Deciding Between an Offset Patio Umbrella and a Cantilever Umbrella

Are you having as much difficulty as I am figuring out the difference between an offset patio umbrella and a cantilever patio umbrella? I finally decided to tackle this issue once and for all. After much research I have come to the conclusion that there really isn't much difference other than some mere technicalities.

An offset umbrella has typically aluminum or wood support pole extending up from the support stand and then at the top bends and angles abruptly out over the shaded area and a canopy is attached to the end of the pole. A cantilever similarly has an aluminum or wood support pole extending up from the support stand but then will typically have another piece of aluminum or wood affixed to the main support pole that extends out over the shaded area and an umbrella is then suspended from this second piece of aluminum or wood.

Is there any added benefit of having an offset patio umbrella over a cantilever? The only added benefit that I could find would be the easy ability of the lowering the height from the ground to the umbrella with the cantilever umbrella. Typically by raising the lever pole you can raise and lower the umbrella quite easily. The offset umbrella on the other hand would require a two piece support pole that fit inside of each other with a pin apparatus with holes drilled through the poles allowing for raising and lowering of the entire pole and then placement of a pin to secure the poles in position. (This is very similar to the standard market umbrellas)

Both the offset and the cantilever umbrellas will usually allow for tilting to track the movements of the sun in the sky. This will maximize the shade potential of the umbrellas when the sun is low in the sky during sunrise and sunset.

The stand or base support structure is essentially identical for the offset umbrella as it is for the cantilever umbrella. They base units are typically weighted down to prevent the umbrella from toppling in high winds. Both offset umbrellas and cantilever umbrellas have an increased risk of toppling in high winds compared to the standard market umbrella with its center support pole.

Optional accessories for the cantilever umbrella are the same as for the offset umbrella. Most manufacturers include optional LED and fiber optic add-on lighting kits and add-on speakers for digital music players.

Total cost for the offset umbrella and cantilever umbrella appear to be almost identical. The majority of the cost is determined by the material of the support pole, base, fabric, etc. Availability for both types of umbrellas is the same. They can be purchased at most major hardware stores and outdoor furniture stores. The majority of online retailers carry both types of umbrellas.

I hope you have enjoyed this article finally putting to rest the difference between offset patio umbrellas and cantilever umbrellas. Stay tuned for more upcoming articles expounding on additional features and benefits of patio umbrellas.

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What To Expect From Outdoor Sails

An outdoor space can be the best place where families can bond together and spend quality time with each other. In the outdoors, you can actually do so many fun activities that the entire family will enjoy. You can also spend some small gatherings in your outdoor area. You do not have to rent a place where you can hold occasions as your outdoor space can definitely become the perfect one as long as you have arranged and organized it. To make the place more comfortable and attractive, you can set up outdoor sails so that the place can be protected from the sunrays and rain. Aside from these, you are also adding color and life to the place as these sails have various designs and styles to choose from.

There are so many things that you can expect to get from your outdoor sails. First, it is the most effective sun screen and rain protector that you can ever install in your place. These sails do not allow sunlight to pass through it making the place where it is installed protected and shaded. It can also protect the place from the rain as most of these are water-resistant.

Outdoor sails can give your place attractive and unique good appearance. These come in different shapes like square, round, rectangle or oval. It can add some personality to the place. It also comes in different sizes, styles and designs. The colors that this can bring will definitely make your place an attraction among other people. It makes your place look lively and comfortable. It removes the boring and dull appearance of your outdoor space because of the designs and colors that it carries.

This product is very versatile. You can actually install it at any outdoor space you can think of. You can set it up in your patios, deck, porches, verandas, garden, lawn, backyard or any outdoor area where you want to create a special place for you and your family to relax in.

This is very easy to set up, arrange and maintain. You do not have to be an expert in order to have these installed in your place. It is also very easy to clean or uninstall. It is also very affordable. It is very useful but not harsh to the pocket. One can definitely afford buying this shading product for their homes.

This product is available at any weather protection and covers stores. There are now different types of outdoor sails that people can choose from. They can just buy the one that will be best suitable for their outdoor space. Outdoor sails are the best way to stay protected from any weather and stay comfortable in your outdoor area. Setting this up will give you the best place to stay in your home. You can even have small parties in your shaded outdoor area with your friends and family. This is a useful yet so simple tool that you should have in your place.

