Aluminum Patio Furniture is Lightweight, Durable and Will Enhance Any Back Yard Or Patio Deck

One of the most popular types of furniture for patios, is that of aluminum patio furniture. When using this type of outdoor furniture, you are offered durable strong frames that will stand up to the elements. Many people find that this is two of the best qualities in their furniture. This makes them highly sought after and in demand. This type of deck furniture is available in many different pieces as well as styles and design possibilities. Some of the more popular products that people are purchasing include tables, chairs, bar stools and bistros.

Aside from the benefit of durability, this aluminum patio furniture is light weight. This allows for easy movement in the situation of rearranging the placement and how you can change the look and feel of your deck. This is also a great benefit for those who do not wish to leave their patio furniture outside, especially during rainy weather because as you know rain and metal do not mix.

Another great benefit of this style of deck furniture is the price. You will find that it is very affordable for your budget. One of the best ways to shop for this type of furniture, is to buy it in a whole set. Doing this will save you lots of money in the long run.

It also helps in allowing you to match all of your patio furniture. Having this type of choice is great to use around the pool or out by the garden. You can also purchase folding lounge chairs for the patio that will allow you to lay in the sun on a warm summers day. It is also great to use for picnics.

You can find these aluminum patio furniture pieces or sets in most department stores. For the best results though, you may want to shop on line. The websites that you will find over the Internet will offer a wide variety of styles and designs for you to choose from. They will also be able to assist you with any questions that you might have about the outdoor furniture that you are thinking of buying.

Many of these places specialize in this type of furniture and can give you some of the best prices compared to the retail stores that are local in your area. For patio furniture that is light weight but sturdy, then this is the best choice for your backyard.

How To Build A Deck Step By Step The Easy Way

Once you have a solid set of instructions and sound decking plans to work with, building a deck need not be a difficult process, even for an inexperienced carpenter.

The technique I explain in this article is a professional deck installation method which can be used for deck heights between 350mm to 1.8m above ground level.

Inserting timber posts

1. Draw up your deck plan on paper first. (If you are stuck for ideas, there are plenty of resources online that supply deck plans) To be able to properly draw your deck design you will need to work out exactly where to position your posts and your purlin structure and joists.

2. Lay out the perimeter of your deck with string or line. If you are building a square deck , be sure to check diagonal measurements.

3. Mark the positions of your posts using an ink marker or chalk. Your posts should be approximately 1.5 - 1.8m apart.

4. Now dig the holes for your posts going approximately 400mm deep. Insert your posts into the holes, lining them up and bracing them, making sure that the bracing will hold them in place while the concrete sets. The post will be cut later so it doesn't matter how high they extend out of the ground.

5. Ensure your posts are plumb (level in the vertical plane.)

6. Pour some ready made concrete into the holes, filling them to the top.

7. Allow the concrete to set for 48 hours before pulling the timber bracing off and cleaning any concrete off the posts.

Purlin Stage

Purlins are horizontal beams running along the length of your deck to support the decking boards. The purlins are supported along their lengths by posts.

The purlin structure will run the same direction as the finished deck boards, which is normally parallel to the house / patio doors.

Decide what level you want your finished decking to be, then work out your post heights from this - calculate backwards.

Use a self-levelling laser level on a tripod to set levels over a large deck. Ensure any laser-level you use has been calibrated within the last 6 months.

Bolt 6" x 2" planks on their edge to either side of the posts, stagger your joists so that you don't end up with two joints on the same post. (Timber locks can be used instead of bolts as they are just as strong and much faster to use. Pre-drill the 6" x 2" timber first, insert at least two bolts or timber locks.

As an extra reinforcement insert a 4" x 2" dwarf leg between the 6" x 2" and the concrete base and attach it to the post with screws or timber locks. This will ensure that your substructure will last 20 years plus. This will transfer the load to the ground.

Water Run-Off
To create a water run-off you must create a slight slope on your decking. We will aim for a slope of about 1 in a 100. To achieve this we will set our levels using builders line. 50mm in 4.8m will create a 1 in 100 slope.

