Living Large, Literally: Is a Side Deck Worth the Hype? A Full-Timer's Perspective

Let's face it, RV living is all about maximizing space without sacrificing comfort. When Less Junk, More Journey posed the question of whether a side deck impacts the interior brightness of their RV, it struck a chord with anyone considering this increasingly popular feature. Does adding a fold-out patio darken your living space, or can clever design mitigate the loss of light? As full-timers, we know how crucial a bright and airy interior is for long-term sanity. Let's dive into the realities of RV side decks and light management.

The Light Question: Deck Up vs. Deck Down

The core concern is simple: does a side deck block essential sunlight? Less Junk, More Journey initially shared this worry, acknowledging it as a significant factor in their decision-making process. The obvious concern is that a large obstruction, which in this case is the deck, would block natural light from entering the RV through windows. They addressed this by emphasizing the strategic placement of windows throughout their rig, especially near the deck area.

They mention the addition of a "port window" to compensate for any potential light reduction. This highlights a critical point: careful planning and consideration of window placement are crucial when opting for a side deck. It's not just about having windows, but about their size and location in relation to the deck itself. Think of it as a seesaw, deck goes up, windows need to compensate with more light.

Window Strategies: More Than Just Size

Beyond simply having more windows, the type and positioning of those windows matter. Less Junk, More Journey highlights this implicitly. Consider the direction your RV faces throughout the day. Are your windows strategically positioned to capture morning or afternoon sun? The type of glass used also impacts light transmission. Clear glass will obviously allow more light than tinted glass, but may come with heat trade-offs.

Think about the overall layout of your RV as well. An open floorplan allows light to penetrate deeper into the living space. Dark cabinetry and wall colors will absorb light, making the space feel darker, even with ample windows. A lighter color palette will reflect light and brighten the interior. Ultimately, window choice plays a huge role in RV design, and must be considered early.

Real-World Considerations: Beyond the Initial Purchase

The video touches on an important, often overlooked aspect of RV modifications: planning. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new feature like a side deck, but a well-informed decision requires thinking beyond the initial purchase. What are the long-term implications for your living space? How will the deck affect your energy usage (lighting, heating, cooling)? What's the ongoing maintenance? This is where the full-timer mentality comes in.

For instance, if you frequently camp in shaded areas, the impact of the side deck on interior light will be even more pronounced. Consider investing in high-quality LED lighting to supplement natural light. Also, remember that window placement isn't the only key to great light: mirrors strategically placed can also enhance interior light. The point here is that you can't depend solely on the RV manufacturer: make sure that you understand how to maximize the light yourself.

Deck Life: Is it Worth it?

Ultimately, the decision to embrace a side deck comes down to personal priorities. Less Junk, More Journey clearly values the expanded outdoor living space offered by the deck, and they've taken steps to mitigate any potential drawbacks in terms of interior light. For some, the trade-off may not be worth it. If you prioritize maximum natural light above all else, a side deck might not be the best choice. But for those who crave a seamless indoor-outdoor transition, the benefits can outweigh the challenges.

The key is to be realistic about your needs and habits. Do you spend most of your time indoors or outdoors? Do you prefer bright, airy spaces or cozy, shaded nooks? Answering these questions honestly will help you determine if a side deck is the right fit for your RV lifestyle.

Key Takeaways:

Side decks can impact interior brightness, but the effect can be minimized with careful planning.
Strategic window placement, including the addition of "port windows," is crucial.
Consider the direction your RV faces and how that impacts sunlight exposure.
Lighting and interior design choices play a significant role in maximizing brightness.
Think about long-term implications and maintenance before committing to a side deck.
Evaluate your personal priorities and how a side deck aligns with your RV lifestyle.