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How to create the outdoor sanctuary you’ve always wanted
Th e dream of a perfect outdoor space
where homeowners can enjoy the beauty
of nature while still being completely
comfortable is no longer limited to a specifi
c climate or time of year. A one-of-akind,
all-seasons deck is possible if the
right features are included in the design.
Th e key is to combine features that protect
from the elements, and then use the right
materials to make it happen.
Whether you’re revamping an existing
area, or creating a brand-new outdoor living
space to enjoy all year long, the following
deck additions can turn any project
into an all-seasons oasis to enjoy with
family and friends.
Overhead covering on a deck can shield
guests from the elements directly, as well
as provide a scaff old for features such as a
ceiling fan, which can cool the area in the
warmer months and improve heated air
fl ow during cooler months. Homeowners
can choose from deck shades or awnings
in a variety of materials to defend against
rain and wind, or to reduce sun exposure
and cool the area. A pergola is also a
beautiful addition to a custom deck that
doesn’t provide full coverage like a roof or
awning, but can serve as a solid framework
for other features such as climbing vines
or hanging plants that both provide cover
and add ambiance to the outdoor oasis.
Retractable walls are a high-tech option
that allows for free air movement during
the mild spring and fall, and protection
from sun, wind, rain, snow and even bugs
during the extreme summer and winter.
Some luxury decks and patios utilize
retractable glass walls for a defense
against wind or rain that doesn’t obstruct
the view. A more common tactic is to
install retractable screen walls, which can
be motorized, and are meant primarily
to keep insects out of the patio area.
Retractable privacy walls, usually in the
form of canvas or polyester fabric horizontal
shades, can provide a respite from
weather and enhance the feeling of a private
sanctuary.
Beautiful low-maintenance materials
are a must for any outdoor living space
that homeowners would like to spend
time enjoying, rather than performing
backbreaking annual maintenance.
Taking care of traditional wood decking
can be a diffi cult and frustrating process
since it is subject to staining and splintering,
and may require annual sanding and
painting. Composite decking is growing
in popularity across the U.S. not only for
its lower maintenance requirements, but
also its unparalleled beauty that can emulate
anything from the rustic beauty of
reclaimed wood to the high-impact look
of exotic hardwoods.
“What kind of decking you choose
makes a huge impact on the overall look
and feel of your outdoor living space,” said
Shara Gamble, director of sales and marketing
for TAMKO’s Envision Decking.
“One of the best things about composite
decking is it’s easy to preserve its beautiful
appearance throughout the seasons,
which means you can spend more time
relaxing and enjoying your outdoor spaces
with family and friends.”
Incorporate the elements into the deck
in a controlled way to boost enjoyment of
an outdoor living space regardless of the
season. For colder months, adding a fi re
element can provide a cozy and mesmerizing
focal point. Arranging comfortable
seating around a fi replace or fi re pit provides
a great place to gather with friends
and family and provide warmth on a cool
summer night or fall weekend. During
the hotter months, installing a water element
to the deck can provide a cooling
touch and a visual centerpiece. Fountains,
misters, or even a lap pool can provide a
welcome respite from the heat during the
summer, and a soothing, meditative backdrop
for the rest of the year.
Although decks are generally a
mild-weather attraction, there are many
ways to make an outdoor living space
functional and enjoyable during the rest
of the year, regardless of the geographic
location. Transform a deck into an all-seasons
sanctuary through the use of special
features and beautiful low-maintenance
composite decking to make the most of
the beauty of the outdoors without sacrifi
cing the comfort and style of your
unique outdoor retreat.
Courtesy BPT
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