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0 of 3 Premium Clicks used this month SUBSCRIBE Print + Online Subscriber Activation | Register x Forgot Password | Need an Account? e-edition | subscribe | newsletter | deals Classifieds Jobs Autos Real Estate FEATURED » NEWS NOW Medford crime stats show improvement almost across the board for 2015 ... Surveillance video set to music gets leads and laughs ... Two injured in Sunny Valley shooting ... Medford crime stats show improvement almost across the board for 2015 ... Surveillance video set to music gets leads and laughs ... Two injured in Sunny Valley shooting ... Home Help: 5 ways to revamp your outdoor living space this year Comment MailTribune.com Writer Posted Jan. 26, 2015 at 12:01 AM Posted Jan. 26, 2015 at 12:01 AM » Social News TIP OF THE WEEK Do long, winter days holed up indoors have you dreaming of a new deck to relax on come springtime? Whether you envision transforming a deck into a personal sanctuary or building a new outdoor living space for backyard entertaining, now is the perfect time to start turning those dreams into reality. 1. Deck details: A deck only looks as good as its boards, which is why it is important to select decking that is as durable as it is attractive. Even well-designed outdoor living spaces can disappoint if deck boards crack, fail, fade or warp. Composite decking products fuel this growth by helping homeowners realize that decks can require minimal upkeep while still providing lasting beauty. 2. Extend your living space: Your outdoor living space serves as an extension of the home. By incorporating level changes, lighting and the right furniture, you can define areas for socializing and relaxing. You can also incorporate pathway features and ground lighting to connect the spaces and help your guests travel smoothly from one area to the other. 3. Create drama on deck: Once you’ve got a basic idea of how you want to design your deck, get creative and pinpoint areas where you could make use of artistic focal points that will make your deck even more unique. Some of the simplest ways to add distinction to your deck are to alternate the plank directions, create inlaid patterns and inset frames. Similar levels of creativity can also be applied to fire pits, planters, built-in seating and storage boxes. 4. Something to lean on: While railings are an important safety feature, they can also double as a decorative accent that takes your deck to a whole new level. You can finish out your deck with color-matched composite railing components and accessories for a seamless look, or contrast colors to create visual interest. If preserving views is important, consider using tempered glass panels, horizontal cables or shaped metal instead of traditional balusters. — Brandpoint HOME-SELLING TIP Photo finish: Don’t underestimate the importance of having some great photos of your house taken for your real estate listing. Experts say to upload as many photos as possible, showcasing the interior and exterior of your home. Enlist an expert to take the photos for you on a sunny day, making sure to capture the living room, master bath, bedrooms and kitchen. — More Content Now DECORATING TIP Cozy colors: Don't underestimate the psychology of color. Warmer colors, such as shades of red, orange and yellow, can heat up a room. Choose rich tones to create an inviting feel. Popular colors this year include cayenne shades of red, deep oranges, and bright, botanical-inspired yellows. Accent walls or warm, richly-colored accessories are excellent options for those not ready to commit to such a bold color in the entire bedroom. Throw pillows and blankets, rugs or art can be easily changed with holidays or seasons. — Brandpoint GARDEN GUIDE Thawing out: Usually, a blanket of snow on top of your plants is nothing to worry about, but if you have to melt some snow in your garden this winter, make sure to stay away from using salt to get the job done. Salt can be deadly for flowers, shrubs and grass, so you’ll want to use materials like sand, sawdust or kitty litter instead. — More Content Now MailTribune.com Writer Posted Jan. 26, 2015 at 12:01 AM » Comment or view comments Reader Reaction » STAY INFORMED Email NewsLetter Sign Up Today Sign up for our newsletter and have the top headlines from your community delivered right to your inbox. Southern Oregon Directory Featured Businesses Loading... 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