In our last three articles we wrote about deck stairs, deck rails and deck balusters. Today let’s address those oh-so-important finishing touches for a deck using post covers (sometimes called sleeves) and post caps.
Two Story Deck with Post Covers and Post Cap Lights, St. Louis Mo, by Archadeck
What exactly IS a post cover?
Other than a platform deck built at ground-level, a deck will need to be supported with structural posts. And these posts are (typically) built with pressure treated lumber. So depending on the location and height of your deck, you may want to cover the bare posts.
For example if your deck is just slightly raised, simple landscaping will hide its posts and, in this case, skipping the post cover is common.
Low Grade Deck with Landscaping, by Archadeck
If, however, the deck is a little (or a lot) higher, lattice — or another deck skirt design — can be used to enclose the space as well as hide the posts.
Low Deck with Lattice, St. Louis Mo, by Archadeck
Deck and Stairs Designed With Lattice, Project by Archadeck
If you have a two or three story home and your deck is built at those higher elevations, you should definitely consider post covers, wraps or sleeves.
Second Story Composite Deck with Post Covers by Archadeck
As a side note: Some homeowners add specialty covers for their deck railing posts too, as seen in the project below.
Custom Deck Rail Post Covers by Archadeck
What exactly IS a post cap?
As the name implies, a deck post cap sits directly on top of the rail post, serving both decorative and useful purposes.
Function-wise, caps protect the end-grains of your rail posts from damage. Aesthetically, post caps come in nearly every conceivable shape, color, size and style; they’re a perfect way to incorporate deck lighting too.
Deck Post Caps and Post Lantern Lights by Archadeck
As a side note: Not all deck rails require post caps as seen in the project below.
Deck Rails Without Post Caps, Archadeck St. Louis Mo
The key takeaway here is pretty basic. Add aesthetic appeal to your deck or porch project with deck post caps and covers. And the options are plentiful.
Additional reading
The Space Under Your Deck: Hide It, Disguise It, or Better Yet Use It
The Four Best Ways To Use The Space Under A Deck
How To Add Lights To A Deck, Screened Porch or Pergola
Next steps
Still exploring and looking for resources when it comes to outdoor living? Well, for inspiration you can simply visit our website, west-county.archadeck.com to find picture galleries and an easy online form for your questions – ‘how can we help?’.
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Do you live in St. Louis and feel ready to talk with an area deck builder? If so, please consider Archadeck. We’re locally owned and operated with offices in St. Louis West County. Call us anytime – 636-227-0800.
Not familiar with Archadeck? Check out the About Us page here on the blog or on our website too.
Outside of St. Louis? Just visit archadeck.com or call 888-687-3325
Sources
Decks Direct, Deckorators, The Deck Store, Archadeck Outdoor Living, Archadecks in Columbus OH, Kansas City, Raleigh Durham, Hennepin County MN, Pittsburgh PA, Central Iowa
