The Use of a Deck As a Multifunctional Area

Most new (and old) houses have a deck off the side or rear of the house. In designing a new house, an owner usually just installs a deck of 'X' amount of space and really doesn't think much about how the deck is going to be used. As an Architect, the deck design is just as important as the rest of the house design. In real terms, a deck can be used as additional floor space and storage, at a significantly lower cost than the rest of the house. The deck should be used as an extension of the living space, and the spaces below the deck used as storage. Here are some tips to make your deck work more for you.

1. Use a large glass doors to open to the deck. You can use sliding glass doors or swing doors. Glass doors let you see the deck when they area closed. Have the opening at least 4 feet wide (minimum) or wider. On my house I have a 12' siding glass door, which opens in the middle for a 6 foot wide opening. It allows free flow of people between the Great Room and the deck and gives a sense of Great Room and Deck being the same room.

2. Don't skimp on the size of your deck--make it even larger than your Great Room or Living Room. Think of the deck as an additional Living Room, with couches, chairs, dining tables, TV's, stereos. In other words, Think of it as living space to be used in the milder temperatures of the year. My Great Room is 22'x34'. The deck is 20'x38', with 20'x28' covered with a roof.

3. Don't have a step between the deck and the house 1st floor. Instead have the deck flush with the house. This gives sense that the deck is an extension of the home.

4. Put a roof over the deck. The roof can be a canopy, metal roof, or an extension of the house roof (wood framing, asphalt shingles). Having a roof over the deck area makes it more "livable" when the sun is out. It also gives a "human" scale to deck. A roof overhead makes it feel psychologically more comfortable, putting a ceiling above where you sit on the deck, rather than open sky. A roof also makes the deck usable when it rains.

5. Use drywall and carpet instead of siding and decking.. If you put a roof over the deck, install moisture resistant drywall or "flat" siding on the home exterior wall and indoor/outdoor carpet on pressure treated plywood rather than expensive floor decking. It is less expensive, and gives the deck the look of being inside the house rather being outside.

6. The deck area and the furniture should be flexible. You shouldn't cram a lot of furniture on it, but allow for people to filter out of the house onto the deck, or change the arrangement of furniture for large gatherings. My favorite use of the deck is for birthday parties. My son may have 30 guests arrive, so we rearrange the furniture and set up 4 long tables with chairs around. It keeps the Great Room open for guests to move around, and put dining on the deck.

7. Use plants, and wall hangings on the deck, just like you would in the house. Just make sure they are more "weatherproof" than normal. It will give the deck the illusion the of being part of the house

8. The deck can have shaded areas and sunny areas. Not all the deck needs to covered. Keep a small area uncovered for some of the in-between times of the year. In Indiana, it's warm-sunny in the summer and cold-snowy in the winter. But in Spring and Fall, it's in-between these 2 extremes. Sitting in the sun on the deck in March at 55 degrees is wonderful. The warm sun shine makes it feel like summer. Also if you have a grille, you don't want it under the roof. Letting the smoke lift into the sky is more preferable for most people rather than letting filter into the house.

9. Change the function of the deck as seasons change. How the deck is used in spring, summer, and fall should be considered in your design. For our house, in the summer, The swimming pool is set up in the sunny area of the deck, while seating and dining is in the shaded area of the deck. In fall and spring, the pool is removed, and the seating and dining tables are in the sunny areas of the deck. In the winter, the seating and dining are kept under the deck roof to protect it from the harsh winter.

10 The deck railing and wall under the deck can be solid. Having the railing and space below the deck floor covered in the same siding as the house (even brick), rather than open fencing has a couple of advantages. First, it makes the house look bigger from the street. It visually seems like house has grown larger ins size. A solid railing (3'-6" in height) allows privacy. If you sit down, people on the street can't see you, but if you stand up, you can converse with your neighbors. A railing at 3'-6" is also perfect "leaning" height for most people, you can rest your elbows on the top of the wall at this height.

11. The area under the deck change be used for storage. Having the space below the deck floor covered in siding allows for storage under the deck to be hidden from view. If the 1st floor of the house is 6 feet above grade, the deck effectively becomes a shed and is a perfect place for the storage of things normally in a garage. Having a roof above the deck also keeps weather off items under the deck. This is the place for bicycles, lawn mowers, scrap lumber, saw horses, and other bulky items normally found in a garage. Most people want a 3 car garage simply to have 1 bay of the garage for storage. Instead of building a third garage bay, put those items under the deck.

Tag : patio,patio sets,patio table.patio furniture

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

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.

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

Decks, Patios, and Porches - Ideas For Year Round Enjoyment For Friends and Family

The spring season is the starting point for outdoor enjoyment. As summer comes along, throwing a reunion party for the family is a common occurrence while all of the children are out of school. Even part of the fall season might be able to be spent outside with a grill and friends. What allows an individual to do this is a deck.

Decks are one of those under appreciated home investments that are sorely under utilized. Most standard builders just build the minimum housing requirements which will allow the homeowner to experience a minimum amount of enjoyment. The standard 6' X 4' back patio isn't large enough to do much of anything. Adding a full deck to the back of the home is like adding a whole new living space.

Granted, in inclement weather, most people don't enjoy contending with the rain, snow, or wind. The wisest investment would be to incorporate a new deck or existing deck under a covered or screened in setup. This is the only way to guarantee almost complete year round use of the deck, while still allowing fresh air to circulate.

There are many different methods to create an enclosed deck. A few types that are not common are a series of sliding doors that may be extended to close off the outside from annoyances, such as bugs or noise. When a clear and open deck is desired, the homeowner simply has to open the overlapping extended doors to return to the outside. Other configurations include actually creating a wall with screened windows, although this almost like adding a finished new addition.

