Design Buy Build Issue 46 2020 | Page 70

LANDSCAPING & EXTERNAL WORKS Maximize the space beneath an elevated deck with Trex RainEscape INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR MAXIMIZING AND PRESERVING AN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE Two Easy Upgrades that Add Function, Protection and Client Satisfaction By: Simon Thomas, TrexPro and Owner of Simon Thomas Deck and Design It’s no surprise that we Brits love our gardens! And with many people spending more time at home these days, outdoor spaces have become more important than ever. From small extensions to major renovations, consumer interest in deck and patio remodeling projects is at an all-time high, and homeowners are more willing to invest in elements that expand and extend the use of their garden spaces. One of the easiest – and often overlooked – ways to add value and function to any outdoor area is to create usable, dry storage space beneath a deck. As long as the space is accessible and properly protected from the elements, it can be used to store virtually anything. And who couldn’t use a little more storage space? GO BELOW: UTILIZING UNDER-DECK AREAS For years, homeowners – not to mention architects, builders and contractors – have neglected to take advantage of under-deck spaces. And, for those that have used the space under a deck for storage, odds are it hasn’t been pretty – especially in light of our often wet and rainy U.K. climate. I’ve certainly seen my share of outdoor storage spaces filled with deteriorating items covered in mud, mould and mildew due to being exposed to too much moisture. Still, creating useable space beneath a deck is one of my favourite add-ons to any garden project. The secret to success and customer satisfaction is adding a deck drainage system. Using a network of troughs and downspouts, these systems capture and divert water away from a deck, not only preserving the studwork but also making the area under the deck useable for storage or as additional living area. 70