Patio Umbrellas Can Be a Great Way to Update Your Patio on a Budget

If you are hoping to find an inexpensive way to update the look of your patio it can be easily accomplished by purchasing a beautiful outdoor umbrella. You might be very amazed at the difference a bright colored patio umbrella can make to a dreary garden, or how finding just the right match for your existing décor can give your patio a fresh look. Selecting the right size, color and type of patio umbrella can be a bit overwhelming here are some of the basics that will help you choose the right type of umbrella.

The first thing to consider when you are looking for an outdoor umbrella is the type of umbrella you need. There are three key types of patio umbrellas: aluminum, wood and wind resistant. Deciding between aluminum and wood is basically personal preference, but selecting a wind resistant umbrella is based more on need.

Wood outdoor patio umbrellas, or market umbrellas as many call them, are the original outdoor umbrella. The pole and rib arms (the parts that support the canopy) are made of wood. These umbrellas are opened and closed with a manual push and pin motion and are made of a sturdy wood design. This is a smart option to have in commercial settings, because there are a smaller number of pieces that customers can adjust themselves which may significantly add to wear and tear. In subsequent years in the life of the market umbrella the pulley lift system was introduced. This made opening and closing a wood umbrella a lot easier than the push and pin lift system, specifically for residential uses. These umbrellas offer an stylish and stately feel to a patio and have been a classic choice for a long time.

An aluminum outdoor umbrella is a more current development in the world of patio umbrellas. They present a more lightweight option to the wood market umbrella and a more modern look and feel. They give consumers a product that is basically maintenance free and have additional features that wood outdoor patio umbrellas are not able provide. A lot of aluminum patio umbrellas offer easy-to-use crank lift systems and some even have deluxe auto tilt features. These features make it extremely simple to open and tilt your patio umbrella. These outdoor umbrellas are a perfect complement to cast aluminum patio furniture, but can be a great addition to any existing décor. Most aluminum outdoor umbrellas offer extended warranties which add to their appeal.

Now, while your choice between an aluminum outdoor umbrella and a wood umbrella is based on personal preference, your choice to buy a wind resistant umbrella should be based more on need. Wind resistant umbrellas are the right decision for locations that deal with abrupt gusts of wind or for locations near the beach. Wind resistant umbrellas are constructed of flexible fiberglass rib arms that bend with the wind. This allows you more time to get hold of your umbrella and close it if the winds get too strong, keeping it safe from damage. Although these umbrellas do offer you additional time to get to your umbrella and close it, wind resistant does not mean wind proof. The extra flexibility of these patio umbrellas allows them to withstand winds for longer periods than a wood or aluminum umbrella can, but you should always close your umbrella if conditions warrant it.

This information should assist you in choosing the right type of outdoor umbrella for you and your backyard or patio.

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Patio Furniture Covers For 2009

This season's patio furniture covers are bright and cheerful. I suspect next year's offerings will be equally as bright. This shouldn't be surprising to anyone. As is often the case, fashion trends respond to the economic climate. During and immediately after recessions colours tend to be brighter and patterns tend to be busier and more cheerful. Whether it is in clothes or house wares or patio furniture covers, the trend is to be cheerful. Colours are more muted and patterns can be plainer during economic booms.

Although, I will be happy to see the end of the recession I love bright, vibrant cheerful fashions and designs so I love what's on offer this season. I have seen bright pink, purple and orange flower-power designs that bring to mind mini-skirts of the 60s. I have seen bold green and blue stripes that remind me of the fabrics of the 70s. All of the cover designs are meant to raise spirits. The theme of the year, across all sorts of fashions, is fun.

Notwithstanding the wild array colours and patterns available this season, there are some common elements that never seem to change from year to year. The elements that are resistant to change or that change very slowly relate to the functionality of the patio furniture covers. These elements relate to the durability of the covers, the quality of the covers, the ease of removing the covers, the style of fastening the covers, and the ability to protect patio furniture from the elements.

