Determine Your Budget

Start your outdoor furniture decorating makeover by figuring out just what you can afford. There are many resources to choose from, so what you see in one place that appears to be too expensive might have an affordable price tag elsewhere. Determine not only how much you have to spend, but categorize expenses such as furniture, accessories and other extras so you can see how much you’re willing to spend on each type of purchase.

Select a Material

After you know how much you’re able to spend, picking out the type of furniture is the next step. Keep consistent with your style - don’t mix and match styles and materials too much or the space won’t flow visually. It also won’t appear as comfortable.  Along with material, choose a color pattern. Color will define the mood of the space, so choose a color that fosters a particular mood. Reds, oranges and yellows create a more vibrant feel, while blues and greens are more soothing.

Complement Your Landscape

No matter how large or small your outdoor space may be, it should have a finished landscaping design. Colorful flowers and plants work best. Ditch the plastic plant containers and replace them with pottery. Remember to make your landscaping part of your decorative theme. Having a southwest motif with tropical island landscaping creates an unwelcome clash.

Accessorize Your Outdoor Space

Just as you accessorize your indoor space, you should also accessorize your outdoor decor.  Patio umbrellas and canopies create shade and also evoke a more intimate and cozy feel.  A comfy hammock, a few outdoor candles, a fire pit and other accessories can really complete the look of your outdoor space. Even a solar fountain or bird bath is a nice touch.

Plan your outdoor space decor or renovation just as you would your indoor space. Think of creature comfort and make the area aesthetically appealing. The right balance of furniture and accessories will make your outdoor space come alive, as will choosing furniture and accessories that are as stylish as they are functional.  Be sure to also ensure that your careful planning and well spent money does not go to waste due to circumstances beyond your control.  A freak storm or snow dump could all but destroy your renovated outdoor space, so you should protect it from the moment it’s completed. For more tips on how to protect your outdoor assets, visit RentersInsurance.com.  The site will provide tips on properly insuring your belongings.

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Sunroom Furniture

Inviting sunroom furniture calls you to sit down and relax all year long. Arrange a loveseat, sofa, and upholstered sitting chairs in a semicircle to promote conversation. Add a coffee table for drinks and a card game. Read a magazine or paint a picture of the great view while sitting at a desk overlooking the outdoor landscape. Assemble benches or tables to display fresh flowers from the garden or photos of loved ones.

Sunroom Rugs

Area rugs pad the floor and brighten the room. Spread a large rug in the center of the room or lay runners to accent it. Place an indoor outdoor rug at the entrance of the sunroom to prevent outside dirt from tracking through the house. 

Sunroom Entertainment

Install Direct TV for yearlong entertainment. Watch the big game with your buddies or play on a gaming console with your family. Install a mini refrigerator and microwave to ensure you do not miss any of the action while preparing snacks for the gang. 

Sunroom Decor

Utilize decorations to create a comfortable atmosphere in which you want to sit all year. Decorate the sunroom with children’s artwork, vacation memorabilia, or other knick-knacks that bring you pleasure. Colored pillows and wall hangings add splashes of color. Choose bold colors for excitement or pastel colors for relaxation. 

Sunroom Security and Privacy

Maintain security and privacy in your sunroom. Hang curtains or blinds for privacy. As an added bonus, if you install sunblinds, you’ll make the room feel more comfortable and will avoid fading from the sun.  Lock the door and windows for security. Install a dusk to dawn light to prevent burglars. 

A bright, decorated sunroom invites you and your guests to admire the great view and relax. In any weather, you feel comfortable and protected. Include entertainment and elements of style, comfort, and privacy in your sunroom for year round enjoyment.

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If you’re planning on adding an outdoor kitchen to your backyard or garden area, there are certain aspects you need to be aware of before finalizing your plans.  You should carefully consider aspects such as location, design and materials to ensure that your outdoor kitchen is convenient, is fully equipped and can withstand all types of conditions throughout the year.

Where Should You Build Your Outdoor Kitchen?

Placement is very important when you build an outdoor kitchen because you need to ensure that you do not restrict any views, that the placement is convenient for you to use and that you locate the kitchen in an area where the weather is not going to affect it adversely. Ensure you consider all of these things when choosing your location:

• Wind – You can’t control the elements, however you can place your grill accordingly so smoke doesn’t billow into your neighbor’s gardens or disrupt your guests. Smoke will usually blow downwind of the grill so if you can, try and make sure patios or decks upwind of the smoke. In addition, refrain from placing your outdoor kitchen near windows or doors that are downwind because then the smoke will flow inside the house.
• Vision – Place counters in such a way so that every view is taken into account. For example, the main thing you need to think about it is whether your neighbors can see you. You will probably want some privacy when you are working and entertaining in your outdoor kitchen, so consider placing it where hedges or trees block the view to the neighbor’s house.  This will not only benefit you, but your neighbor’s privacy as well. Moreover, you must consider what your guests will be seeing when they are sitting at the counter or table, as well as what view the person has that will be cooking at the grill.
• Keep cool – The outdoor kitchen will be used on many a warm sunny day, but to refrain from getting yourself and the appliances too hot, make sure the area around the kitchen is shaded. The cheapest option is to build the kitchen under the shade of trees, as it will block out the harsh sun to prevent electrical equipment from overheating and will also keep the rays of sun out of your eyes while cooking without it costing you anything extra. If this option doesn’t work for you, or you don’t want to deal with falling leaves or acorns from overhead, then you can always purchase patio umbrellas which can provide some shade near the cooking areas and also by outdoor dining room sets, or you can build a covering or trellis overhead.   You can also install a rollup awning for coverage.
• Stay close to your house – Having a kitchen area in close proximity to your indoor kitchen is a good idea because then you only have a short distance to walk if you need additional supplies. Moreover, you will still need to store and prep the majority of the food indoors, so it makes sense to build the outdoor area near the back entrance to your home. Also, you will most likely have electric and gas lines located near the home, which is vital in order for your outdoor kitchen to run.  Not having to run these lines too far from the house will limit your installation costs.

Outdoor Kitchen Design

The design of your outdoor kitchen is pretty much up to you.  However, there are three main layouts that you may want to consider adopting for your backyard kitchen.

• Basic – This style is best suited for people that will be using the outdoor kitchen on an occasional basis rather than more regularly. It features a grill, a sink and a counter used for prepping food, as well as a small storage space.  This design leaves out many extras but is also usually the most affordable.
• L-shaped – This layout consists of two separate units. The base of the ‘L’ shape will contain the grill along with the storage compartments, whereas the other counter will provide a preparation area as well as a small space for dining. You will be able to place stools underneath this counter to allow people to sit at the counter for dining and entertaining purposes.
• U-shaped – This style is the most popular among those that intend to use the kitchen on a regular basis. It provides a larger dining space for a number of guests, as well as all the necessary areas for the grill, the prepping station, storage compartments and any other extras you desire. It is also the most convenient, as the chef can place all of the cooked food straight onto the dining area.

Using the Right Materials In Your Outdoor Kitchen

One of the major things you need to consider is the types of materials you are going to use to construct your outdoor kitchen. You want to make sure you have materials that are made to withstand food use in order to ensure that food will not be contaminated. Moreover, if you choose the right materials, then you can prevent too much wear and tear or corrosion throughout the year so you want to make sure the materials withstand outdoor use as well.

When it comes to outdoor kitchen materials, consider these points:

• Ensure it’s easily manageable – There is nothing more frustrating than having to clean a surface that requires a lot of work, so make sure you use stainless steel on your units and grill. It is the most sanitary material and it is very easy to clean.  It also maintains its condition well even in various types of weather.
• Install counters that can handle the heat – Despite shading your kitchen, it will at some point be in direct sunlight, which on a very hot day, can heat up surfaces very quickly. Make sure you find heat durable materials.  You also want to make sure that any materials near grills or other cooking surfaces are heat resistant.
• Consider natural stone – Installing stone counters may be the best way to go, as they are easy to clean as well as looking stylish. However, keep in mind that they may need to be sealed on a regular basis, especially since they are outdoors.
• Be aware of grease – We all know that cooked meat straight off the grill is accompanied by unsightly grease stains so make sure that any of the furniture you locate near the outdoor kitchen contains materials that don’t stain.  This is especially important for any patio cushions, stool cushions or other materials on your outdoor dining chairs.

