Transform wasted space under your deck into functional storage with these 10 clever under-deck storage ideas. From weatherproof cabinets to rolling storage bins, maximize your outdoor living area by utilizing the unused area below your deck.
Intro
The space underneath your deck often goes overlooked and underutilized. While it may not be the most glamorous part of your outdoor area, the crawl space and cavities beneath your deck deck actually present ample storage potential. With a bit of creativity and strategic planning, you can convert the unused space into functional storage that neatly houses yard tools, outdoor gear, entertaining supplies and more.
We’ve gathered 10 ingenious ways to maximize under-deck storage. Take advantage of the covered, sheltered area under your deck by installing cabinets, bins, hooks and other organizing systems. Not only will you gain storage, but you’ll also tidy up the space to create a cleaner, more finished look for your deck. Integrate these storage ideas seamlessly into the under-deck area for an organized, clutter-free result.
Read on for 10 Under-Deck Storage Ideas:
1. Weatherproof Storage Cabinets
Install wall-mounted, under-deck cabinets to take advantage of vertical storage potential. Opt for weatherproof cabinets that are designed for outdoor use. Look for cabinets constructed from marine-grade plywood, aluminum or steel that will hold up to the elements. Ensure cabinets come with proper gaskets and seals to keep contents protected and dry.
Mount cabinets securely to framing under the deck. Take measurements to maximize the available space. Include shelves in some cabinets for storing smaller items and bulkier rollout drawers in others for large equipment. Keep contents organized with interior hooks, bins and racks. High-quality under-deck cabinets provide ample room to store grilling tools, gardening equipment, outdoor toys and gear while keeping items tidy and concealed.
2. Ventilated Storage Bins
Introduce stackable bins under the deck for concealed ground storage. Look for sturdy bins made from weather-resistant plastic or powder-coated steel. Ventilated bins allow air to circulate, preventing musty odors from developing. Bins neatly corral hoses, outdoor cushions, yard tools and other gear.
Install shelving under the deck to elevate bins off the ground. For an organized system, affix bin labels so you can easily identify contents. Choose bins in different sizes to accommodate a range of items. Easily retrieve bins or slide them back into place when not in use. Keep items out of sight but conveniently accessible.
3. Pegboard Tool Storage
Take inspiration from garage workshops by mounting pegboard to exposed framing or walls under your deck. Use the pegboard to neatly hang tools, avoiding a jumbled mess on the floor of your under-deck space. Look for outdoor-rated pegboard made from moisture-resistant materials.
Use pegboard hooks, holders and bins to organize contents. Hang long-handled tools like rakes, shovels and brooms by their heads. Use small hooks to hold coils of rope, spray bottles and hand tools. Take advantage of pegboard accessories like angled tool holders. Keep fasteners, lights and other small items in pegboard bins. This versatile system allows you to customize storage to suit your specific needs.
4. Built-In Shelving
For a clean, finished look, install permanent shelving under your deck. Building fixed shelving lets you make the most of available space with storage solutions sized specifically for the area.
Use weather-resistant boards like cedar or composite decking material to construct shelves. Cut shelving to fit into cavities between framing joists. Install tightly so items will not fall through cracks or gaps. Consider including vertical dividers to prevent items from sliding off shelves.
Use the built-in shelving to store containers of grill supplies, gardening accessories, outdoor servingware and more. The contents will be concealed from view but easily accessible when needed. Permanent shelving creates a polished storage solution under the deck.
5. Rolling Storage Containers
Introduce large plastic deck boxes or rolling utility carts to expand under-deck storage. Look for sturdy, outdoor-safe containers on wheels for easy portability. The containers neatly stow larger equipment and supplies that you may not use as frequently.
Plastic deck boxes often come with detachable lids and seating tops, providing both storage and extra outdoor seating when needed. Roll deck boxes under the deck to clear the area when entertaining. The carts allow you to easily haul and access contents as needed. Then roll storage back under the deck for an out-of-the-way storage solution.
6. Suspended Hanging Storage
Incorporate vertical space under the deck by suspending gear from the underside of the decking above. Install heavy-duty hooks and hangers to the deck framing to hold bicycles, ladders and other large items overhead. Utilize sturdy netting or wire racks to create open shelving for lighter items.
Hanging storage keeps contents up and off the ground. Arrange gear neatly so it’s organized and accessible. Use suspended storage for infrequently used, bulkier items. Save floor space under the deck for other purposes. Introduce overhead storage racks, hanging buckets and other equipment to take advantage of the empty space above.
7. Custom Under-Deck Drawers
For the most seamless, integrated storage solution, install custom drawers built to fit into the cavities under your deck. Have drawers professionally constructed to fill the empty spaces between joists beneath the decking.
The drawers can offer ample storage within the deck’s footprint. Look for drawers with weatherproof construction including tough materials like stainless steel for longevity. Include handles for easy access to gear. Label and organize drawers based on their designated contents. Custom under-deck drawers are the ideal choice for achieving hidden, unobtrusive storage.
8. Discreet Compartments
Incorporate the framing around and under your deck into your storage design. Use decorative lattice or louvers to conceal cavities under the deck periphery. The compartments offer discreet spots to stash smaller patio accessories.
