Buying guide for best deck boxes
Your deck or patio is a great place to spend a warm summer day – but if it’s cluttered with gardening tools, grilling gear, or other outdoor accessories, you may find it difficult to relax and enjoy yourself. With a sturdy deck box, you can safely store all of your outdoor items so they’re within reach yet nicely out of sight.
In addition to providing a practical storage option, a deck box can add a decorative touch – as well as extra seating – to your deck or patio. But that’s only if you buy the right box, and with so many materials, sizes, and other features to choose from, it can be difficult to figure out which style best fits your backyard.
Types of deck boxes
There are three general types of deck boxes on the market today: traditional deck boxes, cushion deck boxes, and storage bench deck boxes.
Traditional deck boxes
A traditional deck box is usually just a large box with a lid that’s attached with hinges. While it’s possible to use it as extra seating, storage is the primary goal with this type of box.
Cushion deck boxes
A cushion deck box is designed for storing the cushions and pillows found on outdoor lounge chairs. To accommodate these items, the box is usually extra-long.
Storage bench deck boxes
A storage bench deck box is designed to look like a regular bench. However, the seat lifts up so you can store your outdoor accessories inside. Some styles are padded with cushions on the seat and/or armrests for extra comfort.
"For the most user-friendly operation, choose a deck box with a spring hinge lid. That makes it very easy to open and close, and you don’t have to worry about accidentally smashing your fingers."
STAFF
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What can you store in a deck box?
A deck box is ideal for storing items and accessories you tend to use outside. Some things you might want to store include the following.
Deck box materials
You can find deck boxes made of wood, plastic, resin, and wicker.
Wood is a highly decorative but expensive deck box material. To make sure it holds up well against the elements, it’s important to choose a box made of moisture-resistant wood such as teak, eucalyptus, or cedar. You can find both light- and dark-finish wooden deck boxes, which makes it easier to match your box to your patio décor.
Plastic is a very durable and budget-friendly deck box material. It doesn’t warp, peel, dent, or rust like other materials, and it is available in a variety of colors and styles to coordinate with your outdoor living area.
Resin is a durable and inexpensive material for deck boxes. It usually comes in natural shades like white, brown, or tan, so it blends well with the scenery in your yard.
- Wicker is a highly decorative, pricey deck box material. For the most durable option, choose synthetic wicker, which holds up to water and other elements more effectively than natural styles.
"If you plan to place your deck box in a sunny area of the yard, look for a model with UV protection to keep the exterior from fading. "
STAFF
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Deck box sizes
Deck boxes are typically available in four sizes: small, medium, large, and extra-large. Capacity is measured in gallons.
Small deck boxes usually have a capacity of 30 to 50 gallons.
Medium deck boxes usually have a capacity of 50 to 80 gallons.
Large deck boxes usually have a capacity of 80 to 100 gallons.
Extra-large deck boxes usually have a capacity of 100+ gallons.
Seating
You may wish to purchase a deck box that provides seating in addition to storage. Storage bench deck boxes are the most decorative option, and they usually offer the most comfortable seating. However, even traditional deck boxes can be used for seating if the lid is strong enough to hold the weight. You may want to add a cushion or two to make the box comfortable, though.
Locking feature
If you want to keep your stored items secure, choose a deck box with a lockable lid. In most cases, a lock isn’t included with the box, but the lid has an attached lock loop. That makes it easy to add a padlock to protect your belongings and keep children from accessing items they shouldn’t.
"Some deck boxes are designed to keep beer, soda, and other beverages cold for barbecues and outdoor parties. "
STAFF
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Other deck box features
Wheels and handles
If you plan to move your deck box around your deck or patio, look for a model that’s equipped with wheels. You’ll be able to roll the box to a new spot without worrying about how heavy it is.
If you plan to keep small or lightweight items in your deck box, a style with side handles may work well. Keep in mind, however, that you may need help lifting the box even if it has lighter items inside. The reason: the box may be too long for one person to comfortably grab both handles at once.
Deck box prices
Deck boxes vary in price based on material and size, but you can typically expect to spend between $30 and $275.
Plastic deck boxes
Budget-friendly: For a small plastic deck box, you’ll usually pay between $30 and $50.
Mid-range: For a medium plastic deck box, you’ll usually pay between $50 and $100.
- Expensive: For a large plastic deck box, you’ll usually pay between $100 and $150.
Resin deck boxes
Budget-friendly: For a small resin deck box, you’ll usually pay between $40 and $60.
Mid-range: For a medium resin deck box, you’ll usually pay between $60 and $85.
- Expensive: For a large resin deck box, you’ll usually pay between $85 and $140.
Wicker deck boxes
Budget-Friendly: For a small wicker deck box, you’ll usually pay between $50 and $100.
Mid-range: For a medium wicker deck box, you’ll usually pay between $100 and $150.
- Expensive: For a large wicker deck box, you’ll usually pay between $150 and $200.
Wooden deck boxes
Budget-Friendly: For a small wooden deck box, you’ll usually pay between $80 and $120.
Mid-range: For a medium wooden deck box, you’ll usually pay between $120 and $175.
- Expensive: For a large wooden deck box, you’ll usually pay between $175 and $275.
Tips
Avoid keeping electronics like power drills inside your deck box. While most deck boxes are waterproof and weather-resistant, it’s still a better idea to store these items in a garage or tool shed.
Consider adding crates or other small storage containers to the interior of your deck box to help keep it organized. You can divide the items into categories in the crates, so you can easily find what you’re looking for without emptying the entire box.
Clean the interior of your deck box at least once a year. Dirt, debris, and insects can make their way inside and possibly damage the stored items if you allow them to build up.
FAQ
Q. What type of wood is most durable for a deck box?
A. Hardwood is the strongest and most durable type of wood for a deck box. Teak and redwood are usually the best options. Avoid softer woods like pine and cedar, as they’re more prone to moisture damage and rot.
Q. Can any deck box double as additional outdoor seating?
A. Nearly all deck boxes can provide extra seating for your patio or deck. However, it’s important to verify that the lid is strong enough to hold the weight of someone sitting on top. The product specifications for most boxes list the weight capacity for the lid, which usually ranges from 200 to 900 pounds. Check the product description to be certain the box you’re considering can support sufficient weight to serve as seating.
Q. Can you leave a deck box outside all year long?
A. Most deck boxes are designed to withstand the elements, so leaving them outside in the winter usually isn’t a problem. However, if you’re concerned about snow and other extreme weather conditions, choose a model that’s specifically designated as weather-resistant.