Perhaps the least common setup is one that an individual would expect to find in a hacienda in Spain or Mexico. Having a partially enclosed deck or back patio with walls will help shield the occupants from the extremes of weather. Without actual windows or screens filling in the open spaces allows the homeowners to be part of the natural outside which is the main goal of having a deck in the first place.

Regardless of the house, any deck, whether it is covered or enclosed, is able to be designed and constructed with the existing architectural style in mind. Many deck builders don't have an architectural design background needed to accomplish this so it is usually best to consult and choose a builder or remodeler which specializes in exteriors. If this isn't done, the deck the homeowner is likely to get is just a large basic square platform without any inviting style or flare.

Tag : patio,patio decor,patio table,patio furniture

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

Tips For Decorating Your Wooden Deck

A deck or patio is a living space. Once you view it as such, decorating it becomes less frightening. If you designed the comfortable living room there is no reason you cannot decorate a deck to be functional, fun, efficient and beautiful. The process is so similar to what you did inside, that once you read the steps mapped out here, you will no doubt wonder what you were afraid of.

Any decorating begins with research. Take stock of the deck, its shape, height of the railings and how much of the space is away from the house. If you plan on grilling on the deck that last thing is very important. Before adding the first stick of furniture make certain the deck is in good repair and doesn't need an extra coat of sealant or paint.

The next thing you must do is look at some decks. Ride around and see the decorated decks of neighbors. You may even want to look at a few model homes to get an idea of how it can be. Next determine the uses you plan for the deck. Will you use it to entertain only or do you want a quiet and relaxing spot for quiet evenings at home. Invest in a couple "outdoor living space" magazines this will help you to further visualize what could be.

You should arrange the seating according to how the flow of the smoke is coming off the grill you want the seats to be out of the path of the smoke. Once you decide on where the grill should go (this can only be done by firing it up) the rest can fall into place in a snap. You will always put the grill where the wind will most likely blow the smoke away from the house and the guest. Put it along the railing farthest from the side of the house.

Now add the table chairs and any other adornments you like. A deck is a great place to use window boxes. Plants really liven up the space. Use your imagination and get decorative with the planters. One thing you must consider when decorating in the spring is how it will all be removed in the winter months. Some items will fare quite well being left in the elements but other may even have to be removed during a rainstorm. For instance if you use an umbrella, high winds can send it sailing even if folded.

The real trick to decorating a deck or patio will ultimately hinge on its primary function. If you want to get more information you can find pictures of beautifully decorated wooden decks all over the Internet. Go searching and maybe you will see something that truly inspires you.

Tag : patio,wooden deck,wooden

DIY Deck Cleaning, Coating, and Conditioning Considered

When is the best time to clean, coat, and refurbish you the deck, gazebo, or wood patio at your home? Well, you may not like this answer, but it really depends. Depends on what you ask? Well, seasonal temperatures, and how much you are using your deck are the first consideration.

If you are not using your deck, no need to coat and treat it in the dead of winter, plus it's hard to get the coatings to dry anyway with the chance of snow, rain, sleet, or freezing - which can make your Do-it-Yourself project a total mess and disaster.

In the Winter the wood takes a beating and often the coatings can peel or come apart. Most of the deck coatings you buy in the home improvement stores last 2-5 years, and thus, you should buy the best you can, premium quality stuff. But rest assured the secret is all in the pre-prepping of the deck or gazebo, as the coating is fairly cut and dry (wet). How would I know?

Well, you see before retirement I ran a franchising company and one of our franchise modules was Deck Cleaning. Yes, it was a seasonal business, you see, early to Mid April is pretty much when the services are most desired below the Mason Dixon Line, so March issue makes sense, and above the Mason Dixon Line, I'd say that late April, early May is the busiest.

Folks start thinking about such things as the temperatures start heading up about 70-degrees average during the day. This industry gets NUTS, literally controlled chaos in Spring, by fall and winter, it's a trickle, and thus, our crews seek other work. I'd like you to also consider this famous question; "when did Noah build the ark?" Before the storm right, yep, and so you need that wood treated and coated before winter so it doesn't rot out. Indeed, I hope you will please consider all this.

Tag : patio,patio furniture,patio heaters

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

Deck, Garden and Patio Ideas

Planning your deck, garden or patio in detail is the most essential part of any outdoor project. Creating a "Comfort Zone" isn't difficult when you determine what comfort levels most suit you or your family. Today's accent is on creating beauty with simplicity and simplicity with elegance and charm while extending comfort and tranquility.

The Outdoor Deck

An outdoor deck is a wonderful extension of the style of a home. However, a deck doesn't have to "match" exactly. A large, well furnished deck setting that offers a view is ideal. But, the "view" can easily be created with subtle landscaping, lighting and furniture accents like a fire pit, chimney, even the newest fashion trend, a "cairn" built from interesting rocks and a lantern included for subtle lighting.

Gardens of Delight

Gardens have many diverse themes incorporating and highlighting flowers, trees, bowers, trellises, arbors, pergolas and espaliers. Bring back the pleasures of garden charm that compliments each season of the year from any view inside or out. Symmetry is important to balance in a garden. Dark colors of evergreens should be located as a "base" for lighter color shrubs or flowers. Balance flowers that drink in the sun with a moon garden, flowers that bloom best when after the sun goes down, like primroses or moon flower. Remember vegetables serve as ornamental accents too.

