6 Ideas to Decorate Your Wood Deck for Summer in Omaha, NE

It's a warm spring afternoon and you are walking through your neighborhood in Omaha and see gorgeous outdoor setups—cozy chairs, string lights, potted plants, even outdoor rugs—and you wonder why your deck doesn’t feel the same. Maybe your space feels a little too plain. Or maybe it’s been a few years since you’ve done anything with it and it’s starting to look faded, weathered, or just a bit forgotten.

It’s frustrating because you want a space where you can enjoy morning coffee, entertain friends, or just relax on a summer evening. But decorating a deck for summer doesn’t come naturally to everyone. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the ideas online or to waste money on things that don’t hold up or don’t quite look right.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we’ve helped Omaha homeowners make the most of their homes—inside and out—since 1996. We’ve seen every type of wooden deck, from brand-new builds to old wood platforms that just need a little love. We understand what works and what lasts in the Midwest. Our team knows how preparation and high-quality products make all the difference in transforming a deck into a beautiful, comfortable space that reflects your style and holds up to Nebraska’s hot summers and unpredictable weather.

This article is your go-to guide for summer deck decorating ideas. We’ll talk about furniture, lighting, plants, and other design ideas—plus how the condition of your deck’s surface plays a big role in the overall look and feel. 

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have plenty of inspiration and a clear plan to turn your deck into the summer spot you’ve always wanted.

Why Decorating a Deck for Summer Matters

A well-decorated deck isn’t just nice to look at. It can change how you use your space.

Think about it: Would you rather eat dinner inside on a beautiful July evening or outside on a clean, comfortable deck with a little breeze and the smell of grilled food in the air? When your deck feels inviting, you’ll use it more—for morning coffee, reading a book, hanging out with your kids, or hosting a cookout.

Also, a good-looking deck can boost your home’s curb appeal and even its value, especially if it’s visible from the backyard or street. Even simple changes can have a big impact.

Cleaning Your Wood Deck

Before we jump into decorating, your deck needs to be clean. You can’t decorate over dirt, grime, or peeling stains. If your deck hasn’t been washed in a while, rent a pressure washer or hire someone to give it a good clean.

Here in Omaha, pollen and leaves can build up quickly in spring, and mildew isn’t super uncommon, especially in shady areas. A good power wash can bring back the natural beauty of the wood and give you a fresh canvas to start with.

If you’re in Omaha, NE, and you don’t want to do the work yourself, give Brush & Roll Painting a call!

Summer Deck Decorating Ideas 

Now, let’s get into the fun part: how to bring your deck to life. Here are ideas that are easy to execute and make a real difference.

1. Add Comfortable, Durable Seating

One of the biggest mistakes people make when decorating decks for summer is choosing style over comfort. If your chairs look great but feel like sitting on a park bench, no one’s going to want to hang out.

Look for outdoor cushions that can handle a little sun and rain. Wicker or metal furniture is popular, but teak or treated wood also works well in Nebraska’s climate. Just make sure whatever you buy is meant for outdoor use. 

Add a small side table or coffee table so people have somewhere to put drinks, food, or their phone

Pro tip: Don’t forget to add furniture pads to the bottom of outdoor furniture so they don’t scratch the wood on your deck.

2. Use Lighting on Your Deck

Lighting makes a huge difference, especially if you’re using your deck in the evening.

Here are a few easy options:

• String lights: Classic and cozy. Drape them across the railing or overhead if you have something to anchor them to.
• Lanterns or solar lights: These are great for adding glow without needing an outlet.
• Deck post lights: If your deck has built-in posts, these can add a subtle, built-in look.

Lighting adds warmth and helps your deck feel like a complete space, not just a platform outside.

3. Bring in Some Greenery

Plants make everything better, including decks. You don’t need a green thumb to make this work—just start with a few containers.

Try:

• Potted herbs like basil, rosemary, or mint
• Colorful annuals like petunias or geraniums
• Ferns or hostas in the shade
• Small shrubs in larger planters for privacy

If space is limited, consider a vertical planter or a few hanging baskets from the railing.

4. Rugs Tie It All Together

An outdoor rug might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it can instantly make your deck feel like another room in your home. It defines the space and adds color or pattern without much effort.

Make sure to get a rug that’s made for outdoor use, so it doesn’t trap water or fade too fast in the sun.

A rug also helps parts of your deck from the hot summer sun that constantly beats down. 

5. Keep It Functional

Decorating a deck isn’t about piling on stuff. It’s about making the space useful.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want to entertain? Make sure there’s seating and maybe a dining space.
• Do you grill often? Leave space near the grill that’s safe and convenient.
• Want a quiet space? Add a rocking chair, a small water fountain, or a hammock chair in the corner.

The decor should match your lifestyle, not just a Pinterest board.

6. Add Personal Touches

This is where your deck becomes your space. Hang some artwork rated for outdoors. Toss on pillows with fun patterns. Add a wind chime, an old crate for storage, or an outdoor shelf.

Don’t be afraid to bring some of your indoor personality outside.

Wood Deck Staining

Before you bring out the furniture or hang the lights, there’s one thing that can completely change how your deck looks: staining.

The color and condition of your deck’s surface set the tone for the entire space. A fresh stain can make the whole area feel clean and intentional, even if you don’t do much else.

If your deck looks gray, blotchy, or uneven, it may be time for a new coat. A proper deck stain brings out the natural beauty of the wood and protects it from UV rays, moisture, and general wear.

And here’s the thing a lot of people skip: sanding before staining. This one step makes a big difference in how smooth the final finish is and how well the stain soaks in. Many homeowners skip it, but it’s something professional painters (like our team at Brush & Roll Painting) always do when the job calls for it.

Decorating Decks for Summer

If you're searching for deck decorating ideas for summer, the key is to start simple: Clean the space, think about how you want to use it and build from there. From comfy seating and soft lighting to greenery and outdoor rugs, small changes can make a big impact. And if your deck’s surface is tired or uneven, staining it can breathe new life into the entire area.

Decorating a deck for summer doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With a little planning and the right touches, you can turn your deck into one of your favorite places to be this season.

If you're not sure where to start or your deck needs more than just decor, we’re here to help. Brush & Roll Painting has been helping Omaha homeowners update their decks and homes since 1996. We know how to make your outdoor space last and look great for many years.

Click the button below to get a quote—and let’s help you enjoy your deck this summer.

If you're curious about what it might cost to stain your deck before decorating, we’ve got a helpful tool just for that. Our deck staining pricing calculator can give you a ballpark estimate based on the size and condition of your deck—so you can start planning with a clear idea of the budget. 

It’s quick, easy to use, and can help you decide if it’s time to take the next step. Give it a try and see what your deck makeover might look like.