Deck Features

A well-designed deck is more than just an outdoor platform—it’s a space where you gather, relax, and make memories. My Deck specializes in installing custom deck features that improve safety, comfort, and usability, ensuring your outdoor area meets your needs.

From professionally installed deck lighting systems that enhance visibility to custom deck railings built by expert craftsmen, every feature improves comfort, safety, and beauty. Our deck railing and lighting contractors ensure each component fits your vision and your space.

Deck Railing Installation by Experts for Safety and Style

 

As a trusted deck railing contractor in New Jersey, My Deck hand-builds each railing to match the deck’s design while meeting rigorous safety standards. Our custom solutions balance aesthetics, code compliance, and longevity.

  • Custom-Built Railings: Every rail is built in-house by our deck railing installation specialists, ensuring the perfect fit, finish, and safety profile. Unlike builders who rely on standard options, we handcraft railings from high-quality materials like wood, metal, and composite for a custom, long-lasting finish.
  • Modern Metal Railings: Sleek and durable, metal railings offer a contemporary look that pairs well with composite decking. They resist rust and require minimal maintenance, making them a long-lasting choice.
  • Traditional Wood Railings: Classic and versatile, wood railings can be stained or painted to complement your deck. Regular sealing protects against weather damage while preserving their natural beauty.
  • Cable Rail Systems: Featuring horizontal stainless-steel cables, these railings provide an unobstructed view while maintaining safety. They are ideal for homeowners who want a modern, open feel.
  • Glass Panel Railings: Tempered glass panels create a seamless barrier that preserves scenic views. They provide wind protection while allowing maximum light to filter through.
  • Low-Profile Rails for an Enhanced View: Custom-designed to minimize visual obstruction, these railings allow you to fully enjoy your surroundings while maintaining safety.
  • Custom Privacy Rails: Designed to create a more secluded and intimate outdoor space, privacy railings block unwanted views and add an extra layer of comfort.

Every railing we install is built to last, with a lifetime structural warranty for long-term peace of mind. Our custom railings not only enhance the beauty of your deck but also provide low-maintenance durability, ensuring years of enjoyment with little upkeep.

Brighten Your Evenings with Safe and Stylish Deck Lighting

 custom deck with cable railing, deck light, and in-step lighting

The right deck lighting contractor can turn your outdoor space into a safe and ambient environment after sunset. At My Deck, we install energy-efficient LED deck lighting systems that highlight key features while creating a welcoming glow.

  • Recessed Stair Lights: Installed directly into stair risers, these lights improve safety by illuminating each step. They provide subtle, glare-free lighting that blends seamlessly into the deck design.
  • Post Cap Lights: Mounted on railing posts, these lights add a decorative touch while casting soft light around the deck. They come in various styles to complement both modern and traditional designs.
  • Under-Rail LED Strips: Hidden beneath railings, these strips offer continuous lighting along the perimeter of the deck. They enhance nighttime visibility without being obtrusive or overpowering.
  • Remote-Controlled LED Lighting: Enhance the nighttime beauty of your deck with our warm LED under-rail and stair lighting system that is nearly invisible yet casts a soft glow across the surface. Conveniently control brightness and settings with a handheld remote or a SMART device app. These lights also enhance other deck features, such as outdoor kitchens and seating areas, by providing focused illumination where it’s needed most.
  • In-Floor Deck Lights: Flush-mounted into the decking, these lights provide pathway illumination without creating tripping hazards. They work well for outlining walkways and seating areas.
  • Sconce and Wall-Mounted Lights: Attached to nearby walls or deck posts, these fixtures offer targeted lighting for dining and lounge areas. They create a warm, inviting atmosphere with minimal glare.
  • String Lights: Suspended across pergolas or railings, these lights add a cozy, decorative touch. They are ideal for creating a soft, ambient glow for evening gatherings.

A well-planned lighting system not only improves safety but also highlights key deck features like outdoor kitchens, built-in seating, and entertainment areas. Low-voltage LED lights provide an economical and energy-efficient solution, keeping your deck inviting long after the sun sets while reducing energy costs. With the right lighting, your deck will be just as eye-catching at night as it is in the daytime.

DrySpace Waterproofing: Keep the Area Under Your Deck Dry and Usable

 

An under-deck drainage system keeps the space below your deck dry, turning it into a functional area for storage or additional living space. By diverting water away, DrySpace waterproofing protects your deck’s structure and extends its lifespan.

  • Under-Deck Drainage Panels: Installed beneath the deck boards, these panels channel rainwater away, preventing pooling and leaks. They help create a dry, usable space underneath for storage or relaxation.
  • Ceiling Systems for Covered Areas: Waterproof ceiling panels give the area under elevated decks a finished look. They keep furniture, grills, and other outdoor essentials protected from rain and moisture.
  • Built-In Gutters and Downspouts: These systems direct water away from the foundation, reducing erosion and basement flooding risks. They also minimize splashing, keeping lower-level patios drier and cleaner.
  • Mold and Mildew Protection: By reducing trapped moisture, under-deck waterproofing discourages mold growth. This helps maintain air quality and prevents structural damage over time.

