Treated Wood Decking - A History of Treated Wood Used for Residential Decks

When most people think of treated wood the first thing to come to mind is outdoor decks. Structures built outdoors are exposed to many damaging environmental conditions including rain, snow, insects and ultraviolet radiation. Wood treatment with preservatives is recommended to extend the life of any exterior wood. Approximately 40% of treated lumber in North America is used in the construction of decks. Although everyone has walked on a treated deck, most know little history of the treated wood.

In the first half of the 19th century, wood was commonly treated with oil borne preservative systems such as those used to treat railway ties. A high level of protection was achieved however the finished product was aesthetically unsuitable for residential decking applications. At the time majority of the decks built were from naturally durable species such as cedar and redwood.

The early 1970's a copper based preservative know as chromated copper arsenate was introduced to the decking market. Wood preservative companies were trying to expand applications of their products and captured the residential decking market with great success. Wood treated with chromated copper arsenate gained market share over the next 20 years at the expense of naturally treated wood.

In 2001, consumers became concerned about the risks associated with chromated copper arsenate treated lumber. In particular, the use of arsenate on structures contacted by children was brought discussed. Although scientific studies suggested there were no risks associated with chromated copper arsenate preserved wood, it was voluntarily removed from the residential market on December 31st, 2003. Today chromated copper arsenate is still used as a preservative for agricultural applications, wood foundations, treated plywood and other industrial uses.

Ammonium copper quaternary and copper azole were introduced as alternatives to chromated copper arsenate lumber. Protection provided was similar to previous generations of chromated copper arsenate, however ammonium copper quaternary and copper azole were more corrosive requiring the need for heavily coated fasteners. All three systems chromated copper arsenate, ammonium copper quaternary and copper azole contain copper to that protects the wood. Additionally, copper is what gives treated wood a greenish appearance.

Micronized copper systems were introduced to the treated wood market in 2008. Small microscopic pieces of copper are deposited into the wood cells during the treatment process. The result is lumber with similar durability as previous generations of preservative systems, however corrosion of fasteners is minimal. In the United States today, micronized copper preserved wood is used for a majority of the decks. In Canada, treated wood is still treated with ammonium copper quaternary and copper azole however a shift to micronized copper preservatives is expected to occur in the near future.

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8 Reasons Why You Should Choose Composite Decking for Your Backyard Deck

Everybody loves a deck. There is something very inviting about a back yard deck that just makes you want to kick back and relax. In Australasia, composite decking materials are starting to make inroads into the market, but the advantages of this type of decking may not be fully realised. Here, the advantages of composite decking are explained in detail.

1. Low Maintenance.

Little to no maintenance is the biggest advantage of Composite Decking (otherwise known as WPC). Unlike natural timber, composite decking does not rot, fade, discolour, twist, warp, attract termites or mould. Natural timber requires regular oiling or staining (at least once per year) at a significant cost in both time and materials. Composite decking eliminates these costs. Reclaim your weekends!

2. It is good for the environment.

Most WPC boards are made from recycled materials, up to 90% of the total composition. These materials are typically reclaimed hardwoods and recycled plastics, reducing the amount of plastic heading for landfill. Some suppliers also have FSC accreditation, which ensures the responsible use of timber in manufacture. It is worth noting that you should avoid decking which uses rice pulp instead of reclaimed hardwood, as this material may not be recycled and it prone to moisture absorption, leading to warping and premature decay.

3. It is supplied in standard sizes.

Composite Decking is supplied in standard widths and lengths, helping you ensure you are getting full value for money. It also means you will not have to sort through your timber delivery looking for the appropriate size and grade of board. This can greatly reduce the waste on your project. Longer lengths also means fewer joins, reducing the risk of expansion.

4. Installation can actually be cheaper.

As the Composite Decking boards are standardised and normally much larger then natural timber boards, installation cost may actually be reduced. This is because larger boards means larger areas can be decked more quickly, potentially saving labour costs. Decking supplied with below surface or 'hidden' fixings also require fewer screws than natural timber, which needs a minimum of 4 screws for each and every board, regardless of length.

Heavy duty WPC allows for larger spans on the sub-frame, again reducing the material and labour costs.

5. Can be used in marine areas

Thanks to its non-corrosive properties, Composite Decking is ideal for marinas, jetties, pontoons and around spas and swimming pools. It will not rot from exposure to water, nor will it attract mould. Most composites are also non-slip - highly practical in wet areas.

