Discover deck design inspiration for entertaining, relaxing, and adding value to your home.
A clean, simple option that creates a smooth transition from your home to your yard. Great for open backyard spaces and easy outdoor access.
Ideal for homes with elevated entries or sloped yards. Raised decks can include stairs, skirting, and under-deck storage options.
Add shade and weather protection for year round enjoyment. These designs pair well with lighting, fans, and outdoor seating areas.
Perfect for larger spaces and homeowners who want defined zones for dining, relaxing, and entertaining.
Many projects include custom upgrades such as deck lighting and other personalized features. We are also able to create new wall openings and install patio doors, helping homeowners connect their indoor living space directly to their new deck. Permitting can be handled as part of the project when required.
Beyond size and layout, the way deck boards are installed can significantly change the overall look of the finished deck. Small design details can add visual interest, improve durability, and create a more custom appearance.
Below are several popular deck board design styles homeowners choose.
A standard picture frame deck features decking boards installed with a clean border around the perimeter, creating a finished and polished look. In this design, all boards are the same color, providing a consistent and uniform appearance. The picture frame layout helps define the edges of the deck while maintaining a simple, classic style that works well with many homes.
Picture framing is one of the most popular deck design upgrades. A border board is installed around the perimeter of the deck, creating a clean frame around the field boards. This design helps define the edges of the deck and gives it a polished, finished look. It is commonly used with both composite and wood decking and works well for modern and traditional designs. This usually incorporates two tones of decking color to contrast the picture frame. For example, a lighter brown in contrast with a darker brown on the border.
A breaker board deck design includes a perpendicular board installed across the deck surface to break up long runs of decking. This design adds a subtle visual detail while helping create a clean transition between sections of the deck. Breaker boards are commonly used on larger decks to improve the overall layout and create a more balanced appearance.
In addition to the layout of the decking boards, the finishing details of a deck play an important role in the overall appearance. Features like fascia boards, skirting, and edge trim help give the deck a clean and completed look while also protecting the structure.
Fascia boards are installed along the outer edges of the deck to cover the framing and exposed joists. This creates a smooth, finished edge and improves the overall appearance of the deck. Fascia boards can match the decking color for a seamless look or use a contrasting color to add visual definition.
Deck skirting is installed around the bottom of the deck to cover the space beneath the structure. Skirting can be built using wood boards, lattice, or other materials depending on the desired look. This adds visual appeal while helping protect the underside of the deck.
Stairs can also include fascia boards and trim pieces along the edges of the stringers and risers. This detail helps the stairs match the rest of the deck and provides a clean, consistent finish.
Lattice skirting is a classic way to finish the underside of a deck while still allowing airflow and drainage. Decorative lattice panels are installed around the perimeter of the deck to conceal the framing and create a clean, finished appearance. This design works well with many deck styles and can be painted or stained to match the deck and home. An access panel or small crawl space door can also be installed within the skirting to allow convenient access beneath the deck for maintenance or storage.
If you’ve found a design that fits your vision, the next step is selecting the decking materials and railing styles that will complete the project. Explore our Deck Materials and Railing Options pages, or contact us to start planning your custom deck.
Skilled and experienced builders with over 15 years of experience in the field
BBB Accredited Business
Clean and professional installations
Honest pricing with free estimates
Locally trusted contractor serving Tacoma WA and the surrounding areas
We proudly provide professional deck building and outdoor construction services throughout Tacoma and the surrounding communities. Our team works with homeowners to design and build high-quality decks, railings, and outdoor spaces that are built to last.
Whether you’re looking for a new deck installation, deck repair, custom deck design, or railing upgrades, Harbor Deck & Fence is committed to delivering reliable craftsmanship and excellent service.
We currently serve homeowners in:
Tacoma WA
University Place WA
Lakewood WA
Gig Harbor WA
Puyallup WA
Fircrest WA
Steilacoom WA
Ruston WA
If you are located nearby and would like to discuss your deck project, feel free to contact us for a free estimate. Our team would be happy to help plan your next outdoor project.
If you’re planning a new deck or considering replacing an existing one, contact Harbor Deck And Fence today to schedule a consultation and get a Free Estimate.
A deck builder in Tacoma like Harbor Deck & Fence offers design, custom deck construction, material selection, installation, repairs, and maintenance for residential and commercial decks.
Choosing a custom deck builder in Tacoma ensures your outdoor space is tailored to your property, lifestyle, and budget — with expert craftsmanship and local code compliance.
Deck costs vary by size, materials, and design complexity, but most Tacoma WA deck builds range from $X – $Y per square foot. Contact Harbor Deck & Fence for a free estimate.
Tacoma deck builders often recommend pressure-treated wood, cedar, composite decking, and PVC based on durability, maintenance, and budget.
Most custom deck projects in Tacoma take 1–3 weeks from planning to completion, depending on weather, permits, and design.
Yes, most decks require a building permit in Tacoma. A professional deck builder in Tacoma can handle permitting for you.
Ask about experience, warranty, timeline, materials, cost breakdown, and whether they handle permits — Harbor Deck & Fence answers all these.
Yes! Harbor Deck & Fence offers free estimates to help you plan your dream deck in Tacoma, WA.
Standard builders use pre-designed plans, while custom deck builders in Tacoma design unique outdoor spaces tailored to your needs.
Tacoma deck builders choose weather-resistant materials and construction techniques suited for the Pacific Northwest climate.
Composite, cedar, and Doug fir wood are popular in Tacoma due to moisture resistance and lifespan.
Clear debris, mark utilities, and ensure easy access — Harbor Deck & Fence will guide you through prep steps.
With quality materials and proper maintenance, a Tacoma deck can last 20+ years, especially when built by professionals.
Reputable custom deck builders in Tacoma are fully insured, licensed, and bonded for your protection.
Yes! Many Tacoma contractors like Harbor Deck & Fence specialize in fences, pergolas, and other outdoor structures.
Adding a professionally built deck can significantly increase home value and curb appeal in the Tacoma housing market.
They follow building codes, use quality fasteners, proper framing techniques, and weather-resistant materials.
Absolutely! Custom deck builders in Tacoma can integrate lighting, built-in seating, stairs, and railings.
Most Tacoma deck builders schedule projects within 2–6 weeks, depending on workload and season.
Harbor Deck & Fence combines local expertise, quality materials, custom design, reliable scheduling, and 5-star service for every Tacoma deck project.
