Covered decks offer a great way to enjoy your backyard while staying shaded and protected. Many homeowners see them as an extension of their living space, and naturally, questions about layout and furniture come up. One feature that occasionally gets brought up is built-in seating. It sounds practical, especially for smaller decks or when trying to maximize space.
But in our experience, built-in seating rarely ends up on the final design. While it can serve a purpose, it often limits how the space can be used over time. Before deciding to include it, it’s important to think through how you plan to use your covered deck and whether fixed seating will meet those needs long-term.
Why Built-In Seating is Losing Popularity
We don’t see a lot of homeowners asking for built-in seating when it comes to covered decks. In fact, the majority of the appointments we go on in the Kansas City area involve people wanting to remove it—not add it. And that tells you something.
Here’s what we’ve noticed:
- It limits flexibility: Once it’s built, it’s not going anywhere. You’re stuck with that exact seating arrangement, whether or not it works with your future plans.
- It cuts into usable space: Built-in benches take up space that could be better used for a table, chairs, or a small fire pit.
- It doesn’t always fit modern deck needs: Today’s homeowners want multipurpose areas that can shift with the seasons or a growing family. Built-in seating doesn’t leave much room for that.
We’ve actually never installed built-in seating during our time at Heartland Decks, and that’s because our customers just haven’t asked for it. And we listen to what homeowners want.
What to Consider if You Still Want Built-In Seating
That said, if you have your heart set on built-in seating for your covered deck, there are ways to make it work. We always say that a deck should reflect your lifestyle—so if built-in seating fits yours, we’ll make it happen.
Here’s what we suggest:
1. Stick to the Perimeter
The best approach is to install bench-style seating along the perimeter of your deck—just inside the handrail. This method keeps the central area of your covered deck wide open for:
- Dining tables
- Lounge chairs
- Portable fire pits
- Games or kid-friendly zones
By lining the seating along the edge, you’re still getting that extra sitting space without sacrificing the flow of your main area.
2. Know the Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Always available seating
- Can double as storage if designed properly
- Adds a built-in design feature
Cons:
- Permanently takes up space
- Can reduce flexibility in furniture layout
- May limit future upgrades or renovations
Alternatives to Built-In Seating on Covered Decks
If you’re on the fence, here are a few alternatives that many of our clients in Kansas City prefer:
1. Freestanding Furniture
You can rearrange it anytime, swap it out for seasonal pieces, or take it inside if weather becomes a concern.
2. Modular Seating Sets
These give you that cozy built-in vibe but with the benefit of mobility. Plus, you can mix and match styles over time.
3. Multi-Use Furniture
Think benches that double as storage or stools that can be tucked away when not in use.
With these options, your covered deck remains versatile, open, and easy to refresh when your needs change.
What We Recommend for Covered Decks
At Heartland Decks, we want to build a space you’ll actually use. Most of our customers are looking for open layouts, modern finishes, and the freedom to choose their seating after the deck is built—not before.
Unless you’re absolutely sure you’ll want fixed seating for the long term, we typically advise against building it in. The simplicity of an open deck design allows you to tailor your setup over time, whether that’s for hosting, relaxing, or gathering around a fire pit.
We’ve never installed built-in seating on any of our decks, simply because our customers haven’t wanted it. And that’s really what matters most.
In Summary
Built-in seating might seem like a smart feature at first glance, but it often ends up limiting how your covered deck can be used. If flexibility, function, and modern design matter to you, you might want to skip the built-in bench and go with more versatile options.
But if you’re confident that fixed seating is the right fit, we’ll make sure it’s done right—along the perimeter, with space in mind.
If you’re thinking about starting your own covered deck project and want expert advice on what will work best for your space, contact us. At Heartland Decks, we’ll help you build something that fits your life today—and tomorrow.
