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Should you really buy an outdoor TV for your porch or deck?

When it comes to planning your new outdoor living area, you are very likely considering adding a TV. At Archadeck of Kansas City, we have designed many screened porches, covered porches, and decks, which included a television, and we always recommend purchasing an outdoor TV.

Bringing TVs outdoors is fast becoming a staple for outdoor living areas. We find that most of our clients, who are planning a new custom porch or covered deck, have a TV on their wish list of indoor luxuries, which they would like to bring outdoors into their new space. Televisions offer many opportunities for outdoor entertaining – from sporting events to televised concerts – TVs are just great to have on our screened porch or deck. If you are thinking about bringing one of your indoor televisions outdoors, we implore you to consider investing in a true outdoor TV.

Cozy screened porch with outdoor fireplace
Olathe KS screened porch with outdoor fireplace and TV

Outdoor TVs are specifically built for use outdoors. While they can cost up to four times more than your indoor TV, there are many benefits to invest wisely in an outdoor TV for you new deck or screened porch design.

  • Indoor TV casings do not include protective layers. They are not rated for very cold or very hot temperatures. Moisture can seep into electrical components very quickly ruining your TV’s circuitry. Another problem with indoor TV casings in outdoor spaces is that insects can enter through ventilation grilles, seeking warmth. Outdoor TVs are properly sealed to protect your electrical components from the elements.
  • Indoor TVs’ warranties do not cover outdoor usage. If your indoor TV is ruined outdoors, you are out the money you spent on the TV, plus additional money to replace it.
  • Glossy indoor TV screens are hard to view in outdoor lighting. There is a wide variety of outdoor TVs, specifically made for viewing in full shade, partial shade, and even no shade.

This Lee’s Summit deck design included a custom pergola for partial sun protection. Mounted atop the mantel of the custom stacked stone fireplace, this TV is optimally protected by way of a custom-designed TV cabinet. We were able to sink the TV niche into the framing of the fireplace, and build custom cabinet doors, which will further protect this outdoor TV from the elements when not in use.

Custom deck with pergola and outdoor fireplace
An outdoor TV designed for partial or full sunlight will best serve this Lee’s Summit deck with pergola.

The screened porch design below did not include an outdoor fireplace, but the homeowners still wanted to add a TV. We custom designed a TV wall, where their TV could be safely mounted and protected from the elements. At Archadeck of Kansas City, we will ask specific questions concerning your needs for a TV on your new porch or deck, and suggest areas, where it can be functionally and stylishly mounted. We will ensure that the proper electrical and cable hook-ups are optimally placed and create a custom mounting solution.

Custom screened porch with

This Olathe covered porch design included a custom stone fireplace with an outdoor TV mounted above. At Archadeck of Kansas City, we recommend mounting your TV above a mantel for additional protection from the heat of the fireplace. Even televisions, which are rated for outdoor use, should be protected from direct heat. These homeowners have chosen to keep their TV covered to further safeguard it when not in use, especially important since the TV is mounted in a space without screens.

Covered patio

At Archadeck of Kansas City, we want to help you make the best decisions for your new outdoor space. Our goal is to give you the space of your dreams – for both design and function. We will recommend optimal placement of your outdoor amenities, such as fireplaces and televisions, which will give you the best use of your space. We can design truly custom elements into your porch or deck, which will properly showcase and protect your investment in an outdoor TV. If you have additional questions, we would be pleased to answer them.

3-season room
Beautiful Leawood screened porch with outdoor fireplace and TV.

If you’re considering adding a new porch or deck to your Kansas City area home, give us a call for a free consultation at (913) 578-8990.

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