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Free Standing Decks for Summer Entertaining in Utah County

  • McKenna Hines
  • Sep 2, 2025
  • 8 min read
Wooden deck with gray planters holding green and purple plants. Brick patio surrounds the deck, with lush greenery in the background.

Why Free Standing Decks Are Perfect for Utah County Summers

Free standing decks are one of the most versatile outdoor additions for Utah County homes. Unlike attached decks, free standing decks can be placed anywhere in your yard, giving you freedom in design and function. 


Trex says, “give you more creative freedom when designing your outdoor space.” This flexibility makes them ideal for summer entertaining.


Utah County residents enjoy long, warm summers, and free standing decks provide a dedicated outdoor space for gatherings. Whether it’s a barbecue, a family party, or a quiet evening with friends, these structures create the perfect setting.


Free standing decks are also less restrictive when it comes to building codes. Since they don’t attach to your home, they’re easier to plan and often require fewer modifications to existing structures.


Another major advantage is how well free standing decks fit into Utah County’s landscapes. From flat suburban yards to sloped lots with mountain views, these decks adapt beautifully.


By choosing free standing decks, homeowners create outdoor living areas that enhance summer entertaining while increasing property value.



Flexibility in Placement

One of the key benefits of free standing decks is their placement flexibility. Unlike attached decks, which must connect to your house, free standing decks can be built in the most practical or scenic part of your yard.


This means you can place free standing decks near a pool, garden, or even at the edge of your property to take advantage of Utah County’s stunning views. The ability to choose the location makes them highly adaptable.


Free standing decks also allow you to design around your yard’s unique layout. For example, if your home’s back door isn’t in the ideal location, you can still build a beautiful deck elsewhere.


This flexibility also makes free standing decks perfect for summer entertaining zones. You can position one where guests naturally gather or where shade and breeze offer comfort.


With placement freedom, free standing decks become more than a structure—they’re a customizable outdoor retreat.



Cost-Effective Design Options

Free standing decks can be more cost-effective than attached decks because they don’t require modifications to your home’s exterior. This makes them an attractive option for Utah County homeowners.


Wooden deck with a black umbrella, table, and chairs. Sunny day, blue sky, green trees, and red flowers in the background. Relaxing mood.

Building free standing decks eliminates the need for ledger boards, flashing, or reinforcement of your home’s structure. As a result, you save on materials and labor.


Additionally, free standing decks can be built in stages. You might start with a basic platform and add railings, seating, or coverings later. This phased approach helps spread out costs.


Utah County homeowners often appreciate the budget-friendly nature of free standing decks, especially when balancing costs with other landscaping projects.


By offering affordability without sacrificing style, free standing decks provide excellent value for creating summer entertaining spaces.



Easy Integration with Landscaping

Free standing decks integrate seamlessly with landscaping, making them ideal for Utah County’s diverse outdoor settings. Because they aren’t attached, they can be designed to flow naturally into your yard’s layout.


Many homeowners place free standing decks near gardens, ponds, or under trees for added ambiance. This integration creates a harmonious connection between natural beauty and built structure.


Free standing decks also allow for creative landscaping opportunities. You can surround them with shrubs, flowers, or pathways that lead guests directly to the entertainment area.


In Utah County, where mountain backdrops and large yards are common, free standing decks make it easy to showcase your property.


By blending design with nature, free standing decks elevate outdoor entertaining into a memorable experience.



Perfect for Pools and Hot Tubs

Free standing decks are a natural fit for pools and hot tubs. In Utah County, where summers are warm and sunny, these outdoor features are highly popular.


Hot tub with a black cover on a patio deck, surrounded by snow. Modern houses and mountains are visible in the cloudy background.

By placing free standing decks around pools or hot tubs, you create a designated lounge area. This setup makes it easier for guests to relax, sunbathe, or enjoy refreshments poolside.


Free standing decks also improve safety by providing non-slip surfaces and organized pathways around water features.


Since they can be built at varying heights, free standing decks adapt perfectly to above-ground pools and raised hot tubs. This flexibility makes them one of the most practical design solutions.


For homeowners who want summer entertaining to revolve around water activities, free standing decks deliver functionality and fun.



Adding Shade and Comfort

Utah County summers can be hot, which is why shade is a crucial consideration for free standing decks. By incorporating pergolas, umbrellas, or shade sails, you make your deck comfortable all day long.


Free standing decks offer flexibility in positioning shade features. For example, you can align a pergola to block afternoon sun or install retractable awnings for versatility.


Comfort can also be enhanced with built-in seating, outdoor cushions, and rugs. These additions make free standing decks feel like outdoor living rooms.


For Utah County entertaining, shade ensures that guests stay comfortable during barbecues, parties, or quiet evenings.


By combining shade and comfort, free standing decks become year-round assets, not just summer spaces.



Multi-Level Free Standing Decks

Multi-level free standing decks are a creative solution for sloped yards in Utah County. Instead of struggling with uneven terrain, you can use decking to create tiered entertaining zones.


Each level of free standing decks can serve a different purpose. One might hold a dining table, another a fire pit, and a third a lounge area. This creates variety and flow during gatherings.


Multi-level free standing decks also maximize views. Guests can enjoy different perspectives of your yard, mountains, or city lights.


This approach also adds architectural interest, making your deck a true focal point in your landscaping.


For challenging lots, multi-level free standing decks provide both function and stunning design.



Outdoor Kitchens and Dining Areas

Free standing decks are the perfect place to build outdoor kitchens and dining zones. Utah County families love gathering for meals, and these features make summer entertaining seamless.


Outdoor kitchen with a stainless steel grill, stone countertops, and a wooden fence. Herbs grow in the planter. Bright, sunny day.

