do one activity on our deck. Instead, like our homes, most of us use our decks for various reasons.
After work, relaxing on the deck, watching the birds. We invite a few friends over, raise the umbrella, and have a few drinks on weekends.
A 12’x12′ (3.63.6m) deck is the smallest and most adaptable. However, when combining activities, bigger is preferable. A 16′ x 12′ (4.83.6m) deck allows for double occupancy.
Long enough to set up the grill and eat by. If you don’t want to grill, a table with couches or loungers on either end.
