9 Amazing Deck Installation Features to Consider

If you’re thinking about adding a deck to your home, you’ve probably already imagined the backyard BBQs, summer sunsets, and peaceful weekend mornings. But here’s the thing—a deck isn’t just a platform, it’s an opportunity to create a personalized outdoor space that fits your lifestyle, enhances your home’s value, and adds serious curb appeal.

So, what are the best features to include when planning your deck installation? Whether you’re building from scratch or upgrading an older deck, the details matter. Homeowners in Coopersburg, PA—and across the Lehigh Valley—know that a well-designed deck is more than just boards and railings. It’s a lifestyle extension, especially when you include the right enhancements.

Here are 9 amazing features to consider during your deck installation to get the most out of your outdoor space.

1. Built-In Seating for Effortless Entertaining

One of the most practical and stylish features you can add to your deck installation is built-in seating. Not only does it save space, but it also ensures you always have room for guests without dragging chairs in and out of storage. Built-in benches can be designed to match your deck’s structure and flow, often doubling as storage (more on that next). Whether it wraps around a corner or frames a fire pit, custom seating creates an inviting space that’s always ready for company.

Local Tip: In Coopersburg’s close-knit neighborhoods, built-in seating makes it easy to entertain friends, family, and neighbors without worrying about extra furniture.

2. Hidden Storage for a Cleaner Look

If you’ve ever asked, “How do I keep my deck looking tidy without constantly cleaning it?”, the answer might be integrated storage. You can incorporate discreet storage boxes under benches or create a hidden hatch for cushions, games, or gardening tools. Outdoor living should feel relaxed—not cluttered. Storage built right into your deck installation keeps the space organized and usable all year round, especially during the Lehigh Valley’s snowy winters when you need a dry place to stash seasonal gear.

3. Pergolas and Shade Structures for Comfort

The sun in Coopersburg can get pretty intense during mid-summer, especially on south-facing decks. Adding a pergola, canopy, or shade sail is not just a style upgrade—it makes your space more comfortable and usable throughout the day. Pergolas are incredibly versatile. You can add climbing vines for a natural look, install lighting or fans, or drape fabric for a breezy cabana vibe. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy your deck without baking in the sun.

Wondering how to stay cool on a deck in the summer?—this is your answer.

4. Integrated Lighting for Safety and Ambiance

When you’re building a new deck, lighting might not be top of mind—but it should be. Imagine soft lighting along stairs, under railings, or built into the floor for a warm, welcoming glow that stretches your deck’s usability into the evening. In Coopersburg, where evenings can be refreshingly cool in spring and fall, the right lighting helps you take full advantage of those after-dinner hangouts or weekend get-togethers.

Plus, it adds an extra layer of safety, especially for multi-level decks or properties with elevation changes. Lighting also boosts curb appeal, making your deck (and home) look stunning from the street.

5. Outdoor Kitchens and Grilling Stations

If your idea of a perfect weekend includes flipping burgers with a cold drink in hand, consider incorporating a grilling station or full outdoor kitchen into your deck installation design. From built-in grills and countertops to sinks and mini-fridges, these features make outdoor entertaining seamless. It also helps keep the mess outside, and let’s be honest—it just looks cool.

Coopersburg Homeowner Tip: Outdoor kitchens are especially popular for homeowners who love to host. And with our local climate, you can comfortably grill from early spring through late fall.

6. Fire Features for Year-Round Enjoyment

Wondering how to make your deck usable beyond summer? Add a fire feature. Whether it’s a built-in gas fire pit, a sleek fire table, or a traditional wood-burning bowl, fire elements add warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space. This is especially great for Coopersburg’s chilly evenings and shoulder seasons. A cozy fire means your deck isn’t just a summer hangout—it becomes a favorite spot all year long.

Bonus: A fire feature instantly upgrades the visual appeal and creates a natural gathering point.

7. Multi-Level Deck Designs for Style and Functionality

If your property has a slope—or if you want to separate different activity zones—a multi-level deck is a smart solution. You can designate levels for dining, lounging, cooking, or even a hot tub. This layout adds visual interest and makes your space feel larger and more dynamic. It’s also a great way to work with Coopersburg’s varied terrain, especially in more wooded or hilly neighborhoods.

Not sure how to build a deck on a slope? A professional deck builder can design around your property’s natural grade while ensuring stability and proper drainage.

8. Durable, Low-Maintenance Materials for Your Deck Installation

Choosing the right materials for your deck might not feel like a “feature,” but it makes a world of difference in how much you enjoy the space. In an area like Coopersburg, where we get all four seasons, materials need to withstand sun, snow, rain, and humidity.
We often recommend composite decking for its weather resistance, long lifespan, and low upkeep. It won’t splinter, fade, or rot like traditional wood, and it comes in a wide range of colors and styles.

Still love the look of natural wood? We can work with durable species like cedar or pressure-treated lumber with proper sealing and care for a custom deck installation.

9. Glass or Cable Railings for Unobstructed Views

If your property has scenic views—whether it’s wooded acreage, rolling hills, or a beautifully landscaped yard—why block it? Glass or cable railing systems offer safety without sacrificing your line of sight. These modern alternatives to traditional wood railings make your space feel open and upscale. They also allow more natural light to flow through, making smaller deck installations feel more expansive.

And yes, they hold up well in Pennsylvania weather when properly installed by deck installation pros who understand local climate demands.

Final Thoughts: Design Your Deck Installation With the Future in Mind

Your deck isn’t just a seasonal investment—it’s an everyday enhancement to how you live at home. From lazy mornings with coffee to birthday parties and peaceful fireside evenings, your deck becomes part of your daily story. When you incorporate smart features that match your lifestyle and location, you’re not just building a deck—you’re building something that adds value, beauty, and joy.

And if you’re wondering who provides the best deck installation in Coopersburg, Kennedy Design+Build has the answer. With years of experience designing and building outdoor spaces tailored to the unique homes and landscapes of the Lehigh Valley, we create decks that go beyond the basics. Whether you want sleek and modern or rustic and cozy, we’ll help you build a deck that’s fully customized to your vision—and built to last.

Ready to start your project?

Call us at 610-854-9993 or check out our portfolio at kennedydb.com to see what’s possible for your backyard.

Your dream deck starts right here in Coopersburg.