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Stand Out From the Curb With These 5 Landscaping Trends

August 7, 2019 by admin

The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) just dropped their list of 2019 landscaping trends. It reveals that homeowners want lower-maintenance yards that are peaceful, wildlife-friendly and set up for entertaining. As life in general becomes more hectic, homeowners want to come home and enjoy their easy-upkeep lawns and gardens.

Want your lawn and garden to stand out from your neighbor’s? If so, you’ll want to check out these five landscaping trends that freshen up your outdoor space and make it memorable:

lawn and garden ideas and landscaping trends

Stripes are a visual effect caused by a lawnmower as it bends the grass. The sun reflecting off the blades creates the alternating light and dark green stripes you see. Image: phototropic/Getty Images

1. Lawn Striping

Nothing is more welcoming than a lush, green lawn. Landscape pros are getting more requests from homeowners to “jazz up” their flawless lawns with stripes and other patterns.

Lawn striping isn’t hard to do. Most machines create a type of stripe as the lawnmower tires and deck bend the grass in the direction the mower is moving. But for more intricate or pronounced patterns, rollers and striping kits are available for certain lawn mowers.

A multi-function outdoor area featuring a vertical garden as a privacy wall, outdoor dining area and plenty of pots to grow small shrubs and plants. Image courtesy of the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

2. Multi-Function Landscape Design

Landscape experts say homeowners no longer want a lawn and garden that’s only for admiring. Instead, families want to use their outdoor spaces — no area should be off-limits. Today, the more uses a garden has, the better.

Some of the top multi-purpose landscape trends are:

Vertical gardens that also work as a privacy fence
A small sitting area with a water feature and flowers that butterflies, hummingbirds, bees and other wildlife can enjoy
A winding path planted with edible herbs
A wall with built-in seating

2019 landscaping trends and modern pergola ideas

Choose a pergola style that matches with your home’s design, like this mid-century modern pergola. Image: Thomas Barwick/Getty

3. Pergolas For Outdoor Living

Merging indoor and outdoor living is high on a homeowner’s wish list. And an outdoor structure that creates an extra room adds to a home’s useful square footage. What’s more, today’s pergolas are more sophisticated than ever. Some of the top pergola trends now include structures with:

Space heaters or a fire feature
A luxury outdoor kitchen
A sitting area featuring a large outdoor sectional
Rolldown windows
Lighting
Sound systems

Add metal furnishings and decor to your garden to update your outdoor space. Image: Mint Images/Getty Images

4. Outdoor Metal Elements

Metal is the latest landscaping trend material of choice. It’s partially because homeowners want durable and low-maintenance materials that don’t require staining, finishing, sanding and sealing.

Look for pergolas, furnishings and other accessories in metal. Brushed stainless steel continues to be popular, although industrial-looking black metal is also on-trend.

landscaping trends and garden design ideas

Layer several hues of pink and coral flowers in your garden design. Image: Susanne Alfredsson/EyeEm/Getty Images

5. Pretty In Pink

Millennial pink, dusty rose and bold-yet-earthy coral have been big color trends in the last couple of years. And that’s especially true since Pantone named Living Coral their Color Of The Year for 2019.

Pink hues look fantastic against green, creating a big demand for pink flower beds. According to the report, landscape professionals also expect that softer, light blush pink tones will become the “the new neutral” for flooring materials, surfaces and finishes to tie in the bolder coral tones.

The post Stand Out From the Curb With These 5 Landscaping Trends appeared first on Freshome.com.

Plan on Entertaining Outdoors This Summer? Here’s What You Need to Do It Right

July 17, 2019 by admin

Warmer weather entices people outside, and let’s face it, wide open spaces can provide more room to move around and reduce the potential for damage to your home’s interior.

However, to truly provide an outstanding outdoor entertaining experience, you’ll need to create a fun and inviting environment, Here’s what you need to create the type of outdoor space that neighbors won’t want to leave.

More than a grill

You’ll gain a lot of friends with this Artisan Fire Pizza Oven by Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet. Image courtesy of La Cuisine Appliances.

