(ARA) – If you had to name the biggest wasted space in your home, what would it be? If you have a second story deck, you probably immediately think of the space underneath it. You know, that space that would be perfect for storage, or for a nice comfy chair in the shade, or even a screened in porch – if only it didn’t get soaked every time it rains.
Typical wood decks have gaps between the boards, providing no shelter from the elements for the area below. “Expanding a home’s outdoor living space is a big trend, and so many newer homes have second or third level decks with space underneath that is basically lost,” says Don Garrison of LockDry Decking.
His company offers a simple, elegant solution – a watertight aluminum decking system that not only creates a beautifully finished and gapless deck, but just as importantly, keeps the area under the deck dry, no matter what the weather. The lower level is instantly transformed into usable space, expanding the ways homeowners can use it.
“Aluminum is the perfect material for decking,” explains Garrison. “It is able to withstand the most extreme outdoor elements. It does not rust, rot, warp, or splinter. It will not freeze and crack. It does not contain any chemicals that will leach. It also weights less than half of wood decking and is much stronger.” Installation is simple, and since the decking surface is watertight, no water penetrates to the deck framing, protecting the wooden structure, and your house, from moisture. Kits, which are available directly from LockDry, include trim, for a professional, finished looking deck.
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.
Meanwhile, the uses for the area under your new deck are limited only by your imagination. Turn it into a game room for the kids, a potting shed, or a second entertaining space. You can also use LockDry to build a ground level deck in this area. It helps prevent mold and odors from the ground below. If you choose to turn the space into a screened-in room the decking will help keep insects from getting inside.
The decking is maintenance free, so you’ll never have to replace a rotted, cracked or warped board again. You also won’t have to spend a perfect summer day waterproofing, staining or painting the deck. All it takes is periodic cleaning to keep the deck looking great. The aluminum decking stays cool to the touch, has a textured, non-skid powder coat finish, and is available in four beautiful colors, so there’s sure to be an option that complements the color scheme of your house.
Aluminum railing systems are also available to complete your deck. The various styles will complement just about any architectural style, from contemporary to traditional. Choose from a cable, glass, picket and decorative styles. They are shipped in pre-assembled sections for easy installation.
Each LockDry decking system comes with a limited lifetime warranty. For more information, visit www.lockdry.com or call (800) 711-1785 to request a brochure and decking samples.
Courtesy of ARA Content
