BELTON — Vendors featuring energy efficient products and "staycation" options were among the most popular at the 36th annual Temple Area Builders Association Home and Garden Show at the Bell County Expo Center.
About 200 vendors displayed their wares. Some 5,000 visitors were expected to attend Saturday and Sunday.
The economy has put conservation at the forefront of consumers' minds, said Andy Bass, association board member and event coordinator.
Consumers are more interested in tweaking and remodeling than in building right now, the electrician said, and green initiatives can equal "immense savings" over time.
They're also increasingly willing to invest in "outdoor living spaces," while foregoing expensive vacations elsewhere, he said.
Jason Parker, who manned the Belton-based Heart of Texas Landscape and Irrigation display Sunday, agreed.
The outdoor living space trend, including fountain-like "water features," patios and even pizza ovens, began several years ago in the area's higher-end neighborhoods, he said, but has spread to mid-range neighborhoods.
People have invested anywhere from $1,500 to $15,000 in their backyard oasis in lieu of traveling, Parker said, adding that he hopes the trend continues.
Temple resident Randy Sodek said he'd eventually love a complete outdoor living space, but that a pool is first on his and his wife's backyard vacation wish list.
The economy can make it hard to get ahead, he said, laughing.
Patty Thomas of Temple took a flier from Waco-based E6 InSealation Co. Spray Foam Professionals' crowded information table.
Thomas, 62, is downsizing and an inspector told her better insulation would keep energy costs down in her new home, she said.
E6 representative Bert Echterling said that Icynene spray foam has been around for decades, but attracted consumer attention about four years ago, following its introduction to area building codes.
The lagging economic environment has only increased consumer interest, he said, as the foam's air-tight air pockets can cut energy bills by up to 40 percent.
The economy has made consumers more educated and directed, Statewide Remodeling representative Cheryl Sorrell said. Her company added thermal panels and heavily insulated windows to its offerings several years ago, she said, once it saw new construction decline.
Ironically, she said, the economy has been good for business.