|
Sue Pukas
905-702-1111
RE/MAX
Realty Specialists Inc.
(Brokerage)
45 Bramalea Road, Ste#102,
Brampton, Ontario
L6T 2W4
|
|
|
Platinum Award receipient for over 10 years |
|
|
| |
(NC)—There's no better way to take advantage of the warmer weather than out in the yard, lounging on a deck. Decks can be simple or elaborate – and low maintenance with today's materials, tools and techniques. Meanwhile, landscaping and lighting can help accentuate your deck's design and personalize this outdoor space. Whether you're building a deck for the first time or upgrading an existing one, here are the latest decking options to consider from The Home Depot Canada:
Choose the right material
• Wood – Real wood offers natural beauty and richness of colour. Cedar is a common decorative choice for its natural water resistant properties and grain composition. To extend the life of this type of wood, or to help retain its original colour, apply a penetrating oil sealer or stain.
• Pressure-treated wood – This type of wood can be combined with durable, attractive woods such as redwood or cedar for decking, railings and steps. Today's pressure-treated wood is treated with Environmental Protection Agency approved low-toxicity pesticides to resist bugs, mold and rot. Pressure treated wood is a common choice for completing the structural portion of the deck.
• Composite decking – Composite decking is a blend of recycled plastic and wood waste that requires minimal maintenance as it doesn't absorb water or rot. For high traction areas such as the deck floor, composite decking is a viable option, giving a deck floor a very finished look. Composite materials come in natural tones from light tan to deep mahogany brown or neutral gray.
Ask a professional about design
• How you use your deck and space will help determine the best design for your needs. There are plenty of designs to choose from – angular or round, open or covered. For help with design and installation, consult The Home Depot's Installation Services division.
Keep your deck shiny and new
• If your deck is more than a year old prepare a cleaning solution of two litres water, one litre bleach. Cover any nearby plants and apply the solution with a hand sprayer. Allow the solution to soak for five to 10 minutes. Once the deck is moistened, scrub any dirty areas with a stiff bristle brush. Rinse off the solution with a garden hose. Repeat the process if necessary.
Stain for a finished look
• After you clean your deck, you may want to use a clear or tinted sealant to change the look of it. Any product you consider should offer protection from water, mold and ultraviolet radiation. For a more natural look, apply a clear stain or wood preservative. To add a little colour try a semitransparent or opaque deck stain. Most stains are available in a variety of shades.
Accessorize for maximum impact
• Landscaping, lighting, privacy screens, benches, a covered trellis and planter boxes are all useful ways to upgrade your deck for maximum comfort.
• A wood lattice screen provides both privacy and functionality. Try hanging a decorative mirror on your lattice screen to reflect sunlight and candlelight, or add a hanging bird feeder for bird-watching.
• Planter boxes are natural decorative additions that can easily be made with leftover decking material and stained to match. Consider adding a built-in bench between your planter boxes.
• Incorporate soft ambient built-in lights to create an inviting space and to mark off your deck's boundaries; perfect for deck stairs.
• A sturdy trellis of sculpted timber can also be added on after your main deck is built, providing a large shaded eating area for sun exposed backyards.
Now that you're all decked out with either your brand new or upgraded deck, get out there and enjoy it with friends and family before the warm weather passes you by. For more deck expertise, visit The Home Depot in your community.
Credit: www.newscanada.com |
| | |
News 
(1) 