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Three Styles of Composite Porch Decking

Adding a porch or deck increases the functionality and value of any home. They offer the ability to entertain numerous guests at once, which may not have been an available option beforehand. However, constructing the porch or deck may seem like a daunting task to many people. Yet, composite porch decking makes construction easy and quick. There are several styles to choose from, each offering its own unique style and pizazz that would pair well with many different types of homes.

Capricorn is one of the most popular styles. It was inspired by the tropical getaways that many people can only dream of experiencing. It resembles real wood and can come in a variety of rich brown colors to make any homeowner happy with their decision. While some people may think that real wood would be a better investment, this composite is much more durable. It is naturally water resistant, which means homeowners do not have to worry about the possibility of rotting (which is an ever present factor with a wooden deck). Overall, it stands up to the test of time much better.

The marine style is great for someone who has a house or vacation home on the waterfront. It is designed to resemble the docks and boardwalks along the ocean. It can be built around the house to serve as a porch, or it can be made into a pathway leading to the water, which cuts down on getting covered in sand. The unique finish is slip and water-resistant. This not only protects the integrity of the structure, but also the safety of those who walk on it because wet, slippery feet can sometimes make a disastrous combination.

Both of these predecessors stemmed from the Intrepid design. It is the original composite porch decking. It has a reversible design, so if someone ever tires of their porch or deck it can be switched over with a little hard work. On one side is a smooth and solid finish. On the flip side is a textured surface that resembles real wood. Both make for a durable deck that will last many years. Like the marine style, it is slip resistant to help protect others as they walk along it. Since they are wood free, they are splinter free, allowing everyone to walk in their bare feet without any type of worry.

Homeowners always seem to have an endless list of improvements they want to make to their homes. The addition of a deck or porch will always be one of the first on the list for many. Every homeowner seems to have the need to allow their home to reach its full potential. Composite porch decking is a fun and unique way to fulfill this need. They are not only an addition to a home; they are an investment in a home. A porch or deck will increase the value of a home and allow homeowners the freedom to entertain family and friends (which is the greatest benefit of them all).

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Deck Restoration Tips: How to Protect Your Wooden Deck From the Elements

Your backyard deck plays host to barbecues, dinner parties, sunbathing, family game time, and more, and thus you want to keep it looking its best. Unfortunately, outdoor wooden structures are susceptible to weather damage over time; rain and sun exposure alike can contribute to a wooden deck's aesthetic and structural deterioration. To help prevent this damage, you can apply a variety of weatherization products and sealants yourself, depending on the scope of the project and your level of home improvement skill, or you can contact a deck restoration professional to tackle the job.

Water Damage

Excessive moisture can cause wood to warp, rot, or grow mold. During and after a rainstorm, water can seep into the boards of your deck through cracks or splits in the wood, as well as through nail or screw holes. The longer the boards remain damp, the greater the chance of permanent damage. While certain types of wood resist rot more than others, most decks need to be resealed every one to two years.

So how do you know if your deck is becoming water-damaged? If the wood looks like it's absorbing water after a rainstorm, rather than the water beading on top of the wood, it's time to give your deck some TLC. Start the deck repair process by replacing any weakened, warped, or rotten boards. Sweep the deck and wash off any dirt using a deck wash or high-powered hose. Let the wood dry completely. Then, apply the waterproofing sealant of your choice, based on your particular deck's construction and materials. For best results, apply weatherization products when the sun is out and the temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees.

Sun Damage

Direct sunlight and extreme heat can fade wood, leaving your once-vibrant deck a dull gray. Heat can also dry out wooden boards, and dry boards are actually more susceptible to water retention. Bring back your wood's former color by applying a deck-brightening solution, available at most hardware stores. Or, take the opportunity to transform your deck by staining the wood. You can apply stain yourself, or hire a deck staining company for a professional, uniform finish.

After the stain has dried completely, apply a weatherization product that blocks UV rays. This will protect the wood and the color from further sun damage. As with waterproofing sealants, apply sun-protecting products to clean boards on a sunny, mild day.

