Many homeowners undergo deck construction early in the summer—and whether it’s a deck installation, repair, or an upgrade to a composite deck, extensive structural work often puts your deck out of service for the better part of the season. Then, just as your decking project begins to wrap up…school starts, the leaves begin to change, and brisk, fall weather replaces the warmth of summer.

It might feel like your evenings enjoying drinks and burgers on the deck is over, but for those who didn’t get to spend enough time enjoying deck season—we’re not ready to pack away our grills, sunscreen and tank tops quite yet. Although fall has officially begun, you still have plenty of time to make use of your deck this year.

Host a Grill Out

Outdoor grilling isn’t exclusively a summer activity. During the summer, it can be miserable standing in the hot sun, leaning over an even hotter grill. Cooler weather makes grilling out on the deck much more enjoyable, making the warmth of the grill a welcome contrast to the chilly weather.

Add a Fire Pit

Your autumn deck activities aren’t limited to solitary grilling while the rest of the family stays cozy indoors. Although a little alone time can be nice, adding a fire pit lets the entire family spend time outdoors together. Enjoy s’mores with the kids or invite friends over for drinks and conversation.

Pictured: Duralife Decking & Railing's Brazilian Cherry composite deck.

Hot Tub

A hot tub is the perfect excuse to use your deck year round—you’ll be especially grateful when the weather dips below zero and the rest of Cedar Rapids transforms into a frozen tundra. But before you rush out and buy that hot tub, we recommend consulting with a professional contractor to ensure your deck can support the extra weight.

Pictured: Timbertech by AZEK decking in Arbor, accented with Kona curved borders.

Need help with your deck replacement project? Stop in our store to meet our experts and see our selection of composite decking, or contact us to get started next home improvement project.