Posts Tagged ‘deck’

Give Your Backyard Deck A Great, Brand New Style With These Color Suggestions

Monday, October 31st, 2011

Everyone likes to have their house look nice, and with a little ingenuity and elbow grease, you can do it easily. Exterior decking or patios can often be perked up using only dabs of color here and there. You can also visualize a new look for your outside areas that incorporates new boldly designed furniture to enliven the ambience. After some time, hard work and imagination even pre-owned items can be given a new lease of life. If you would like more tips on how to spice up your outside living area then read on.

Much more about outdoor deck style explained

Whether or not your outdoor patio needs repainting, it is a good first step in your makeover project to clean and then paint or stain it. You need to keep in mind the color scheme you would like to have. Innovative use of corresponding colors will have a nice impact and really give your deck a visual lift. Using your imagination you can spice it up in whatever way you want. Decks are all about aesthetics and this is especially important when entertaining guests. You can get some inexpensive furniture that is available in the colors that match everything you have already chosen. A colorful pub cart will look good in one of the corners with some glassware that is bright acrylic.

When you’ve got some outdated furniture that is wicker, you can change its look with its own paint job. Perhaps, you are going to feel slightly adventuresome, and paint some kind of pattern, and when you do, use acrylic paint that you protect with a coat of varnish. For that personal touch you can custom paint your own design onto the side of a galvanized bucket oblong or container to use as an ice bucket to chill drinks etc. Make certain your paint is actually a food safe level if you decide to customize your own ice bucket. You can use intriguing patterns and colors, like seashores, fish, sea shells, beach balls, with pale greens, oranges, or yellow colors. An interesting effect can be achieved if you paint the slats of a slatted table-top with varying shades of one color. You be the judge of what you want, and use the colors you like.

While you’re spicing up your patio or deck area, you can make other things more vibrant like window boxes, garden sheds and porches? You could add lighting that is exciting and fun to light up your patio area. Low hanging trees or beams are often locations for strings of lights or colorful lanterns. A layer of special paint can be applied to any common white viny furniture you may have to coordinate it with your patio or deck colors. Buy some new cushions and your seating will be the same as brand new. Selecting your colors cautiously before beginning to get the overall look right is very important. It may be outrageous and colorful, or toned down a bit, depending on you. You can lookup around for the look you want, and incorporate it into your back yard.

Take pleasure in your fresh outdoor deck!

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Deck Construction for your Home

Tuesday, October 11th, 2011

Residential decks can be constructed over steep areas or rough ground that is otherwise unusable. Decks can also be covered by a canopy or pergola to control sunlight. Deck designs can be found in numerous books, do-it-yourself magazines and web sites. In architecture, a deck is a flat surface capable of supporting weight, similar to a floor, but typically constructed outdoors, often elevated from the ground, and usually connected to a building. The term is a generalization of decks as found on ships.

Due to environmental concerns, composite decking (a mixture of two materials, typically wood pulp and recycled material such as plastic bottles or plastic bags) have appeared on the market. Proponents of composite decking have touted this as a much needed development as this helps to curb logging of trees for new decks. However composite decking has been found to contain harmful chemicals, cannot be refurbished, and despite claims from decking companies, the composite deck still attracts molding.

The main support for your deck will be your joists. These will be attached to your ledger board using joist hangers. Untreated joists should be at least 18 inches away from the ground. Girders should be 12 inches away from the ground. However, in many situations, exceptions are made where the elevation of the home does not provide for these minimum distances and the climate is very dry.

Decks are usually made from either pressure treated lumber, composite material, Western red cedar, and other hardwoods and recycled planks made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polystyrene (PS) and PET plastic as well as mixed plastics and wood fiber (often called “composite” lumber). Artificial decking products are often called “wood-plastic composites”.

As wood ages, it is common for cracks to develop. Large cracks (longer than the depth of the member) or excessive cracking overall can weaken deck framing. Toe-nailed connections are always at risk for splitting. Splitting of lumber near connections should be noted by the homeowner and the affected area should either be repaired or wood replaced.

If you are notching some of the supporting members there are some basic rules you have to follow concerning notching. Notches must be less than one-quarter the depth of the member. On the tension and compression faces, the notch depth must be less than one-sixth of the member’s depth, and the notch length must be less than one-third of the member’s depth. Notches are not permitted in the middle third of spans, or on the tension face of members that are greater than 3 inches thick.

All screws, bolts and nails should be hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steel, silicon bronze, copper, zinc-coated or corrosion-resistant. Metal connectors and fasteners can corrode over time, especially if a product with insufficient corrosion-resistance was originally installed. Corrosion of a fastener affects both the fastener and the wood. As the fastener corrodes, it causes the wood around it to deteriorate. As the fastener becomes smaller, the void around it becomes larger. Inspectors normally do not remove fasteners to check their quality or size, but if the inspector removes a fastener, s/he should make sure that removal doesn’t result in a safety issue. Fasteners removed should be from areas that have the greatest exposure to weather.