Additional Items To Consider For Outdoor Kitchens

If you’re hoping to get a lot of use out of your new outdoor kitchen, then you will probably want to consider adding some extra goodies to give the outdoor space the right ambiance and design. If you’re aiming to throw a lot of parties, then music is a necessity for creating a fun and social atmosphere.  You may also want to consider amenities such as lighting and other forms of entertainment.

• Music – There are a number of types of outdoor sound systems that you can incorporate into your outside space which can be installed so that loose wires aren’t in view and the speakers are nearly hidden. Make sure you make your decision before the outdoor kitchen is installed so you can incorporate the speaker setup into the overall outdoor kitchen design.
• TV – You can also incorporate television sets and screens into your outdoor area if the electrical wiring allows it. However, ensure that you place the screens in an area that will not encounter direct sunlight or rain, otherwise they could overheat and become damaged and it may be difficult to see the screen.
• Lighting – If you’re planning on using your outdoor kitchen in the evening, then having the correct lighting is vital in setting the perfect atmosphere. Consider low lighting around the dining area; however you will need a brighter light by the grill. The types of outside lighting you can use are endless, however a good idea is to purchase solar lamps that can soak up the energy throughout the day and then light up in the evening. This will save you in energy costs and from having to install additional electrical wiring, while still creating a comfortable and ambient dining experience for you and your guests.

This post was contributed by Katie, a marketing coordinator at Food Service Warehouse - a restaurant equipment and supplies web store.

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Here are 5 DIY home repair and remodeling projects to get your backyard and garden into tip top shape this year.

1.  Gutter maintenance and repair – Most people may think about cleaning out the gutters if they see them filled with leaves and debris, but what many people don’t take the time to do is to check the gutters and leaders when they are empty to make sure that everything is properly adhered to the sides of the house and that there are no leaks or blockages along the span of guttering that will disrupt the flow of water down and away from the house.  Something as simple as doing a visual inspection on a rainy day to notice any dammed up water spilling over the edges of the gutters can be a useful home repair and remodeling project that can keep your home from being damaged by a build-up of water due to faulty or blocked gutters.
2. Driveway cracks – Over time, it is very common for cracks to occur in blacktop driveways.  These cracks can become unsightly and can also lead to bigger cracks and problems if left unrepaired.  Filling the cracks is a pretty easy DIY home repair and remodeling project that you can do to improve the look of your home’s exterior and to keep the cracks from eventually creating structural damage.  All you need is some driveway crack filler or blacktop patch and driveway sealer and you’ll have a driveway that looks as good as new.
3. Deck repairs and updates – Unless your deck is made from Trex, or another type of manufactured wood-like product, the wood on your deck needs not only periodic maintenance, such as staining and sealing, but also repair.  If the wood on your deck is starting to warp, splinter, crack, sag or rot, it may be time to repair or replace some of the wood so that your deck not only looks its best, but so that it is safe.  This may also be a good time to do a bit of deck remodeling, such as adding a few post cap lights to the deck railing, adding a built in garden planter or deck storage box, or simply sprucing up your outdoor deck décor when you are all finished with your repairs by getting an outdoor rug, maybe some new outdoor dining furniture and a few new outdoor accessories.  This is one home repair and remodeling project that will surely bring you enjoyment as you spend time outdoors in your backyard.
4. Front entrance – Have you taken a look at the area around your front entrance lately to see if anything in the front of your home needs repair or remodeling?  Chances are that you haven’t, especially if you’re one of those people who don’t often use their front doors for entry into their homes (going in through the garage instead).  Check out whether your front door needs repainting, restaining or resealing.  Does your doorbell work properly?  What kind of shape is your door hardware and kickplate in – does it need to be shined up or replaced because it’s pitted or discolored?  How about the outside lights around your entry way – are they bright enough and can you update the styles of lights to give your entryway a more welcoming feel?  These are all outdoor home repair and remodeling projects that can improve the overall look of your home and may even increase its value by improving the curb appeal of the house.
5. Landscaping – When you think of home repair and remodeling projects, you often don’t think of landscaping, but there are many aspects of your home’s landscaping that can use a little repair here and there, and certainly a bit of remodeling of your landscaping and garden décor can breathe new life into the exterior look of your home.  When it comes to repairs, you should check to make sure that any automatic sprinklers work properly and that the outside water spigots are in good working condition and are not leaking (which can cost you lots of extra money in water usage!).   Also see if any retaining walls and walls that edge off landscaping areas made from wood, stone or bricks are in good shape or if they need a bit of TLC.  If you want to do a bit of “remodeling” to your landscaping, get a few new plants or flowers and plant them in areas that are barren or that have older plants that may have seen better days.  Plants don’t last forever, and sometimes a once-over of your landscape design that includes removing old plants and planting new ones can give your home a completely new look or can even give your home a similar look to some of those new homes in Kent that you’ve driven by repeatedly and always admired.

These are just a few simple home repair and remodeling projects that you can tackle on your own to improve the look and functionality of your outdoor spaces.  There are many other projects that you can take on without having to hire a home repair and remodeling professional contractor.  All you have to do is to do some research on how to do anything you’re not quite sure about, make sure you have the right tools and some help, if necessary, and keep the tasks relatively small and simple until you have the confidence to be able to take on larger home repair and remodeling projects with ease.

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So, what do you need to consider if you’re looking to buy a gazebo replacement canopy? Read on to find out.

Gazebo Replacement Canopy Sizes

Probably the most important factor to consider is size, as well as shape. You can’t fit a 10 ft square gazebo replacement canopy on a rectangular gazebo, or even a larger square one. That is why the first step in narrowing down your search for the proper replacement is to find the appropriate size. You can find square and rectangular gazebo replacement canopies, as well as styles that will fit octagonal and hexagonal models as well.

Gazebo Replacement Canopy Attachment Mechanisms

Not all gazebos offer the same attachment mechanisms for securing the canopy in place. That is why it is so important to make sure that you know how your particular style of canopy attaches to the gazebo. Is the canopy tied on? Snapped on? Velcroed on? If you get the wrong gazebo replacement canopy style, you will have difficulty securing it to your gazebo frame. For this reason, the best option for finding an outdoor gazebo replacement canopy that will fit perfectly is to first check with the manufacturer to see if they offer any replacement canopies to fit your exact model of gazebo.

Gazebo Replacement Canopy Material

One of the nice things about replacing the canopy on your gazebo is that you have more flexibility in what you are putting on the structure. When you buy the gazebo new, it comes with whatever type of canopy the manufacturer decides upon and some styles of gazebos don’t always include the most durable or attractive canopy covers. When you are buying a gazebo replacement canopy, on the other hand, you have more choice in the type of material that the canopy is made from. You should make sure that no matter what type of canopy you choose, the material is durable and weather resistant. You should also inquire as to whether it will hold up well to fading from the sun or the development of mold or mildew from constant contact with moisture. Finally, you should select a material that will complement your garden décor and your personal design tastes.

Gazebo Replacement Canopy Colors and Designs

As mentioned in the previous section, you have more choice options in replacement gazebo canopies than you do when you originally buy a gazebo. That means you can select a color, pattern and design that is most appealing to you. Be sure that if you get a deep or vibrant color, however, that the material contains UV protection to reduce the fading effects of the sun. Otherwise, you will be looking to get another replacement canopy for your gazebo sooner than you would like because the one you purchase now will prematurely fade.