A grill is an obvious starting place. “You’ve got to have a good looking and functional grill,” says Daniel Germani, founder and creative director of Daniel Germani Designs. “My favorite is the one has a lid that folds all the way back and goes flush with the countertop.”

However, Josu Gaubeka, president of La Cuisine Appliances, a kitchen appliances distributor, says he’s also seeing an increasing number of other appliances and accessories in summer kitchens. “They’re going beyond the BBQ, and building out full kitchens. In fact, many families are adding pizza ovens to keep the kids and their friends close by.”

Specialized cookers

Increase your cooking options with the Goucho Grill by Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet. Image courtesy of La Cuisine Appliances.

In addition to grills and pizza ovens, homeowners are also adding other types of cookers. “We’re seeing specialized cookers, such as side burners for boiling seafood or wok cooking, and smokers,” according to Mitch Slater, CEO and Founder, Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens and Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchens.

However, if you want to put a specialty appliance, like an Argentinian grill, in cabinetry, Slater warns that you’ll need to use non-combustible materials, like stainless steel, “Also, it’s best to line your cabinets with firebrick so they won’t become discolored due to extreme heat exposure,” he says.

Another point to keep in mind is that your exterior kitchen layout is as important as your indoor kitchen layout.

Water and refrigeration

Sinks and refrigerators add convenience. Image: Ozgur Coskun/Shutterstock

“I’m being called on by developers of luxury condominiums to add summer kitchens on each unit – including an electric grill, ice maker, and sink,” says Gaubeka. That comes as no surprise to Germani. “A sink and a refrigerator are must-have items, and I like to include 2 fridges in my outdoor kitchens — one for food and one for beverages,’ he says.

In fact, if you want to maximize time with guests by avoiding trips indoors, Slater recommends duplicating your indoor kitchen. “In addition to a sink and refrigerator, you could also include trash cabinets, and even dishwashers manufactured for outdoor use.”

However, in lieu of an actual refrigerator, Gaubeka says some homeowners are installing refrigerated drawers.

Shade

Be sure to provide shelter from the heat. Image courtesy of Belgard

When the sun is beaming down, you’ll need to protect your friends and family members from those damaging rays. “Cantilevered overhangs provide lots of shade while cooking/lounging outdoors,” according to Miami-based architect Choeff Levy Fischman. But that’s not your only option. Slater recommends using fans, misters, and light-colored furniture as additional cooling sources.

Lighting

Lighting provides safety and highlights design features. Image courtesy of Belgard

“Having good lighting allows you to create a mood, grill and entertain far after the sun goes down and the martinis start to flow,” says Germani. In addition to being an entertainment element, lights also create a safe environment, so you won’t get sued because someone tripped and fell in the dark. HGTV/DIY host Matt Blashaw’s outdoor lighting tips are a good guide for using light strips, spotlights, etc. Also, Duane Draughon, owner and lead designer at VizX Design Studios in Lisle, IL, recommends an overhead structure trellis pergola with lighting.

Entertainment

Cheer for your favorite team with an outdoor TV. Image courtesy of Belgard

“As we navigate from the inside to the outdoor kitchen, entertainment will also transform these spaces with additions like outdoor speakers and big screen TVs,” says Wendy Hammerman, Founder & Lead Designer at WLH Interiors, a full-service interior design studio in New City, NY.

But as popular as TVs are, Patti Wynkoop, VP of Product Development and Purchasing for Miller & Smith, which builds new homes and develops real estate in the District of Columbia, Northern Virginia, and Maryland, believes that music is even more popular as an outdoor entertainment feature. “Outdoor ceiling speakers make it easy to enjoy your favorite music while you cook or entertain guests,” she says.

However, when incorporating technology, consider the needs of your guests. “Be sure to include several usable power outlets for cell phone charging,” advises Draughon.

Seating/Furniture

Provide multiple seating options. Image courtesy of Miller & Smith

Seating is an important choice as it will determine your entertaining options. “While outdoor wicker furniture has been popular in the past, we see a lot more built-in bench seating styled with throw pillows and cushions for a casual, comfortable feel that’s able to accommodate more people,” according to Hammerman.