Temperature Changes

Sudden temperature changes can stress wood. A major drop in temperature will cause wood to contract, while a sudden increase in heat will cause wood to expand. If the temperature jumps back and forth repeatedly, you might see an increase in popped-up nails as the boards shift around. Hammer these nails back into place or replace them with longer nails or wood screws to allow for some movement. Replace boards that have cracked to prevent people from tripping or getting splinters.

When doing any deck restoration or repairs, always check the structural supports as well as the top boards. Severely weakened wood can collapse, leading to personal injury as well as property damage. Even if your deck doesn't look like it's deteriorating on the surface, it is always a good idea to assess it once a year. Whether you make repairs yourself or call in a professional, a well-maintained outdoor deck will add value to your home and bring joy to your family for years to come.

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New Trends in Garden Retreats - Designing The Perfect Outdoor Bedroom

These days, more and more individuals are trying to find new and exciting uses for their outdoor spaces. Many are using decks and patios for outdoor second living rooms and kitchens, making use of strong and durable wicker furniture to create the perfect areas for entertaining and relaxing.

While these types of outdoor rooms are common, they are not the only options available to you. If you want to think outside the box and create a unique living area outdoors, consider designing a unique and fun outdoor bedroom.

Tips For Designing an Outdoor Bedroom

If you enjoy sleeping under the stars, don't settle for a tent in the backyard. With the right tools, you can design the perfect outdoor bedroom where you can enjoy a romantic evening on those warm summer nights.

Cover Your Head- Make sure your patio or outdoor space has a roof. This will protect you from inclement weather. A roof will also help prevent the sun from bearing down on you during your afternoon nap, keeping you safe from sunburns and sun poisoning. It also provides you with shade so your outdoor bedroom remains at a cooler temperature than other open areas of your backyard. Create Walls- While you don't want to completely enclose your outdoor bedroom because, let's face it, that would ruin the entire point of an outdoor space, you will still want to protect yourself from the sun and bugs. Adding curtains will keep out the sun in the early morning and during the day when you are sleeping. By adding mosquito netting, you can keep out flying insects and prevent bugs from crawling in your bed. Flooring- Even though you are outdoors, that does not mean you have to deal with grass, dirt, wood, or concrete under your feet. When you wake up in the morning, wouldn't it be wonderful if you could step on a comfortable floor? Go barefoot with some outdoor carpet, rubber flooring, or even an outdoor rug. Don't Settle For Just a Bed- You will of course, need a bed in your outdoor bedroom, but try to include other types of furniture as well so this space can truly be comfortable and used for more than just sleeping. Add wicker furniture, like a day bed, sofa, or loveseat. This will allow you to use your bedroom to read your favourite book, chat with your loved ones, or simply sit and watch the sun set. Decorate!- Once you have the basic structure of your bedroom set up and your wicker furniture in place, start decorating. Pull in ideas from the outdoors with big planters full of green shrubbery and plants. Use colourful pillows, blankets, throws, and seat cushions to add plenty of variety to your décor. Make sure you also use an outdoor storage bench so you can store these items when you are not using them. Fill your outdoor space with bookshelves, exercise equipment, games, or any other resource that will help you entertain others and thoroughly enjoy your new bedroom.

Individuals who love sleeping outdoors and dream of breathing in the night air will love designing their own outdoor bedroom with wicker furniture. This unique outdoor space is the perfect way to enjoy your backyard for years to come.

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Turn Your Studio Apartment Into an Upscale Abode With Contemporary Wicker Furniture

Sometimes studio apartments get a bad reputation, and sometimes they deserve it. But with a little work and creativity, a studio apartment can go from a cramped disaster to a unique, sophisticated, and stylish living area to be proud of. A small space doesn't mean your apartment should look like a dorm room. These tips and suggestions will have you on your way to transforming your studio apartment into an upscale abode once and for all.

Wiggle Room

One of the best and worst characteristics of a studio apartment is what sets it apart from other living areas: space. Because studio apartments are small, it's much easier to keep track of housecleaning and other chores, but your apartment may also become cramped and cluttered because of the lack of wiggle room. A stuffy, messy space is anything but fashionable. Luckily, contemporary space savers can help provide just the extra breathing room you need to feel comfortable.