Gazebo Replacement Canopy Brands

There are many manufacturers that sell gazebo replacement canopies. In fact, most manufacturers that sell gazebos will also offer a selection of gazebo replacement canopies for sale. If you are looking to purchase one for your own gazebo, the first thing you should do is contact the manufacturer of your gazebo to see if they still offer a replacement canopy for your particular style of gazebo. This will ensure the best fit and the most secure attachment. If you cannot get a replacement directly from the manufacturer, there are companies that sell gazebo replacement canopies that fit many of the popular styles. Some brands that you will find replacements for include Garden Oasis, Garden Winds, Arrow, Martha Stewart Living and King Canopy.

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Below are four tips to help you get started on square foot gardening:

1.Creating your square foot garden

All you need for a basic square foot garden is an open-bottomed box, divided into one foot square sections. The size of your box depends on the space you have and your own personal preference, but a standard size is sixteen square feet  (4 feet x 4 feet). Each of the beds is divided into approximately one square foot blocks and marked out with sturdy slats, or twine to ensure that the square foot blocks remain visible as the garden grows.

For certain plants (e.g. potatoes and carrots-deep root), you will need to raise the section by a foot and fill with soil, whereas others may require frames on which to grow.

People with physical disabilities may need to have a bottom to their garden so that it can be placed on a suitable surface.

2. The benefits of the square foot garden

There are lots of benefits to square foot gardening.  These include:

• It requires much less work to manage a square foot garden than a conventional one. You don’t need any heavy tools since you won’t be standing on the soil to compact it, and weeding takes minutes at the most.
• Square foot gardens are more productive than conventional single row planting. The wide spacing and lack of weeds means that each square foot of garden gives you more produce.
• By providing a quality soil that retains water, while minimizing waste by hand-watering, you can save water.
• Square foot gardening is compatible with the permaculture philosophy, whereby people are encouraged to work with nature to protect their crops. For example, companion plants, such as insect-repelling marigolds, can be planted to form a natural barrier to some pests. In addition, by mixing plant varieties, disease can be halted quickly.
• Another benefit of square foot gardens is that they can be easily covered if necessary.

3. What soil do you need for square foot gardening?

When it comes to choosing your soil, there are a number of options:

You could use your own, freely-available soil, although this will need testing and possible modification.  Other disadvantages are the presence of weed seeds and the time and effort needed in preparation.

A mix from your local nursery would be an easier option, though quality can vary. Alternatively, you may want to search for specially pre-prepared mixtures or recipes, and this I highly recommend. One popular, but expensive, mixture has been devised by square foot garden expert and civil engineering graduate, Mel Bartholomew.

You can even use pure compost on your garden, though drainage is not ideal and some nutrients may be deficient.

4. What can you plant in square foot gardens?

You can plant a huge variety of plants in your square foot garden, from herbs and flowers to fruit and vegetables.

Plants such as tomatoes, broccoli and many herbs need to be planted one to a section, whereas you can plant four strawberry or lettuce plants, nine spinach plants or sixteen onions, carrots or radishes in each section.

Deep-rooted vegetables need to be planted in raised sections, as described earlier, whereas those that grow on runners (squash, cucumbers, etc.) can be put on vertical frames with netting and string to secure them.

Taller plants should be put at the northern end of your garden (southern in the southern hemisphere), to ensure they don’t block the light reaching other plants.
There are many online sources for square foot gardening, so the next time the sun is shining, pull on those gardening shoes and start creating your own.

This post was contributed by Romona Weston.

Romona lives in Southeastern PA in the beautiful Amish countryside of Lancaster County. She is a web publisher who writes about various subjects. She writes about every sort of rolling kitchen cart and kitchen carts on wheels.  As a researcher rather than a seller, she presents an unbiased view of products. Explore her reviews at www.kitchencarts360.com. If you are a retailer or manufacturer and would like her to review your product you can contact her via her website.

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Ideas for Outdoor Cheap Shower Enclosures

One of the easiest and cheapest shower enclosure ideas to use outdoors is to simply hang some rope or string, or a solid bar, overhead that can fit a plastic shower curtain on it. This is a super cheap shower enclosure that will offer you the privacy you need for a quick outdoor shower. Other options for shower enclosures that are cheap include those made out of PVC, vinyl or plastic. For example, you can buy the Advanced Elements Summer Shower Enclosure for only $32.99 from CampMor or the Sun Shower Enclosure from Amazon for about the same price. All you have to do with this cheap shower enclosure is hang it from a tree branch overhead and it includes an enclosure with four sides and a side entry flap that you can use to offer privacy while using an outdoor shower.

Make Your Own Cheap Shower Enclosures

You can also make your own cheap shower enclosure for outdoor use by getting a piece of corrugated plastic roofing or a piece of metal or aluminum and installing it so that it shields occupants in the shower from prying eyes. Outdoor shower enclosures can also be constructed from wood, such as cedar or teak. Just make sure that any wood you use to build a shower enclosure is able to withstand the constant exposure to moisture. If you walk through the aisles at places like Home Depot or Lowe’s, you are bound to find some type of weather-resistant material that you can hang or secure in some manner to create your own DIY cheap shower enclosure.

Cheap Shower Enclosure Kits

If you’re looking for more than just something to hang around the sides of your shower for privacy, you can also buy cheap shower enclosure kits. These kits often contain everything you need, except the plumbing, to set up an outdoor shower quickly and easily. So, in addition to the side walls that enclose the shower, you can expect to get the valves and drain assembly to create a fully functional outdoor shower. This can be a great option if you’re looking to install a shower near the pool, want to set up a temporary shower while you are renovating your bathroom indoors, or want to set up a portable shower while you are away on a camping trip.

Installing Cheap Shower Enclosures Outdoors

How you install your shower enclosure will depend on what type of enclosure you choose to buy. Some outdoor shower enclosures are self-contained units that include everything including the shower floor with a drain assembly. Other cheap shower enclosures are inflatable supports along the top and bottom of the enclosure that attach to PVC or vinyl “walls” for privacy. Still other shower enclosures will require the installation of a series of rods or rope upon which a real or makeshift shower curtain can hang. Most shower enclosures should be pretty easy to install outdoors. Just make sure that if you buy a cheap shower enclosure, you aren’t left with a bunch of parts and a set of instructions that are hard to decipher and leave you scratching your head about what to do. Because if this happens, you’ll quickly realize that looking for the cheapest shower enclosure you could find may have not been worth the hassle!

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For many years, Bradstone paving products have been used around the world. They were initially introduced in 1956 in the UK. Since that time, Bradstone paving products have been considered a leader in driveway and garden paving products worldwide, and especially throughout the UK. They have also become available relatively recently for purchase in the U.S.

Types of Bradstone Paving Products Available

There is a wide range of Bradstone paving products available to both residential and commercial customers. Whether you are interested in constructing a small garden patio in your backyard, an intricate and meandering driveway in the front of your home, or you are a business owner looking for a professional and impressive looking courtyard for the outside of your office, Bradford paving products can meet your needs. Choose from among a variety of Bradstone paving slabs and block paving products in various styles. Below are some of the Bradford paving products available for sale that you may want to consider for your next project.

Some of the materials that Bradford paving products are available in:

• Natural-look stone products
• Reconstituted stone products
• Decorative stone products
• Gravel

Some forms that Bradford Paving products are available in:

• Pavers, paving slabs and paving blocks for floors, driveways and walkways
• Stone and pavers for walls, ledges and retaining walls
• Block pavers
• Edging
• Commercial landscaping products

Why Choose Bradford Paving Products?

Bradford paving products are available in a wide selection of quality stone-like outdoor materials to be used in a variety of applications. From patios and walkways to pool surrounds and retaining walls, Bradford paving products offer the look and feel that you thought you could only get with a traditional natural stone product, except that they are actually made with high-performance materials that will last. This means that whatever you choose to do with your Bradford paving products, you can rest assured that you will get years of enjoyment out of the project. Bradford pavers are durable, long-lasting and low-maintenance and can be the perfect solution for sprucing up your home’s exterior. You will find that projects made with Bradford paving products can add value to your home – and can create an enjoyable outdoor space to call your own.