You’ll probably prefer to have guests sitting upright at tables to reduce spills when they’re eating. However, consider mixing this type of seating with more relaxing options. “Sunken seating areas provide depth and additional space for entertaining,” according to Fischman.

And there’s something else you should keep in mind when choosing furniture. “Composite furniture such as sofas, lounge chairs and end tables are maintenance free, fade resistant and easy on the eyes,” says Wynkoop.

Flooring and ceiling considerations

Your flooring should be durable. Image courtesy of Dekton Nilium Flooring

Flooring should be durable, yet stylish. “Beadboard is a solid choice in flooring materials for an entertainment space and it is often used to seamlessly merge indoor and outdoor living areas,” Wynkoop says. For decks, she recommends Duadek outdoor waterproof flooring. “The suede color is often the best neutral choice for entertainment spaces as it provides flexibility with decor and rugs.”

Maintain the flow between your interior and exterior places.

Maintain the flow between your interior and exterior areas. Image courtesy of Miller & Smith

Just as the connection in flooring is important for flow, Wynkoop says consistency in ceiling height and material will also marry indoor and outdoor entertainment spaces. “If you have a ceiling in your outdoor entertainment space, adding tongue & groove planks or panels gives the appearance of a plank installation – painted or stained – and is perceived as a more refined level of detail.”

Planning for colder weather

With the right setup, you can entertain outdoors at least 3 seasons of the year. Image: TimAbramowitz/Getty Images

Summer will be over before you know it, but by planning wisely, you can continue to entertain outdoors well into the fall months. “Just like indoor furniture, you can add cushions, throw blankets and pillows to your outdoor furniture for comfort and enjoyability throughout the year,” Wynkoop says. Firepits and outdoor fireplaces can also keep you warm and toasty when the weather turns colder.

The post Plan on Entertaining Outdoors This Summer? Here’s What You Need to Do It Right appeared first on Freshome.com.

Update Your Patio This Year With This One Outdoor Decorating Trend

July 6, 2019 by admin

Desert-inspired earth tones and bohemian chic vibes are the biggest trends this year for the home. And the trend goes outdoors this summer, too. You don’t have to break the bank to update your patio every year. Designers are focusing on one main zone of your outdoor space this year: your outdoor flooring.

Depending on your budget, the best way to update your patio can be as easy as painting your patio floor or adding an outdoor area rug. Or you can get more involved by staining the existing concrete or adding patio tile or stone.

Here is some inspiration on how you can breathe new life into your existing patio furniture setting. All you need is to focus on your patio flooring. Then, you can consider adding some simple accents like throw pillows, candles and some new plants and pots.

Outdoor Rugs

One of the easiest ways to update your patio is by adding an outdoor rug to cover your boring deck or concrete patio floor. Look for a rug that says it’s for the outdoors. Made with synthetic materials like nylon, acrylic or heavy-duty natural fibers like seagrass, they’ll be less prone to mildew and fading.

Warm tones and a tribal pattern add an exotic feel to any outdoor space. Image: Pottery Barn

The pattern on the outdoor rug matches the iron scrollwork of the dining chair backs. Image: TimAbramowitz/Getty

Layers of rugs are added to an ordinary patio for a boho-chic vibe. Image: West Elm

how to update your patio for a modern look with Chilewich rugs

Believe it or not, you’re seeing a woven vinyl rug that looks like stone. Image: All About Space/Shutterstock

Tiled Patio Ideas

A tiled patio adds value to your home. Tile is low maintenance, easy to clean and very resistant to the outdoor elements. Make sure to choose a tile that’s not slippery when wet.

how to update your patio floor with tile

Mix and match different shades of the same type of tile for a unique look. Image: karchana p/Shutterstock

outdoor tile ideas for updating your patio

For an elegant look, create a diamond checkerboard pattern in your yard by using square black and white stones or tiles. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Earthy and hand-hewn saltillo tiles are a beautiful and classic choice for your outdoor flooring. Image: Elena Elisseeva/Shutterstock

