IN Pine-Richland Spring 2016 | Page 26

SPECIAL SECTION: HOME IMPROVEMENT EXTRA SPACE IS ON DECK One of the most inexpensive ways to add living space to your home is the addition of an outdoor deck or patio. Having a great outdoor space is like adding an extra room to your house. It can be enjoyed by the whole family, or experienced in quiet solitude as a retreat to the Zen of outdoor living. If you like to entertain, then an outdoor space is a must. Guests can spill out onto the patio, extending your home to allow more freedom for guests to mingle, both inside and out. Though the words “patio” and “deck” are often used interchangeably, there is a difference. A patio is generally constructed of stone pavers, tile or a simple concrete foundation that sits squarely on the ground. Decks are usually made of wood, PVC (also called vinyl) or composite, which has wood content that has been encapsulated in a PVC wrap. Decks can either be ground level or elevated. When considering which option is best for you, you’ll want to look at the costs and also which one works well with the style of your home. The good news is that regardless of the option you choose, you’ll get a positive return on your investment, somewhere between 30% and 75%. For a wood frame house, wooden, composite or PVC decks can match the trim of your existing home. Since wood can be painted, a wooden deck offers the most color options; however it will also require frequent repainting. Both PVC and composite decks are available in a wide range of earth tones to match your home’s style. 24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Pine-Richland Vince Lorenzi, owner of Lorenzi Home Design Center, explains that there are cost differences, but feels the PVC and composite decks require less maintenance in th R