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Smart garden projects increase property value tii tth [ii The business of home renovations is booming as the nineties unfold. Annually, Canadians spend more than $16 billion improving their homes and as the days grow longer attention turns to outdoor improvements. From romantic gazebos and covered wooden swings to fences, benches and decks, the possibilities are almost endless. Many Canadian homeowners spend their vacations in their own backyards. With the tight economy, it's understand- able. But there's more to the stay-at-home vacation than finance. If your home is your castle, then your garden is your play- ground. Best of all, creating attractive and func Cozy upgraded bungalow + huge 60' x 225 ravine lo . $319,900 Super storter/impeccoble/ Douglas Ave. / Don't wait! $275,000 Note the terrific Mew from this Reynolds/Lakeshore opt. $174,900 Call BRENDA CLARK Ite/ MAX Aboutowne Redfy Corp. TOWNE ' COUNTRY SPEOAUST 842-7000 DISTINCTIVE HOMES Fn However, Henry Walthert, Executive Director of the Canadian Institute of Treated Wood (ClTW) cautions it is important to have a plant that will work before you go rushing out to the garden armed with a hammer and saw. "You can't just start throwing things together," Walthert says. "That's why we make a variety of design plants available to the public. It's part of our commitment to pro- tional outdoor additions is more than just fun and aesthetically pleasing. The fact is, smart garden projects add value to your property. Indeed, there are dozens of easy backyard ideas that will not only improve the look of your home but also it monetary worth. ll, Each year, the CITW offers Canadian do-it-yourselfers a full range of design plans for backyard projects. They are available for free, along with a handy information kit. Among the most requested plans are ideas for patio and pool decks, entertainment areas, picnic tables, storage sheds and a variety of fences and gates. Pressure treated wood is especially use- ful for outdoor projects because it is more durable than untreated wood and requires less maintenance. "And the fact that it lasts much longer than untreated wood also makes it better for the environment," Walthert adds. "Using pressure treated wood means we cut down fewer Canadian trees. - tion "For example, let's take an average backyard deck," he continues. "That might call for two or three trees to begin with, but if you work with untreated wood you’ll probably need to replace all or part of it every few years. On the other hand, using pressure treated wood, that same deck viding consumers with useful informa Amagnirtcxrst,tnaoe rtybarkiatgtmtpJaitupaCmtkravine.4bdrms,2 mm;ml.;m8mmw0akvfle RUDI MUELLER 842-7000 CALL TODAY FOR YOUR NEXT MOVE 842-7000 I MATURE EAST OAKVILLE EUROPEAN ELEGANCE RAVINE & CREEK could last up to 50 years," Quality pressure treated wood is as ideal for landscaping as it is for decks. It makes an attractive and lasting border for patios, driveways or flower gardens. It is also an excellent choice for raised veg- etable gardens. In fact, a recent study con- ducted by independent researchers through laboratories at Texas A&M and Southwest Research Institute confirmed that treated wood is safe for all types of gardens when it is used properly. "When the lumber is in close contact with the ground, it's very important to make sure the wood is properly treated." Walthen points out. "The fact is, not all treated wood is the same and you have to consider the application before you buy it." When using pressure treated wood for ground contact applications, Walther! advises it is best to choose incised wood. Project design plans are available free of charge from the CITW. You will also receive a handy information kit. Call 1- 800-463-TREE. 'i"i.jl,i,lis:'tiii t lt _ i Cap .*1 ,1