The first thing I look for when shopping for patio furniture covers is the type of fabric used. Historically, these covers tended to be a thin layer of brittle plastic bonded to a weak felt-like lining. Those days are gone. Today's covers are generally made from newer man-made fabrics. These fabrics are water resistant and breathable. These factors allow the patio furniture to be protected from the rain and dew while allowing accumulated moisture to escape and thus preventing any mold or mildew build up.

The second feature that should be examined relates to durability. Look at the seams. Are all of the seams double stitched? Are there any lose threads which might indicate a weakness in the integrity of the cover? Also examine the manner in which the covers are fastened. The more expensive outdoor patio furniture covers fasten with heavy duty zippers. Zip and unzip all of the zippers completely. Make sure the zippers run smoothly and easily for the entire range of the zipper.

When it comes to patio set covers there are two distinct concepts to keep in mind. The first relates to personal tastes and covers things such as fabric colour and fabric patterns and to a lesser extent the actual cover design. The second concept relates to the functionality of the covers. Are the covers durable, protective, and easy to use. Covers for patio furniture can be a good investment. If you think of the these concepts separately but equally you will be able to choose the appropriate patio furniture covers for your family.

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A Touch of Georgian Elegance For Your Patio

Imagine lazy Sunday afternoons soaking up the sun on your Georgian style enclosed patio. Looking out on your perfect, manicured lawn dotted with tupelo and black walnut trees, listening to the soft breezes rustling their leaves. Bees buzzing lazily amongst the honeysuckle flowers that drape over the fence, and on the other side an expanse of green pasture with horses grazing peacefully.

A Georgian patio like this is a modern day twist on the classic old wrap-around southern porch, such as you could see gracing historic American homes. The screens which would have surrounded the patio then have now given way to tempered glass, so you can have air conditioning, and your view isn't marred by fly screens. If you have an older home, still with some or all of its original patio roof, it can be retro-fitted, or you can choose to remove the roofing and have a green house effect instead. You can choose to remodel just one side of the house, or even remodel the whole circumference.

Your Georgian style enclosed patio is suited to any decorating taste. It is quite common for them to be furnished with rattan or wicker furniture and patterned, bright colored cushions, however maple or walnut furniture of fine quality also looks good. You might also wish to refinish the siding of the existing house to give a rough hewn look to the backdrop of your elegant patio. If your grounds are heavily treed, you might want to choose lighter colors for the walls and soft furnishings, and warm wood tones such as oak or walnut for the wooden frames of your furniture. As the patio is enclosed there's no danger of weather damage, so for comfort and Georgian style big fluffy pillows and overstuffed cushions are excellent.

If the wooden flooring of the original patio is suitable for restoration, you may do so. Area rugs in a heavy fiber are great, which you can group furniture around, and achieve a balanced look. Visual interest can be supplied by choosing intricate patterns and light colors. These durable rugs are especially suitable for high traffic areas. Indoor-outdoor rugs don't have to be ugly, and you can find lots of beautiful natural fiber rugs made from materials such as sisal or bamboo.

To bring the garden inside, you could have macrame hangers inside the patio as well as outside, with flowering begonias, which provide a lovely counterpoint to the walls and furniture with their intense colors. Lots of little pots of African violets clustered in a window which faces east is another idea for adding interest. Tall indoor palms or philodendrons are also well suited to a patio with a glass ceiling. Being tall they draw people's eyes upwards and add an extra sense of intimacy.

For intimate evening light, consider recessed lighting, which won't interfere with the natural light of daytime. If the sun is too much in the day, add slatted wooden blinds, light curtains or cloth blinds in a suitably coordinated color. These should cut down the sun but not cut it out altogether. Valances are suitable as well for your Georgian styling.

Wall hangings should be chosen to complement your color scheme but also to add a little contrast. The best idea is to choose decorations which have two or three tones complementing the décor and a few splashes added of vibrant color. Another touch of contrast in color can be added by figurines or vases, sparingly used.