6. Simple to install

Composite Decking is typically installed on a sub frame in the same manner as natural timber and can therefore be used to replace rotted timber without replacing the frame as well. Below surface fixings make laying the deck boards very fast and easy, meaning you can DIY and save on paying a tradesman!

7. Uses hidden fixings for a sleek, safe look.

Below surface, or 'hidden' fixings give composite decking its sleek, clean appearance. These fixings not only look great, but are very easy to install and provide barefoot safety by keeping sharp screws and nails securely in place below the surface.

8. It looks great!

Early composite decking looked and felt more like plastic than wood, but new designs have come full circle - your friends may not be able to tell the difference! WPC is now available in a huge range of colours, profiles and finishes, from ultra modern to ultra realistic, the choice is yours.

Increase the value of your home and avoid the maintenance, by installing a quality composite deck this weekend.

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Factors to Consider in Choosing Patio Furniture

Improving your patio will not only be limited to fountains, plants and lighting fixtures. More importantly, this will encompass the furniture that you will have.

This is important because the furniture that you have will contribute to the appeal of the patio. Furthermore, how comfortable you will be at that part of the house can be due to the furniture that you have.

A furniture with good quality should always be what you will get. Furthermore, the quality should be worth what you have paid for. It might not be all of the time that you can have furniture with good quality if they are sold at very cheap prices. But, there is always a chance that you can find one.

You can look into the material that the furniture is made from. The material can easily tell you the possible quality the product will have. Of course, you will be looking for materials that have good quality even if they stand alone. What was used to construct and assemble the furniture items will also be part of the questions that you need to ask.

The quality can also be related to the durability of the product. As much as possible, only have those that can withstand the drastic changes in the weather. They should be able to endure the hot rays of the sun. They should remain in good condition even after becoming soaked in the rain for several hours.

The design or the style of the furniture can be based on what you have chosen as the general theme for your patio. You should stick to a certain theme in order to have spontaneity on this area of your property. Furthermore, it can be more relaxing and more appealing if each and every part complements one another.

The patio is still part of your house. And so, you just have to choose furniture that are similar to what you have inside your home. For added comfort, you can include foams to pad the seats that you have. When the rains come, you can just easily remove those.

Then, the size of the furniture has to be taken into consideration. There should be enough space left for you to be able to position your furniture. In addition, there should be enough space for people to walk through and around your patio comfortably. Do not introduce too many furniture items. A bench or a couple of chairs and a table might be enough to help you relax in your patio.

The cost of the furniture that you have to purchase will also be a big deal. And while you are looking for the most affordable or reasonably priced product, you have to take into account their quality and durability. Sometimes, there might be no need for you to buy a new one. There might be some old indoor furniture that you have kept somewhere. Instead of leaving them in the storage to rot, you can put them to good use, for even just a short time, on your patio.

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Before You Build That Backyard Fire Pit

As a homeowner, you no doubt have looked for ways to make your home as comfortable as possible. You may have upgraded appliances and renovated parts of the house, and if you have been interested in outdoor relaxation you might have looked at ways to improve your backyard. Having a fire pit installed for multi-purpose use is one alternative to improving backyard functionality and entertainment opportunities, but before you head to the outdoor recreation shop you ought to give yourself pause and consider a few things.

Here are a few questions you should ask yourself before you make any calls or head to a masonry for the bricks and other construction materials:

1) What type of fire pit should be installed? Fire pits come in a variety of sizes and styles. A simple model may be a large copper or stone bowl for burning the wood that is portable so you can move it from your deck to your yard when the mood strikes. The chiminea, that outdoor fireplace with the bulbous bottom and chimney-shaped top, is also a popular style for outdoor recreation. Also, you have the option of having a stationary pit built - a brick or stone structure that can be used for outdoor fires or even grilling. Wood and gas might be used in these types of elaborate pits.

2) Should a professional install it, or should I do it myself? If you are interested in an advanced setup that requires installation of a propane tank or a gas line, you may want to contact a contractor that specializes in this sort of construction. If you plan to buy a portable fire pit, there isn't too much work to do, though you should make certain the pit is placed in a safe place.

3) Will it be used? A fire pit is nice to have in the backyard, but what good is it if you do not use it often? Before you commit to the expense, know that this is something that will be used any time of year, and used safely.