Outdoor Painted Flooring and Stained Concrete Floors

If you like DIY projects, painting or staining your outdoor flooring may be a satisfying project to take on. It’s all about the correct materials. If you’re working with porous stone, concrete or brick outdoor flooring, visit your local home improvement store and ask for help. There are plenty of products available for every type of surface and use.

how to paint patio floor and patio flooring ideas

Selectively paint your floor in alternating colors to create a patterned tile look. Image: vidguten/Shutterstock

A matte outdoor masonry paint should make it easy to transform boring concrete outdoor flooring into something fresh and new. Image: Michael Wels/Shutterstock

If you layer your paints by starting with a neutral color and painting over it (when dry) with a bright color, you’ll achieve a lovely patina when the paint starts to wear down. Image: Michael Wels/Shutterstock

Stain the concrete in a designated area to create an outdoor room effect. Image: Tunde Gaspar/Shutterstock

The post Update Your Patio This Year With This One Outdoor Decorating Trend appeared first on Freshome.com.

Exclusive! HGTV/DIY Host Matt Blashaw’s Outdoor Lighting Tips and Tricks

June 22, 2019 by admin

You’re probably ready to start relaxing and entertaining outdoors during the day and at night. For the latter, you’ll need strategically placed lighting for safety reasons. But there’s no reason why your lighting can’t be both functional and stylish.

TV host, landscape expert and realtor Matt Blashaw. Photo: Chaz Curr

Matt Blashaw, the popular HGTV and DIY host of Yard Crashers, Money Hunters and Vacation House For Free, has teamed up with the makers of Philips Hue smart lighting. Freshome asked Blashaw (who is also a landscaping expert and realtor) for some tips to help transform your outdoor spaces with the latest lighting available today.

Lights can help to create the perfect ambiance. Image: Travis Wolfe/Shutterstock

Choose the right lighting

“Make sure you use lighting that’s specifically designed to withstand the elements. It should be outdoor-rated,” Blashaw tells Freshome. There are a lot of different types of outdoor lighting, so how do you know which should be used in which applications? Blashaw offers a quick guide.

Pathway lights serve a variety of functions.

Pathway lights like the Philips Hue Calla Outdoor Bollard serve a variety of functions. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

“Install pathway lighting to create an inviting path up to your front door, spotlights to enhance structures and create subtle moods and lightstrips under your shade structures to transform the area into the perfect entertaining space,” Blashaw says. He also recommends swapping out your exterior wall lights to add color and drama.

“No matter what kind of light your home requires, from the driveway to the front door to the patio in your backyard, lighting is a great way to transform your space.”

Use a variety of lights to achieve the perfect result. I

Use a variety of lights to achieve the perfect result, like the Philips Hue Calla Outdoor Bollard. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

Pathway lighting

“Pathway lighting is perfect to define walkways, add safety and connect your outdoor spaces visually,” Blashaw says. “Space out your pathway lighting to get the proper amount of coverage. I like to leave about 6 feet between lights.”

Use Philips Hue Lily Spotlights on a wall or in your flowerbed. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

Spotlights

“One of my favorite lighting elements to install in a yard are spotlights, but you should be thoughtful about placement,” Blashaw says. He recommends that you pick a few of the most visually interesting plants or trees to illuminate. Then, use other types of lighting in planters to balance the effect. “This will provide visual definition to your space and not wash out all of the detail your yard has to offer.”

You can also create focal points with the Philips Hue Lily Spotlight. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

He says that spotlights can be placed either in front of or behind the trees in the landscape. “Each position creates a completely different effect,” Blashaw says. “Lighting from the front will enhance the plants’ natural texture and cast a silhouette on any structure behind them for even more visual interest.”

Philips Hue Lily Spotlight‘s integrated color bulbs allow you to change the ambiance. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

“Lighting a tree from the front with two spotlights on either side will enhance the texture of the bark and leaves,” Blashaw says. “I will sometimes install the spotlight on the ground at the rear of the tree in order to separate it from the rest of the landscape and set a dramatic mood.”