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How to Keep Patio Furniture Safe

During the summer months we spend most of our time by the pool or cooking out in our backyard for our close friends and family. Nobody will be able to refuse the delicious taste of burgers and hot dogs and some delicious steaks. The one thing that can make things better for us is if we had outdoor patio furniture that can serve to make everybody more comfortable.

As soon as the warm weather starts furniture stores around the city start to put out their patio furniture sets for individuals to select from. Every year we look at some traditional sets and sometimes we are given a peek at something brand new and inventive. Be careful with the type that you choose to make sure that you are given something that you have the ability to enjoy and that will last a long time.

It would be smart to do research and read up on the best companies to buy from. Keep in mind that just because they have a brand name embossed on them does not automatically mean that they are the greatest to own. A great example of this is the Martha Stewart patio furniture sets. Numerous people have complained that they were not constructed properly and broke after just a couple of months use.

There are steps that you can take to make sure that the outdoor furniture you purchase is going to stay protected and in great condition for many months. Most are constructed to be weather tolerable - but the one season that can damage it the most is winter. Things are able to get exceedingly cold and they are often covered by snow and ice.

The best thing you will be able to buy to keep them well preserved around this time are patio furniture covers. These are made to resist both very hot and cold temperatures and can even assist to keep the rain from wrecking any cushions.

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Consider This Before You Buy Patio Furniture

When you are out shopping, what do you base your decision on? Is it looks? Well patio furniture is no different is it? But there are many other things that you should be considering. Ask yourself the following questions to help ensure that you will be making the absolute best decision.

The first question is, how much room do you have? A sprawling yard, with a large patio and garden will allow you to comfortably fit a larger set of table and chairs in your outdoor space. You can also consider adding a chaise or other unique piece of furniture, space permitting of course. If you have the room, fill it with attractive outdoor furniture. On the flip side, if your outdoor area is on the smaller side, such as a balcony or terrace, you will still be able to create your outdoor oasis. Simply look for fewer items or smaller pieces to compliment your space.

What is the purpose of your patio furniture? That may seem like a silly second question, but just consider it for a second. Are you planning on using it regularly? Or will it be reserved for special occasions? Will it be used for small gatherings or to entertain large groups? This should help you decide between an intimate set of table and chairs, and a large utilitarian teak patio entertaining set. Perhaps you are looking to turn your outdoor space into your own personal hideout, in which case you might love a hammock such as a nice teak lounger.

Third, what styles do you like? What are you a fan of? What type of furniture will best adorn your outdoor area? Are you a fan of elegant wrought iron or you do you prefer the look and feel of sleek aluminum? Would you rather sit on cushions, fabric, cedar, or teak?

Of course, there are other things to mull over, such as your budgeted allowance and upkeep of the patio set. Above were only three factors to consider when purchasing patio furniture. By consulting this list, you will be well on your way to making the best possible choice of patio furniture. And before you know it, you’ll be entertaining and relaxing in your personal outdoor oasis.

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Awnings Provide Much Needed Shade to Patio Areas

Summer time can be a great time to enjoy the outside spaces around your home, but the sun can be a brutal companion. In order to get some much needed respite from its powerful gaze you should consider going with a patio awning. These devices can provide some much needed protection from the sun. There are two main reasons that you might want to get protection from the sun, to protect yourself and your patio furniture from harmful UV rays and to provide a cooler environment in which to relax.

There is little doubt that UV rays have been linked to an increase in the occurrence of skin cancer. There is also lots of evidence that it increases the appearance of wrinkles in the skin as well. If you doubt it, just watch some TV and you will see tons of commercials talking about the latest cream to help protect your skin from these two ill effects of its life giving rays.