Getting Creative with Space Savers

Here are a few ideas taken from a leading decorator in Hong Kong - the space saving capital of the world:

Under the bed drawers for shoes, photo albums, sweaters, or other items. Cubbies on top of shelves. If you have shelves on the top of your closet, you generally have a lot of wasted upward space. Cubbies are stackable and can help you utilize all the space all the way to the ceiling. Bench storage boxes. Synthetic wicker furniture benches are available in a variety of sizes and provide you with a contemporary place to sit, along with a nice, large storage area. A drop leaf dining room table. Eating at the kitchen bar is the best space saving option, but if you truly need a dining room table, a drop leaf is best.

Contemporary Comfort and Practical

Not only is your studio apartment about comfort and space saving, it's also about being practical. Using synthetic wicker furniture instead of cloth couches or sectionals will not only look upscale and beautiful, but synthetic wicker is also durable, cleanable, and stain resistant. With just a damp cloth, any spill is quickly wiped up, no damage done.

Another plus is the fact that wicker furniture can be used indoors or out, so you'll be able to store your wicker sectional on your patio if you are in need of more room in the living area, and move it inside periodically.

Your apartment should be your home. You want to be able to show it off one minute and relax the next. With space saving items and durable, contemporary wicker furniture, you'll have the best of both worlds.

Keeping it Light

Light coloured walls, white ceilings, and windows that are free of heavy coverings or drapes can help make your studio apartment seem larger than it is. Add mirrors on a living room wall or as a back splash in the kitchen to add even more space.

Your studio apartment isn't hopeless. Small isn't the end of the world. Now that you have these practical, space saving tips, let the renovations begin!

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Different Styles of Patio Blinds for Your Comfort

Most homes today have their own outdoor space like a patio, veranda or deck. This is where the family would usually relax and just be comfortable while at home. Sometimes, if the space is large enough, this is also where some families gather for small family occasions or simple family bonding moments. Your outdoor space can be a memorable place for you and your family since this is where you actually spend quality moments with them. It is just right to put on equipments or tools that will even make your outdoor space more comfortable and better to use.

One of the things that you can effectively use for your patio or any outdoor space is the patio blinds. This is used to protect a certain space from the heat of the sun as well as from the rains. It also helps to control the amount of light and wind that will enter your patio. It can also give you the privacy that you need if you want to have your quiet time in your patio. If you wish to add color and life to your plain-looking patio, you can make use of these patio blinds as they come in various colors and designs. You can choose the one that will perfectly match the theme and color of your patio.

There are many different styles that patio blinds have. These styles will add personality and attractiveness to your patio. If you would like to improve the beauty of your outdoor space, then you should choose the best style that will complement the best assets of your patio. You can choose the horizontal blinds if you would like to make your patio look bigger. This is very useful and practical. This is often the one chosen by many people as it has more designs and colors to choose from.

You may also go for the modern styles and one of the most popular today is the bamboo patio blinds. This style of blinds will give your patio a natural look with added features. Bamboo can help in balancing the temperature in a certain room. With this, you will not feel the heat outside since it balances out the temperature that you have in your patio. This style will match any theme or color of patio that you have.

The cellular and sun sheer weave are also modern styles of patio blinds. These have added features so that the user can benefit more from it. It helps in absorbing sounds so that the patio can stay quiet and peaceful and completely blocks the sun and heat from the outside. These are more preferred by many home owners especially those living in extremely warm places.

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Make Your Business Place Attractive With Outdoor Blinds

Businesses would use anything just to attract customers and clients. This is why many of them would go for different promotions and perks just to pull those clients in and create income for the business. But one way to also attract clients and customers to a business is to make the place colorful, attractive and lively. People would love to go to places that will make them feel comfortable and pleasant. It is something that most people are looking for when they go out.

One way to make a place attractive and colorful is to set up outdoor blinds for patio. If the business has its patio or veranda, these are the perfect addition to make the place look cozy and can attract people to come and stay for a while. There are many advantages that outdoor blinds for patio can provide to a place. First of all, it is an effective weather protector. When you set this up in your business place, you can be sure that your clients and customers will not be exposed to sunlight or rains. This will make them feel comfortable and relaxed. This is a good set up for a business as it may attract repeat business or clients making good income from it.

