Landscape & Urban Design Issue 63 2023 | Page 54

DECKING

5 KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR OUTDOOR UPGRADES

Outdoor areas play a major part in creating first impressions and can serve to either attract or detract from your property ’ s curb appeal . By adding a beautiful outdoor facility that you can enjoy right away , you not only improve its attractiveness and utility immediately , you also increase its resale value over time .
Here are five key considerations for outdoor upgrades to unlock your property ’ s potential :
LIFESTYLE / FUNCTIONALITY This may seem obvious , but the kind of lifestyle you lead or wish to lead or the functionality you require should guide your decision on what outdoor upgrades you should consider . Are you an entertainer ? Do you like to do outdoor yoga ? Do you need a quiet space to read and relax or to send the kids to play safely outside ? Be it a patio or pergola , a pool-deck or a firepit , all of these questions should be answered before you decide what kind of outdoor upgrade will add value to your property .
Once those questions are answered , it ’ s very easy to extend your living space to create exactly what you need to meet your outdoor needs and expectations . Modern composite building materials such as Eva-Last ’ s decking , pergola beams and privacy screens are designed with these spaces in mind and you can find inspirational images and articles on www . eva-last . com . They offer quick and easy solutions to create beautiful outdoor spaces . Not only are you increasing the available area to live , work or play , you ’ re adding a beautiful aesthetic that enhances your property ’ s appeal .
WEATHER Once you ’ ve decided what to build , it ’ s also important to consider the seasons and prevailing weather – you may need shelter from the wind , rain or snow , perhaps sun protection and shade is a bigger factor for your particular location . Whether it ’ s a patio that opens out from the lounge , or a split-level entertainment area for parties or pilates , be sure to select the most suitable products , designed to withstand the elements – you don ’ t want to spend your weekends fixing or maintaining your porch ! Look for durable , weather-resistant options such as Eva-Last ’ s range of composite materials . Made from recycled plastic combined with flexible , fast-growing bamboo fibres , Eva-Last composite products , unlike wood , require very little maintenance . Plus , they ’ re backed by up to 30-year warranties and
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