Shopping for Unusual Garden Accents

It's possible to acquire unusual garden accents from pieces sold at garage sales and estate auctions. An outdoor accent bench or chair can be easily restored and used for potted plants. The same is true of old garden tools, like rakes. Reduce the handle size. Give it a brightly colored coat of paint, install the shortened rake on the side of a shed with the tines at the bottom. Then, hang potted plants from the tines.

Tag : patio,patio ideas,patio chairs,patio furniture

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

Spicing Up a Patio Or Deck With a Fire Pit

Patios and decks are great outdoor spaces. Many home owners do not take advantage of the large open space they have available. Luckily, a patio or deck can be improved at any time and some improvements do not require any money at all. A great method of improving your outdoor living space is to install a fire pit.

People love to have an outdoor fire throughout the year. It helps them feel like they are escaping from their lives and going back to an easier time. The moon and stars can be seen on a very dark night in a rural area. Plenty of individuals choose to burn broken branches, twigs and other small yard waste in their fires. Others pick out only the best logs to ensure they have one of the longest fires possible.

Another great idea for an outdoor deck or patio is weeding. There are people who get so busy with their lives that they let their yard turn into a jungle. Most homeowners want to have their yard looking well kept and trimmed. Taking an hour per month to remove the weeds from your yard, patio and deck area allows your home to look so much better. Weeds can be burned in most fire pits. Check with your local authorities before conducting any open burning as some regulations may apply.

Purchasing flowers at a nursery can be pricey. It may be a better idea to transplant flowers from a friends home or community garden to the area around your patio or deck. Many times you can get these flowers for free and they are beautiful. Check to ensure that the flowers receive the correct amount of sun and water throughout the growing season.

The decision to add a fire pit to your patio or deck is easy. There are pits that range in size, design and color. It is important to allow room for embers to blow out and not hit a wall. Try to place a fire pit so that it does not touch a wall or any other structure. Remember to carefully watch any fire and always extinguish the fire with sand/water after you have finished.

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

10 Tips For Choosing Patio Lights

Before shopping for patio lighting, take a moment to review the lighting goals for the space. Patios and decks have unique lighting requirements. Lighting must ensure safety while also creating ambiance, meaning several different types of patio lights will be required in a variety locations.

1. First determine how the patio or deck will be used. For parties? For quiet, intimate dinners with a sweetheart? For the kids to run wild so they won't spend two hours plaintively begging for a glass of water from their bed? Be sure to also evaluate the lighting needs of sitting areas and functional areas such as the grill.

2. What areas need to be lit for safety? Steps are a given, but what about the path to the deck or patio? Don't leave people to trip in the dark, make sure high traffic areas have adequate lighting!

3. What is the decorative theme of the patio or deck? There are so many different styles of patio lighting that they have become a major design element in their own right. Select lighting that matches and enhances patio décor.

4. What are the major color notes of the patio or deck? Patio lighting comes in several different metallic tones such as copper or burnished steel, but there are also lanterns or string lights in a rainbow of colors. Spend some time researching options on the internet and select colors that complement the palette of your patio.

5. Do you want floodlights to highlight landscaping? Showcase a green thumb at night with strategically placed patio lights that add a nice decorative touch to outdoor living spaces.

6.What is the desired brightness of the lighting? Bright enough to read by? Or a soft, candlelight glow?

7.Where is the nearest plug-in spot for patio lights? If an outlet isn't available, can one be installed or will the patio be limited to solar lighting?

8. Consider purchasing patio lights to illuminate a pond or other water features in the yard. Floating solar lights are a great option, but waterproof spotlights are also available.

9. Remember, light attracts bugs so think about bug deterrents or other control methods in addition to patio lights so guests aren't fending off moths and mosquitos.

10. How handy are you? Most deck or patio lighting is simple to install, but for inexperienced homeowners, it may be wise to either hire some help or stick to simple, low maintenance lighting options. Handy homeowners may want to consider designing and building their own patio lights--all that is required is knowledge of basic electrical wiring.

Knowing the answers to these questions will ensure optimal patio lighting.

Tag : patio,patio lights,patio heater

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

Bar Height Patio Furniture - Today's Chic Trend In Outdoor Living Spaces

Bar Height Patio Furniture - Today's Chic Trend in Outdoor Living Spaces

If you want to be considered fashionable by your friends and neighbors, you'll want to make sure you take a good look at today's bar height patio furniture.

Bar Height Patio Furniture is Stylish

I recently went to my friend Sheila's house. She was so excited about her bar height patio furniture that she had to show me! Sheila had just furnished her deck with new patio furniture, and she wanted my opinion.

Sheila had chosen a bar height table with four chairs and an attractive bar height bistro set with two additional chairs. Both sets matched, and best of all, they were not expensive.

Bar height patio furniture is today's newest trend in outdoor living spaces, be it patio, deck or even lawn furniture. By "bar height," this furniture is taller than average, similar to bar stool height.

There are several materials that bar height patio furniture is made from, including wicker, rattan, pewter, aluminum, teak or metal, with some plastic pieces (called "resin") also being manufactured. Some chairs include removable padded seats and backs, while others are designed to be used without cushions.

When you take outdoor furniture into consideration, you'll want to remember to look for furniture that will be weather resistant and last a long time.

Even though you may not spend a lot on your outdoor furnishings, you certainly don't want to be replacing them each year!

Bar Height Patio Furniture is Affordable

Many of the local big box stores like Walmart and Target are carrying bar height patio furniture, but you can also shop online as well as at other local shops. Garden centers, home improvement stores like The Home Depot and Menards, and even some specialty stores may carry this type of outdoor furnishings.

Prices can vary widely, starting at about $219 for a bar height bistro set with table and two chairs.

