When it comes to outdoor furniture, we are often faced with the dilemma of storage space, especially for those of us who reside in diverse and seasonal climates. An outdoor deck box helps maintain a clutter-free porch, gazebo deck, or patio space without detracting from the stylish décor and furnishing of your outdoor space. It acts as a waterproof outdoor storage cabinet for essentials such as party games, pool supplies, lounge chair cushions, grilling accessories, and more.
Where will you store your pool towels so that they’re easily accessible in the summer? If you don’t have a garage (or if yours is simply too full), where will you store your beach cruise? Can’t stand seeing the kids’ football, soccer pads, and umpire mask strewed about the yard as soon as you step out? An outdoor storage box may be just what you need in your life.
Types of Deck Boxes
There are a variety of different types of deck boxes, and depending on your personal style, storage needs, and available space, there’s bound to be one that suits your needs. For example, you’re not going to invest in a jumbo deck box if you’re just looking for a safe area to store some grilling utensils.
Photo by Christine Bird on Shutterstock
First and foremost, keep in mind the size of your outdoor living area, then invest in a functional piece that will fit the area comfortably and fulfill your storage dreams.
A breakdown of the different deck box options available to you:
Deck Box Benches
On the more chic side of the spectrum, some deck boxes can double as benches, and this type of deck box is often equipped with arms and padded cushions. This type of deck box would fit well in a garden, gazebo, front porch where it will be more visible, or any backyard in need of a storage solution that won’t impede on the number of seats/space available for guests.
Built-In Cubbies
For those with struggling with little room to spare, consider a cubby that can be built into a deck or porch. The deck box would essentially be an extension of the deck itself and would provide a safe storage space without taking up any extra area
Cushion Bins/Chests
Typically a bit bigger in overall size, this type of deck box is specifically designed to store and safely protect fabric pieces like chair cushions, tablecloths, towels, collapsible umbrellas, and pillows.
Bike Sheds
Bigger, of course, to fit bikes, a shed offers the extra-large deck box space. And even if you don’t have bikes, a shed deck box could serve as an area to store your garden and lawn supplies without creating a messy eyesore.
Traditional Deck Boxes
A traditional deck box provides a storage area for your knickknacks, and is usually flat and chest-like, doubling as additional seating for your outdoor space.
What is a Deck Box Made Of?
Just as with its function, the material that makes a deck box isn’t one size fits all. In fact, there are several safe and effective materials for deck boxes that will keep your patio and deck supplies dry.
Plastic
Great for spaces that are prone to moisture (say, near the pool), plastic maintains a water-resistant deck box that, if properly cared for, will last for a substantial amount of time. Another bonus about this material is that it’s lightweight and easily moved if/when need be.
Wood
Wood deck boxes are most likely to be made out of water-resistant woods such as teak and cedar. And regardless of the wood it’s manufactured from, wooden deck boxes are usually topped with a finish (that can range to fit your space’s color palette). Although a little more expensive, a wooden deck box has a rustic feel, and it’s great for an outdoor patio, terrace, or front porch.
Resin
These deck boxes are easy to match your style, as resin comes in a wide variety of colors. Resin is also on the more affordable side, and it’s a great option for families or when looking to invest in something larger.
Wicker
Adding both texture and color to your space, a wicker deck box is a great option for a slightly more “sophisticated” deck porch or patio.
When it comes to investing in a functional, stylish, and purposeful deck box, the possibilities are quite endless! Before making a deck box purchase, be sure to consider the following:
- What needs to be stored in my deck box?
- How much space can I afford? (This is a huge factor!)
You may also want to look into the features of a particular deck box. You may want to invest in a piece that has a locking component. After all, safe storage is great storage! Opt for a lockable box to store your valuable items. If you’re the type of person that likes to switch things up often, consider a storage box on wheels. Furthermore, for optimal safety, look for something that’s labeled as waterproof.
Photo by GracefulFoto on Shutterstock
In no time at all, you will have a clutter-free outdoor space with attractive, purposeful deck box storage.