For more information about where you can buy Bradstone paving products, visit the company’s website at www.aggregate.com (the Bradstone line of paving products is owned by Aggregate Industries).

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Hiring a cheap yard service is not always the way to go. Although most homeowners prefer to save their hard-earned money, finding the cheapest yard service provider may result in you getting less than desired results. The key is to find a reasonably priced yard service provider that is reputable and reliable, and that understands what it takes to keep your yard looking its best.

What Does a Yard Service Company Do?

Yard service companies can offer one specific service, such as cutting the lawn, weed control or planting, or you can hire a full-service yard service company that takes care of everything all year long, from fertilizing your lawn in the spring, to cutting the grass in the summer and handling the fall leaf clean-up in the fall. Only you can decide what tasks you want handled by a professional and whether you are better off hiring just one yard service company to handle all of the tasks needed year-round to keep your yard and lawn looking its best, or whether you are better off hiring different yard service contractors for different tasks. You also may only want to hire yard service contractors to handle specific tasks while you do the rest of the work yourself.

Here are some of the yard services that you can hire professionals to handle for you:

• Grass cutting
• Grass fertilization
• Fertilizing of trees, shrubs and plants
• Trimming of bushes
• Weed removal and control
• Planting of bulbs, perennials or annuals
• Leaf clean up
• Tree trimming
• Laying of sod or seeding of lawn
• Edging of garden beds
• Mulching
• Outdoor pest control
• Gutter cleaning
• Snow removal

As you can see, there are lots of different services required to keep the exterior of your home looking its best. Only you can decide what you’re willing to do on your own and what you prefer to hire a yard service company to do for you.

How To Find A Good Yard Service Contractor

Once you’ve decided what services you need done, the next step is to hire a yard service contractor. This can be an individual person with a lawn mower that cuts lawns in the neighborhood to a full-service company that handles anything and everything you need done in your yard. Hiring a good yard service contractor requires a bit of up front work on your part, but by doing your due diligence, you can wind up with a great looking yard. Here’s a few steps to help you find a good yard service contractor so you can have your lawn looking its best.

Get recommendations – The best place to initially find yard service providers is by asking people in your neighborhood whose lawns you like to give you the name of the person or company that takes care of their yard. If there is a particular home in your neighborhood with a really nice yard, you may even see the contractor’s truck parked outside and can often get the phone number right off the truck.

Make a few screening calls – Call more than one yard service provider to find out if they offer the types of services you’re interested in and to get price quotes. Depending on what you need done, the contractor will often want to first come out to your home to see how large your yard is and gauge what kind of shape it’s in. You can discuss any specifics with them when they come.

Gather quotes and compare services – Once you’ve talked to a few yard service companies and have had them come out to look at your yard, compare the quotes you receive for the services you desire and decide which ones make the cut. You don’t have to finalize your decision yet. Just decide at this point which ones are still in the running.

Check references – If you didn’t go with a neighborhood provider whose work you have already seen or did not get a recommendation, check any references the yard service provider gave you. Even if you opted to call someone whose truck you’ve seen parked around the neighborhood, you may want to ask your neighbor if they have had any complaints or issues with the contractor that you should be aware of. Ask about things like whether they are reliable, whether they are attentive to specific requests and whether they are neat and considerate of the homeowner’s property.

Compare all options and decide – Sit down and compare prices, as well as what you know or have heard about different yard service contractors. Make sure they are willing to offer you the services you desire and make sure, too, that they are not requiring you to pay for additional services that you may not want. You should not just choose the cheapest yard service contractor still left in the running. It’s also important for you to consider things like their expertise about lawns and gardens, their reliability and your gut instinct about whether you will be happy with the person working for you.

Hire the best yard service contractor for your needs – Choose the contractor or company that best meets your own personal needs, even if all the neighbors are using someone else. Then make sure that the terms of the services offered and prices are all spelled out on paper so that you can ensure that you are getting – and paying – what you initially agreed upon. Then sit back and enjoy yourself while you let someone else take care of the often tedious tasks required to keep your yard and garden looking great!

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3. The Importance of Regular Tree Trimming

What Are Solar Light Posts?

While you’re out shopping, you may also find these lights referred to as solar lamp post lights, solar lamp lights, solar post lights, solar lamp posts or solar lantern post lights. While these differing names for the same type of lighting may seem confusing, they needn’t be. All you have to know is that no matter what they are called, the lights consist of a freestanding post that holds a light on top (usually a lamp or lantern) and that it is powered by solar energy from the sun. So, whether they have the words “lamp”, “light” or “lantern” in them, and whether the word “post” comes last or in the middle, they are all basically referring to the same type of outdoor lighting.

To confuse things even more, you may also find solar light post caps, which are a bit different than the tall lights mentioned here.  Solar light post caps or covers refer to solar lights that are placed on top of deck posts.

How Bright Are Solar Post Lights?

You will find some solar post lights with LED bulbs and these are usually brighter and more efficient. Some styles will also have a reflector within the lamp to make the light appear brighter. Solar lights in general have notoriously been known in the past to not give off as bright a light as electrically wired lights, but with advances in solar technology and more efficient LED bulbs, as well as the use of reflectors in some lights, you should have no problem finding a solar post light that is bright enough for your needs. Some people do prefer the dimmer light that solar lights provide for this type of outdoor lighting because it gives off a more subtle and intimate light that works perfectly with post lighting in some spaces. You can even buy solar light posts with motion sensors that will give off a brighter light when motion is detected nearby, or will otherwise just provide a soft, dim glow to light up your outdoor spaces and provide a cozier atmosphere.

Where Can Solar Light Posts Be Used?

The good news is that you can install solar light posts just about anywhere that you need some outdoor light. All that you need is an area that gets enough daytime sunlight to allow the solar cell to store enough energy so that the lights can run during the night. Other than that, since solar light posts are a self contained unit (meaning they don’t need to attach to a wall or an overhead structure), you just need a place to secure them to the ground and you’re good to go! Here are some of the common places that you can use solar light posts:

• Along driveways, walkways and pathways
• Around a patio or deck
• Around a pool
• Near a gazebo or garden pond
• Nestled in the garden
• Near the front or back door
• Anywhere you can use some extra outside lighting

Does Solar Post Lighting Come In Many Styles?

There are many styles of solar light posts for outdoor use. Design styles of solar post lighting can range from traditional or Victorian styles to contemporary or transitional ones. You will find both single and double solar post lights available as well, meaning that some lights will have a single lamp nestled on the top of the light post, while others will have two lamps or lanterns – still others can even have three or four lights attached to the top of the post. This lighting can come in a variety of finishes, including brass, nickel, bronze, chrome, wrought iron and other decorative finishes and the lamps or lanterns that sit on top of the posts can offer many design options as well. Most solar light posts are about 5 – 7 feet high and some are adjustable height, allowing you to determine the best height for your particular lighting needs.

Related posts:

1. Installing Solar Driveway Lights
2. Install Solar Walkway Lights With Ease
3. Solar Yard Lighting Buying Tips

What To Look For When Buying An Outdoor Round Glass Dining Table

• Tempered Glass – The most important consideration when you are buying a round glass dining table to use outdoors is the type of glass used in the table. You must buy a shatter-resistant, tempered glass dining table or you will quickly find that your new round glass dining table will be cracked or broken. This means that you cannot simply take a glass table that is intended to be used indoors and repurpose it for outdoor use. Some indoor round glass dining tables will already have tempered glass tops as a safety measure anyway, but it is imperative that you make absolutely sure that the glass on the table is tempered and shatter-resistant. Otherwise, all it will take is one gust of wind bringing a branch down on top of the table to turn it into smithereens.
• Frame Materials and Construction – You also want to make sure that the round glass dining table you choose for outdoor use is constructed of frame materials that can take the wear and tear of outdoor weather. This still leaves you with plenty of options, however, as metal, aluminum, wrought iron, PVC or wood all still work well outdoors. Again, even though you can find these materials in tables intended for both indoor and outdoor use, you still want to make sure the frame construction is made to handle outdoor conditions. This can be as simple as using rust-proof nails or screws to assemble the table or ensuring that there are no open seams that can trap water.
• Size – Of course, size will be a big factor when choosing your outdoor round glass dining table. You want to order a table in a size that will accommodate the number of people that will typically congregate around the table – whether that is just a small table for you and your spouse, an average sized table for your family or a large round glass dining table that you can use when entertaining. You also have to take into consideration the amount of outdoor space you have to accommodate the table. The nice thing about a round glass dining table is that it takes up less visual space than tables made from other materials or in other shapes, but you still need to have the necessary room to fit the size of table that you buy, as well as to accommodate seating around the table.