Aside from the shade it provides, it can make the business place look attractive, beautiful and cozy. It comes in many different colors and designs which will make the place look more colorful and alive. People will surely see the blinds even from afar. This will make the people want to try the business out. Business owners can even have specialized or customized blinds for their business. They can have their logos printed on the blinds itself to make it more personal. Or business owners can have a specific theme for their place so that clients and customers will easily remember their place.

There are also different sizes and shapes that business owners can choose from so that they can even make their place look more attractive. These types of blinds are now being used by many establishments like cafes, hotels, restaurants and malls. These are effective tools in pulling in clients and sales for a particular business. People will definitely get attracted when they see the colorful and beautiful blinds that businesses will put up in their place.

There are now more stores and shops offering different kinds of blinds. Business people can choose for the one that will suit their business place more. There are also shops that offer customization especially for businesses. There are also other weather protectors and covers that people may purchase not only for their business but also for their homes. These weather protectors and covers are effective shade providers and place beautifiers. This is why these outdoor blinds products are now very popular among many people. People would definitely love to stay in a place where they are not exposed to what the weather is providing and at the same time give comfort for them.

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The Advantages of Using Hidden Deck Fasteners

Several persons have created their backyard decks themselves and occasionally, an individual may improve on the idea for making the deck easier to build and last longer. The hidden desk fasteners are one of those developed ideas. Various types of these fasteners are on the market and below you will find that each of them comes with individual benefits.

Advantages of Hidden Desk Fasteners Fasteners like screws and nails are used to build a deck. However, a lot of individuals may not be aware that prongs, biscuit systems, clips and prongs are also some tools that are required to make the deck safe and secure. Benefits of using these industrial fasteners include:

Less Exposure - It is quite annoying and painful to be walking across the deck and you suddenly feel your toe stubbed by a protruding screw or nail; or the shovel you are using to move snow from the deck, constantly being stopped by a nail or screw. The fasteners that are protruding also give the deck a less appealing appearance. Protruding screws and nails can be avoided if a clip is affixed to a board that is placed down first using screws or nails and use the prongs from the first clip to attach the board to be placed next.

Structure - Hidden deck fasteners allow the deck to be securely fastened to the joists and prevent creaking and movement. Using nails to fasten boards to the joists prevent the board from naturally contracting and expanding and this may cause the lifespan of the deck to be shortened. It is therefore recommended that if you do not want to hear your deck creaking for years and you want to make use of hidden deck fasteners to make it serve longer, you place a few more braces beneath the deck. The will make the deck remain rigid but still able to contract.

Movement - Prongs and biscuit systems are used to make deck boards remain together and to lessen movement. But you should be mindful of the weather of the area you are building the deck. This is due to the fact that deck boards contract and expand whenever they are exposed to moisture and altering temperatures. If the moisture content is not appropriate when the boards are installed, they may become separated from the hidden desk fasteners.

Installation time - Although it may take a longer time to install hidden fasteners than to use a screw driver or a nail gun when making the deck, this time is nothing when compared to the times you will spend fixing screws and nails that is protruding throughout the lifespan of the deck.

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Add Value to Your Home With Two Quick Tips

As an active real estate investor I see a lot of different homes. Some are in good condition, some in OK condition, and others are in very poor condition. From an investor stand point sometimes a deciding factor in whether I purchase a home is simply based on whether or not the home is structurally sound or not. I usually set aside a predetermined amount of money to repair and remodel the home before I put it back on the market.

However, the purpose of this article isn't really to get you to invest in homes that you are going to turn around and sell. Since I view on average of 20-30 homes a month I would like to share something about adding value to your home as a homeowner. But before we get started I will say there are a lot of differing opinions out there, so I suggest analyzing all of them before you decide on one thing that you feel is going to help you add value to your home. Critical analysis is important when it comes to your investment(s).

Now, without further ado... I'm going to quickly get to the point. Prepare and present your home in a way that buyers are going to pull the trigger after viewing your home. Ok, so you're thinking well what exactly does that mean. Well let me give you an example of a home I recently walked into. The home that was filled with clutter, dirty (dirt on walls and floor), stained carpets, garbage was overflowing, flies were flying around, it smelled, etc. The list goes on. How you live is really up to you and if you want to live in a dirty home, well that's your prerogative. The point here is that if you choose to live this way and want to sell your home. I highly suggest you change your habits. Presenting a dirty home is one of the easiest ways to turn off potential buyers.