Place decorative pots, lanterns, extra cushions and other items within concealed cavities created under benches or stairs. Discretely tucking gear out of sight maintains a clean deck aesthetic for entertaining. Yet you can easily access stored goods when needed.
9. Freestanding Cabinetry
Introduce standalone storage cabinets under the deck to add weatherproof storage capacity without permanent installation. Look for durable polyurethane or reinforced polyethylene cabinets designed to withstand outdoor exposure.
Seek cabinets with secure shelving, doors or drawers to neatly organize contents. Place cabinets anywhere to create storage zones and divide a large under-deck area. Freestanding cabinets provide versatile storage you can rearrange or move as needed. They allow you to expand storage without altering the deck itself.
10. Under-Deck Can Racks
Take advantage of vertical space by installing beverage can storage racks designed specifically for under-deck installation. Look for racks made from UV-resistant plastic or powder-coated metal for durability. Can racks screw or clamp onto deck framing or walls.
Racks create convenient under-deck storage for canned beverages, eliminating the need for coolers. Keep drinks chilled yet out of the way until ready to serve. Can racks are an ideal addition for keeping cold libations organized and close at hand when entertaining on the deck.
Tips for Utilizing Under-Deck Storage
- Carefully measure the under-deck area beforehand to determine the available space for storage solutions.
- Incorporate lighting so you can easily see contents. Look for weatherproof LED lights or strips.
- Fasten deck skirting or facia boards around the deck’s perimeter to create an enclosed, clean appearance.
- Run a dehumidifier under the deck during humid weather to prevent mold and mildew growth on stored items.
- Use exterior-rated hooks, bins and racks when possible to hold up against outdoor conditions.
- Organize contents logically by category or frequency of use for optimal accessibility.
- Check periodically for signs of pests like spiders and rodents. Use traps and natural deterrents when needed.
- Avoid placing anything extremely valuable or fragile since under-deck storage is not as secure as indoor storage.
- Stow only weatherproof, durable items under the deck. Bring cushions, rugs and other fabrics indoors when not in use.
- Limit moisture exposure by covering gear or using waterproof storage containers.
Maximizing Under-Deck Potential
Rather than wasting the space beneath your deck, implement storage solutions to take full advantage of the covered area. Well-organized under-deck storage also makes your deck more functional and clutter-free. Apply these storage ideas to create concealed spots to house outdoor living accessories you want to keep on hand but out of sight. Turn an empty crawl space into valuable storage square footage with bins, cabinets, shelving and other smart systems tailored to your needs. With a bit of effort, the space under your deck can become one of the handiest storage solutions for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions about Under-Deck Storage
Is under-deck storage really necessary?
While not entirely essential, under-deck storage offers a very useful way to keep outdoor gear neatly stowed yet readily accessible. The space under a deck often gets overlooked as wasted real estate. Turning it into organized storage can really maximize your outdoor living area.
What are good materials to use for storage under a deck?
Look for weatherproof storage solutions made to withstand outdoor conditions like plastic, wood composite, powder-coated steel/aluminum or stainless steel. Avoid furniture or shelves made for indoor use only.
How much storage will fit under a deck?
This depends on the size of the deck, the height of the decking above the ground, and how much existing space/headroom already gets taken up by structural supports. Take detailed measurements to determine what storage solutions will realistically fit in the available under-deck space.
Should under-deck storage be enclosed or open?
An enclosed storage area (with deck skirting) looks more polished and prevents pests from entering. However, open storage racks allow for better airflow and drainage. Assess your specific needs and context to decide what type of storage to incorporate.
Are there ways to keep storage organized under a deck?
Yes, use storage bins/baskets to compartmentalize gear. Label bins clearly. Install shelves at different heights to optimize vertical storage. Hang tools grouped by function. Try to limit moisture exposure. Check periodically for pest intrusions.
How can lighting be added to illuminate under-deck storage?
There are several good outdoor lighting options: bullet lights, strip lighting attached to the framing, motion sensor lights, battery powered stick-on lights, or lighting built into storage cabinets/shelving. Ensure lighting is rated for exterior use.
Should valuable items be kept in under-deck storage?
Under-deck storage may not be quite as secure as indoor storage, so avoid placing valuables or fragile items there. Stick to outdoor living gear and supplies that can withstand some moisture and don’t need climate controlled conditions.
What are smart ways to use vertical storage space under a deck?
Install wall-mounted cabinets, pegboards, hooks, and overhead racks or netting to take advantage of vertical real estate. You can hang bicycles, ladders, hoses and other gear from the ceiling to keep the floor clear for bins.
How can deck stairs or the deck structure be incorporated into storage?
Side cavities under bench seating or stair steps can double as discreet storage spots. Also look for ways to install shelving between support posts or beams. Every bit of available space can potentially become storage.
Conclusion
Under-deck areas offer excellent potential for maximizing outdoor storage capabilities. Take advantage of the covered space beneath your deck by incorporating cabinets, shelving, bins, racks and other storage solutions. Weatherproof, durable gear can be kept conveniently on hand, but out of sight. Organizing the area under your deck not only provides valuable storage capacity, but also cleans up the space considerably. Apply these clever 10 Under-Deck Storage Ideas to transform wasted square footage into a functional asset that enhances your outdoor living experience.