A perfect deck and patio retreat for easy living

Ultimate Deck And Patio Retreat For Easy Living

You can create a stress-free outdoor space that is comfortable, convenient and low-maintenance. It's a lot easier than you think. TV home improvement expert Ron Hazelton, a regular correspondent on "Good Morning America" and host of his own syndicated series, "Ron Hazelton's HouseCalls," has several easy ideas to create a relaxing, luxurious get-away, right in your own backyard.

Set the Stage

Start with a focal point, such as a patio or deck, saving labor and time with a low-maintenance composite that looks like the real thing.

Made with recycled plastic and reclaimed wood, it protects against splinters, moisture and insect damage.

Decking and railing manufacturers such as Trex Co. offer rich textures, colors and railing designs. You can choose from realistic wood grain, a smooth or a rainforest-like surface, with the ability to bend the decking into distinctive designs. For a less costly upgrade you can replace the deck planks made of wood and railings with composite in the event that the deck's support is solid and sturdy. Now the stage is set.

Entertain in Your Hot Tub

Make your backyard one of the most comfortable and relaxing places in your home with the addition of some alfresco entertainment. Need to unwind? Take a spa session with an inflatable wave lounger that allows you to massage your body in a wave-like motion, from head to toe. Prefer the relaxation that only is experienced when you watch your favorite TV show? For what many consider the ultimate luxury, ThermoSpas Get started All Weather Entertainment Center features a no-glare, waterproof TV, a built-in stereo with surround sound, a radio/CD/DVD player, a bar top and stools, a minifridge or wine cooler and a cigar humidor.

Effortless Awnings

Motorized retractable awnings provide an elegant solution for enhancing backyard enjoyment and offer a number of benefits. They are also available in a wide variety of sizes and colors, awnings, like those made by SunSetter powered by Somfy motors, are able to make any patio or deck warmer and more relaxing, while increasing the efficiency of your home's energy use. Awnings offer a secure outdoor living space that's cozy and affordable. The awnings can reduce the temperature of decks or patios by up to 20 degrees, protect from harmful UV rays and expand your outdoor living area, all at the push of a button.

Stress-Free Garden Hose

Your gardening and outdoor chores keep you active enough-why deal with the hassle of a tangled, heavy garden hose? One device that makes this task simpler is powered by water, rather than batteries or electricity. ReelSmart is made by Hydro Industries, is a water-powered, auto-rewind hose reel that turns the garden hose around with the flick of a lever. Hydro Industries offers a variety of models that include an outdoor sink and hose reel combo for watering and potting plants and BBQ food preparation, as well as pet and car cleaning. There is a number of auto-rewind hose reel styles Pool Screen that will keep your garden hose organized and protected from the sun.

Now you can enjoy the splinter-free, easy-care style of a beautiful composite deck, the relaxing jets of a soothing spa that truly entertains, the sun protection and ease of a motorized awning, and the simplicity of an auto-rewind hose reel.