4) How much will it cost? Fire pits will range in price from fifty dollars to several hundred, depending on the setup. You definitely want to shop around for the style and price that best suits your budget.

When you know for certain a backyard fire pit is the perfect complement to your outdoor recreation, visit your local home recreation shop for ideas on creating an inviting and cozy environment for your family.

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How to Protect Patio Furniture During Winter

The winter season may be ideal to go out and play in the snow. However, it may also be too cold for your family to stay outside your patio. As much as you like to enjoy your outdoor area, the weather can be uncomfortable. In order to protect your patio furniture from the harsh cold months, you need to bring the pieces of furniture indoors or give it the necessary protection it needs to prevent its deterioration. Not all pieces of outdoor furniture are resistant to different weather conditions. Some furniture can not withstand too much rain, ice or snow. By protecting all your pieces of furniture, you can prevent any future damage as well save money from buying a new set of outdoor furniture for your patio once winter is over.

Protecting patio furniture is easy. Furniture comes in various kinds of materials like wood, metal, plastic, wicker and fiberglass among others. Each kind demands a different type of protection. Wood furniture is easily damaged because or water and moisture while metal furniture becomes susceptible to rust. You need to bring every thing indoors to avoid getting it damaged. Make sure that you have ample space in your garage or basement for furniture storage. If you have large pieces of furniture that can not be brought inside, use the appropriate furniture covers. Before storage, you need to clean your furniture to prevent any staining. Use a mild soap and water in cleaning your furniture sets and gently scrub all the dirt and grime. For fabrics, pillows and cushions, brush off any dirt or wash its covers according to the manufacturer instructions. Take the necessary precaution when cleaning wood furniture to avoid scarring it. Make sure that all pieces of furniture are completely dry. Damp or wet spots can cause mildew and rust for metal furniture. If you do not want to bring indoors your furniture or they are too heavy or big to store, you can use protective covers during the winter. These protective covers can be bought in furniture shops. It provides sufficient protection to your outdoor furniture because these covers are made from water proof and durable materials enough to withstand extreme winter weather. Some covers come with zipper closures, Velcro and drawstrings among others. These covers are specifically designed to protect furniture under different weather conditions. It comes in varying sizes and shapes to fit all kinds of furniture from tables, loungers, benches and recliners to name a few. It is also easy to use because of its simple features that secure your furniture for the duration of winter. When buying protective covers, always choose those furniture covers made of durable materials, water resistant, breathable and sturdy.

Furniture protection is necessary especially if you want to preserve its quality. Some pieces of furniture are not made to withstand extreme weather conditions so it is better to give it the care and protection it needs. If you do not want to use your patio furniture during winter, keep it safe and dry by storing it indoors or covering them with protective furniture covers. Storage and the protective covers prolong the life of your furniture.

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Go Green With Recycled Rugs

If you've made a decision to go completely green with the type of product you buy, you'll be happy to know that there are companies available that provide recycled rugs. Now, it's important to note that you may not want to choose just any type of recycled product on the market. It will be important for you to know exactly what type of product you'll receive, as well as the benefits that will be provided as a result of deciding to go green. With that being said, there are rugs available that have been completely created using 100% recycled polypropylene. If you aren't familiar with the name, this is the main ingredient used in creating plastic shopping bags.

Before rushing out to find these recycled rugs, it will be important for you to know a little bit more about these types of products, and how they can provide benefits for you in your everyday life. You will find that there are some companies that are completely focused on creating products that are sustainable. You will also find that there are just as many companies that aren't concerned with this effort, and as a result - they provide products that aren't actually healthy for the environment. So, it will be important to determine whether or not the product you purchase will be able to serve all causes.

Choosing Recycled Rugs over Traditional Rugs

You will find that there are a wide variety of rugs available that have been totally and completely recycled. Some companies will use older materials and simply recycle them to make new products. But there are other companies that are concerned with using products that are being thrown way to make new and improved products for the future. When it comes to rugs, you will quickly learn that many of the products being made will look, feel, and provide comfort unlike anything you've ever experienced. These products are 100% recycled, and provide a healthy alternative to other products that aren't green.

Where to Find Recycled Rugs

If you've been looking for a 100% green alternative, there are companies that you can find online that will provide these options for you. They have developed a process which uses polypropylene to make environmentally friendly, healthy, and sustainable recycled rugs.

