Outdoor amenities like redwood decks, trellises, privacy screens and benches can take the place of an extra room at a fraction of the cost. In addition, a deck increases real estate value and provides a low-maintenance outdoor area that keeps cooling and energy costs down.

When building an addition, such as a redwood deck, the choice of materials is always important. Today, more than ever, families are concerned about the safety of products around the home. Unlike chemically treated woods and petroleum-based products, redwood heartwood's durability is organic and natural.

If you are thinking about building a redwood deck yourself, you may find deck building easier than you would expect.

First of all, it is important to survey your yard and decide what problems building a deck can solve. Can it level off a sloping or uneven area? Can it turn an unusable side yard into a comfortable outdoor living area? Checking building codes in your area is an important preliminary step.

When working with wood outdoors, remember the type of hardware you use can affect the appearance of your project.

Inferior hardware can cause stains and is unlikely to last as long as the redwood. A variety of joist hangers, patented connectors and deck fasteners are available to help the do-it-yourselfer. It is worth the extra cost to use top-quality, hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steel or aluminum hardware.

Other amenities complete the job of making a living center. Redwood planters, benches, tables and furniture can turn a deck into your "outdoor room." You may want to add a spa, privacy screen, outdoor cooking center or shade trellis.

If you are looking for some help and ideas in planning your deck, the California Redwood Association offers two booklets, "Redwood Deck Construction" and "Redwood Landscape Architecture." Send $2.50 to California Redwood Association, Department DKU-04, 405 Enfrente Drive, Suite 200, Novato, CA 94949.

For more information, visit www.calredwood.org.