As of 2008 the NEC has added the following requirement for outlets for decks. Balconies, decks and porches that are accessible from inside the dwelling unit shall have at least one receptacle outlet installed within the perimeter of the balcony, deck or porch. The receptacle shall not be located more than 6 feet (2m) above the balcony, deck or porch surface.

The Barrie Home Inspector is a Certified Building Code Official who has completed all the required Part 9 and Part 3 Ontario Building Code courses which includes residential decks. As a Certified Home Inspector this assures your home will be inspected by someone with the knowledge and experience to ensure that will have “Peace of Mind” when making your next Real Estate purchase.

Want to find out more about Barrie’s Premier Home Inspector, then visit The Barrie Home Inspector’s site. WETT inspections for insurance companies provided by Barrie WETT Inspection Services

Ensure Garden Parties Go Well With Canopies

Saturday, July 17th, 2010

In the summer, the weather turns comfortable, many people will plan or hold social gatherings in the backyard, on a porch, or in the wonderful home garden. Having the event outside gives the party-goers a chance to experience the nice weather, but also allows the party-giver to take care of many more guests than is feasible inside the house.

However, even in the summer the weather sometimes turns bad. A summer storm or some spring sprinkles will ruin well thought-out plans. To obviate such problems, planners can save their parties with the use of an outdoor canopy. These outdoor shades will protect guests against rain and wind, but can also make the party a bit more private.

Canopies are really a fancy word for tents. They are usually composed of fabric stretched over a metal frame. There is always a fabric top or roof, but whether there are wall flaps or not depends on how much protection the party planner demands. Fabrics can be both natural or synthetic. Small cut-outs in the wall flaps serve as conduits for air and also a way for guests to look outside. Without flow of air, it can become quite stuffy.

In the case that the garden or yard is very small, it may be possible to forgo a canopy and instead use an existing awning of the house to shelter guests. Awnings are limited in area because they must extend partially supported from an attachment point to the house. As a result, only about ten people can comfortable fit under typical awnings. A pool or outdoor umbrella can shade even smaller numbers. When the party is somewhat large, from a single dozen upwards to a hundred, an outdoor shade canopy may be the best.

Renting a canopy is possibility to consider. This is due to two problems with buying one. One problem is that it’s quite expensive, in the hundreds to thousands of dollars for a medium or high quality product. Another problem is that storage of the canopy during off-seasons can be hard if there isn’t much outdoor storage. Many party supply chains will be able to rent out canopies, freestanding awnings, umbrellas and other types of outdoor shades.

Another problem is that if a homeowner has purchased a canopy, he or she will have to spend some time cleaning it every year. Prolonged storage or use results in accumulation of dirt and stains. Specialized fabric cleaners may be used for the canvas kind, whereas soap and water may be ok for synthetics. Specialized spray systems are also used if the canopy is very large and difficult to clean. These are often used by store owners who must ensure the store front awning remains spotless for customers.

Come to our site on outdoor shade for home to find out the most latest information. Uncover the latest research and writings in regards to purchasing deck shade.

Protecting Youthful Skin With Exterior Shades

Sunday, March 14th, 2010

Incidence of melanomas and carcinomas of the skin continue to increase all over the world. Part of the reason is due to the increased proportion of elderly who are more susceptible to cancer in general. In addition, there seems to be anecdotal evidence that changing patterns of nutrition and diet contribute to increased incidence. What is not contested is that excessive exposure to the sun can drive the kinds of genetic damage thought to underlie cancer.

One way to block UV radiation is to use sun screen. But many people worry about applying chemicals directly onto skin. Artificial chemicals may cause other problems especially for people with very sensitive skin. The alternative is to increase use of shade items such as hats and exterior shading.

Installation of exterior and outdoor shading provides three benefits. One, outdoor shades add resale value to a house by increasing the effective usable area. Two, outdoor shades increase living space for household members to enjoy. Three, outdoor shades provide a health benefit by shielding against UV radiation.

There are a number of possible outdoor shades to consider, ranging from the very simple to very complex. Costs are expected to vary concordantly. The most simple shades are portable pieces that can be dissembled and stored away during periods of disuse. The most complex involve major structural work for attachment to the house, but also provide shading that is free of the hassles of storage and reassembly every season.

A typical type of temporary shade is the lightweight cabana for the pool. These are useful because they can shield the interior and increase privacy. Pool umbrellas on the other hand don’t provide much privacy but are great for communal shading at an exterior table. Awnings and canopies come in lightweight form also.

