With record-breaking temperatures across most of the country, overzealous homeowners tired of being holed up all winter will again get to enjoy one of the great features of any home — the outdoor space.

According to a recent survey from Professional Builder, a growing number of homeowners are investing more in their outdoor living space. In some cases, it’s about expanding livable space, but there’s also a strong hosting and entertaining component.

Just look at the numbers:

• 46.2 percent of building professionals indicated increase demand for outdoor living features
• 43 percent added outdoor living options to their product offering
• 52.6 percent said they believe outdoor living features are more important now than two years ago
• Decks (54.4%), outdoor fireplaces/fire pits (36.3%) and screened porches (31.6%) were voted the most demanded outdoor living features

Have you noticed an uptick in demand for outdoor living features?