DECKING
2 . Add some shelter As well as providing shade from the sun when it ’ s warm , canopy awnings and shade sails can help to keep you dry when you ’ re out on your deck in the rainy and snowy months . If you have a heat source on your deck already , then your awning will help to trap the heat and keep you even warmer when you ’ re outside on chillier evenings .
3 . Alfresco dining even in the winter Alfresco dining is likely to be one of the primary functions of your outdoor living space so why not make the most of this function all year round ? When you ’ re creating your ideal outdoor area , be sure to consider how you ’ d like to use it in terms of dining and cooking and include the right equipment to make it as easy as possible . A gas or charcoal barbecue is a common choice that won ’ t break the budget , but if you fancy something a bit more substantial for your finest dining moments , you could opt for a clay oven or pizza oven . As with fire pits , you ’ ll need to guard your deck against the heat source , but an outdoor oven can turn your deck into the perfect party venue from January to December .
4 . Let there be light Lighting is key for creating the right mood in any space . Candles are a quick and easy way to illuminate and soften a space to help create a sense of intimacy , and if you opt
for LED versions then you needn ’ t worry about remembering to blow them out before heading inside . Solar string lights are another great option that can add a whimsical touch or festival vibe to your exterior area , especially if you have a small deck as they don ’ t take up much room and their effortless simplicity can help draw the eye to your plants , cushions and other accessories .
With these tips you ’ ll be able to make the most of your decking space all year-round , whether it ’ s 30 degrees or minus 30 .
www . duracomposites . com
Follow us @ ludmagazine www . landud . co . uk 73