If you want to make a large yard seem cozier, Blashaw says you should only light the elements that are closer to the living space. “Don’t light trees and shrubs that are too far in the distance without adding any lights in between them and the living space,” he recommends. “I like to use spotlights in the planter beds and bollards on the pathway that closely interact with my main living space.” To achieve the best effect, make sure that you’re also properly maintaining your lawn.

Philips Hue Outdoor Lightstrips are bendable and durable. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

Lightstrips

“Lightstrips are the perfect way to create a one-of-a-kind event in your yard 365 days a year,” Blashaw says. One advantage of lightstrips is that Blashaw says they can be shaped to fit the contour of any garden bed or defined space in your yard.

Use Philips Hue Outdoor Lightstrips to create diffused light. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

“I love to install them right against my planters to add a one-of-a-kind look and make them sparkle,” he says. “Add them to the planter beds in front of your house, too, to turn up the curb appeal and define your landscape.”

Make your home a welcoming sight. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

Wall lights

“You can’t forget about finding the right light to highlight the facade of your home,” Blashaw says.

Traditional wall lanterns can also add interest to your home's exterior.

Traditional wall lanterns like the Philips Hue Inara Outdoor Wall Light can also add interest to your home’s exterior. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

“Add lights to each side of any front door entryway to give your guests a welcoming entrance,” Blashaw advises. In addition to providing safety, wall lights can also be used to create the desired ambiance. Here, your color choices are important.

Floor your backyard with soft colors using the Philips Hue Discover Outdoor Floodlight. Image courtesy of Philips Hue.

These lighting tips can help you bring your outdoor spaces to life. But if your home isn’t ready for summer, check out this list of interior and exterior maintenance tasks that you need to tackle ASAP.

The post Exclusive! HGTV/DIY Host Matt Blashaw’s Outdoor Lighting Tips and Tricks appeared first on Freshome.com.

How to Choose the Right Porch Lighting for Your Home

June 16, 2019 by admin

Improve your home’s curb appeal with new porch lighting. Image: David Papazian/Shutterstock

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Porch lighting is an important part of your home’s curb appeal, but it provides much more than just a pretty accent for your front door. The right outdoor lighting can enhance security, safety and even save you money on your utility bill.

Porch Lighting Goals

There are many practical reasons to update your porch lighting, but your porch’s appearance matters, too. Most porch lighting updates are done for aesthetic reasons when a fixture has become dated or worn. The good news is that you can choose new porch lights that not only address the practical issues like security, but also give your home a stylish boost. Once you have identified your new goals for lighting your porch, you can shop for the right fixtures. Depending upon your goal, there is a specific type of fixture to meet your needs.

Knowing what your goals are for the porch is your first step. Those goals can include:

Replace Outdated Light Fixtures: Updating your lighting is all about shopping and finding a new style that you love.
Increase Security With Ample Lighting: Look for fixtures with features like motion detectors or automatic light sensors.
Illuminate Dark Corners and Steps: Step lights or stake lighting adjacent to your steps can be a stylish solution.
Increase Energy Efficiency: Lighting fixtures and bulbs have come a long way in energy efficiency. If you leave your porch light on all night, it’s important to choose the right one.
Add Additional Fixtures to Enhance Your Porch: A large porch may benefit from more than one light source.

Outdoor lighting enhances the beauty of any home. Image: karamysh/Shutterstock

Lighting Beyond Your Front Door

Standard porch lighting for most homes traditionally consisted of one porch sconce adjacent to the front door, as porches became more of a pass-through spot than a place to linger. But today, porches are again becoming a place to entertain and relax. And the lighting needs have changed accordingly.

To find the right lighting balance for your porch, think of it as another room in your home. You’ll want to create layers of lighting on your porch, just as you would your living room. Here are the best spots for enhancing your porch lighting:

A Second Sconce Next to Your Front Door: This balances the lighting and frames your front door.
Overhead Porch Lighting: Not all porch structures can accommodate an overhead light. If it’s possible, a ceiling light fixture can add charm to your front porch.
Garage Carriage Lights: Balance the lighting of your entire home and garage with two to three light fixtures framing the garage doors.
Path Lighting: Solar or battery-powered path lighting helps to lead your guests safely to your porch.