The example presented above is an extreme case, but the message is regardless of whether you live in a kinda-sorta dirty home or a really dirty home or any variation thereof you should considering taking some time to prepare your home before you put it on the market. I know what you're thinking at this point, "Ok, so if I clean my home how is that going to add value," which leads me into my next tip.

Outdoor spaces are just as important as indoor spaces. Buyers today want the whole package and they want a relaxing place to go to when the weather is nice. If you invest a little money in your patio or deck this can increase your chances of selling your home quicker than someone who has not taken this step. Adding patio pavers, a wood deck, borders, walkways, ponds, patio furniture, patio umbrellas, a nice outdoor fire pit or a built-in-bbq can add tremendous value. When people are viewing your home they can envision themselves living there and that's exactly what your want to happen.

This one element can be the difference of whether your home sits on the market for months or days. However, you don't have to take my word for it. Try it out for yourself the next time you sell a home and decide for yourself. Now I will add a caveat here and say that market fluctuations and other variables will impact how long your home sits on the market. In conclusion, cleaning your home and creating outdoor living spaces can be the difference between selling your home and not selling your home.

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Decking Materials to Enhance Your Home: PVC, Tigerwood, and Aluminum Railings

As trends in the housing market are encouraging homeowners to focus on upgrading their current homes rather than selling, one of the smarter investments a homeowner can make is to build a new deck, regardless of the cost of the decking material.

Homeowners don't need to spend tons of money on a deck because even the most simple of decks are still desirable, even to shoppers in the market for a new home. Here are some popular decking materials, that also fit all budgets, to consider in order to construct one of the best decks in the neighborhood.

Wood

A top decking material due to its authentic and all-American look and affordability is lumber. Wood decks are durable and strong and can be customized to match the style of your home.

Tigerwood, an exotic hardwood from Brazil, is one of the most popular lumbers to use for wood decks. Tigerwood boards have a reddish hue and have natural dark streaks running through them. Among the finest-quality hardwood available, tigerwood decking is naturally mildew- and mold-resistant, has boards that can reach up to 16 feet in length, and can last up to 25 years or more. A tigerwood deck is also quite ideal for the rainy Pacific Northwest as it won't rot or decay as quickly as other types of wood materials and it's slip-resistant.

Remember that wood can stain and change color due to exposure to the elements over time. Maintenance is therefore very important with any type of wood decking material, as it requires you to clean and stain the materials annually or biannually.

PVC Decking

PVC decking, a new up-and-comer in the deck world. Developments in PVC decking technology allows for homeowners to install this kind of decking that looks and feels like real wood. Though it is a bit more expensive, PVC decking is basically maintenance-free and does not need sanding, staining, or special cleaning products and these decks won't split, crack, stain, fade, warp, or twist.

If there is any dirt or grime on your PVC deck, all you have to do is rinse it off with a hose and whatever is left behind can be wiped away with a cloth and household cleaner. Even on hot summer days PVC decking is comfortable as it remains cooler than other types of decking materials, even in direct sunlight.

Custom Railings

Custom rails can be added onto your current or new deck installation. Aluminum railings, which add style to and look great with any decking material, are one of the most budget-friendly and versatile railing options for a deck. Glass and aluminum railings are a great combination for when you want to be able to preserve a spectacular view and want protection from the wind 9similar to those on beach house balconies). Adding a cable rail to your aluminum railings is another option that makes your deck a bit safer as well.

Adding or enhancing a deck for your home is a great investment. Not only does it add utility to your yard, but it also creates an outdoor living area that can be viewed and admired by all who pass by.

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Hiring A Deck Contractor

Hiring a deck contractor can be an uneasy situation when the finished product is of poor quality or the time of actual production is lasting a lot longer than expected. There are a couple of common steps that must be followed when hiring a deck contractor, which will help minimize any future headaches. Have a plan in mind about how you would like your deck designed and which material you are planning to have it made with.

When hiring a deck contractor the first question to ask is whether the contractor has liability insurance and workmen compensation. Research on the better business bureau website, most reliable decking contractors register with the BBB and have a record of any serious complaints from previous customers. Ask the contractor what their damage policy, whether there are any fragile or potential damage areas around the production site. Pay close attention to the body language of the contractor when discussing damage control, they will react the same way when the situation actually occurs.

