Expert Offers Advice On Building Outdoor Living Space

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Whether you live in a tight space in the city or you have lots of room in the country, creating a beautiful outdoor living space is a hot trend right now.

However, there are things you should consider when you create your outdoor space.

When the weather is warm, having an outdoor space can enhance any home.

"In our Angie's List annual project poll, we found about 35 percent of the respondents plan to invest in the exterior of their house," Angie Hicks from Angie's List said.

That can mean everything from fire pits to new decks and the projects can get pricey.

"When it comes to making outdoor living spaces, they can become very elaborate these days. More of us want to spend time outside, but if you are on a budget, be very clear and upfront when you are planning the process. Potentially, get your project broken into phases so you can do parts of it in any given year," Hicks said.

Before any project begins, contractor Charlie Watson said it's a good idea to answer some easy questions about what kind of outdoor space you need and want.

"How many people do they want to entertain out there? Is it just the family or do they have guests over a lot? Do they enjoy sitting outside at night with a fire pit or is it more grilling and a place to eat outside?" Watson said.

Also, make sure you check rules and regulations to find out what permits are needed, if any.

If you are doing any major construction in your backyard, you will likely need a permit.

You definitely need a permit in Pennsylvania if you are building something like a deck.

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