New lighting creates a welcoming porch. Image: David Papazian/Shutterstock

How to Shop for Porch Lighting

Now that you have assessed your needs and created a goal for your porch lighting, it’s time to shop. Here are simple outdoor fixture shopping tips:

Measure Before You Shop: Have all the fixture sizes you’ll need written down. If you’re shopping online or in a store, these measurements will help you choose the right fixture size.
Consult an Expert: If you’re adding a new hard-wired fixture, you may need help from a pro.
Watch the Usage Ratings: Be sure that you’re choosing fixtures that are designed for outdoor use. It’s easy to fall in love with a fixture, only to find out it’s indoor-use only.
Consider a Dark Sky Fixture: Many retailers now offer outdoor lighting that helps to reduce light pollution. These dark sky fixtures control the direction of light to minimize glare while reducing light trespass and skyglow.

The post How to Choose the Right Porch Lighting for Your Home appeared first on Freshome.com.

How to Choose the Right Decking Materials

May 9, 2019 by admin

When you know you have to replace your deck, you typically just know. The finishing on the surface of the decking materials starts to look worn. In more extreme cases, portions of the boards can be completely rotted through or broken. In the most extreme cases, the frame could start to deteriorate, leading to hazardous deck collapses.

If you’re in a position where your current deck could use some TLC, average repair costs can be in the low thousands of dollars. A whole new deck can cost anywhere from thousands of dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the decking materials you use, the size of the deck and local labor costs.

Average estimates for how long it takes to complete a deck are around a week or less, whether you use a contractor or build the deck yourself. Deck repair can take as little as a day if repairs are minor. However, contractor schedules can vary.

Below, we’ll take a look at the types of decking materials, covering some basic pros and cons of each. But first, you should assess whether to repair or replace that deck.

Sometimes individual boards on the deck might need to be replaced. Image: WKanadpon/Shutterstock

Should you Repair your Deck?

The first question you should be asking is whether the frame itself is showing signs of corrosion. Damage to the structural support can lead to deck collapse. Sometimes corrosion will be obvious, like in cases where you can see rot on the edge of the deck frame itself. But you may have to get a professional to perform an inspection if you’re not an expert on woodwork. They’ll look at more technical things, like guardrail and stair connections.

Luckily, decks with structural support intact, but worn boards and railings, can get away with a simple repair to the decking materials. You simply need to replace the individual boards and railings that need repair. Some decks may need only a simple refinishing.

However, if you want newer materials, know that they could be heavier. In cases like these, the deck will need additional supports. The cost of additional supports could approach just putting in a new deck.

As another note, older decks from before 2004 often contained the toxic chemical chromated copper arsenate, a type of lumber preservative that has been labeled a carcinogen due to the arsenic it contains. Fortunately, you can have these types of decks refinished by a professional, which can seal away the chemical.

Natural wood can give a deep color and attractive texture to a deck. Image: Lauren Blackwell/Shutterstock

Types of Decking Materials

The market offers a wide array of options for decking materials, each of which has its own pros and cons. Below is a handy outline of the most common types of decking materials to help you decide which is right for you.

Pressure-treated lumber

This is made of natural wood, but it’s chemically treated to resist bugs, fungus and rot. It’s affordable and easy to source. However, it can crack, warp and split with time. It also requires maintenance, like yearly power washing and restaining every couple of years or so. And people with natural living and sustainability concerns may want to avoid decking materials with chemical treatments. However, it’s also the least expensive type of decking material.

Natural woods

Natural woods are a great investment for people who want to avoid the chemicals of pressure-treated lumber. Some types of woods have oils and tannins that make them naturally resistant to rot and bugs, like redwood and red cedar. Tropical hardwoods can also have similar resistant qualities, like tigerwood and ipe.

Shop carefully for these types of decking materials, as different types of woods are more hearty than others. And, like pressure treated lumber, natural woods like redwood require annual power washing and a new stain every few years. Different woods will have their own maintenance needs, so do your homework. Prices can be all over the place based on wood quality and type.