Benefits of Choosing a Round Glass Dining Table Over Other Shapes

One benefit of a round table compared to other shapes of tables is that it makes for a more intimate dining experience. When people are gathered around a round table, everyone can easily join in the conversation, rather than being separated by too much distance, which sometimes occurs with rectangular tables.

Another benefit of round tables is that you can easily install a patio umbrella over the table. Most patio umbrella styles work perfectly with round dining tables, and you can find loads of outdoor round glass dining tables that come with a hole right in the middle of the table to accommodate a patio umbrella. Some round glass dining table sets even come with a matching umbrella (as well as matching chairs).

Finally, round glass dining tables blend into spaces more naturally than square or rectangular shapes, due to the hard angles of the other shaped tables. Outdoor spaces are all about fluidity and softness and the curved edges of round tables are the perfect accompaniment to all of the shapes and lines that you expect to see outdoors.

Where To Buy Round Glass Dining Tables For Outdoor Use

You can buy outdoor round glass dining tables anywhere that sells any other type of outdoor dining furniture. Round glass tables are one of the most popular styles of outdoor dining tables so you should have no problem finding a wide selection of design styles and sizes to suit your needs. You can buy these tables at retailers such as Walmart or Target, at home improvement stores such as Home Depot or Lowes, at outdoor furniture stores, or you can even buy round glass dining tables online from a wide selection of companies. Many online companies will even offer free shipping when you buy the tables, so you won’t have to worry about it costing you any more to enjoy the convenience and selection offered by online shopping.

Related posts:

1. Outdoor Dining Furniture: Styles and Materials
2. Selecting a Portable Picnic Table
3. Modern Home Accessorizing With Fire Tables And Fire Glass

Types of Outdoor Carpet Tiles

When it comes to choosing outdoor carpet tiles, you have more selection than you may think! Here are some of your options:

• Self-adhesive outdoor carpet tiles – These are individual squares of carpet made from materials that are moisture and weather proof. They have a self-stick adhesive back, making installation a breeze. All that you need to do during installation is to pull off the backing to expose the self-stick adhesive and you’re ready to adhere them to any solid surface.
• Interlocking outdoor carpet tiles – One way to get a truly tight fitting look is to use interlocking outdoor carpet tiles. Since the edges of one tile interlock with the edges of the adjoining tile, you don’t have to worry as much about the tiles separating as they are exposed to the weather or as they withstand normal wear and tear. Most interlocking tiles also don’t require adhesive during installation.
• Interlocking floating outdoor carpet tiles – If you are interested in installing outdoor carpeting tiles in areas that are prone to water or moisture, such as near a pool or a moisture-prone porch or deck, then floating outdoor carpet tiles are the best choice. These tiles are slightly elevated so that the outdoor carpeting material is raised from the floor, allowing water to run beneath without damaging the carpet. Most outdoor interlocking floating carpet tiles do not require any adhesive and simply lock together to create a durable and non-slip surface.
• Indoor outdoor carpet tiles – If you are looking to install carpet tiles on a covered porch, in a sunroom, in a garage or basement, you may want to consider indoor outdoor carpet tiles. These can be used, as the name implies, both indoors and outdoors, but are made to withstand outdoor weather elements if necessary.

Installing Outdoor Carpet Tiles

One of the great things about opting for outdoor carpet tiles rather than outdoor carpeting is the ease of installation. Outdoor carpet tiles offer an easy DIY installation project and the project can be completed rather quickly. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Measure the area in which you will be installing outdoor carpet tiles to determine how many you need. You should estimate around 10% for waste. If you are dealing with an intricate pattern that has to be perfectly matched, or intricate cuts that will need to be made, you may need a little more than that.
2. Thoroughly clean the area on which you will be laying the outdoor carpet tiles. Make sure that all debris is removed and remove any caked on debris or mold. Then let thoroughly dry.
3. Do a “dry run” of your carpet tile design. Lay the outdoor carpet tiles out in the pattern that you would like to make sure that they look the way you want them to look and to ensure they will fit in the allocated space. Then find the midpoint of the area and mark it well. You will begin installing your tiles from this point and work your way out. You should also draw some guidelines to make sure you stay on track and keep things straight and level.
4. Begin your installation. Starting with the center tile, lay a full outdoor carpet tile in the area that you had previously marked off. If you are using self adhesive outdoor carpet tiles, you’ll first have to peel the back covering off to expose the adhesive. If you using interlocking outdoor carpet tiles, you won’t have to worry about adhesive and will click each adjoining tile together with the one next to it. Otherwise, you will need to apply a small bit of adhesive to each corner and to the middle of each outdoor carpet tile before you press it firmly in place.
5. Continue with all full tiles. Keep laying your outdoor carpet tiles until you have covered the area with all full tiles. Periodically check your guidelines to make sure that your tiles are being installed in a straight line and are pressed firmly against one another.
6. Cut edges and borders. When you get to the edges, you may need to make some cuts to finish off your outdoor carpet tile installation or you may wish to install an outdoor carpet tile border, possibly in a coordinating color or pattern, to finish off the carpet area. This can make your carpet look like an outdoor rug and can make a great design statement under some well placed outdoor dining furniture or other outdoor patio furniture. Most outdoor carpet tiles can easily be cut with a straight edge blade.

Replacing Outdoor Carpet Tiles

Most indoor outdoor carpet tiles are made in such a way as to withstand a good deal of heavy traffic and constant exposure to the weather. Even so, you may find that over time your outdoor carpet tiles can use replacement, whether due to fading from the sun, too much moisture or a stain that just won’t come out. When that does happen, however, you don’t need to fret because replacing outdoor carpet tiles is a snap! All you need to do is to pop out the old tile and put in a new one! If there is an adhesive backing, care should be taken to gently pry the adhesive off the floor beneath so the new tile can lay flat. If the tiles are interlocking, care needs to be taken when removing the old tile from the adjoining tiles so they are not disturbed. It is a good idea to keep a few extra outdoor carpet tiles around in case you need to replace one or a few down the road. This way, you will not be scrambling to find a matching tile.

Related posts:

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2. Carpeting Your Outdoor Patio or Lounge
3. Imaged Outdoor Tiles Have Their Place in the Sun

The good news is that even if your gazebo canopy is damaged or has seen better days, it doesn’t mean that your whole gazebo or canopy tent is ready for the trash. Replacement gazebo canopies are simply meant to replace the fabric overhead portion of the gazebo so that you can once again enjoy the full functionality of your gazebo or canopy tent without having to buy a brand new one. The trick, however is finding a replacement gazebo canopy that will actually fit your particular model of gazebo, because if the gazebo canopy cover doesn’t fit properly, it will not provide the protection you need, will look bad, and will probably rip or blow away because it is not secured properly to the frame.

