Ingenious Under Deck Storage Ideas • Craving Some Creativity

Wondering what to do with the space under your deck? Put it to good use with these brilliant Under-Deck Storage Ideas! Maximize your space and creativity with these ingenious storage solutions.

Collage of Under Deck storage ideas including doors, drawers, a shed, and organization.

Table of Contents

Have you ever come across a situation you just know that a brilliant solution is right in front of you but you can’t see it? I know I have. Despite the blog name, sometimes that creative solution is elusive, even for me!

Even though we stained and repaired an old deck a few years ago, I’m always looking for good ways to make that space better. Ideas from painting outdoor furniture to outdoor string lights. I recently went on an extensive search into under deck storage ideas and found plenty of inspiration to share!

5 Tips for Creating Outdoor Storage

Consider your environment. Depending on the weather in your area and what you will be storing, you may need to create protection from insects, small animals, water damage, and mold or fungus.
Wet or Dry Storage. While everything will fare better with more protection, many items like aluminum fencing, firewood, some outdoor furniture, and seasonal decorations made for exterior use are good candidates that only require minimal protection.
Drainage and Slope. As you are designing your storage space, make sure not to impede the natural drainage system (or add some). This can cause problems with standing water and air flow/moisture problems.
Measure everything. It’s always a good idea to take full measurements of a space before starting a project. Length, width, height, plus note any obstructions or depth changes. Make a good visual map and you won’t have to question whether something fits.
A little maintenance goes a very long way. Usually in the spring and fall, I check the house for upkeep projects. For the outdoor storage, I clean out any debris, check outdoor plumbing, patio furniture, look for signs for fungus or rot on joists and decking boards, and assess the general condition of structures.

Under Deck Storage Ideas

It’s time for some good inspiration! A deck should be a minimum of 30″ high to be optimally used for storage.

1. Ceiling Rack Storage

Metal ceiling rack storage with boxes on it.

Not just for the garage, these ceiling mounted racks are perfect for keeping items off the ground like canoes, water hoses, and waterproof crates.

These are well constructed of heavy-duty steel and holds up to 600lbs. One thing to note is that may rust over time if the paint is removed. I would recommend changing out the bolts for outdoor rated ones.

2. Build a Waterproof Ceiling

Raised deck with storage shed underneath and enclosed with decking boards.

A few years ago, we enclosed our raised deck to make it a storage shed for the lawnmower and yard equipment. I show step by step with several variations how to create a create a ceiling under a deck that drains water away in this post.

3. Cubbies that Slide Out

Wood stained deck with two cubbies cut out of lattice and framed for dog houses.

We stained this deck last summer (the photo above is before we repaired it) and one of the features I love is they have these little cubbies. While they were used as dog houses, I thought these would make excellent storage if you put a waterproof bin like these on a flat dolly with rollers. You could even add doors and hinges for hidden storage. So convenient!

4. Big Storage Systems

It’s easy to put items in large waterproof containers. These are a convenient, efficient way for storing items like cushions, large garden hoses, or even bicycles. While most think of a deck box for storage, there are also portable options including a waterproof bicycle tent or a yardstash box like this one.

5. Large sliding drawers

Pull out drawers on the side of a raised deck.

You can finally use the storage space under your deck without comprising the style by adding these deck drawer kits. Made of galvanized steel, you can store items like garden tools, pool accessories, tires, toys and backyard items.

6. Removeable Panel or Skirting

Under stair section covered with a removeable panel.

I have a removable panel on our fence to allow the car to drive through, so I know how great and convenient they are. Here is a brilliant tutorial to show you how to add a removable panel for access.

Alternative Option: You can use pre-made lattice skirting for a lightweight removable panel. Fasten the lattice to a square frame made of sturdy outdoor rated boards and add sliding bolts at the corners to keep the panel in place.

7. Easy Access Door

Side aspect of a wood deck with two doors cut out for access. — Source: CC Construction

Hinged panels are another way to hide and protect an under-deck storage area. Build a skirting frame using solid panels or matching siding. Build a frame for the door using 2x4s and nail the joints for durability. Install hinges and a latch to hang the door.

Weekend DIY project. A pegboard organizer in the craft room above the desk workspace.

FAQ

What can I store under a deck?

If you have a covered area or deck box, you can store large garden tools, hoses, outdoor cushions and pillows, grills and accessories, and other items meant for outdoors like seasonal decorations and sporting equipment such as bicycles, small boats, or waterproof bins.

What can I use instead of lattice under my deck?

Lattice is definitely one of the most affordable options to enclose a deck easily. However, there are other styles of panels and you can use decking boards, which provide much better protection for storage.

How do I maximize space under my deck?

Start by preparing the space and considering the needs of what you will be storing. We installed a ceiling under the deck to create dry storage, but you can use tarps or other systems to keep weather damage to a minimum.

Want more inspiration after seeing all these great under deck storage ideas? Check out some of our other projects to get your outdoor choose off the list!