Composites

Wood fiber and plastic make up this decking material. It’s a highly durable option that doesn’t warp, rot or split as easily as natural wood can. You don’t need to refinish it, but optional paint or stain can give it a fresh look. However, it looks more artificial, so some people might not like the loss of natural texture and color that can come with moving away from natural woods. And it can grow mold and break down over time. You’ll be looking at mid-range pricing, compared to other decking materials.

Plastic

This type of deck is usually made from PVC and polyethylene, a couple of popular options. There is also plastic lumber, which is made entirely of 100 percent recyclable plastic. Plastic is more durable, especially in that it doesn’t rot or decay. Plus, it’s very light. However, this style is getting even further away from the natural beauty of hardwood, which can be a con for people who like that aesthetic. It can also be slippery and might sag. Like composites, prices tend to be mid-range.

Aluminum

Aluminum is one of those ultimate decking materials in terms of durability. It doesn’t rot, bugs can’t eat it, it’s mold resistant, it won’t crack or warp and its finishes last and last. For a con, however, it’s the most expensive type of decking. And some people may not like the sterile aesthetic of a metal deck.

As you can see, each decking type has its distinct pluses and minuses. So the right decking for you will depend on your budget, tolerance for deck maintenance, backyard entertainment needs and aesthetic preference.

And remember, if the cost of repairing or upgrading a deck is close to putting in a new one, you might just be better off getting a brand new deck that may last longer.

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3 Early Signs That You Need to Replace Your Roof

May 6, 2019 by admin

Replacing a roof is a project we’d all like to put off. It can be a major investment to replace your roof. A new roof could easily run around $5,000 to $10,000 — or more. This varies based on how much contractors charge by area and what types of materials you use. Contractors can take one to several days to install a new roof. Or, if you plan to replace the roof yourself, it’s a large home remodel that could run you around a few days to weeks to complete, depending on how much time and help you have.

All that said, if you don’t replace your roof when you first see signs of wear, it can mean more costly repairs down the road. The most common problem is that water will seep in under worn shingles and cause damage to the structures below. That’s when leaks into the home and mold start to happen. On the more mild side, an old roof can look just plain ugly. So below we’ll look at some of the early signs that your roof might need to be replaced.

Shingles will start to crack and warp with damage. Image: Suzanne Tucker/Shutterstock

Replace your roof if the shingles are in bad shape

The easiest way to tell that you need to replace your roof is that the shingles themselves are starting to look worn. There are a few ways to tell that you will need a new roof based on how your shingles look:

The edges of the shingles may be curled or have a cup-like appearance
The shingles are cracking
There may be bald patches

In short, if your roof is starting to look old and worn out, it’s time for a new one.

Moss can signal deeper damage under the shingles. Image: MagicBones/Shutterstock

Moss is appearing

Another key sign that you may need to replace your roof is that you’re seeing moss on or between the shingles. While it might seem like moss on the roof is a quaint quality that will make your home look like a fairy tale cabin in the woods, it’s a sign of a potential problem.

Moss itself is not an automatic sign that you need a new roof immediately. Moss does naturally grow on or between shingles, especially on roofs that are in shaded or moist climates. But moss could hint at hidden damage.

The problem with moss is that when it rains, the moss absorbs the water like a sponge and holds onto it. The whole point of shingles is to allow water to roll off the roof and into the gutters. When moss is present, it keeps that moisture from going where it’s meant to go. That can lead to the shingles themselves breaking down. Since moss impedes the water from reaching the gutters, it can also lead to that water seeping into the layers under the shingles, causing water damage and mold growth.

So if you see moss, you’ll need to call a roofing contractor to clean up the moss and look for signs of permanent damage.

If your roof is just old, it might be time to replace it. Image: Dynamoland/Shutterstock

Consider the age of the roof

Another key factor in determining if you need to replace your roof is the age of that roof. This isn’t a warning sign you can see at times, but it’s worth keeping in mind. Roofs that are at least 20 years old may benefit from replacement with higher quality materials. Typical asphalt shingles last about that long, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

Other materials may last longer, however. Slate, copper and clay/concrete roofs can last over 50 years and wood shake roofs can last around 30, for instance. So, depending on what material you have on your roof and the last time it was replaced, it could just be time so that you avoid leaks down the road.