How To Find Gazebo Canopies That Fit

• Check with the manufacturer – The first place you should search for replacement gazebo canopies is the manufacturer of the gazebo. Often, you can contact the manufacturer directly and give them the model number of your particular gazebo and then they can send out a gazebo canopy replacement that will fit your model perfectly. This is the best option for replacing gazebo canopies (although it’s not always possible to do it this way).
• Search online for your gazebo model + “replacement gazebo canopies” – If you cannot get a replacement gazebo canopy cover directly from the manufacturer, then the next place to look is online. You may be able to buy replacement gazebo canopies online by simply putting the make and model of your gazebo along with the term “replacement gazebo canopies” into a search engine. This may result in bringing up businesses that sell replacement canopies for gazebos that they know will fit the model that you own.
• Search for gazebo canopies by size – Even if the above step doesn’t bring back an exact match, you can at least find replacement gazebo canopies made to fit the size of your gazebo. This won’t guarantee an exact fit but should usually work. If your gazebo canopy attaches to the structure in a particular way (snaps, tie downs, Velcro), makes sure that even if the size fits, the replacement canopy you are looking at will attach to your gazebo in the same way. Otherwise you will have a hard time keeping it securely fastened to the frame.

Popular Sizes of Gazebo Canopies

Here are some of the most popular sizes of gazebo canopies. If your gazebo is one of these shapes and dimensions (and many are), you should have no problem finding a replacement gazebo canopy that fits.

• Square gazebo canopies:
  • 8’x8’
  • 10’x10’
  • 12’x12’
  • 14’x14’
• Rectangular gazebo canopies:
  • 8’x12’
  • 10’x12’
  • 10’x14’
• Hexagon (specify exact dimensions)
• Octagon (specify exact dimensions)

Popular Brands of Gazebo Canopies

It will typically be easier to find replacement canopies for some of the more popular brands of gazebos, including:

• Garden Oasis
• Garden Winds
• King Canopy
• Shelter Logic

Other companies that make gazebos will accept gazebo canopy replacements made by other brands. The most important criteria is that the size and shape of the gazebo canopy cover are made to fit the size and shape of your gazebo and that the method of attaching the canopy cover to your gazebo will work for your particular model of gazebo.

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2. Tips For Buying a Replacement Swing Canopy
3. Add Functionality with a Garden Gazebo Canopy

So, why would you want a fire pit grate for your outdoor fire pit? These handy accessories can offer some added functionality to your fire pit. Here are some types of fire pit grate options to consider and the appropriate uses for each type.

Uses For an Outdoor Fire Pit Grate

There are two primary uses for an outdoor fire pit grate. These include:

• Log holder – The first use for an outdoor fire pit grate is to hold logs so that there is adequate air circulation below the logs, resulting in a better fire. Round fire pit grates work well for this purpose and can be used even if the shape of your actual fire pit is not round. The other reason people like this is that they can slightly elevate the fire within the fire pit to bring it up closer to the surface, rather than having the burning logs sitting down in the bottom of the pit.
• Turn your fire pit into a grill – The other purpose for buying a fire pit grate is to create an outdoor cooking or grilling surface over your fire pit. This type of fire pit grate is different than the first type because the grate has to be larger to fit over the entire diameter of a round fire pit or across a square one. If this is what you are interested in, then be sure to look for a fire pit cooking grate or fire pit grill grate. Not only will the overall fire pit grate be larger, but the spaces between the bars of the grate will be smaller so that your food doesn’t fall through. It will also be made from a material that is safe for food consumption (usually stainless steel or chrome plated steel).

Fire Pit Grate Materials

Fire pit grates have to be made out of materials that can withstand prolonged high heat. That means that any fire pit grate you buy will have to made from some type of steel or wrought iron.

• Steel construction fire pit grates – These are the most common type of fire pit grates and can be used either directly inside the fire pit to hold logs or as a fire pit grilling grate on the top of the fire pit. Steel outdoor fire pit grates can be made from solid steel if used inside the fire pit, or if you are using it as a cooking surface, you can opt for a stainless steel fire pit grate or chrome plated steel fire pit grate instead.
• Wrought iron fire pit grates – These are sturdier and heavier than steel fire pit grates and more closely resemble fireplace log grates. They are primarily used in the bottom of a large fire pit to hold firewood.

Fire Pit Grate Sizes

The size of your outdoor fire pit grate doesn’t have to coincide exactly with the size of your fire pit unless you are using it as a cooking grate over the top of the fire pit opening. If the fire pit grate is going in the bottom of your fire pit, you just have to make sure that the size is not too big to fit the size of the fire pit you own, and that it is not too small to not hold enough wood to make a decent sized fire in your fire pit. Most fire pit grates are round, so you will see available options such as 22”, 26”, 30”, etc. and this refers to the diameter of a round fire pit grate. You may also see varying heights of fire pit grates. A deeper height fire pit grate is useful if you are looking for a grate that will lift your fire up from the bottom of the bowl more than just a little bit. Deeper height grates work well with deep fire pit bowls and with very large fire pits that require a lot of air circulation under what will be a very large fire.

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1. Fire Pit Glass Adds Impact and Allure
2. Thinking Of Converting To A Gas Fire Pit?
3. Fireplace Grates

Benefits of Black Mulch

The main benefits of black mulch are related to how they protect your plants, shrubs and flowers. These benefits include:

• Moisture retention – Black mulch (or any colored mulch for that matter) helps plants retain moisture. Any moisture that plants receive is shielded from evaporation by the layer of mulch that sits above the soil. This means that you have to water your plants and flowers less and it also means that if you go through some really hot or dry spells, your plants are better prepared to handle the unfavorable conditions.
• Winter protection – Spreading some black dyed mulch in the fall is a great way to protect your plants throughout long, cold winters. The extra layer of mulch acts as a blanket to keep your plants from damage due to freezing temps in the winter.
• Soil enrichment – Mulch is made from a combination of organic matter. This organic matter helps to enrich the soil and helps plants grow, even as the matter breaks down over time due to exposure to air, sun and water.
• Aesthetic enhancement – Garden beds that have a layer of mulch spread over them are more attractive and look more well cared for than those that don’t. Black mulch is especially attractive in flower beds. The rich blackish color stands out against the lush green of the lawn and enhances the colors of plants and flowers.

Problems With Black Mulch

If you buy black mulch from a reputable landscape supplies dealer, you should have no problems at all. There can be problems with black dyed mulch however, so it is worth inquiring a bit about what is used to create the black mulch on sale at your local landscape supply store.

• Chemicals - For one, make sure that the black mulch you buy is made from natural wood bark chippings and does not contain any type of pressure-treated wood, which can contain harmful chemicals. You also want to make sure that the black mulch dye used is made from natural and ecologically friendly ingredients and again, that there are no harmful chemicals in the dye. If either of these components contains chemicals, the chemicals can leach into the ground, ruining plants and negatively effecting ground water and the health of your soil.
• Components – Be sure that you find out what components are mixed in with your black wood mulch to ensure that everything included is safe for the types of plants that you grow. All components should be natural and organic and should naturally decompose over time, adding to the richness of the soil below.
• Fading – Depending on the type of black mulch dye used, your black dyed mulch can fade. All black dyed mulch will fade to some degree, but if your mulch fades too quickly or if it fades unevenly in sunny and shady locations, you will not be happy with the look of your new mulch for very long.
• Heat – Black mulch retains heat more than lighter colored mulch. If you live in areas prone to excessive heat, you may prefer to choose a lighter colored mulch so that your plants remain cooler during the heat of the day.
• Staining – Some of the black mulch dye used to stain the wood in mulch to its rich black color can come off and stain surrounding areas when the mulch gets wet (such as when it rains). If natural, water-based mulch dye is used, the effects of any mulch dye should not be permanent, but if the dye is not water soluble, you may find some staining occurring on surrounding areas, such as walkways, driveways or exterior siding.

Types of Black Mulch

In addition to black wood mulch or black cedar mulch (the most common types), you can also buy black mulch made from rubber or other synthetic materials. Black rubber mulch is best used in areas such as playgrounds for added cushioning beneath the equipment, rather than in flower beds.

Related posts:

1. Buy Bark Chippings To Improve Your Garden
2. Uses For Black Plastic Sheeting
3. Protecting Corn Against Weeds The Organic Way

Single, Double and Triple Ground Bark Chippings

You can find single ground bark chippings, which will still resemble small pieces of bark from a tree or you can opt instead for double ground or triple ground bark chippings which offer a finer consistency. Although triple ground bark chippings may be the most attractive looking, they will not last as long as single ground bark chippings will. As a rule of thumb, you can expect that the larger the pieces of bark in the mixture, the longer it will take for it to decompose and the longer the time interval before you have to buy more bark chippings again.

