Video: Outdoor Rooms Are Hot, Even When the Weather's Not; More homeowners boast finished outdoor rooms; 33 percent use them year-round

WASHINGTON, May 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- New research from the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) has revealed that one home improvement trend showing no sign of slowing is the addition of outdoor living spaces. Approximately 42 percent of homeowners surveyed report having a finished outdoor room, up from 35 percent in 2005.

To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/perc/33338/

At the same time, outdoor rooms have become more fully integrated into daily life. Sixty-four percent of homeowners report spending more time in their outdoor living spaces than they did a few years ago.

"By definition, an outdoor room is simply an outdoor area that homeowners can use for relaxing, cooking, and entertaining," said Katherine Whiteside, best-selling garden author and outdoor living expert. "Outdoor rooms are an effective way to extend your home's footprint and your family living space without major construction."

Whether they use their outdoor living spaces year-round or only during warm months, most homeowners with finished outdoor rooms report they use it at least a couple times a week or more (76 percent), while 28 percent use the space daily. A third of those surveyed report using it year-round.

"With the addition of a few key products, you can turn your outdoor room into an all-season room. Propane-powered bug zappers eliminate the nuisance of mosquitoes in the summer, and propane heaters will keep you toasty warm even when temperatures drop," said Whiteside.

PERC research found that outdoor living spaces are most regularly used to relax (52 percent), but other top uses include grilling or preparing meals, entertaining guests, eating a meal, or recreation like swimming, soaking in a hot tub, or playing games.

No matter how homeowners use their outdoor spaces, propane appliances play a key role. Gas grills are a focal point in many outdoor spaces. Propane fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and chimineas add ambiance and warmth. And propane lighting and pool or hot tub heaters add year-round appeal.

About the Survey A survey was conducted March 20-24, 2008 for the Propane Education & Research Council to gauge product popularity of outdoor living spaces or gas-powered products using Opinion Research Corporation CARAVAN(R) Omnibus Survey. A nationally representative sample of 756 homeowners participated in these telephone interviews.

For additional information about outdoor rooms and appliance options, please visit http://www.usepropane.com/ . Images available upon request.

CONTACT: Lauren Fischer of Porter Novelli, for the Propane Education andResearch Council, +1-202-973-1372, Lauren.Fischer@porternovelli.com

Web Site: http://www.usepropane.com/

SOURCE Propane Education and Research Council (PERC)