But you don't need a lotion to protect you from the sun, you need a patio awning. An awning will keep you safe from the sun while also protecting your furniture as well. Just like your skin, the fabric on your furniture doesn't like to be exposed to the sun either. The sun's rays do two things to most patio furniture: fades its color and breaks down its fabric, making it more prone to suffer from normal wear and tear.

Getting an awning to provide constant shade in the summer months will help keep your skin safe and your furniture looking as good as the day that you bought it.

The second thing that patio awnings can help do for your patio is to make the environment much, much cooler. You see, much of the heat generated on concrete patios is directly related to the direct sunlight shining down from above and then reflective off of the white concrete surface below. Not only can this be extremely hot, it can also be blinding to the eyes as well. By erecting a protective surface between you, your patio floor, and your patio furniture and the sun you will cut out the primary source of heat (direct sunlight) and a secondary source (the reflection off the white concrete) in one fell swoop.

The best thing about patio awnings is that you get all this rolled up in one affordable package. You also have a lot of choice as to how you want the awning to look. You have a choice of materials in wood, fabric, or aluminum. You even have a wide array of colors to choose from as well.

With a patio awning you get robust protection from the sun in one very cost effective package.

Joe writes for Patio Awnings Inc. There you can find information on all things patio awning - from different type of aluminum awnings, how to clean them, and what are some pros and cons with going with this type of option. If you are interested in reading his take on this, check out his aluminum patio awning article.

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Great Advice on Choosing Patio Furniture

There are so many different options when it comes to choosing Patio furniture out there but you want the best value for your dollar. You don't want to waste your money on patio furniture that will not last and what I have found out is that when putting patio furniture outside it seems to get damage from the elements very easy. For instance when you buy lower grade furniture, it will rust, rot and or blow away with the wind.

Shopping For Patio Furniture Locally Or Online

There are just so many places out there to find good patio furniture. You can also check some of your local stores like Sears or J.C. Penny. You can also find some at Wal-Mart. These places are local, so you can go in and look and check warranties, durability and the accessories. You can check other places like Craigslist, E-bay and other online sights but you will have to be careful. You may not get exactly what you want if you do buy off the internet or it could have damage to it. So when buying your patio furniture make sure you do some research so you don't waste your money.

What About Durability?

When you buy your new set of patio furniture, you want it to last. What I have found out is that some of your cheaper furniture is so cheaply made that it will fall apart much too soon. Then you are back to square one and you have wasted your money. Now then, if you buy some of the more expensive furniture it will be more durable and have weather resistance paint, so it will last longer. It will also be heavier and will not blow away in a strong wind. The last thing you want to have to do is chase down your patio furniture.

Article by Susan Powell. Want to learn more on this? Come over to my site for the best articles on Patio furniture and you'll even find some on Automatic pool cleaners.

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How to Buy the Right Outdoor Patio Furniture

The patio should be an extension of the home and selecting the right outdoor patio furniture is an important part of creating a great living space. Whether you wish to create a patio bliss from scratch or revamp the one you have, the role that patio furniture plays is an integral part.

While bargain hunting is great for all other things, it may not be such a good idea when it comes to outdoor patio furniture. Remember that because they are placed outside, they have to be durable and strong. You may want to look to suppliers that will introduce you to high quality furnishings but still at an affordable price. Just like all big furniture in your home, outdoor patio furniture is also a long term investment, so spending a little bit more is recommended.

If your budget does not allow for extravagant expensive items, then turn to second hand furniture. The quality is still just as good, except you will get it at a reduced price. By consulting the internet, you are bound to find someone selling something, however there are also many second hand stores that you can visit to get really good quality furniture.

When choosing your outdoor patio furniture, be practical. Select something that fits the space you have as well as something that fits its surrounding. Iron wrought furniture is very functional as they are slim and slender and looks great with any backdrop. Bold wooden pieces are excellent for a bigger patio. Because they take up a lot of space, you need to ensure that there is enough room left for movement and the placing of other pieces. For extra protection, coat the wooden furniture with another layer of varnish or sealant.

