Shadows, sound and wind are environmental conditions that need to be considered in creating a design for the enjoyment of outdoor deck spaces. It is important for a homeowner to understand their influences during the different seasons. Through careful design techniques it is quite possible to improve upon the deck microclimate.

By altering prevailing winds and developing more surfaces that are able to collect and hold or even discharge heat, the deck can be much warmer or cooler than surrounding areas.

Different surfaces have variable abilities to reflect and absorb heat or radiant energy. Wet or dark colored surfaces tend to absorb more heat than dry or light colored ones. A matte surface tends to reflect very little heat while absorbing most of it. Most natural surfaces such as wood or stone are relatively heat absorbent.

The speed of wind has a profound effect upon the heat retention of objects and of the air mass in a space. The speed and extent that heat and sound spread out depend upon wind and its turbulence.

Noise is distributed by air movement or winds. When a pleasing sound is intended, the structure and plantings must be designed to limit deflection and absorption. Since noise is carried by air movement, sounds that are desirable should not be blocked.

On the other hand street noise or sounds from adjacent yards will need to be toned down. In order to accomplish this, create solid walls and windbreaks that reflect and deflect the sounds away from the site.

Where the noise is excessive and cannot be deflected, mask it by adding pleasing sound to it. Noises can be disguised by incorporating plants with rustling leaves, wind chimes or the subtle sounds of a water feature.

Wind tends to increase in velocity above ground obstructions that create turbulence. The objective of windbreaks is to block and divert winds without creating turbulence. A solid vertical wall is not a perfect solution because it lowers the temperature on the protected side.

Dense groupings of shrubs and trees that are progressively higher the closer they come to the protected deck space can easily reduce wind speed by 50 percent without affecting temperature negatively.