Heavy duty fixed outdoor shades come in many varieties also. The most widely known ones are fixed or retractable awnings which are fitted over openings to the house and can extend over patios or porches. Lesser known shades are pergolas that partially shade gardens or yards. Pergolas are made of beams or lattices but usually don’t have any fabric, thus allowing some passage of light and wind as befits a garden. Arbors are similar to pergolas but on a much smaller scale.

The cost of the simplest shades start near the hundred dollar level, and rise steadily from there. A full gazebo system or other fairly complex structure may cost well over ten thousand dollars, and requires a substantial investment of free space in the garden or backyard. However, the benefit of protecting one’s skin from irreversible aging or even cancer is close to priceless.

Some of this information was graciously supplied by a site on outdoor shading for home. Additional topics and articles on shades for home porch can be found at the site.

The Exterior Umbrella For Your Pool And Garden

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010

Activities that require spending time in the sun can lead to sunburn, premature skin aging, and more serious skin-related ailments down the line. Taking advantage of the home pool, working in the garden during the day or sitting on the patio are three examples of common activities that require spending appreciable time outside.

Outdoor shade usage is one way to help shield against the damage induced by solar radiation. Among the outdoor shades, a relatively cheap but effective option is the umbrella. The width runs from 8 to 10 feet. Most people first see them around personal home pools. Even better is that contemporary manufacturers are providing a host of accessories which extend the usefulness of these umbrellas.

Near pools, the umbrella is most often configured to be held in place by a hole in the center of a table. However, the center pole obstructs the view of those sitting around. To remedy this problem, manufacturers have designed a side-post umbrella. The pole is placed in a stand away from the table, and a side-arm or side-post extends from the post to hold the umbrella shade over the table. A table is not even needed.

Heavy wind will topple poorly anchored umbrellas. The base should be heavy enough to withstand strong gusts. Classically, a cheap base was just a plastic container filled with sand. Newer bases are made of very dense metal that not only anchor but also look elegant and classy.

Usually when the sun sets, the outdoor umbrella becomes useless as it’s no longer needed. However, it’s now possible to install umbrella lighting that fits into the ribs. The lighting can illuminate, ironically, the area beneath the shade umbrella. People can continue to chat and socialize even when the sky becomes dark. The lights plug into a nearby socket or can be made cordless by using batteries.

Umbrellas should be retracted and placed into storage during off-seasons. The closed configuration can be shielded against further damage and dirt with a special cover. Covers are picked for both style and for their compatibility with existing decor.

A final popular option is the addition of a motor which can power the opening and closing of the outdoor shade umbrella. Using a traditional hand crank is not only hard work, but potentially dangerous to dangling fingers. The motor allows also for remote opening and closing. However, the motors are usually quite delicate and prone to damage. They are usually not part of the original installation and must be purchased and fitted separately.

This and other topics on outdoor shades are accessible to all. Study more about outdoor porch shades by directly reading our site.

Getting the Right Outdoor Furniture for your Home

Thursday, January 7th, 2010

Buying new outdoor furniture for your patio or deck is one way to add both value and beauty to your home. There aren’t many things more enjoyable than venturing outside and relaxing with your family and friends. When you create the right atmosphere you will only enhance your experience so it makes sense to spend some time thinking about what you want to buy. This time is well spent though as you will be rewarded with your own dream back yard.

As you start looking into your new set of outdoor patio furniture there are some things to consider to make sure you get the decision right. For starters, think about how functional it needs to be. Are you going to use it every day? How many people will be using it? Do you want a very open and inviting atmosphere or do you want a very private setting? When you come up with questions like these and more importantly the answers to them you will go a long way towards buying the best set of furniture for your deck or patio.

Now that you are aware of the functional requirements of the furniture it’s time to start looking at what is currently out there. Pay attention to the popular styles and colors, and read what some design experts recommend today. Try to envision the furniture set on your deck or your patio to get a picture in your head. You can go online to get detailed pictures which will further enhance the image of how it will look on your property.

Now you are ready to take some measurements of the area. The last thing you want to do is buy a set of furniture that doesn’t fit correctly. If it’s too big then you won’t have room to move around it and if it’s too small it will look out of place. Try to make sure everything fits and everybody using it will have ample room to move around.

Other places that you can look for helpful research are online forums and consumer reviews. You can learn how others have arranged their decks or patios and even see some pictures. You might be able to pick up a few things that you hadn’t thought of. If you spend some time doing this research you will enhance your chances at getting it just right.

Prior to spending any money on your next outdoor patio furniture set you should look around for the lowest prices. Since you have a good idea what you want at this point you can start visiting websites and maybe some local stores to comparison shop. Try not to buy low quality furniture though as this just won’t hold up to the weather over time.

Additionally, consider buying some accessories like seat cushions, a patio heater, or an umbrella for the table should you get any full sun exposure. This will go a long way towards keeping your guests comfortable the entire time and really allow you to get the most out of your furniture. Now you can go and relax on your deck or patio and enjoy the sounds of nature.

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