Although not ideal, plastic patio furniture is acceptable if you are not too worried about appearances and don't have a big budget. It won't last as long and may discolor a bit but throwing on some pretty cushions makes all the difference.

A great trick when choosing the color and design of your outdoor patio furniture is to look from the inside out. Carry the same theme of your inside furniture to the outside. If your home has a vintage theme, make the patio vintage and if you have created a modern home, then the patio furniture should be just as modern. The way you place the furniture is also vital. Do not clutter the patio with too much furniture as it will only look overcrowded and quite frankly, very scary.

If you are looking for discount outdoor furniture with reviews and price comparisons, check out this online deals website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_K_Crawley

Decorating Your Patio

Before you purchase anything to decorate your patio, you should first prepare a plan or drawing of your patio area complete with exact measurements. You then need to decide exactly what it is you plan on doing with your patio. Is your patio just for you and your family on a beautiful summer evening? On the other hand, do you plan to host Business meetings or parties? These are important questions that need answered before you purchase any patio furniture and furnishings. If you plan to host Business luncheons then you perhaps should make sure your patio furnishings are not a cheap plastic table and chair set. Lay it all out on paper before buying anything. How much space do you have? If you do not have enough space then maybe you should plan to build a bigger deck or patio first. Once you have got your plans drawn up and you are sure the patio is large enough, it is time to head to the store. Make sure you take your plans with you!

There are plenty of different materials used to make patio furniture. Remember what your main use of the patio will be, that will help you decide on your purchase. How much care do you want to put into looking after the patio furniture? Do you want to put it away every night? Most people want to leave their patio furniture right where it is all summer. Therefore, you will need something that can stand up to the elements.

Wooden patio furniture needs protecting with oil regularly unless you choose to paint it or perhaps you will decide to keep that rustic gray 'weathered' look. Unless you choose Teak Wood, Teak has natural oils that protect it from the environment. Aluminum is lightweight and is perfect for a low maintenance patio setting. Wrought iron patio furniture is an old favorite that suits the English garden look. Wicker outdoor patio furniture coupled with the long lasting qualities of resin is also an option. Cafe style, patio furniture is great for a quick break from your gardening. For my money, Teak wood patio furniture is the way to go, Teak is an oily dense wood that combines durability, beauty and quality and is great for outdoor furniture. Teak will naturally weather to a beautiful silver-gray.

Teak wood's density of grain prevents it from splintering. That is the reason why ship builders used it for the ships decks. Teak furniture's natural oils also resist rot and decay. You can keep the golden appearance of new teak patio furniture by simply oiling the teak every year if you do not wish for it to turn a silvery grey.

As you can see, there are many choices to make when selecting patio furniture. Always have a plan before you go shopping. Patio furniture can really enhance your outdoor living space.

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Deck Railing Plans Are a Necessity

Getting The Best Possible Deck Builder

Getting a new deck is a very exciting prospect, especially if it's your first deck and you've waited for a long time. You're going to spend a lot of time working on the deck plans and deck railing plans. After all, you've waited so long, you want it to be just perfect for you and your family. When it's completed, it will be a place for fun and relaxation as you spend family time together cooking out, dining, lying in the sun or entertaining guests. You're going to want your deck to be perfect and the best way to ensure this is to get a reliable and reputable deck contractor.

Finding a Deck Builder

There are a few different ways of finding a good deck builder. You can use the many resources the internet has to offer or you can check in the yellow pages directory of your phone book. Another good way is by word of mouth. If you know any friends or relative that recently had a deck built, inquire as to who did the work and the quality of their work. You may also want to scout around your neighborhood for decks that you particularly like and inquire with the owner as to the contractor. This is also a great way to get a reference on the contractor's work.

What Makes a Good Deck Contractor?

