How to Cover a Walkout Basement Door

Measure out the area above and around the door that you want covered. Consider the amount and type of coverage you want and the reason for the coverage. For example, if you only want the top covered to protect the door from weather elements, focus on upper coverings. If you prefer coverings along the sides as well to camouflage the door, consider ways to build up those areas.

Build a deck above the door from the walkout basement if you don't already have one in place. This creates a usable space above while covering the door. Plan the deck so it extends far enough over the basement door to give you the desired coverage.

Install a deck drainage system on the underside of the deck. These systems direct rain away from the area under the deck so you won't get rained on when you walk out the door. You also won't end up with a soggy, saturated patch of ground right outside the basement door.

Attach lattice panels vertically underneath the deck to provide side coverage for the basement door if desired. Grow vine plants along the lattice for additional privacy and coverage.

Build a retaining wall along the sides of the basement door for side coverage. Integrate the wall into slopes near the basement if your lot is sloped down toward the walkout basement exit.

Grow a hedge row as an alternative to a retaining wall. This gives you a way to cover the door area with a living wall that you are able to easily trim or modify as desired.