If you are concerned with saving the environment, it starts with selecting a simple direction in which to travel. It will be important to understand that the process will need to take place over time, and it begins with a unique idea for a simple product. In this case, the product is recycled rugs, and in order to make this happen it takes people like you to choose a green alternative over something less environmentally friendly.

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How to Build a Simple Wooden Deck Rail

Decks over 30" above the ground usually require railing as a safety measure. There are many different ways to build a rail but this article will discuss the easiest, fastest, and cheapest method. This rail system uses 2"x 2" wooden balusters and a 2"x 6" top railing.

Use either an outdoor wood made for exposure to weather, redwood, or cedar, which is my personal favorite. I prefer cedar because it's easy to work with, has a long life expectancy, and is almost impervious to weather.

Most building codes require a maximum of 4" between the balusters. If your balusters are 1 ½" wide, they will need to be 5 ½" on center to maintain the 4" minimum spacing.

To get an idea how many balusters you need, measure the perimeter of your deck where railing will be installed. Multiply that number by 2.5 and that will tell you approximately how many 2"x 2" wooden balusters you need.

The next step is to cut the balusters to the proper length. The minimum height of the top of the rail is 36" in most locales. The top of the baluster should be 34" above the deck floor and extend a minimum of 7" onto the side board of the deck. If your deck joists are larger, you could extend the baluster even further for more stiffness.

Layout the baluster positions by making pencil marks every 5" to 5-1/2" apart around the deck perimeter. Draw a vertical line on the deck joists using a speed square.

Once the layout marks are drawn on the deck, cut 2"x 6" top rails to the correct lengths. Stand the top rails vertically around the exterior edge of the deck and transfer the layout marks from the deck rim joists onto the top rail. Use a speed square to draw light pencil lines.

Pre-drill two holes with an 1/8" drill bit about 1" and 6" from the end on each baluster. With the top end of a baluster 34" above the deck floor, insert two 3" screws through the baluster into the deck side board. Make sure each baluster is plumb using a short level. Repeat this for every baluster.

Now, holding the 2"x 6" rail vertically against the balusters and 36" above the deck floor, fasten the balusters to the top rail with 2-1/2" deck screws.

Repeat the same procedure above for all the top rails, screwing each baluster to the top rail. Also fasten the ends of the horizontal rails together with 3" deck screws.

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Four Factors to Remember While Purchasing Patio Heaters

Have you ever longed to stay outdoors at night and watch the beautiful sky but could not do it as it was shivering cold? Not surprisingly, this disappointment is quite common as patios are not something that all households enjoy. But for those lucky ones who do have patios, here is your chance to enjoy those fun-filled starry nights or the romantic moonlit nights; yes, it is possible to stay outdoors without feeling the chilliness or cold if you have the wonderful patio heaters.

As their name denotes, patio heaters heat up your patio and make it possible for you to enjoy a dinner outside the home. Suppose you have a pool where you would like to practice your swimming or a backyard where you want to some quality bonding time with your family, patio heaters can be of great help for you as they keep the temperature warm, thus letting you enjoy the warmth and cosiness.

So if you are one of those outdoor persons, patio heaters are a wise purchase for you. Here are a few tips for you, if you are planning to purchase one.

1. Do your research

Do a thorough study of the different heaters available in the market and analyse their features. Check the reliable stores from which you can buy the heater with warranty as well as repair facilities. You could find a lot of information on this online as well as check with those in your knowledge who have already bought patio heaters.

2. Decide where to install the heater

Patio heaters are of different types, meant to be kept in different places. Hence, before purchasing you need to have a clear idea of where you actually need to install the heater. This could be an open space or an enclosed one, next to your swimming pool or in your backyard, etc.

3. Decide on which type of patio heater to buy

Today there are different types of patio heaters in the market to suit various purposes and to be installed in various places. You can also find portable heaters that you can take with you as you move. Another example is the tabletop heaters which you can keep on a table to provide warmth within a smaller diameter of space. And of course, there are larger ones that can heat a whole room and has to be installed in a permanent way at a fixed place.

4. Check the safety features

It is important that the safety features of the heater are checked thoroughly before purchasing, especially if the heater is a portable one. This means even kids might use it and move it from one place to another. Hence, you need to check for all these features and ensure that everybody at home knows how to use the heater properly.