You probably don't want a deck contractor with no or little experience. Although you may want to give some new contractor his first job, unless you know and trust him, let someone else give him his first break. If he works for a company, the company should have a good reputation and be willing to give a warranty on his work. Make sure he has a valid business license as well as insurance, both liability and workers' compensation). As careful and good as the contractor may be, accidents still happen and you want to be covered legally in case something would happen. Make sure your contractor is aware of any codes or permits that need to be taken care of.

Ask for a list of references and don't be afraid to check them. Check out more than just a couple. This is a large addition to your home and you can't be too cautious. Once you get your deck designs and deck railing plans complete, you'll give it to the contractors you interview for their quote. When you get a quote from the deck contractor, make sure it is right to the penny, has a completion date and lists anything you request as part of the job. The quote should also include all the materials that will be used for your deck. These parts should correspond with what you have on your deck and deck railing plans. One thing you may want to include in the quote or contract is that the yard be cleaned up before he or his crew leave the site.

Adam Peters is the author of many resources on deck contractors related topics published at http://www.deck-porch-railings.com. A focused website that offers the best articles on deck railing plans and deck ideas.

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Choosing Teak Deep Seating Cushions

Almost as important as teak deep seating itself is one of the things that make it what it is, or in other words, its cushions. There are a number of different materials, endless colors and patterns of cushions available, but they all have certain things in common. For one, all outdoor teak deep seating cushions should be waterproof. They should also be resistant to fading, tears, stains and mildew. Many are made with trademarked materials, like Sunbrella fabrics. Another thing about cushions is that they should always be comfortable. You bought cushions to have a softer seat than sitting directly on the unforgiving wood, so if your cushions aren't comfortable, forget about them. With varying amounts of padding, some cushions can be up to 8 inches thick. And cushions aren't just for chairs alone: add them to loungers, ottomans, gliders, teak deep seating sofas and more for peak "ahhh" factor.

Many cushions are filled with foam and polyester. These materials are soft but also waterproof, malleable and won't fall flat. There are also two basic edge construction designs for the cushions. First, a boxed edge is where two seams connect the bottom and top cushions panels, with another piece of fabric material between them. Second, the waterfall edge is a single seam connecting both cushions panels together. There's not much difference between them, and it really does not affect the look of teak deep seating one way or another.

Some of the different materials for the outside of cushions include the following:

Acrylic:

Acrylic cushions are made from solution dyed fibers that are woven together, the end result of which feels very much like canvas. Acrylic linen is very similar, except that it has a looser weave and feels more like soft cloth. Acrylic is designed exclusively for outdoor use, but it is at the same time a comfortable and breathable material. It's easy to clean, soft, and will retain its color intensity for years to come. Acrylic teak deep seating cushions can be cleaned with lukewarm water and soap, while bleach and water can be used to clean off mildew accumulation. The material is also strong enough that you can rinse it off with a hose.

Spun Polyester:

Some cushions are made from 100% polyester which offers a soft fabric feel similar to that of acrylic linen, though sometimes it is referred to as having a silky feel. This fabric is also meant solely for outdoor use, but its open weave design keeps it staying cool and comfortable for you. Once again, these cushions can be cleaned with soap and water, and rinsed off with a hose. You might not get quite as much mileage out of these over the acrylic cushions.

PVC:

PVC is made from a polyester core covered with colored PVC and then woven into fabric. On the one hand, this outdoor material is extremely durable and will hold up under heat, stain, sun exposure and abrasion. On the other hand, it's a much stiffer material, whose smooth plastic touch mimics more plastic outdoor furniture rather than the comfort of indoor furniture. At the same time, this makes it really easy to clean because you can be a little rougher on it. Household cleaners, rubbing alcohol and diluted bleach can be applied and then rinsed off with a hose. As a warning, suntan lotion and other oily substances exposed to PVC teak deep seating cushions will cause the material to break down faster, so make sure to wipe off any that has come in contact with it.

Tonya Kerniva is an experienced research and freelance writing professional. She writes actively about Teak Deep Seating and Teak Outdoor Furniture

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