By designing free standing decks with grills, countertops, and storage, you create a fully functional cooking area outdoors. This keeps the host engaged with guests while preparing food.


Adding a dining table or bar seating transforms free standing decks into ideal spaces for group meals. These setups feel like extensions of your home.


Because free standing decks can be built anywhere, you can position your kitchen or dining area in the most convenient spot—close to your garden, pool, or fire pit.


For homeowners who enjoy entertaining with food, free standing decks provide the ultimate solution.



Free Standing Decks with Fire Features

Fire features make free standing decks usable long after the sun goes down. Utah County evenings can be cool, and fire pits or fireplaces add both warmth and atmosphere.


Free standing decks with fire features create natural gathering spots for conversation, s’mores, or relaxation. This makes them a highlight of summer entertaining.


Design options range from simple portable fire pits to built-in stone fireplaces. The flexibility of free standing decks allows you to choose the best fit for your lifestyle.


By adding comfortable seating around the fire, you create an intimate, inviting space.

Free standing decks with fire features ensure your outdoor entertaining continues late into the night.



Lighting for Evening Entertaining

Lighting is a must for free standing decks designed for entertaining. Utah County homeowners often host evening gatherings, and the right lighting enhances both safety and ambiance.


String lights, lanterns, and recessed deck lighting are popular options. They add charm while ensuring guests can move around safely.


Free standing decks offer plenty of opportunities for creative lighting. You can highlight stairs, railings, or even surrounding landscaping.


Solar-powered lights are especially practical in Utah, where sunny days provide ample energy.


By adding lighting, free standing decks transform into magical evening venues for summer entertaining.



Privacy with Free Standing Decks

Privacy is important for outdoor entertaining, and free standing decks provide plenty of solutions. In Utah County neighborhoods, skirting, screens, or landscaping can shield your deck from view.


Frosted glass and wood privacy panels as a fence, set against a sunny blue sky and greenery. Modern and clean design.

Modern privacy panels, trellises with vines, or tall shrubs create cozy, secluded areas for gatherings. Free standing decks adapt easily to these additions.


Because they’re independent structures, free standing decks can be placed in areas of your yard that naturally offer more privacy.


This flexibility means you don’t have to compromise between entertaining and comfort. Guests can relax without feeling exposed.


By incorporating privacy, free standing decks become inviting, sheltered retreats.



Seasonal Versatility

Free standing decks aren’t just for summer. Utah County’s four seasons mean homeowners appreciate year-round usability.


With the right design, free standing decks can transition into fall with heaters and warm blankets or even host winter gatherings with covered areas.


Adding retractable covers or removable panels helps adapt free standing decks to changing weather.


This seasonal versatility increases the value and usability of your investment. Free standing decks become true outdoor living spaces rather than seasonal luxuries.


By planning for all seasons, your free standing decks serve as entertainment hubs year-round.



Low-Maintenance Options

Utah County homeowners value low-maintenance outdoor solutions. Free standing decks can be built with composite materials, metal railings, and durable finishes to minimize upkeep.


These materials resist fading, warping, and rot, making them perfect for busy families. Choosing low-maintenance options ensures free standing decks remain beautiful with little effort.


Low-maintenance decks also save money over time by reducing repair and refinishing costs.

Free standing decks built with these materials free up your weekends for entertaining instead of chores.


By prioritizing low-maintenance features, free standing decks remain enjoyable for years without added stress.



Boosting Property Value


Smooth wooden deck with reddish-brown planks, arranged parallel. Sunlit surface with visible grain patterns and subtle shadows. Calm atmosphere.

Free standing decks aren’t just for fun—they also increase property value. In Utah County’s competitive housing market, they’re a strong selling point.


Buyers appreciate free standing decks because they expand usable living space and enhance outdoor lifestyles.


Well-designed free standing decks show attention to detail and improve curb appeal. They can also make your property stand out from others in your neighborhood.


For homeowners considering resale, free standing decks are an investment that pays off.

By adding beauty, functionality, and value, free standing decks benefit both current enjoyment and future returns.



Choosing the Right Builder

While some homeowners attempt DIY, professional expertise often ensures the best results for free standing decks. Utah County builders understand local codes, climate, and design trends.


A professional can recommend the best materials for Utah’s weather while ensuring your deck is safe and durable.


Free standing decks built by experts also achieve a higher level of craftsmanship and customization.


Working with a skilled builder saves time and prevents costly mistakes, giving you peace of mind.


For a stunning and reliable result, partnering with a professional builder is the best way to bring your vision of free standing decks to life.



What’s Next?

Free standing decks are one of the most versatile and stylish ways to enhance summer entertaining in Utah County. With flexibility in placement, endless design options, and practical features like shade, storage, and fire pits, these structures elevate outdoor living.


By choosing free standing decks, homeowners gain dedicated entertaining spaces that fit their yard, lifestyle, and budget. They also increase property value and create lasting memories with family and friends.


Whether you envision a poolside retreat, a shaded lounge, or a multi-level entertainment zone, free standing decks offer the perfect solution.


Durable materials, thoughtful lighting, and seasonal adaptability ensure your deck remains functional and beautiful year after year.


For Utah County homeowners, free standing decks represent the ultimate investment in summer fun and outdoor living.



Ready to Build the Perfect Deck?


Wooden deck with red chairs and a table, surrounded by trees and grass. A blue chair with a zigzag pillow adds a cozy feel.

If you’re inspired by these free standing decks and want a professionally designed structure tailored to your home, Sable Hills Utah is here to help. 


Our team specializes in building custom free standing decks that complement Utah County landscapes while delivering durability and beauty.


With expert craftsmanship and high-quality materials, we’ll create an outdoor space that’s perfect for summer entertaining and year-round enjoyment. 


Contact Sable Hills Utah today to start designing your dream deck.

 
 
 

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