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Deck Coatings - Best Coatings for Deck Waterproofing

To truly bring out the best in a wooden deck, there are many forms of deck coatings that can be applied. These can be used for deck waterproofing, protection from the sun, and to enhance the grain of the wood. They can also be known as deck finishes, stains, or sealers. The best waterproof stains will be able to create a seal, which protects the wood from household spills, environmental factors, and water absorption. Because moisture isn't able to get into the wood, this helps minimize the chances of rotting or decay settling in, preserving the wooden deck for a longer period of time.

There are many different types of deck coatings on the market today, many of which offer deck waterproofing as one of their main benefits. To get started with finding the best deck stain or sealer, it's helpful to first take a look at these different coatings. Coatings that are heavily pigmented are called solid or opaque deck stains. These cover the wood completely, just as paint would, and create a film barrier that protects it from moisture. Because they do not penetrate into the wood, they can offer protection but can be prone to peeling over long periods of time. A benefit of solid stains is that you can choose from a wide array of different colors.

For slightly more transparency, you could turn to semi-solid deck coatings. These are also high in pigment and create a seal for deck waterproofing, but they give a higher level of penetration into the wood than opaque or solid stains. These are usually rich or dark in tint, and provide a high level of UV protection. Perhaps the most popular type of deck stain is the semi-transparent option, on the other hand, which gives a deep layer of penetration into the wood to protect it from all of the elements. These coatings tend to be more natural looking than the thicker types of coating.

Finally, you might want to take a look at fluoropolymer deck coatings, which are polymer resins. They provide deep UV protection and complete deck waterproofing. This type of deck coating is also idea because it can protect the deck from other elements such as rust, bacteria, mold, fungus, and other factors of this nature. The best type of deck coating for your needs will depend on what type of climate you live in, what type of look you are going for, and how much moisture your deck will be subjected to over the years.

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Patio Heaters: 5 Important Things To Think About Before Buying

Patio heater buying can end up bad if you don't really know what to go for. Buying a heater isn't as simple as going out to the local home improvement store and buying the first one you get your hands on. You need to think about some things before going through the purchase.

If you are lost in this whole thing and don't know what to do or where to start, we have found the way! For you buying needs, we give you: 5 important things to think about before buying a patio heater.

Gas Heaters

There are different types of heaters. One of them would be the gas or fuel powered heaters that are either propane or natural gas powered. These are among the most powerful heaters out there. propane heaters needs constant checking with their tanks to make sure it does not run out. Natural gas heaters however will continue to heat your patio as long as it is connected to your gas line.

Electric Heaters

Unlike gas heaters, All you need to do for this heater to work is to plug it in the nearest power socket and crank up the heat meter to the desired temp. But as convenient as it may be, it does not pack that much power when compared to gas heaters. However, if you have a small patio, then this heater will suffice.

Safety Measures

This is one very important point to consider when buying a patio heater. Make sure you buy a heater with stability. This is to avoid chances of it getting knocked over. Standing types should have a weighted base for stability. In the unlikely occasion that it tips over, make sure that it has an auto shut-off system for it.

Materials Used

This is one point to consider as well as the quality of the materials used to manufacture the heater would reflect the overall quality of it. Normally, heaters out in the market today are made of steel, though there are some basic ones made out of aluminum. Just remember that you get what you pay for when buying heaters.

Dome Size

The dome is the top part of the patio heater and it is one of the main proponents that would help emit heat in a given area. You should look at its size in diameter as the bigger they are the more efficient the heat distribution would be.

Though this article may have been a great help in your buying decision, make sure to check out more articles about patio heaters on the internet. There are a lot more sources of information regarding heaters online like other articles on a given brand or in-depth reviews on the leading ones in the market today.

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Fencing and Decking Materials: 5 Resolutions for Better Maintenance

Home maintenance is one of the most popular themes found in New Year's resolutions - right up there with fitness and finance. To prolong the life of your fencing and decking materials, and to create a more enjoyable outdoor living area, promise yourself you'll accomplish these tasks in the next year.

1. Care for your deck furniture

Give your deck a little TLC. Here's how to care for patio furniture according to construction material:

Cast and wrought iron: Rust should be sanded away. Once all rust is gone, apply a fresh coat of paint.

