Top Smart Deck Technology

Smart technology has transformed homes over the last few years. Enhancements have made them more efficient, safer, and integrated, allowing you to control your home’s features anywhere.

Recent innovations in weather-resistant technologies have extended into backyard design. Outdoor decks and living spaces are now equipped with smart technology to make them more comfortable.

Here are seven smart deck technologies to consider adding to your home to bring your deck into the 21st century.

1. Integrated Lighting

Smart lighting is one of the most popular trends in deck design because it can elevate a space on a budget. You can control your deck lights remotely, changing the color, brightness levels, and more. Some smart lighting can automatically adapt to natural light. As it gets darker, your lights will slowly increase in brightness.

Additionally, you can integrate motion sensors to activate lights automatically. This technology has been used in floodlights for decades but is now being adapted on smaller scales for deck lighting. When people walk on the deck, your lights can automatically turn on.

You can set schedules for automated lighting or simply control it as needed. This flexibility and limitless options are why integrated deck lighting continues to be popular.

2. Automated Awnings

Retractable awnings are a great way to add shade and weather protection to your deck, helping you enjoy it in all weather conditions. If it’s too bright, click a button to add more shade. If the clouds have rolled in, you can put it away.

Automated awnings are often controlled on demand, but you can also schedule them at peak times. Some are even equipped with weather sensors that adjust automatically based on the current conditions.

Automated awnings can be powered by electricity or solar power and come in various colors and sizes. Deck awnings are not new, but their automation and motorized capabilities have made them easier to use.

3. Sound Systems

An outdoor sound system is a must for people who host a lot of parties. These speakers can be embedded within the deck and other outdoor structures for a seamless experience. Many may not even notice them until they hear the sound.

Thanks to their weather-resistant capabilities, outdoor speakers are safe in all conditions. They connect to devices such as phones, computers, televisions, and more using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. It’s a fun way to entertain without needing additional equipment.

4. Fire Pits

Many decks have integrated fire pits into their design. These can be built in or added independently. They can be powered by gas, electricity, or bioethanol and are often controlled by smart technology.

You can adjust the flame settings and temperature. They’re often smokeless, so you don’t have to worry about the smoke or smell irritating your senses. You can also set timers or turn them on and off directly from your phone.

5. Integrated Power

Some decks are equipped with integrated power outlets or charging stations. They’re integrated directly into the design, often on counter surfaces, deck pillars, and more. The power stations are water resistant, so you don’t need to worry about damaging your phone or electronics when in use.

You can even add solar power, which is a more energy-efficient way to power your smart deck. Panels can fuel outdoor appliances, charging stations, and more without breaking the bank.

6. Hidden Storage

Hidden storage is a great outdoor deck feature. Outdoor blankets and pillows can be easily stored nearby. You can place any outdoor appliances securely out of the way rather than moving them back and forth indoors. It doesn’t matter what you store; you just have the option to do so.

These spaces can be unsecured or locked by a key. You can also integrate smart locks and other technology to add an additional layer of security as needed.

7. Security Features

Security is becoming increasingly important, and many decks are equipped with security cameras, sensors, and alarms. Motion sensors can trigger lights and recording capabilities, and you’ll be able to see and hear what’s happening in your space. Some security systems are even equipped with two-way capabilities that allow you to speak and listen through the system.

Security features can be integrated directly within your deck. They are seamless and do not call attention to their presence. You can rest easy knowing that your deck is not an unsecured entry point in your home. ≤

Conclusion

If you are unsure what features to start with or what will work with your deck, perform a “deck contractor near me” search on your preferred search engine. The right result can help design your integrated deck experience, creating designs that meet your hosting needs and budget.

While smart deck technologies are becoming more affordable, they still have an increased cost. However, the investment is worth it because these technologies seamlessly integrate into outdoor spaces and transform them into something special.