It is no secret that hiring a deck contractor with actual work history experience is a safer bet, so ask for their work history. A contractor who has a very good relationship with previous customers will only be to happy to dish out information, some contractors carry previous customer testimonials which is a good sign of professionalism.

A deck estimate must contain two highly detailed sections before any work begins. The first is a detailed description of the material being used. Make sure that the product being used is the product you agreed on having your deck made. Without a good discussion on product the contractor can decide on the most cost effective materials out there and you will find you have made a short term investment.

The second part of the estimate is to make sure there is a detailed section regarding the warranty. This includes the labour warranty which is actually the most important. After the completion of your deck use it often for the first few weeks, look for minor errors or faults with the construction. Be reasonable, but it is good to get the issue of using your warranty early rather than later when the natural elements can be used to dissolve any previous promise.

Never pay the full cost of a new deck up front. General practise in the home renovation business is between thirty to fifty percent up front mostly for materials, with a mid and then final payment on completion. Ask for a definitive price in the estimate and sign off with no unexpected costs popping up during the production process of your deck. Get three estimates so that you can compare apples with apples. Make sure that the three estimates are in correlation when it comes to the material being offered. Remember the cheapest estimate is not always the best, ask the more expensive contractor why their price is higher than their counterpart and you may be surprised.

Patio Heaters: 4 Deciding Factors Revealed   Creating Your Dream Deck - How To Select Decking Material That Is Right for You   Garden Furniture That Lasts for Years   Patio Heaters: Best Kept Buying Secrets Revealed!   City of Ottawa Deck Permits   Deck Coatings - How to Choose the Right Coating   

Patio Heaters: What You Should Really Know Before Buying

Patio heaters can be a difficult thing to shop. Most people who plan on buying heaters usually end up buying something that won't emit enough heat for the size of their patios. There are a lot of factors that you need to consider in order for you to select the best one.

To help you out in this seemingly difficult task, here are some very valuable tips that you can use to help you get the best patio heater for you.

Going propane or electric? There are different types of patio heaters. You should decide on how you want you patio heater to do its job. There are the propane models that hook up to your gas line. But if you don't have access to a gas line outside your house or near the patio, it's probably better to get the electric heating types since they only need to be plugged in to a power socket to work.

Heater size Heaters come in different sizes and this should be one point of consideration. Some are as big as lamp posts and are really excellent for big patios. If you have a smaller patio, the smaller table-top heaters should be good.

Patio Size Size of the patio should also be a point to be considered when buying a patio heater. You should know how big your patio is if you want to buy a heater that can effectively heat the whole area. Heaters have minimum heating ranges so check your patio size VS the effective heating area of the one you want to buy.

Heat direction Are you going for a one direction heater, or do you want it centralized. There are heaters that give off heat in one direction; these are suitable to be placed in corners of your patio. If you want something that can heat the whole area, go for patio heaters that emit heat in a 360-degree radius. Placing a 360-degree heater in the centre of your patio will help heat the whole area given that the patio heater produces enough heat for the whole patio.

Budget Talking about budget, you need to check out the price of one before buying of course. Price would range from $50 to $200. This entirely depends on a number of factors like effective heating area, brand, material used, quality, etc.

You think this is enough to influence you to make a good buying decision? Even if this article gives you substantial information on patio heaters, there's even more valuable information out there. Don't stop here, make sure to read more articles and reviews online to get to know each product better. You might even get a bargain if you search online.

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

Keeping Your Outdoor Room Cool During The Summer

With the increasing popularity of outdoor rooms and a move toward more health conscious living, many homeowners are spending much of their free time enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. If you've created an outdoor living room, dining room, kitchen, or even a bedroom, you may love spending your hours outdoors as well.

However, when summer rolls around, the glaring heat of the sun may reduce the amount of time you spend lounging on your wicker furniture in the backyard. You may be left wondering what you can do to beat the heat and enjoy more hours in your outdoor retreat. Luckily, there are several steps you can take to cool things down and stay outside longer.

Keeping Your Outdoor Space Cool During The Summer

Don't let the heat run you inside this summer. Enjoy your outdoor space with these cooling essentials.