Online retailers can be more expensive. You'll want to shop carefully since some retailers are looking to sell to those who want a patio set that is unique or one-of-a-kind. For example, the aluminum Tropitone Windsor Bar Height 3 piece Dining Set retails for about $2700.

Patio tables and chairs made from resin seem to be among the more inexpensive deck furniture.

Of course, you may also be able to find "deals" online, since retailers are working hard to encourage spending. Watch for specials and coupons, and don't be afraid to call the company and ask if there are any additional discounts available.

Check for Weather Resistant Finishes

Bar height patio furniture can come in a number of weather resistant finishes. This is something you'll want to research before your purchase. You'll want to make sure that your bar height patio furniture doesn't rust.

In addition, check the warranty on any chair cushions. See if the manufacturer is offering a warranty against the cushions fading.

Bar height tables will typically stand at about 40 inches, with chairs that fit the table comfortably.

Current styles include a table set with several chairs, a bistro set with a smaller table and two chairs, and a bar with stools. New styles are coming out shortly, so if you're on the watch for the most up-to-date look, you'll want to check back online and at your local stores.

I told Sheila that her deck furniture was beautiful!

It made me want to hurry home to shop for my own bar height patio furniture.

Teak Patio Furniture – The Perfect Choice For Furnishing Your Deck, Porch, Or Patio

You have this huge, multi-level deck and patio area. It is the perfect place to host parties and entertain guests and friends. However, as fantastic as the space is, you might not have the high end furnishings to match. If you find yourself in this dilemma, then it might be time to toss out what is out there now and invest in some magnificent teak patio furniture, the perfect choice for any outdoor area.

With teak patio furniture, there are many options to choose from giving you a lot of options when it comes to what kind of look and feel that you want for your outdoor space. For example, like with that lavish backyard deck area that you have, you probably want a space that is in tune with hosting fabulous outdoor parties. So, you probably want to get some comfortable seating in place and some good choices are Adirondack chairs along with club chairs or deep seated single chairs. Then, throw in a couple of end tables for nice places to set down drinks and other items. And, do not forget about having an area to dine at, which would be taken care of by purchasing a fabulous patio table and chair set. An umbrella would also be a nice addition to the space as well, providing your guests with some lovely shade during those sunny, hot afternoons. Quite simply, there are a wide variety of items to choose from and if you want to see them all, just hit the internet and shop the online stores.

One of the greatest features about teak patio furniture is the teak wood that it is crafted from. Teak is one of the most highly sought after woods in the entire world because it is a hardwood that is virtually indescribable and it has natural oils that make it extremely resilient to the weather. Rain, hail, sleet, even snow will not cause it to rot or breakdown in any way, which is ideal if you live in a climate that has a wintery offseason and do not have any indoor storage space. Along with its durability, teak has a beautiful golden tone that is very pleasing to the eye. Over time, this golden tone will fade to a sophisticated silver-gray color. But, if you want your furniture to keep the natural golden tone that it has when it is new, all you need to do is to apply a teak protector or teak oil to it at the beginning of each season. Other than that though, teak requires no other significant maintenance.

So, if you have this fantastic outdoor space, but furnishing that does not match it, then you need to invest in some fabulous teak patio furniture. Extremely long-lasting, beautiful, and comfortable, it is a good choice for any deck, porch, or patio. Get some today, many years from now when you are relaxing in your old age, you will be glad that you did.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=167255&ca=Food+and+Drinks

Outdoor Patio Furniture – Your Deck, Porch, Or Patio Would Be Useless Without It

Having a nice patio, deck or porch area can be a waste if you do not have any place to sit back and take it easy. Really, if it is bare, how are you going to enjoy the lovely weather? So, fill your space with lovely outdoor patio furniture to make sure that you are able to have a good time when the weather is nice.

With outdoor patio furniture, what is great about it is the fact that there are so many selections available to choose from. That allows you to really build and create any kind of functional, fun space that you want. For example, maybe you want an area where you can just kick back with friends and have a good time. Then, what you need to do is first add a bar to the space, follow it up with a few comfortable seating options including some club or Adirondack chairs, even a garden bench or two would be a nice option. To finish things off, add a few end tables and an umbrella and you are good to go. Or, maybe with your space you want more of a relaxing atmosphere where you can go and just get away from it all. For that type of space, you want to go with a few chaise lounges that allow you to rest and take a nice break. To cap the space off, turn to the end tables again for a convenient place to set things down. Basically, there are just a lot of choices.

When shopping for outdoor patio furniture, the main thing that you have to bear in mind is to go with something that is made out of top notch substances. If you decide on something that is cheap, then you will probably end up having to replace it way sooner than you would like. Now, a few of the better choices include different metals like wrought iron, iron, and cast aluminum, woods like Southern Yellow Pine, Meranti Mahogany, and Teak, and even synthetic options including polymer and recycled plastic. Each one of these options is very sturdy and furniture made out of it will last for quite some time in any outdoor setting. Plus, each one of these materials comes in a number of lovely finishes, which is a fantastic way to add a nice decorative element to your space along with personalize its look.

If you are short on time and cannot get to the local garden/lawn center to see what outdoor patio furniture options you could get for your space, no problem. All you have to do is just hit the Internet for some online shopping. By the flip and click of your computer mouse, you can browse the different options. Then when you do find something you like, it will be shipped right to your door.

