Ipe is an exotic hardwood that does a good job resisting rot, decay, and other foes the weather will throw at you. It’s similar to teak in durability but costs much less.

When ipe tiles age, they develop a silvery gray patina, but you can maintain their rich dark-brown color by applying a penetrating wood sealer.

These tiles can be installed over an existing flat surface, so getting a new “deck” becomes a simple weekend project for any DIY type. You can also install them over packed gravel with good drainage or an old but still structurally sound deck.

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But, at the end of the day, many homeowners prefer good, old-fashioned wood.

Redwood is a popular choice since it’s attractive and holds up better than many other species, and maintenance requirements aren’t usually huge. “Sweeping and clearing the debris on top of and in between decking boards helps prevent mildew, fungus and algae growth. A further rinsing with a garden hose will remove the dirt and grime, while the stubborn build-up can be removed by scrubbing with a non-ferrous bristle brush and a solution of warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse afterward. Typically, this is enough to keep your deck in good order.”

Picture and information from the California Redwood Company.

One way to address narrow, steep, or awkward spaces is to created tiered decks or patios that give you flat entertaining areas. Depending on the slope, the individual decks may not be that large, and you may need quite a few stairs to navigate between them, but you’ll probably end up with much more functional space.

You can add interest to the area, too, by incorporating raised planters for trees or shrubs or perhaps an outdoor water feature to act as a pleasing focal point.

The partial design below is the work of Huettl Landscape. Here’s the blurb that describes the yard they had to deal with:

“An existing backyard deck overlooked a riparian area but had a steep set of stairs to the ground. A series of levels was created including a slate terrace wrapped by a water feature, easing the transition to the ground. In the front yard a curving raised planter of cor-ten steel ends with a simple water feature, while paths of concrete pavers lead to an expanded sale porch.”

Visit their site to see larger pictures and get more landscaping ideas.

There are lots of create ways to grow vegetables in confined spaces though. Container (pots) gardens are popular, and this picture shows a classy version of that concept: a vertical garden rising from the sides of the deck.

Built by Decking London, this attractive growing space not only lets the homeowner plant vegetables right outside the kitchen door, but it also provides privacy from closely placed neighbors. Too, the walls and overhead slats offer shade on hot summer days.

You can look into composite decking materials that are made to look like wood, or you could try something completely different, such as steel.

A high-tech finishing process will keep steel from rusting, making it virtually maintenance free. Its strength means your deck will hold the entire family for barbecue after barbecue–no worrying about rotting supports or other problems that afflict wood over time. No need to paint or stain it either.

Steel decks are also designed so they don’t heat up under the sun, so no worrying about scorched bare feet. Expect 50-year warranties with this sturdy material.

More information at Xccent Decking (they do steel decks and docks).

Try building in benches, planters, and even an arbor or pergola (an overhead structure that can have an open or closed ceiling). Planters make it easy to add greenery, and you can even try kiwi or grape vines if you build an arbor or some sort of vertical support structure for them.

Adding these sorts of features can create extra seating, privacy (once those plants grow up, the neighbors won’t be able to see into your deck area), or just extra interest for the eyes.

For deck design ideas, check out Great Design Ideas from Top Deck Designers (English and English Edition)

You can create all sorts of designs with stamped concrete, and, as you can see in the picture below, acid stain concrete also makes for a memorable patio, walkway, or even driveway.

Here’s some information on acid stain from ConcreteIdeas.com:

“The leading permanent surface color treatment for concrete and cement based surfaces. Available in a variety of earth tone colors these stain are colorfast, naturally variegated, and have a high end finished appearance.

Main Feature: A natural looking color solution and great way to decorate the surface of a concrete slab without the need for a coating or sealant.

Benefits: Won’t peel, flake, or fade and chemically bonds to become a permanent part of the concrete’s surface.

Maintenance: Unsealed may require pressure washing to remove absorbed grit and debris adding a sealer can help with maintenance, staining and deepen the color. Re-sealing every couple of years or so is also recommended

Look and feel: The surface colors are natural earthy, variegated shades. And can be very rich in tone. Rusty, patina colors are expected.”

The perfect project for a DIY-er, these do-it-yourself deck tiles can be assembled quickly, and you can have a new look for your yard in a single weekend.

The tiles shown below are part of the Slate Series from EzyTile. They are comprised of natural slate bonded to an interlocking plastic base.

The slate deck tiles can be installed on porches, balconies, rooftop decks, and other flat surfaces. They snap together, and no tools or grout are required.

The Roost Circa Bar Cart from Velocity Art and Design has a smashing design with modern flair. It measures 36” L x 18.5” W x 31.5” H, and it’s crafted from cast and sheet aluminum. However, the handle is made from wood and brass accents. The contrast between the large wheels on the front and the small ones on the back make this a swanky piece.

This model has two tiers of shelf space, so you can serve drinks, appetizers and other goodies in a jiffy. You’re guests will feel pampered while they’re at your home, and you won’t have to lift a finger if everything you need is right on the cart.

The Viking Professional Series Outdoor Cooker has 315 sq. in. of cooking surface, and it features an elliptical airflow, ceramic interior and stainless steel cart. This grill is constructed from 18 gauge spun stainless steel, so it will complement your already sleekly designed patio or deck. Also, the canopy has a spring hinge, which makes it easy to open and close.

If you want the taste of summer foods in the wintertime, the charcoal ceramic cooking capsule provides a rich, natural flavor to your meats and veggies.