And, remember, for an investment this large, you might want to consider getting materials that will last longer and be more durable, like metal roofing. This is one of those home purchases where a higher up-front cost could mean fewer repairs down the road. It could be a good investment, especially for a home you plan to stay in as long as possible. If you plan correctly, you might not have to replace your roof ever again.

Whether you put in a new roof or want to protect your existing one, head here to learn how to make it last for decades.

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Caring for Windows: 5 Tips for People in Glass Houses

May 2, 2019 by admin

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They say that people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones, but 13 years in a window-heavy home has taught me even more. The entire front of my home is made up of 12 windows and, while they’re visually interesting, I’ll be honest with you: they can be a major pain to keep clean. But as homes trend toward the more modern, windows and glass are only becoming more popular. Sure, that’s great news for the window-washing company I use, but it also means a lot of homeowner upkeep, too. Caring for windows is more than just a spritz of blue glass cleaner. Here are some of the best tips I’ve learned through life in my own glass house.

Home with large windows in grassy landscape

Windows add plenty of architectural interest to your home. Image: breadmaker/Shutterstock

1. Go commercial

Regular window cleaner is okay for quick shine-ups, but your glass will need more. Homes that feature a lot of glass — especially in place of exterior walls — will accumulate buildup from weather, dust, animals and more. And sometimes, you can’t even really see how dirty your glass is until the sun shines directly through. In any case, it’s best to go for commercial window cleaning solutions. One of the best methods is to simply use soap and water to remove the grime. Then, use a commercial-strength window cleaner (it usually comes in foam, not spray) to shine up.

Avoid your hose to make your glass shine. Image: alexandre zveiger/Shutterstock

2. Wash and dry, but skip the hose

When I first moved into my glass house, I figured a quick spray with the hose outside would be enough to get rid of dirt and grime. But my window care contractor told me that I was probably just making it worse. Hose water is usually pretty hard and, what’s more, mineral deposits can be absorbed by the porous surface of the glass. Caring for windows properly meant filling a bucket with water from inside my home, washing and then making sure to dry the glass before finishing. Never wash your windows in direct sunlight, either, since that’s the time windows are most porous.

Make sure your landscape maintenance doesn’t damage your windows. Image: artazum/Shutterstock

3. Check your sprinklers

Automatic sprinklers are super convenient, but they’re really hard on windows. Having a sprinkler system that splashes up against the glass in your home means wave after wave of hard water and scale buildup over time. I definitely fell victim to this issue the first year in my home; the sprinklers had to be reconfigured. Limescale and hard water buildup are notoriously hard to get off of glass, so it’s best to avoid them altogether. Make sure your sprinklers are pointed away from your windows and water areas close to your home by hand instead.

Living room with floor-to-ceiling windows

Yearly maintenance can ensure more energy efficient windows. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

4. Reseal annually

Having a home that is heavy on the glass can be stunning, but it’s not always the most energy efficient feature. Caring for windows can make your home more efficient and help keep energy bills low. Seals around windows and glass can shrink and warp over time, letting out precious heat in the winter and letting it in through the summer months. It’s best to do an annual checkup of your window seals to make sure they’re tight and still pliable. The good news? It’s an easy fix. A tube of caulk can make all the difference in keeping your glass house comfortable all year long.

Call in the professionals a couple of times per year. Image: rawmn/Shutterstock

5. Call in the pros

I do my best to keep our glass home in good shape but I’m not an expert. That’s why I have professional window maintenance come twice yearly to clean windows, clear debris, check seals and otherwise keep my windows in good shape. When your home features a lot of windows, having them look grimy or in disrepair makes a huge difference in the look and feel of the house. It’s usually $150 to $300, but it’s money well spent in keeping my house efficient. While I’m sure we’ll have to replace our windows eventually, it’s a huge cost. Taking care of your windows will extend their life and keep them looking great, so a professional opinion is definitely a worthy investment.

Caring for windows is a major part of homeownership. It’s even more important when glass is one of your home’s major features.

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