So, what are you waiting for? Get some outdoor furniture for your deck, porch, or patio today so you can start enjoying it and the beautiful weather tomorrow.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=192142&ca=Home+Management

Keep Wooden Furniture For Patio and Decks Maintained

The summer is a great time to enjoy the hard work you've put into decorating and furnishing your deck area. It's also the perfect time to check that all furniture for patio and deck use is in tiptop shape. To keep the fun times rolling, you will need to care for furniture for patio setups or else an accident might ensue. Doing yearly checks and performing small amounts of regular maintenance will have furniture looking its best for years, while at the same time keeping everyone safe.

Cleaning and Finishes

Getting a splinter of wood lodged in your hand can be a painful and irritating experience. Try to keep all furniture for patio and deck areas as clean and smooth as possible. This will also ensure the coloration of your wood stays even, and that with a finish it will protect the wood as well. To begin with, you need a clean and even surface to work with. Sand down uneven wood and remove all traces of old varnish. Next, clean the wood of sawdust using a damp rag. Then you will need to clean the wood so that your finish will better stick. You can use a wood safe detergent cleaner or even simply soap and water. After the wood is clean and dry, apply oil or an oil-based varnish. Depending on climate and other factors, you may need to oil wood furniture one to a few times each year. You might also decide instead to paint your wood furniture.

Wood Condition

Because it's kept outside through all sorts of weather conditions, wood furniture will deteriorate. Rain, snow, dew, sunlight, temperature changes and insects all contribute to rotting, cracking and warping of wood. To protect your wood furniture for patio living, there are a few things you can do. After you take furniture out of storage for the summer, do a check of all the wood parts. Check for splintering, cracking and broken pieces. Small cracks and splits in the wood can usually just be sanded down to remove them and prevent them from spreading further. For anything bigger, you will need to replace the wood piece in question, either yourself or professionally.

In addition to regular chairs and tables, you should take extra care with furniture that has moving parts. With porch and patio swings, regular chain maintenance is vital. Replace rusty chains at once, and make sure each side is even to avoid tilted benches and unevenness. With rocking chairs, you should look at the curved rockers on the bottom of the chair legs, as these are the parts that will receive the most pressure. If they break, you're in for a fall. And with gliders, you will need to make sure that the gliding track is regularly oiled to prevent the seat from locking up.

Hardware

Rust isn't normally something you would associate with wood furniture, but it's definitely an issue with all furniture for patio use. That's because most of the hardware that keeps outdoor furniture together is made out of metal, and if it gets rusty or breaks, you could hurt yourself, or even get tetanus. And outdoor exposure, especially with its excess moisture and saltwater, speeds up the oxidation process. If you notice rusty or broken pieces of hardware, replace them at once. When you originally go to buy furniture, ask the salesman about the hardware. It's something that's easy to overlook because it's usually not visible on a piece of furniture, but that doesn't mean it's any less important. Look for zinc hardware that has a rust-resistant powder coating on it.

Tag : patio,patio furniture,patio umbrellas,patio heaters

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

Setting The Right Patio For Your Home

Giving way to a patio deck in your yard is a great idea to improve the outstanding look f your overall exterior design. It does not only make your home more attractive, this is also very useful in entertaining guests outdoor while enjoying the fresh air. A lot of patio designs had been released in the market recently. You might find a hard time in choosing for what is best for your home. Therefore, think thoroughly and consider the structure of your home, yard as well as your taste and style. Enhance your yard by planting some trees which will give more shade especially during summer. You can also add seasonal flowers and shrubs since these are very pleasant to the eyes.

Patios are being used in different ways. You can invite your guests outdoor while grilling. Kids love outdoor activities and it is very suitable for break time and rest period in between games and other activities. There are also homeowners who conduct their celebration outside to enjoy the weather with family and friends. Selecting the right patio for you will most likely start in analysing your wants and preferences. Make sure that you will buy or install an item without having any regret in the future. Take the measurement of your space availability so that everything will be accurate. There are so many companies who offer this product in a package deal. They will install it for you. However, the price might be higher compared to the do it yourself patios. It is a great idea to make some research first and gather all related information to the item that you are planning to buy. It is better to have many options so that you will be able to choose for the best considering your preferences and home exterior.

The most important aspect in choosing for the perfect one is you financial capacity. The construction or installation greatly depends to the cost you can afford. The furniture including chairs, tables and so on will also depend in your budget. Be practical in dealing with this kind of project. Do not be impulsive in deciding for what is best. Make sure that the materials being used are high in quality and standards which can last for couple of years. Be creative. The outcome of your project greatly relies on how you will carry out the plan along with some experts. Just give enough attention to this plan and you will have the result that you are expecting from the start.

The purpose of this patio deck is to make you feel comfortable and convenient when you are outside your home. Therefore, ensure durability. Since they come in different forms, structure, sizes and design, always stick to your preference and home structure. You should also consider the weather condition in your town so that you will be able to pick the appropriate materials. For instance, if your place is experiencing a constant rainfall, it is not advisable to use wooden materials since they are sensitive to moisture.

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The Patio and Market Umbrella For That Classy Look in the Patio

Relaxing outdoors means exposing yourself to the nature’s elements. Therefore, you’ll need a patio umbrella to keep those harmful elements from damaging your skin. You should choose the most suitable umbrella for your patio. You can choose according to the shape, size, color and fabric and your budget should be able to accommodate this taste of yours.

Free standing umbrella is for a bigger patio. They can benefit this type of patio because more often than not, you need to move them around. There are also ones that are located in the middle of a patio table and would obviously suit a much smaller patio.

How much shade do you need when you are outside? The season and latitude of your climate should be able to give you some ideas on how big your umbrella’s diameter should be. Normally they range form 6 to 11 diameters.

As well, other considerations include; a sturdy design, strength of pole, the material of the base (stainless steel or aluminum) and hub (nylon or plastic), durable fabric, ease of storage, opening and closing.