Dwarf legs can be used to reinforce the purlins. Once the purlins are positioned and bolted / timberlocked the purlin structure is now complete.

Joist Stage

Setting out the joists is now straight forward (ensure that the joists 4" x 2" (or 5 6" x 2") are regularised (that the joists are actually of same dimensions) - this is very important otherwise the deck could be uneven.)

Lay your joists out on top of the purlins at 90° to the purlin structure. The joists must be spaced at 250mm (10") apart. The joists can be fixed to the purlin structure using 80mm stainless steel screws or 3" galvinised nails. This should ensure the strength and durability for your decking to last two decades of use.

Now all that remains to be done is to insert bridging pieces between the joists to strengthen the joist structure. Use 10" (250mm) pieces to do this.

Bridging pieces 250mm (10") should be inserted between the joists to ensure a rigid, strong joist structure.

Outdoor Patio Dining - Make Your Outdoor Patio Elaborate

Frequently one of the most overlooked spaces in any home is the outdoor dining area. During warm months this space frequently serves as an extension of the home and, with the right outdoor patio dining furniture, can become one of the favorite gathering spaces for any family. There are so many options today, however, that it's difficult to decide unless a plan is created that takes into account what's on the inside of the home as well.

There are several tips that will maximize outdoor space and make it a retreat that reflects personal style and is worthy of sharing. Although many people will set up a few plastic chairs and whatever table is available, this often lacks the warm, welcoming feature most desired. With the choices available today this is no longer necessary. Tables with umbrellas, weatherproof cushions and furniture, and accessories like fire pits and water features can turn any space into an oasis.

Since designers have enhanced decorative style over the past few years, the outdoor space is now able to resemble an actual extension of the rooms in the home if it is done right. For instance, to have vibrant colors indoors then walk outside to find muted tones would not provide the cohesion between indoor and outdoor space that's most desired. Therefore, taking the décor theme from inside and utilizing it outside will make the outdoor space fit the aesthetics better.

The dining furniture selected will be the central feature, but it doesn't mean other things can't be added and, in fact, they can make the space appear homier. Adding potted flowers in accent colors and selecting lighting fixtures and statuary that's reflective of elements inside the home are great choices. However, it's important not to over-decorate. The table, placemats or tablecloth, plates, glasses, and silverware should reflect the accent colors without being visually overwhelming.

Another mistake many people make while decorating is overcrowding. If decorating a balcony on an apartment, for instance, a full size table would crowd the space making it look smaller than it really is. If you only have room for a bistro table and a couple of chairs, then make the most of the space you have. On the other hand, if the space allows then go for it. Many combination sets are now available that include sofa, chairs, and side tables all designed to complement the table.

Designing an outdoor space can be fun. It's important to remember that it needs to be functional, reflect the décor that's inside the home, and provide protection from glaring sun. With the options available today, the patio can become one of the favorite gathering spots for the entire family and often serves as a great space to entertain. With the right lighting and accessories it will be hard to tell that's it's not part of the home. However, keep in mind that the outdoor patio dining furnishings selected should set the standard for everything else chosen.

Simple Guide To Planning a New Deck - How to Effectively Get Started

The basic plan for a deck is the place that you want to build it. If you can plan that effectively then you have almost won the battle.

A deck can have more and more provisions in it, based on the space availability. It can have two or three chairs to relax, some flower plants and lighting arrangements. Even though hard wood flooring cost us more, it can give us the royal look to the deck that we want.

Planning both the area and location to help us judge the cost and the accessories we can add to the deck to make it look more attractive is important. This makes our work partially done, then deciding the type of deck we want to have is next. For this we don't need to stress as it is available in the market with different shapes and designs.

Coming to the design we have to select it based on the environment where our house is located. Say for example if we are located near a river or mountain we can have a deck facing them with all the side walls opened to let fresh air into the deck.