Molded plastic furniture: Clean it with soap and water, let it dry, and then apply a layer of car wax.

Outdoor fabrics: These may be cleaned with a bleach dilution. Be sure you store outdoor fabrics inside over the winter months to prevent mold.

Wicker furniture: Clean it with a pressure cleaner set to a low pressure setting.

Wood furniture: Clean stains with a white vinegar solution. Clean pieces should be stained and sealed, just like cedar decking or fencing.

2. Conduct a cedar decking stability check, for safety.

The North American Deck and Railing Association reports that between the years 2000 and 2006, 30 Americans were killed by deck collapses and another 2,000 people were hurt. Follow these steps to check the safety of your deck - doing so could save lives.

How to check the safety of cedar decking:

First, look at support mechanisms. Examine the beams and posts that hold up your decking. Using a metal tool, tap decking materials to check for dry rot, which will give way under a solid clunk. Also notice any splitting wood. Both of these circumstances call for a thorough examination from a decking professional. You should also contact a decking contractor if your deck feels unstable.

Check out the area where the house connects to the deck. Decking contractors can vouch that one of the most common areas of structural failure is the ledger board, where the deck connects to the house. Examine your ledger board, looking for loose or missing bolts. Call your decking contractor if you find any problematic connections.

Finally, see if all guards and rails are strong and sturdy, look for rust and corrosion, and arrange a municipal assessment by asking a city worker or decking contractor to assess the safety and legality of your deck.

3. Add a patio cover.

If you need more livable space, a patio cover can be an affordable solution. A patio cover creates a protected outdoor area that can be comfortable year-round, especially if you add a patio heater. It can also help reduce your deck's exposure to the elements, thus prolonging its life.

4. Reseal (and stain) cedar fence materials.

If you want to preserve your cedar fence materials, you'll need to reseal them every year. Some years may also require a fresh layer of stain. While you're taking care of the fence, why not tackle your cedar decking materials too? In moist locales like the Pacific Northwest, wood products must be sealed against winter rains; otherwise, rot will set in.

5. Put in an under-deck drainage system.

Chances are that the zone underneath your deck suffers drainage problems and pest infestations. There's an easy solution, though: installing an under-deck. An under-deck is a piece of pre-molded vinyl that is custom made, and therefore fits your deck precisely. It protects your home by pulling away water while also preventing pests from building their nests under your deck.

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Location of Your Designer Pool Umbrella

The location of the designer pool umbrella is very important. As we are all aware the actual sun's rays move continuously through out the day. Sometimes the sun can be a little to strong if young children are outside in it, so it's important to always provide shade for those who don't want to be in the sun all day long.

Pool umbrellas are sometimes attached to tables and chairs or even beside the pool to offer shade and cool areas. Because of that, our conventional shade structures will only keep us shaded for a short period throughout the day. Being able to rotate your patio umbrella allows you to follow the sun whilst keeping shaded all through the day. Not only will it enable you to stay out of the sun, but you will also have the opportunity to shade a number of different areas as you require.

Large free standing designer pool umbrellas are generally used in outdoor areas to supply shade for outdoor furniture. They are weather resistant and might be installed into grass areas for optimum shade. Umbrellas come in a wide variety of funky and basic colors and most outdoor pool tables come with designer umbrellas. Make certain to choose the one with good quality and design. The fabric or materials used during the manufacturing of an umbrella is another distinct way in which you are able to bring a sophisticated element for your outdoor decor.

When you are looking to buy a pool umbrella there can be numerous features for you to consider. Outdoor umbrellas are quite popular worldwide. These styles of home improvement devices are available in wide styles of designs, sizes and colors. However, you need to know the right way of affixing them.

The main parts of an umbrella are the frame and the canopy

The canopy of the umbrella is normally made of polyester or maybe a blend of cotton-poly. The weight of the canopy will range between 75 deniers to as much as 300. The larger the number for weight the greater sun protection and the durability but this also means it is going to be heavier. The frame will most likely be manufactured from stainless steel or maybe fiberglass.

When not being used, umbrellas could be stacked standing in a basement or garage. Outdoor umbrellas will need to get removed and stored away for a lot of reasons during times of wet and windy weather. If you use a pool umbrella cover you can add many more years of life to your designer outdoor umbrella. Again, some designer pool umbrellas will come with a cover whilst some require you to buy the cover separately.