You can find poles in hardwood, teak, mahogany and ash. If you prefer the non wood variety, go for chrome steel or anodized aluminum.

In terms of fabric, patio umbrellas can come in acrylic, vinyl, polyester and synthetic thatch. The umbrella is also coated with chemical that resists stain, sun rays, rain and snow. When you are using one, you want to spray on a coating once a year.

These patio umbrellas also come with their own set of accessories. They are replaceable canvas, lights, torches, fabric cleaners and carry-bags. To create desired moods are the main purpose of the lights. There are also remote controlled umbrellas for those who go for style.

A base of an umbrella should always match its size.

There are a few differences between a patio and a market umbrella. The market umbrellas are lustrous because they do not have the hanging valances around them unlike a patio umbrella. They have sturdier frame and a crown of fabric on top, which is a wind vent. They can let the wind to escape form underneath the umbrella. The market umbrellas are normally tabletop versions.

Both patio and market umbrellas are good not only for keeping out the elements but also as part of your deck furniture decor. Purchase each, ready-made or custom made as per your deck furnishings design.

An offset umbrella is also worth considering too. There are some with tilting feature. An offset umbrella’s pole is located at the side of the table. This can be quite convenient as it is out of the way.

Opting for an offset umbrella? Whether it is a manual or automatic version, offset umbrellas can give better protection from the sun. The sun shifts its position and this will affect the shade. Therefore, you should get an umbrella that can better protect you the whole day through. A down side is that these umbrellas hardly ever come with wooden poles.

When you are making your purchase in an online or offline store, take note of its warranty (between one and five years), timeframe for delivery and availability of insurance in case of damages during delivery. Some merchants even offer free shipping.

Other than materialistic considerations when deciding on patio or market umbrellas, you may have some health reasons to do so. And what better way to do that than by putting up these umbrellas, without sacrificing style? Consider the patio or market umbrella as a long-term investment in your quality of outdoor living.

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Aluminum Patio Furniture is the Easiest Deck Furniture to Take Care Of

Aluminum patio furniture is a very popular choice with a lot of people. This type of patio furniture has risen in popularity for several different reasons. First, it has been found to be one of the best types of materials for most durable types of outdoor furniture on the market. It has the capability to withstand a number of harsh weather conditions, and can withstand a lot of basic wear and tear that is associated outdoor furniture.

The next reason that aluminum patio furniture is becoming a popular decision to purchase is that it is really easy to manipulate it so that it fits in to a variety of outdoor decoration themes and ideas for your deck. One of the best things about aluminum patio furniture and why it is popular is that it is quite easy to maintain. Here, I will share with you some simple techniques that you can use to clean this type of structure so you can keep the beauty of it for years to come.

When cleaning aluminum patio furniture, the first thing that you will want to do is to make sure you remove any and all patio furniture cushions and clean them first. The best way to clean the seat covers is to make a mixture that consists of a small amount of basic dishwashing detergent, such as Dawn, a small dab of borex with the use of a whole lot of hot water. Once you have thoroughly combined the detergents, pour them in to a spray bottle and get a sponge.

All you want to do is simply spray down the cushion and scrub it with a light brush or a sponge. Things to consider is that most outdoor furniture cushions will not wash and dry well in a standard washing machine and dryer. Handwashing the cushions is your only option so as not to damage the material, then allow them to dry in the sun. This is the best way for keeping your outdoor furniture cushions in tact and ensuring that they maintain their natural beauty and appeal.

The next step when it comes to cleaning aluminum patio furniture, you have to get an all purpose cleaner that does not contain any type of bleach or oil. It is also important to know and realize that aluminum will scratch very easily. For this reason, it is best to use a soft sponge or a clean cloth to clean the furniture. It is very simple and all you have to do is spray the aluminum with the cleanser that you have selected and then rub it down with the sponge. When you have finished this step, it's time to rinse off the furniture with a water hose. This is all it takes to clean aluminum patio furniture to keep it revived and looking new.

Daryl Plaza is a regular contributor to CreativeOutdoorFurniture.com a website with information and resources on patio furniture and Outdoor Furniture Accessories

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Patio Canopies: Protecting Your Patio From The Elements

Most working individuals with families target a home as their primary investment. Since the home is generally considered symbolic of one’s social status, many exert much effort to make their homes a beautiful and comfortable one without sacrificing functionality and the budget. This attitude also helps boost the property’s value and makes the dwelling a personal statement of the homeowner.

This motivation drives a multi-billion dollar market for home refurbishments, fixtures and related maintenance and services. One particular segment that thrives on home building and renovation is the market for patio canopies, covers and accessories.

The exposure that patios have to rain, snow, sun and the elements has made canopy manufacturers come up with varying models made of different materials to address this concern. For added comfort, canopy makers typically offer waterproof systems with roof tensioning and related support to prevent water accumulation. Made-to-order patio canopies can take 3-4 weeks before delivery.

One solution to protect patios from nature is the use of aluminum patio cover kits and retractable awnings. Such outdoor patio covers are generally for long-term use, maintenance-free and comply with standard municipal load ratings and provisions of the International Building Code. The retractable quality allows one to adjust awnings depending on the weather condition. Aluminum canopies also come in do-it-yourself models that can be used to augment a current deck, as carports or, for wealthier homeowners living near the water who have boats – protection for their vessels. Extended patio canopies allow homeowners practically continuous appreciation of the outdoors.