If we are located in the center of the city with none of the above located near us, we can have it facing the garden and a few steps can connect the garden and the deck. Even if we are residing in the first floor or above, we can have a small deck to have some evening tea or a moon light dinner.

A deck can be made using metal railings, stone or wood. Then the selection should be made after considering the cost, material availability, appearance and maintenance. A metal deck is easy to be maintained but they don't give a special look to the deck.

Coming to the woody deck, they need frequent maintenance as they are easily affected by external humidity and moisture. They also need extra care to protect them from rodents and bugs. Metal decks are not preferable in the sea shore areas as salty air gradually erodes them.

Last but not least coming to the decoration of the deck many accessories are available to help us to do it as easy and simple as we can. Simple decorative lights can convert your simple deck to a royal and rich look. Also we can have some hanging lights, colored lights and crystal luminaries.

Artificial Grass for Patios and Decks

Aside from entire front and backyards, as well as fields and parks, artificial grass can be used for other areas of the house, including outdoor patios, decks, and gazebos. For many homeowners, an outdoor niche or veranda is a relaxing place to host parties, entertain, or simply gather with family and friends. Thus, it is important to keep areas like this looking good throughout the summer, or throughout the entire year for sunny areas in which leisure time is spent outdoors. artificial turf is an easily customized landscape surface that blends well with any outdoor landscape. When used for patios and decks, it enhances the space, giving a lively lush look that requires minimal maintenance.

Since artificial turf is specifically engineered to withstand environmental elements and conditions, it is perfect for landscaping outdoor areas such as patios and decks. Many newer artificial turf products on the market are manufactured with a UV coating on the blades to deflect sunlight and maintain color throughout the years. These polypropylene and polyethylene fibers are sturdy and feel like natural grass. Even with hot and humid weather, artificial grass does not fade but instead stays green and healthy looking throughout harsh weather conditions. With many suppliers and installers all over the world, there are different options to choose from in regards to selecting the perfect addition to your outdoor patio.

Whether you have a small or large patio area, artificial turf can be installed specifically to your measurements and dimensions. Even if you already have major landscaping done, artificial turf blends well with different landscape elements, such as sand, stones, concrete, rock, real grass, and more. Installers of artificial grass ensure that it is installed well, for a clean and fitting look for your patio. Artificial grass is a great alternative to composite decks, as well as decks made from other materials because it adds aesthetic value to your home outdoor area that flatter concrete patios do not have. The lushness of artificial grass is inviting for guests, family members, friends, and even pets. patio areas with hanging gardens or plants blend very well with artificial grass to tie in the natural aesthetic. However, unlike plants, artificial turf needs absolutely no watering, which can cut down on costs and bills tremendously.

Though it requires no watering, however, artificial grass does not get ruined when it comes into contact with water and other liquids. For example, patios and outdoor areas with pools can still benefit from artificial grass and not be soggy or wet, due to its state of the art drainage system, which manually drains water and liquids, thus preventing bacterial spores from forming. artificial turf transforms your patio into a great communal outdoor area, where guests can feel the comfort with bare feet and pets can roam around freely with little hazard or mess. From barbecues to pool parties, you will enjoy the look and feel given by artificial grass. Revamp your patio or veranda with artificial turf, the eco-friendly alternative that keeps your outdoor area looking natural and inviting for several years to come.

Brick Patio: Extended Outdoor Dining and Recreational Room

When you plan to design a new landscape for your back yard, consider the idea of putting up a brick patio. A patio can serve as your extension dining or recreational room outdoors. Visualize the fun, relaxation and games you and your family with guests and friends can enjoy in the patio. Imagine the dinners and small parties you can hold under the bright moonlight and stars in the confine of your outdoor patio.

Your project will require basic planning and research. If you want to tap the internet, you can click on the photo galleries of numerous landscape contractors' websites. There you can view lots of models of brick patios and see what type will complement your house and garden. If you have the resources, consult with a reputable landscape designer contractor who can assist you design and build your brick patio. Your consultant can create for you the design and pattern layout and give you a cost estimate for your approval. You can request for at least three conceptual layout plans. Look for a landscaper contractor who can be trusted and with whom you are comfortable to do business with. You can observe their professional etiquette with the way they handle themselves. Punctuality and dedicated commitment to one's word are ideal traits.