Outdoor Kitchens: Cook, Dine, and Entertain Without Leaving Your Deck

A well-designed outdoor kitchen turns your deck into a fully functional cooking and entertaining space. With durable materials and efficient layouts, these kitchens provide convenience and style for outdoor gatherings.

  • Custom Grill Stations: Built-in grills offer a seamless look and professional-level performance. Options range from gas and charcoal to hybrid models with side burners for extra cooking flexibility.
  • Prep Stations and Countertops: Weather-resistant surfaces like granite or stainless steel provide ample space for meal prep. These stations make cooking outdoors easier by keeping everything within reach.
  • Integrated Storage Cabinets: Waterproof cabinets keep grilling tools, utensils, and seasonings protected from the elements. Custom storage solutions help maximize space and keep your deck clutter-free.
  • Outdoor Sinks and Refrigerators: Running water and refrigeration make outdoor cooking more convenient. These features eliminate the need to run back and forth to the indoor kitchen.
  • Overhead Covers and Pergolas: Shade structures protect cooking areas from sun and rain. They also help define the kitchen space, creating a dedicated area for food prep and dining.

Fireplaces & Fire Pits: Gather Around the Warmth All Year Long

custom deck with an awning cover, outdoor furniture, and a fire table

Adding a fire feature to your deck extends its usability into cooler months, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether built-in or freestanding, these features provide a focal point for gathering and relaxation.

  • Built-In Fireplaces: A permanent structure with brick, stone, or stucco finishes provides warmth and ambiance. These fireplaces can be designed with custom mantels and seating areas for a cozy, integrated look.
  • Gas Fire Pits: Easy to ignite and control, gas fire pits offer a clean-burning alternative to wood. They provide instant warmth without the hassle of ash cleanup or wood storage.
  • Wood-Burning Fire Pits: Ideal for those who love the crackle of real wood, these fire pits create a traditional campfire feel. Proper placement and built-in spark screens ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
  • Tabletop Fire Features: Compact and stylish, these small fire features add ambiance without taking up much space. They work well on smaller decks or as accents on dining tables.
  • Fireproof Decking Considerations: Fire-resistant materials and heat shields help protect the deck from high temperatures. Proper installation ensures safety while maintaining the deck’s longevity.

Built-In Seating, Planter Boxes, and Storage: Smart Features for a Comfortable and Clutter-Free Deck

Incorporating built-in features adds comfort, style, and practicality to your deck. These elements maximize space while reducing the need for extra furniture, creating a seamless and functional outdoor area.

  • Built-In Benches: Custom seating offers a permanent and space-saving solution for entertaining. Benches can be designed with cushions, backrests, or hidden storage compartments for added convenience.
  • Planter Boxes: Integrated planters bring greenery to your deck, softening the space and enhancing aesthetics. They can be built to match the deck’s materials, creating a cohesive and polished look.
  • Storage Compartments: Hidden storage under benches or along deck edges keeps cushions, tools, and outdoor accessories organized. Waterproof materials ensure durability and protection from the elements.
  • Multi-Functional Design: Combining seating, planters, and storage maximizes deck space efficiently. These features allow homeowners to personalize their outdoor area while maintaining a clutter-free environment.

The Right Deck Features Make Outdoor Living Effortless

Deck features go beyond aesthetics—they improve safety, comfort, and functionality, turning your outdoor space into a true extension of your home.
Thoughtfully chosen elements like deck lighting, custom railings, built-in seating, and fire features create a deck that’s enjoyable year-round.

Waterproofing solutions and outdoor kitchens add even more convenience, making outdoor living effortless. With the right features, your deck becomes a space designed for relaxation, entertaining, and everyday enjoyment.

As experienced deck railing and lighting contractors, we help homeowners bring their outdoor visions to life—one detail, one fixture, and one secure connection at a time.

Deck Features FAQs

Deck lighting options include recessed stair lights for safety, post cap lights for a decorative touch, and under-rail LED strips for subtle illumination. Additional choices like in-floor lights, sconces, and string lights enhance visibility and ambiance.
Absolutely! Built-in benches, planter boxes, and storage maximize space while reducing clutter. These permanent features enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of your deck, making it more enjoyable and practical.
Yes, but your deck must be structurally sound and properly supported for the added weight of appliances and countertops. A professional deck builder can assess your deck’s strength and recommend modifications if needed.
Under-deck drainage systems channel water away using panels, gutters, and downspouts, keeping the area below dry. This creates usable space for storage or an additional outdoor living area, even in wet weather.
Absolutely! Built-in benches, planter boxes, and storage maximize space while reducing clutter. These permanent features enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of your deck, making it more enjoyable and practical.