Patio canopies also have use for residences with a swimming pool, the backyard deck or other large and exposed areas. These flexible and pre-engineered structures can be attached to an existing home, over the target area to be covered or set up as a stand-alone unit. Canopies can also be made of steel while maintaining their retractability and flexibility. For added comfort, privacy or security, some manufacturers even offer screen attachments to close off a desired area. For wide-open patios, canopies effectively make them an extension of the house or a new room – giving the homeowner wider space and more comfort.

Homeowners have a wide range of options to better protect their patios and homes in general, ensuring also that visiting family and friends can be entertained outside regardless of weather conditions. Canopies also allow the owner to read a book, have tea or simply relax outside on the patio without any worry. Some canopy makers offers terms for individuals seeking a custom-made look with wind-release protection, awning flexibility and other desired features.

The US Census Bureau has noted that backyard patios have become an increasing fixture of new single-family homes: 45% of such dwellings have them, rising from 37% in 1992. This increase has fuelled a related jump in outdoor furniture sales: Figures from the American Home Furnishings Alliance reported a 129% increase in purchases of canopies, tables and other outdoor items from $1bn more than 10 years ago to $2.3bn in 2003.

That surge in demand has made retailers increase their focus on outdoor collections, with Hold Everything and West Elm launching their initial outdoor line in 2005. Separately, Restoration Hardware covered outdoor entertaining on 52 pages of its summer catalog, more than double the 25 pages it devoted to the category in 2004.

Some canopy covers are made from heavy-duty vinyl and are available in various sizes, allowing for easy maintenance and storage. Several makers offer vinyl patio units with limited 15-year warranties. As an alternative, companies also offer lattice patio cover kits created primarily for garden settings.

The market already offers patio canopies made from Alumawood, or aluminum material that feels and looks like wood. The product does not pose any of the problems identified with wood, including peeling, warping, repainting and termite attacks.

Patio canopies also extend beyond the residential market. Eide Industries, Inc. offers both permanent and temporary or portable models, with frames made from aluminum tubing or galvanized steel and fabric covers made from an extensive line of canvas products, for businesses and other non-residential users.

These exterior and interior products appeal to restaurants, resorts, hotels, retail shops, convention centers, theme parks, and exhibits and trade shows. For businesses fronted by a sidewalk, setting up a canopy along the path would help shade passers-by and also possibly draw potential customers to the shop. Combined with appropriate lighting at night, patio canopies add to the overall look of a business even during off-hours.

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Top 10 Reasons to Purchase a Retractable Awning

Looking for a way to reduce your utility bills or just improve the exterior appearance and usability of your back porch or deck? Investing in a motorized retractable awning can bring you a much greater enjoyment of your back yard patio, and can add beauty and value to your home.

No matter where you may live, the spring and summer sun can be very intense as it beats down on your patio, your deck or your windows. The solution is to install a retractable awning from a reputable company that is built to the highest engineering standards and made from the highest quality materials.

Retractable awnings can be manual or motorized, and are fairly easy to install for the do it yourselfer, or can be installed by a handyman in your area for a reasonable cost. While there are many benefits associated with owning a retractable awning, here are the top ten reasons you should consider purchasing:

10. European engineering and design makes even the largest retractable awnings not only possible, but also desirable for commercial & residential use. Imagine the all of the possible uses, from your back patio to a cozy outdoor seating area for a restaurant. The list is endless.

9. You can have ultimate control over the elements, since your awning is retractable, you can store it when it's not needed, but quickly unroll it when it's needed.

8. The fabric that is used in quality retractable awnings is highly durable, tested, and highly resistant to fading, which means you'll have many trouble free years of use. When it comes time to replace the material, you are only paying a fraction of the cost of replacing the whole unit.

7. Retractable awnings can reduce heat on the interior of a home or a business by as much as 77 percent according to a study by the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

6. You are essentially adding another room onto your home at a mere fraction of the cost of actually constructing an addition.

5. You can install a motorized retractable awning with a remote control that you simply press a button to unroll and retract the awning in about 20 seconds. This motor runs off of a standard household plug in many cases.

4. Retractable awnings do not require much maintenance, and cleaning is a breeze. Simply wash with soap and water when the fabric gets dirty.

3. Retractable awnings are available in many styles, shapes, and sizes. Custom options are also available at an additional cost. Chances are you can find an off the shelf option to match the exterior and style of your home.

2. Awnings offer rain protection, but the true advantage is protection from the sun. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2008 there will be 62,480 new cases of melanoma (skin cancer) in this country. And about 8,420 people will die of this disease this year. Stay out of the intense sun under your retractable awning, but still enjoy the outdoors!

1. For much less than the cost of a covered patio addition, you can add a retractable awning to your home, and enjoy the benefits of shade, rain protection, and cooler temperatures in the summertime.

Jay Kopp is an author, web developer, and SunSetter Retractable Awning owner. Find out more information about purchasing, installing, and owning your retractable awning, and for a limited time get a $200 coupon towards the purchase of your retractable awning at http://www.freeawninginfo.com

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How To Add A Porch Or Patio Roof To Your Home Without Causing Water Damage

Every one that owns their own home would like a nice porch to sit out on during the nice parts of the year. Enjoying the sunshine on a nice pretty day is great, but there are some of us who like that fresh air from the rain without getting wet. Although adding a roof to your patio or deck can bring a lot of joy in our relaxation time, it can also bring some unwanted water damage to your home if it is not attached properly.

Attaching a porch roof to your home is not really any thing the average do it your self person can not tackle, but knowing how to keep the water out is the key to having a dry and secure porch. Whether you are going to have a porch roof with a pitch to it or a porch roof with a straight across design, it will be the same process as far as the attachment. If you have a brick home, it will take a little more work for the project because you will need to drill through the mortar joints to attach the roof. You then need to insert wall anchors. Place these at the two ends of a flat roof, but for a pitch roof, you must have them at top and bottom. This is your starting point for which ever your design maybe. There are some things you need to remember in the process.

