Survey Shows What Deck Owners Pine For

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, N.J., April 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- For many homeowners, the deck of their dreams is just that: still a dream.

That's the finding of a recent survey conducted on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thompsonswaterseal). More than 2,000 people responded to the query, "What would you do if you won $15,000 to spend on your deck?" Fans were asked to rate how strongly they felt about 11 different options, with one being least interested and 10 being the most interested. The number one answer, with 47% giving it a 10, was to tear out the current deck and start over.

The survey found that alterations that improve both beauty and functionality were the most popular choices. Next in line, chosen by 43% of respondents, was to add lighting. Improving the landscaping and adding built-ins, like benches and storage, tied at 41% each.  Rounding out the top five improvements, at 40%, was the choice to enlarge an existing deck.

Outdoor kitchens have been a popular project, but only 28% of those taking the survey would spend their dollars here – possibly underscoring a shift toward practicality over luxury. Other possible ways to spend the windfall were to get new furniture (34%), change to composite or exotic wood (29%), repair damaged wood (25%), change the color (24%) and add a water feature.

"Overall, the survey findings reinforce how much people love their decks, and how important the deck is as a place to spend time with family and friends," said Jeff Wilson, HGTV/diy network host and a consultant for The Thompson's Company.  "I think that's why people want to add lighting, furniture, and storage, so that they can do more of what they already do – sit back and relax."

The last question asked participants to list anything else they'd add to the deck of their dreams. While many named hot tubs or fire pits, others asked for shade and enclosures, reinforcing the finding that homeowners want their decks to be a comfortable outdoor living space that can be used as often as possible. Many people stated simply that having a place for friends and family to gather would be enough.  (Of course, some took dreaming to a new level, asking for spaceship launching pads, a Prince Charming to preside over the grilling of steaks and a giant chess board with alternating color stained squares and life-size movable pieces.)

THE THOMPSON'S COMPANY ANNOUNCES 2012 DECK OF YOUR DREAMS SWEEPSTAKES

In 2012, The Thompson's Company will make one homeowner's dream deck a reality. The company has announced that its Deck Of Your Dreams Sweepstakes will run from April 7 – October 6, 2012, with a grand prize valued at almost $20,000.  Ten thousand dollars will be awarded as a check to be used on deck building and enhancements, and Plow & Hearth (www.plowhearth.com) will provide a $5,000 shopping spree of its products to pick the perfect "deck-cessories." Additionally, the winner will receive expert guidance from Jeff Wilson throughout the design and building process, including an in-person visit to the winner's home.

"Our first Deck of Your Dreams Sweepstakes in 2011 drew the largest response we've ever had for a promotion," said Brittany L. Adams, associate product manager for Thompson's Water Seal.  "This year it's an even bigger event, since we're giving away a total prize of $15,000 vs. $10,000.  Plow & Hearth offers hundreds of beautiful outdoor living items, large and small, so our 2012 winner really will be able to create a beautiful, comfortable and functional new space that fits their style.

Entries to the 2012 Deck of Your Dreams Sweepstakes can be submitted at the company's web site (www.thompsonswaterseal.com) beginning April 7.

CONTACT: Karla Neely
214.269-2196
[email protected]

SOURCE Thompson’s Water Seal