Functionality, aesthetic appeal and cost are the important aspects to consider in your patio design. As soon as you receive a cost estimate from the contractor, study it closely and find out if you are getting real top notch value for your investment in the proposed deal.

If you do your own research about brick pavers, you will confirm the many advantages of this type of paving. Brick pavers are reasonably priced and highly affordable.If properly maintained, you can expect to use and enjoy them for a long time. The guarantee for brick paving can last up to 40 years. It is also safe for being skid-free. They are available in a variety of colors and patterns and shapes. Versatility is another characteristic of brick pavers you can admire. They are also durable and is strong enough to withstand heavy traffic.

Brick paving is available in several colors. Its dimensions are rectangular in shape with measurement of 4 x 8 inches and thickness of 1 ½ or 2 3/8 inches. You can have clay paving brick or a concrete paving brick. It is very easy to install and maintain. Many homeowners believe that brick patios are good investments because of the refreshing look it give and added value on the property.

When you can discern satisfactorily the good faith and sincerity of your landscape design contractor, you can select which conceptual design plan is the best and perfect the deal. Belief and confidence with the professionalism of your chosen contractor will give you the desired bottom line. You and your family will end up with a beautiful and elegant brick brick patio to enjoy and have fun with for many years to come.

Installation Of Waterproofing Decking and Deck Coating Systems

Below is a detailed and systematic installation process that will help protect your deck, exterior floors, walkways and stairs from the hardest rains year after year. This deck coating process offers superior protection and has been tried, tested and proven. Process: 2.5 galvanized metal lath, polymer modified concrete, fiberglass and bonder 480, slurry deck coating, anti-slip grip protection texture, and specialized floor paint sealer. Every one of the layers is purposely designed to shield water and strengthen decks from bubbling cracking, and long-term sun damage. Decks in South Orange County are important to seal correctly and thoroughly because of our hot and arid summers and our heavy rainstorms in the winter. Here is an in depth description of the procedure we use when resurfacing your deck.

1. Galvanized Metal Lathing(2.5 lbs per square yard)

Once a thorough inspection of the deck and surrounding structure is complete, the metal lath is secured to the wood sub floor using 24 galvanized 16 gauge staples per square foot.

2. First coat of Polymer modified concrete

Next comes the polymer modified concrete. This is spread evenly across the metal lath creating the ideal foundation layer for your Orange County deck. After the polymer-modified concrete has completely dried you can proceed.

3. Fiberglass and Bonder 480

Now we apply ¾ oz. cloth fiberglass on top of the polymer-modified concrete. Fiberglass is cut carefully to make sure it fit around drains, railings and posts. Bonder 480 is generously applied onto the fiberglass soaking and bonding directly to the first layer of polymer-modified concrete. This is a crucial step to keep out water.

4. Second coat of Polymer modified concrete

Once the bonder has bonded and dried another layer of polymer based concrete to give your deck double the strength and flexibility. This extra step is to make certain your deck will not crack.

5. Finish Texture Coat

Once the second coat of polymer modified concrete is dry, your choice of anti-slip grip texture finish is applied. This texture keeps its grip in even the highest foot traffic areas.

6. Specialized Paint Sealer

The finishing layer for deck coatings in Orange County, is 2 coats of specialized paint sealer. This is applied on top of the texture coat with your choice of 16 different colors, making sure your newly resurfaced deck matches your home or commercial building.

This deck waterproofing process is also perfect for balcony and rooftop decks near the beach. This deck coating process is widely used throughout Orange County including: Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Newport Coast, San Clemente, and Huntington beach.

Patio Decks - Proper Care in Cleaning and Coating

A wooden grained ambiance makes the perfect patio deck and if properly cared for will always look good against the background of the backyard or at a home with a view. Of course, a weather deck, gazebo or patio that is mismanaged, let go or in a state of disrepair can look hideous and unbecoming of a habitat designed for tranquility.