Misting Systems- Have you ever been to an amusement park? These parks generally have misting systems that send down a sheet of mist to cool guests. You can have the same type of system, although perhaps on a smaller scale, for your backyard retreat. This small amount of water will not harm your wicker furniture, and your friends and family will feel much more comfortable sitting outside on sweltering days. Trees- If your outdoor space extends farther than your deck or patio, consider strategically planting some nice shady trees around your outdoor space. These trees will not only add to the beautiful décor of your retreat, but will provide you with much-needed shade so you can relax outside. Add a Roof- If the majority of your backyard space begins on a deck or patio, there is one easy way to create a comfortable and shady area. Add a roof. With a roof over your patio or deck, you can experience shade no matter what time of day it is, reducing the temperature of your deck or patio by up to 20 degrees. If you don't want to create a permanent roof, consider an adjustable or collapsible one. These still provide the same benefits, but can easily be removed if you decide you do not want to use it. Ceiling Fans-If you have a permanent roof structure in place, you can easily add a ceiling fan to your outdoor space. This will help to create a breeze on those days when the sun is beating down on you. Ceiling fans can also serve a dual purpose, allowing you to create additional outdoor lighting for your backyard space after dark. Pools-While a pool might not cool you down when you want to curl up on a piece of your wicker furniture with a book, it can definitely keep you cool when you want to spend more time outdoors. A pool can also make your outdoor space look more inviting to your friends and family, especially if you add additional décor, such as shrubbery, wicker lounge chairs, and umbrella-covered tables.

Don't let the summer heat cause you to abandon your comfortable wicker furniture and drive you inside to the air conditioning. If you take the right steps, you can create a comfortable and cool area for you and your family to enjoy even on the hottest days of the year.

Patio Heaters: 4 Deciding Factors Revealed   Creating Your Dream Deck - How To Select Decking Material That Is Right for You   Garden Furniture That Lasts for Years   Patio Heaters: Best Kept Buying Secrets Revealed!   

Patio Blinds: A Great Enhancement For Your Patio

If your patio stands to be boring because of its dull design and too much exposure from the heat of the sun then you better do something now. The commonly known remedy to this household problem is patio blinds. What are patio blinds? This is a helpful enhancement you can use in your homes to keep the hot sun from coming through. They can also protect your porch area from getting too much sunlight and heat. Installing them to areas in your home where you want to relax and be comfortable is the right way to go. You can purchase or buy them in specialty stores or via the internet.

Do you want a convenient place to buy patio blinds? Well, the internet maybe the best answer for that. When you shop online for patio blinds, you can find a huge selection of colors, sizes and styles to match your patio or any area in your house. You can also personalize or customize them if you need the exact feature for your door. Besides the internet, you can also purchase patio blinds in specialty stores in your area. They are available in department stores, home and garden centers, malls, specialty shops and other retail outlet centers.

Patio blinds are also good in giving you a really great feeling like bringing your outdoor space inside your home - almost like bringing in the whole of mother nature inside your house. One advantage you can also gain from using patio blinds is that you can have your own privacy. You can have that total separation of the areas in your home - this means that you can isolate your main living area from your patio. This way you can have a cozier place to relax outside your home.

If you are eager to make your home more attractive and pleasing to the eyes, aside from the array of colors and design to choose from, there are also other types of patio blinds that you can choose from. There are those in horizontal design that perfectly match your outdoor space. They can either be light filtering or room darkening - choose what suits your needs best. And, there are also neutral colors to choose from like white, brown, tan, cream, beige and off-white that will match your every house decoration.

So remember that when choosing and purchasing patio blinds you must consider the design, color, size and the usefulness of it in your house. Also, check that it can last for a long time so that you won't need to change over and over again. And do not forget that you need to buy blinds that will match or suit your needs in every aspect, shade you from the harmful effects of the sun and to make your patio a very relaxing place to live.

Patio Heaters: 4 Deciding Factors Revealed   Creating Your Dream Deck - How To Select Decking Material That Is Right for You   Garden Furniture That Lasts for Years   Patio Heaters: Best Kept Buying Secrets Revealed!   City of Ottawa Deck Permits   Deck Coatings - How to Choose the Right Coating