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10 Steps to Keep Your Outdoor Retreat Maintenance Free

For many homeowners, creating a unique and useful outdoor space is not only a dream, but a reality. Many spend months designing the perfect outdoor living area, creating a beautiful retreat, and selecting the best accessories, plants, and wicker furniture for the finishing touches.

Does this sound like you? If so, you may be exhausted from all of the hard work you have put into creating such a wonderful space. The last thing you want to think about is the maintenance and constant upkeep it will require. Sometimes we do that to ourselves, don't we? We create something that ultimately becomes a burden.

What if I told you there were a few steps you could take to keep your newly designed retreat maintenance free?

Steps For a Maintenance Free Backyard Retreat

If regular maintenance isn't your forte, consider the following steps.

Weed Restrictors- Weed restrictors, or weed control fabric, can be used under shrubs, flowers, and trees to keep your outdoor space looking wonderful and prevent you from having to worry about pulling weeds every week. This fabric still allows your plants to breathe and allows fertilizer and water to pass through to the plant's roots. Stain- Stain for your wood deck is a much better choice than paint. After a while, paint becomes susceptible to the weather and sunlight and will begin to peel. With stain, you won't have to worry about this issue. Automatic Skimmers-Did you design your backyard space around your pool? Consider using an automatic skimmer to keep your pool clean. This will save you hours a week and will ensure your pool is ready to enjoy any time. Self Timing Sprinklers-You need to water your yard and your flowers to keep them healthy and growing, right? But this doesn't mean you need to get up every morning and grab the garden hose. When you are designing your outdoor space, install self timing sprinklers so you don't have to lift a finger. Furniture Covers- Wicker furniture is known for its ability to stay clean longer and its resistance to stains, but it can still collect dirt and debris if you let it. Don't waste time cleaning your furniture; make use of furniture covers to protect your wicker furniture. Automatic Light Timers-Imagine you are hosting an outdoor party with all of your family and friends. Everyone is having a great time and the party just keeps going strong. As the sun goes down though, you have to leave your guests to go turn on all of the outside lights. This small step not only takes you away from your guests, but also keeps you from completely enjoying your time. You can easily prevent this by installing lights with automatic timers in your backyard area. Fertilizer Spikes-Keeping your plants healthy means plenty of water, sunlight, and fertilizer. Fertilizing your plants can take time out of your day you don't want to sacrifice. A fertilizer spike is an easy way to keep your plants healthy without wasting your time, because all you need to do is drive the spike into the ground near the plant and let the spike do its job. Use Grass Alternatives- Hate mowing your lawn once a week? Consider mixing alternatives into your grass seed. Clovers and moss are wonderful alternatives that can lower the amount of weeds in your lawn, can grow in areas where grass struggles to grow, and don't have to be mowed as often. Reduce Weeds and Mowing Needs- Mulch and rocks are fantastic choices for homeowners who hate weeds and don't want to mow often. These options also don't need to be watered, saving you time, effort, and money. Snowmelt- Clearing snow and ice from your driveway and sidewalks is a time-consuming task during the winter seasons. To solve this issue, consider making use of modern technology. A snowmelt system will automatically keep your driveway and walkways clear, keep you from having to grab the shovel every time it snows.

If you are a homeowner who actually wants to spend time enjoying his outdoor space, consider these low maintenance and maintenance free options. These helpful tips will let you enjoy your backyard retreat and beautiful garden without a care in the world.

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Four Reasons to Renovate Your Patio

When you come home after a long day at work, what is the first thing you want to do? More than likely, you're thinking about dinner and making sure the kids have done their homework. There may be odd jobs around the house that need to be completed, but surely foremost in your mind is relaxing. Even if you log in eight hours at a desk every day, the idea of putting up your feet in your favorite recliner sounds inviting. Having the time to spend on your back patio with its marvelous view of your yard - or maybe the ocean or mountains - can enhance your relaxation, especially if you have the proper environment.

If you have noticed your patio lacks a certain style and quality, you may be less inclined to take advantage of the space. An open space leaves you at a disadvantage during colder months, even with a fire pit to help combat the shivers. You may wish to give your semi-outdoor space a bit of a makeover to encourage frequent use. If you're still on the fence about a renovation, though, here are five reasons to consider remodeling your patio:

1) A remodel job can help create an environmentally friendly backyard leisure space. Using "green" materials like an awning or energy efficient windows to enclose the patio can help regulate heat and light, which in turn could help you save on electricity and HVAC usage.