Various types of wood like teak, cedar or redwood each has its own best management practices, yet all require preventative maintenance to look pristine at all times. One commonality is that they must be cleaned periodically and this means either using a garden hose or a low psi pressure washer. Non-caustic or toxic soaps are best, because as the excess wash water is rinsed you do not want to kill any surrounding vegetation.

A soft bristle brush is a smart idea and a decent amount of water, perhaps put on with a garden hose. After brushing it makes sense to rinse thoroughly and I like to use a pressure washer for this. I recommend a low psi pressure washer or if you have a high-psi pressure washer be sure to keep the nozzle a good foot or more away from the wood to prevent splintering or removing the coating.

If the coating  is already coming off or if you plan on recoating the surface, then you need to remove any flaking surfaces as you go, using both the pressure washer and a brush. Under no circumstances should you apply the new coating unless the surface is 100% dry and completely prepped.

Timber Decking Kit - Installation Guide

Safety First
Always remember to use gloves when handling any kind of timber, and be sure to wash your hands after handling it - particularly before eating. Never burn the treated off-cut timbers, as they are likely to contain chemical preservatives. Always remember to dispose of treated timber offcuts as refuse.

Where possible, wear eye protection when using a pressure washer on your deck, or when applying chemical cleaners or restorers to it's surface. Keep young children away from the decking area until after the installation is finished and until all of your kit and tools have been stored away safely.

Fixings
Timber decking kits usually contain complete fixing kits, which have everything you need to complete the deck build.

Top Tips
Try to lay out the decking joists in place before actually fixing them together. Similarly, lay out the decking boards separately if space permits. By allowing the timber to become surface dry, you will make the timber much, much easier to work with - whilst also minimizing the effects of timber shrinkage. Drill pilot holes wherever you need to insert decking or joist screws, a this will vastly decrease the risk of timber splitting.

Lastly, be sure to cover the ground area underneath your deck with a high quality weed control membrane before you begin to build the deck. Try to ensure that cut ends, notches etc are all well protected from rot using a high quality brush-on timber end-grain preserver.

Oversite preparation
Make sure the site onto which you intend to mount the completed deck is as free draining as possible, or at the very least, has a gradient of 1:40 or above. This will help aid water drainage after rainfall.

If yours is a ground decking kit, you might want to excavate the top 100mm of soil before starting. Fill this space with compacted-down gravel stones or with hardcore - this will help provide a really solid and free-draining site, where otherwise this may not be the case.

Constructing the Joist Sub Frame
Timber decking kits include all the timbers necessary for the construction of joist sub frame undercarrages. This is basically a structurally-sound base onto which the decking timbers can be directly fixed. Start by laying down all but 2 of the timbers in a line, at 60cm intervals. These timbers will act as what the trade calls 'regular joists'. Next, lie the final 2 joists along the top and bottom of this row, to create a grid. These joists run at 90-degrees to the other timbers and are called 'cross joists'. Next, cut down the regular joists by the width of the two cross joists (typically 47mm x 2) so that the deck is correctly proportioned for the specified size.

Next fix the crossjoists to the two outer joists from the row of regular joists, to create a square or rectangular frame. Then fit the remaining joists at equal spacing (no more than 600mm centres). Bear in mind that your joist timbers may have to be trimmed to size before completing this step where you have been provided with oversized joists (say 4.8m lengths rather than 4.2m lengths). Timber decking kits occasionally include oversized joists where stock is limited.
N, we are ready to install the deckboards.

Bear in mind that throughout the seasons, your deckboards will swell and shrink slightly in according to changes in the climate. If possible, make sure the boards are dry when yo come to install them. Lay them at equal spaces and approximately 5mm apart. Once you are happy with their positions, drill each board twice where it falls onto each joist (remember, the deckboards should be running at 90 degrees to eachother). Using pilot holes first, fix the deckboards in place.