Benefits of Using Bark Chippings

Retains moisture and keeps plants cool – Bark chippings are a gardener’s friend because they can improve the health of flowers, vegetables, plants and shrubs. By laying bark chippings on top of the soil in flower and vegetable beds, it helps to retain moisture in the soil so that plants do not dry out as easily. This insulated layer also keeps plants cooler because there is a layer of moist matter near the stem of the plants. This is especially good in climates with dry, hot weather because it is difficult to otherwise retain adequate moisture levels.

Insulates plants for the winter – For those who live in climates that experience very cold, severe winters, the reverse is also true. Bark chippings serve as a layer of insulation from the extreme cold of the winter and help to protect plants during this time.

Prevents weeds – Spreading bark chippings in garden beds is a great way to protect against the growth of weeds. It is important to first remove any weeds growing in the soil prior to laying down the bark chippings, but if the beds are already weed-free, the layer of chipped bark helps to discourage weed growth. If you really have a problem with weeds in any particular area, you can first lay down some black plastic sheeting, with a few holes sporadically put in the plastic to allow for water penetration, and then lay the bark chippings over the sheeting. This will provide a great barrier against weeds.

Introduces organic matter – Bark chippings are a combination of chips of bark from trees, as well as other organic material. When mixed together, this organic mixture adds nutrients to the soil and helps plants to grow strong and healthy. Some bark chippings include more organic compounds than others, so inquire as to what is mixed in with the chipped bark before you buy bark chippings.

Decorative Bark Chippings

In addition to choosing between single, double and triple ground bark chippings or bark mulch, you also have options such as what color you want your chipped bark mulch to be. The color of bark chippings you choose will change the overall look of your garden décor, so choose colors according to your design preferences. Choose between:

• Red bark chippings
• Brown bark chippings
• Black bark chippings
• Natural bark chippings

Colors of chipped bark mulch other than natural are achieved using a mulch dye that is ecologically safe for plants and flowers.  Black mulch can make an especially attractive backdrop that highlights the beauty of plants and flowers.

Buying Bark Chippings

You can buy bark chippings in bulk from a landscape supply company. These companies typically sell bark chippings by the cubic yard and will deliver the chipped bark mulch in a dump truck right to your home or business. Garden supply stores and home improvement stores that also sell plants and other landscape supplies will usually often sell bagged bark chippings. This is a good option if you only require a small amount, since you can just grab a few bags and take it home with you.

Related posts:

1. Why Buy Black Mulch?
2. Protecting Corn Against Weeds The Organic Way
3. Choosing An Organic Weed Control Service

On the one hand, the ocean contains an abundance of organic materials and minerals which occur naturally. On the other hand, it is swamped with all kinds of debris from humans in the form of wreckage or trash.

Artistically, both make for interesting finds and can be handy alternatives to store-bought yard art or landscaping supplies.  The question, however, is how to utilize the choices before you when there’s so much to consider. A few ideas for using ocean debris in the garden include the following:

Seaweed:  Layered on the ground around plants or made into fertilizer spray, it provides tremendous amounts of nutrients that strengthen root systems and ward off diseases. Everyone from novice gardeners to professional landscapers use seaweed whenever it’s available.

Stones:  Beaches have endless supplies of stones, so if a rock garden is your goal, there’s no better place to go collecting. True, stones from the beach may not fit as nicely together as cut bricks or hewn masonry, but they will provide fresh character to the yard.

Sand:  Certain plants require a mixture of sand and soil for healthy growth, and the beach is a great place to scoop up the former – for free.

Wood:  Very often, timber gets washed up on the beach. While it’s unclear where it may have originated (a ship wreck? a damaged pier?), the wood can be used for garden bed walls or to section off certain plants. Sometimes an unusually large chunk gets pushed ashore and can be used as a garden bench, border marker, or base for potted plants. Some pieces of driftwood from the ocean even make great decorative objects all by themselves.

Buoys:  Buoys often get detached from various locations and wash up on the coast. In some beachfront communities, they are attached to fences as decorations or used as markers in gardens.

Rope or netting:  Found on buoys or just lying around, rope or netting that winds up on the shore may have been ripped from traps or fishing boats. Either way, it can be used to tie up shrubbery, tree branches, or to simply help bursting vegetable plants like tomatoes stand upright.

Shells:  These can be strung together and hung up around the yard like chimes clinging in the wind. The larger kinds can also be used as markers when planting seeds and, depending on their depth, as seed starters.

Star fish:  Of all the ocean life that washes up on shore after a storm, star fish seem to have the most ornamental use when dry. If they can’t be returned to their life in the ocean, they make intriguing and imaginative decorations in the yard, especially when painted and put in a rock garden with low lying flowers.

Glass:  Ocean glass is special in that it gets smoothed out by the power of the sea. When enough ocean glass is collected, one project can be to line the exterior of garden pots in mosaic fashion for a beachy and interesting look.

This guest post was submitted by Jakob Barry.  He writes for Hometalk.com, a growing community of homeowners and contractors getting the most from their resources by sharing and monitoring projects together. He covers various eco-friendly home improvement topics, including green landscaping and gardening .

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5 Reasons to Use Adirondack Chair Covers

• Protect against moisture damage – Constant exposure to moisture, whether from rain, snow or morning dew can wreak havoc on any type of wood. Since Adirondack chairs are most often made from wood, buying Adirondack chair covers that fit over your chairs can preserve the wood longer, since it is not being continually exposure to moisture. Even if your chairs are not made from wood, an Adirondack style chair cover can add to the life of your chair by protecting it from the elements.
• Protect against sun damage – Aside from moisture, sun results in the most harmful effects to wood. Prolonged exposure to sun can make wood splinter and crack and can make finishes that protect wood, such as paint, stain and polyurethane, peel and chip.
• Preserve finish – There’s nothing like a nicely finished Adirondack chair, but when the chair is left to weather the elements day after day, those elements can start to wear off the finish. Sun can fade paint or stain colors and can cause finishes to crack, chip and peel. Even chairs made from plastic or resin can have their finish start to fade and deteriorate when left outside unprotected for long stretches of time.
• Prevent wood from decay – Wood is a beautiful, natural material, which makes it the perfect material to construct Adirondack chairs from. But wood also requires a good deal of maintenance and TLC to keep it looking its best over time. Wood can begin to decay and rot if exposed to constant moisture or sun, or can be infested with insects, causing damage. Using Adirondack chair covers to protect wood Adirondack chairs from elements that can harm wood is the perfect way to prolong the life of your chair.
• Specifically sized – Even if you realize the importance of covering your Adirondack chairs when not in use, you need to make sure you get a cover that fits the chair properly. Adirondack chairs have a unique shape, and therefore unique dimensions, and most regular outdoor chair covers will not fit properly over the chairs. Adirondack chair covers are sized to fit the unique dimensions of the chairs so they will offer better coverage and protection.

Buy adirondack chair covers here!

How to Measure for Adirondack Chair Covers

Not all Adirondack chairs are sized alike, and therefore they will not all work with the same size Adirondack chair cover. Be sure that the cover you purchase will fit properly over your chair. It should have a little room to make it easy to drape the cover over the chair without leaving it so big that water can puddle in it or it will easily blow off.

