Monday, September 17, 2012

Party Outside This Summer

By Keith Larson


Is your desk now in the the play room? Have you been relocated to your basement or family room? Running out of space to store your stuff? Summer is around the corner again and it's a great time to look at how a deck can help extend your outdoor living space. Also, if you're looking for better ways to utilize the space you already have, then take a look out your back window to where your new deck could be.

Expanding a home's outdoor living space is a popular trend, and many New Jersey homeowners have wasted space underneath their existing decks that could be better utilized. But, while typical wood decks have gaps between the boards, they provide no protection from the elements to the space below. New aluminum systems provide a water tight seal that protects the area below.

If you need someplace to put your belongings or just a room to entertain your buddies, your new protected space is a great place to kick back or to put your extra stuff. Of course, that isn't the only point of choosing these new materials over older picks. "These materials are meant to last forever with very little maintenance. They stand up to the elements and will never rot or rust," says Bert Holland of Duraview Decking.

Go with a reputable company so you have countless variations to pick from. You can choose older looks or newer modern looks. You can also mix and match what you want. They come in arranged sections for quick connections. Also, they are care-free out of the package so you won't have to change anything, ever. "Once in a while you wash things off to keep the boards spotless," explains Clive McGhee, a Bergen County Deck Builder. "No paintbrushes or stains to deal with." It only takes a little washing now and then to keep things looking pristine. The metal deck surface stay blemish and snag-free. No barefoot woes! And, they come in a range of great colors so there is an abundance of choices. You are sure to find something that suits your needs.

Once your deck is finished, there's no end to the ways you can decorate it. Add potted or hanging plants - the water runoff won't harm your aluminum deck like it would wood. Add a table with an umbrella and comfortable chairs, and you're set to enjoy the nice weather. The deck is also the perfect place for your grill, as most decks are built off the kitchen. Add some benches for extra seating, and you're ready to entertain.




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