When you build your roof, you need to assure that the over hang is at least 18 to 24 inches on both sides and in the front. This will give you some shade in the hottest part of the year and also keep your porch dry in a spring shower. The thing that most people wished they might have installed a little different is there flashing. This is ultimately the most important, for this will protect your home any water damage and also keep any water from running onto your porch or deck, whichever you may have.

When you install the flashing, you need to caulk a large bead of sealant to the back side of the flashing. This will assure you that no water gets behind the flashing and on to the home or porch from the where the roof meets the house. This is the two most critical things to assure that your project turns correctly and does not leak on the porch or down the outer walls of your home. Good luck with your project and be sure to follow these tips.

About the Author

Visit Aydan Corkern's water damage restoration and flooded basement drying sites for fast help.

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Patio Door Blinds

Patio door blinds are in use to protect the porch or deck area from the heat of the scorching sun. More and more people are installing these blinds to block out the hot sun and keep the cool shade in their decks or porches. You can easily find huge number of wonderful patio door blinds to use in the space and thus increase the utility of your patio for you as well as your guests.

You can choose from various shapes and sizes of blinds shades for patio doors. Either you will find ready to use blind shade as per your requirement or you can also get them custom cut to fit into your space. It is easy to find these in most home improvement stores.

Patio door blinds play a significant role when you wish to give the feel of indoor to your outdoor space like patio or deck. They make the place very much comfortable for you. You have lots of options as far as colors and designs are concerned to serve this purpose.

Other than protecting the space from hot sun and keeping it in shade, these blinds also serve some other purposes. These blinds offer you privacy even in your outdoor space. You can enjoy your own lonely moments while sitting in your patio without bothering about people around. These blinds offer you cozy yet peaceful space outside the home.

Horizontal

These types of blinds enhanced the beauty of your outdoor space. It offers you number of light and privacy control options. You will have a sheer, natural beauty blended with all the practicality of a blind from this type of blind.

Bamboo

These types of blinds are available in elegant collection of bamboo, rattan, reeds, jute and woven woods. You get flexibility in designing your shades of treatment. You not only have diversity in appearances, but also have various lifting abilities like roman fold bamboo.

Cellular

Due to its numerous features, cellular blinds are among the most asked. Its unique cellular construction offers the user with marvelous insulation and sound absorption features. These are available in different pleat sizes and in complete spectrum of colors.

Roman

These blinds give the plush, custom and tailored look. They offer high-fashion elegance but at appropriate price range.

Sun Control Sheerweave

These blinds act as a fresh alternative for the commonly used vinyl roller products. They reduce the fading of draperies but enables you to have a complete view of the outside while maintaining the privacy at the same time.

By: Cushy

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Tags : Patio , Patio Door Blinds , Blinds , Door

Patio Design - Add Awnings As A Colorful Finish For Your Patio Design

Patio design, planned with care and creativity, not only becomes a value-adding asset to your home, but expands your living and entertainment areas substantially. Elements such as awnings will complement any patio design, adding both color and protection against the powers of nature.

Your patio design will depend on the area you have available, the maintenance-level you prefer, and your lifestyle needs.

You may need some serious landscaping, and choose complicated water features. Or you may have only a limited space, and an even more limited budget. A patio doesn't have to be oversized, in order to be functional. A competent landscaping designer will be able to present you with a patio design, perfect for your pocket and property.

You can draw on a wealth of ideas while planning your patio design. Magazines are an excellent source of inspiration. The idea is to make the patio an extension of your home. To achieve this ideal, the patio design has to blend in with the design of your living space. This includes the architecture, as well as the interior décor.

A number of paving possibilities are available. Concrete patio pavers or interlocking patio pavers are extremely popular, affordable, and durable. These come in sizes, shapes, and textures to fit from a simple patio design, to an elaborate landscaped outdoor area.

Stone or brick patios are another viable option, especially if durability is a concern. If you choose a stone patio, make sure that the pavers have been fired in such a way that they are weather resistant. A wooden deck has its place in patio design, but also has limitations with respect to lifespan and maintenance. However, if the planned patio area is sloped, or has drainage problems, a deck may be a simple solution.

The features you incorporate into your patio design, create atmosphere. A water feature facilitates a feeling of tranquility and relaxation. Another advantage is that it helps to mask noise, such as passing traffic. You may choose to add an herb garden, with lavender and other fragrant, calming plants. Flower beds or boxes can be a source of greenery and color.

The patio furniture you choose, will depend on your personal taste and budget. Keep in mind that exposure to sun and showers necessitates quality materials.

Colorful canvas awnings add an elegant finishing touch to your patio design, as discussed at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. To use your extended 'living room' to the fullest, it is vital to have protection against the sun, wind, rain, and worrisome insects.

Awnings made with quality fabric offer UV protection, are weather resistant, and waterproof. Look for models that can be retracted when you want to bask in a bit of sunshine, or when you want to enjoy the company of the moon and stars on a romantic evening out...

Some awning designs make provision for an extra screen that can be added, which will give you an insect-free zone. You will be able to relax and enjoy visiting with guests, while nasties such as mosquitoes and flies are kept at bay.

One of the best investments you can make in your property, is the addition of a harmonious patio, done within the guidelines of a well-planned patio design.

About the Author

Also read the Retractable Awning article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Copyright Rika Susan, Article-Alert.com. Please reprint intact links.

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