What to Look For When Buying Adirondack Style Chair Covers

When it comes to materials for Adirondack chair covers, you want to make sure that your covers are durable and high quality so they will last. Here are some of the qualities you should look for in a well-made Adirondack chair cover:

• Weather resistant and water repellant material – The material should be able to withstand all types of weather and should most especially be able to stop the penetration of water. Most covers will made from materials such as polyethylene or polyester.
• Durable and crack resistant – You want a cover that is heavy and durable and will hold up to all types of weather without ripping, cracking or flying off.
• UV-resistant fabric – UV protection will keep the cover in good condition even after sitting outside in the sun day after day. Colors won’t fade as easily and material will not crack from sun exposure.
• Air vents – These will reduce the likelihood that you will lose your Adirondack chair cover when a strong gust of wind goes by. Vents will also allow moisture to escape, reducing the likelihood of mold and mildew buildup beneath the cover.
• Padded handles – These make it easier for you to put your Adirondack chair outdoor furniture cover on and off with ease.
• Reinforced seams – These generally result in a more durable and sturdy cover that is less likely to tear.
• Straps, clips or tie downs – It’s important to firmly secure your Adirondack chair cover to the chair so that it does not easily blow off from heavy wind. Even a little bit of movement can cause the cover to rip or tear.
• Color – Remember that your Adirondack chair covers will be in clear view on your backyard, front porch or wherever your chairs may be, so you should select a color for the cover fabric that will blend nicely with your exterior décor. Most Adirondack style chair covers are made in natural, neutral colors to blend into the outdoor landscape, such as green, beige or tan. You can even find reversible Adirondack chair covers to provide different looks on both sides so you can decide which one blends best with your outdoor décor.
• Size – Be sure to get the proper sized cover. Most stock Adirondack chair covers will offer sizes that fit a large majority of chairs, but you can also opt for custom Adirondack chair covers if you want a cover that meets your chairs’ exact specifications. Custom covers will of course cost more, but will also allow you to choose the size, color and options that you want.

Where to Buy Adirondack Chair Covers

Many retailers that carry outdoor furniture or Adirondack chairs will also have Adirondack chair covers for sale. You can check out stores like Target or Walmart, specialty retailers like Brookstone or Lands End, or you can even buy Adirondack chair covers online at places like Amazon or QVC. Average prices for Adirondack chair covers will be in the range of $20 – $50 per chair.

Related posts:

1. Variations of Patio Chair Cushions
2. Buying Garden Furniture Covers
3. Make Your Own Patio Chair Cushions

No matter what you are interested in when it comes to furniture for outdoor use, you will find that the selection of Home Depot patio furniture offered provides an array of options to choose from. You will not find all types and styles of patio furniture in Home Depot stores, but if you visit their website, you can find a huge selection of items in various materials, colors and designs.

The good news is that when you buy Home Depot patio furniture online, you can have the furniture shipped right to your house, so you don’t have to lug it home from the store with you. As an added bonus, most Home Depot patio furniture ships free and can be shipped out to you as soon as the next day after you place your order!

With the ease and convenience, as well as the wide selection of patio furniture offered by Home Depot, you can soon be enjoying your outdoor spaces adorned with new patio furniture. So, whether you are looking for a few chaise lounges to enjoy the summer sun or are interested in a nice cozy outdoor sofa so you can gather round your fire pit with friends and family, Home Depot is definitely worth a look. You’ll quickly see that this home improvement giant does more than just sell nails and hammers to help you improve the look and functionality of your home.

Types of Home Depot Patio Furniture

Patio furniture at Home Depot comes in a wide variety of types and styles. You can buy individual pieces of outdoor and patio furniture or you can choose from some of the many Home Depot patio furniture sets for sale.  Patio furniture types include:

• Fire pit sets
• Hammocks
• Outdoor accessories
• Outdoor bars and bar sets
• Outdoor benches
• Outdoor chairs
• Outdoor chaise lounges
• Outdoor dining sets
• Outdoor dining tables
• Outdoor gliders
• Outdoor loveseats
• Outdoor seating sets
• Outdoor side tables
• Outdoor sofas
• Outdoor stools
• Outdoor swings
• Outdoor throw pillows
• Patio chair cushions
• Patio furniture covers
• Patio umbrellas
• Umbrella bases

Brands of Home Depot Patio Furniture

You can find a number of brands of Home Depot patio furniture for sale in store or directly from their website at http://homedepot.com. Some brands are sold exclusively at Home Depot, such as Martha Stewart patio furniture, while other brands can be found at other patio furniture retailers as well.  Patio furniture brands at Home Depot include:

• Arden
• Conifer Plastics
• Home Decorators Collection
• Ivy Terrace
• Logo Chair
• Martha Stewart Living
• Oakland Living
• Plantation Patterns
• Tradewinds
• Trex Outdoor Furniture
• Ultra Play

Home Depot Patio Furniture Material Choices

The selection of materials that you can find Home Depot patio furniture available in can suit extensive differences in design tastes of individual consumers. Choose from among the following types of materials in a wide array of decorative styles, including:

• Aluminum
• Cast aluminum
• Cast iron
• Cedar
• Extruded aluminum
• Oak
• Pine
• Plastic
• Redwood
• Resin
• Steel
• Teak
• Wicker
• Wood
• Wrought iron

Prices of Home Depot Patio Furniture

You will find that prices of Home Depot patio furniture run the gamut from just a few dollars for something as simple as a resin side table or folding chair in a bag to as much as $2000 – $3000 for some of the more upscale outdoor furniture pieces like outdoor sofas or complete outdoor dining sets. Of course, most Home Depot patio furniture prices all far between the two extremes and prices will depend on factors such as the type of furniture you are looking for, the material the furniture is made from and the brand. You can rest assured that when you buy Home Depot patio furniture, however, you are usually getting some of the lowest prices available for the particular type, style and brand of furniture that you are looking for. Home Depot strives to be competitively priced in most everything they sell.

Related posts:

1. Types of Martha Stewart Patio Furniture
2. Macys Furniture For Outdoors
3. Choosing Outdoor Patio Furniture For Your Home

The secret to finding cheap patio paving slabs that won’t cost you an arm and a leg is a little flexibility on your part. If you are willing to compromise a bit on color, texture and size – and you are willing to do some leg work to find what you need – you may be able to find some paving slabs cheaply – or at least more cheaply than what it would cost you if you paid full price. Once you’ve found the discounted slabs, the key is to do your own installation to keep the cost of installing paving slabs cheap as well.

Where to Find Cheap Paving Slabs

• Ask about sales – The best place to begin your search for cheap paving slabs is to go to a masonry or landscape supply company that specializes in selling slabs. Find out if they have any particular type of slabs on sale that are cheaper than usual and see if you like those. Sometimes if suppliers have an abundance of inventory or have a particular style that is not selling well, they’ll discount that particular style to move it more quickly.
• Collect scrap – If you are only covering a small area, such as an area around a garden fountain or a small walkway through your garden, you may be able to piece together your paved area cheaply by collecting scrap pieces of patio paving slabs and then creating an interesting pattern with the different pieces you find. Ask if there are broken pieces of paving slabs that can no longer be sold and see whether you can get them for free or if you can buy the broken patio slabs cheaply. You may have to go to a number of different paving slab suppliers, but if you can collect a few pieces from each, you will quickly have some cheap paving slabs that you can turn into an interesting and eye-catching design. Just lay the mismatched slabs out to create an interesting pattern before installing them. You may want to break bigger pieces down even more to create a look that more closely resembles natural stone – especially if some slabs are much larger than others.
• Ask friends, relatives and neighbors for surplus – If you know people that recently installed their own patio or walkway, you can ask if they have any surplus paving slabs that you can either have for free or that you can buy from them cheaply. Patio slabs given to you by people you know may be the cheapest, since they are often just extras lying around taking up room and people are happy to part with them, so they may not even cost you anything.
• Shop off-season – Walkway and patio paving slabs, and any other type of products that are meant for outdoors, will typically be more expensive in the spring and summer, when homeowners run out to do all types of outdoor projects. Some products will then be discounted in the fall to reduce inventory before the winter season rolls in. If you are not in a rush to get your project done, you may be able to find some cheap paving slabs for sale during the end of the fall season or beginning of the winter. You’ll still usually have time to complete your project before the ground gets too hard and frozen. Otherwise, you can store the slabs until spring when you’re ready to install them.

Related posts:

1. Bradstone Paving Beautifies Your Home’s Exterior
2. DIY Block Paving
3. Patio Paving Design Options