2) Fixing up your patio area can help raise the value of your home. If you decide to sell in the near future, having an attractive, closed-in patio makes for a tempting selling point. When properly dressed with outdoor furniture and a modest fireplace or fire pit, you present a cozy setting for a potential buyer.

3) Renovating your patio can enhance your relaxation. Repaint the walls a color that inspires the mind to become calmer, or install a wet bar close by so you don't have to traipse in and out of the house when you want a drink. Little fixes make a big difference.

4) You may be able to write off some renovations. If you use energy efficient products for your renovation and home improvement, you could receive a tax rebate. Consult with a contractor to learn more.

If you're looking to maximize your home relaxation, it's time to give that plain patio a makeover. Enclose the space to make it cozy, add new furniture and kick up your feet while you enjoy a favorite beverage or listen to music. Make the space your own,the way you want to enjoy it.

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Cedar Decking Ideas: Bring Spring Break to Your Home Decking

The stress from traveling and lodging expenses alone make vacations more chaotic than they need to be. This year, why not try spending your spring break in the comfort of your own home? Here are some ideas for transforming your cedar deck into an outdoor oasis so that you don't need to travel anywhere else for your spring break vacation.

Install a Patio Cover

It's a good idea to consider adding a patio cover as it will protect you and your outdoor haven from temperamental weather. Depending on where you live, there are patio cover styles available for all kinds of weather conditions. For rainy areas, low-maintenance aluminum patio cover with polycarbonate roofing allows for protection from all of the elements. For drier areas, the patio cover to go with is the pergola as it provides shade and is great looking, especially if you let climbing vines (grapes, wisteria, honeysuckle, passion flower, etc.) cover it.

Create Some Privacy

Another benefit of having a staycation is that you can have much more privacy and therefore relaxation. By installing lightweight, weatherproof canvas curtains or bamboo panels around the edge of your patio cover, you can create a sense of isolation on your cedar deck. You can also opt for installing privacy panels around your decking materials without needing a patio cover.

Dream-Worthy Furniture

Patio furniture is now all about comfort and aesthetics. You can find weatherproof conversation furniture sets, sectionals, sofas and love seats that will create a resort or spa-like feel to your cedar decking. Some classy touches to include could be a posh chaise lounge or small bistro set to make your coffee in the morning. A dining set your whole family can use is also a lovely addition. A quilted canvas hammock or spacious hammock chair are pieces to add to your cedar decking that promote relaxation as well.

Turn up the Heat

The Pacific Northwest is not known for its hot spring weather, so adding a source of heat to your cedar deck to make it feel cozier is key. Fire pits are perfect to have near the seating area to warm everyone up, but make sure to use a patio slab or heatproof fire pit pad to prevent heat damage to your decking materials. If you have ventilation and enough space on your cedar decking, consider adding gas-powered warming lamps. Talk to a local contractor is you have any more questions about heating accessories for your cedar decking.

A Place by the Water

The sound of water is not only relaxing, but can also drown out unwanted noises from your surrounding neighborhood. Therefore, a water feature would be a great asset to add to your cedar deck. A simple wall of cascading water, a babbling fountain, a pond with a cascading waterfall, etc. are all examples of water features to consider incorporating into your decking oasis.

Make sure to use a pond liner to serve as a barrier between your water feature and your decking materials in order to prevent any damage from leaking water. Using a fountain that constantly moves the water can help discourage unwanted insects. Use the appropriate pumps and components if you decide to add aquatic fauna and flora into your water feature.

Shine On

Adding outdoor lights onto your deck can extend your time spent outdoors, even after the sun sets. Popular lighting options for decks include solar and LED lights. For a cedar deck with a cover, you should use LED lights as they stay cool to the touch and are energy efficient. Bugs can be attracted to outdoor lights, so avoid putting them directly over dining or reading spaces on your deck.

Patio Blinds: A Great Enhancement For Your Patio   Patio Heaters: 4 Deciding Factors Revealed   Creating Your Dream Deck - How To Select Decking Material That Is Right for You   Garden Furniture That Lasts for Years   Patio Heaters: Best Kept Buying Secrets Revealed!   City of Ottawa Deck Permits