Decks, Patios and Porches

External additions to a house such as decks, patios and porches make the house seem larger. These external additions give extra space for other activities such as reading, relaxing and even sleeping. Guests can also be received in these areas when appropriate. A very large porch covered or enclosed with some latticework or fine screen is a veranda. A patio, on the other hand, is the mirror image of a porch but is located at the backyard of a house. It is usually a covered paved walkway adjoining the house and used mostly for al fresco dining. Guests can also be entertained in this area with afternoon tea or coffee. A deck is a flat surface similar to a floor but sticking out or protruding from a house. It can be constructed some distance from the ground and is ideal for spending nights outside.