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Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(ARA) - Spring may be the time for renewal but when it comes to your backyard deck a pinch of care, a dash of improvements and a touch of TLC is just the right recipe for taking your deck from “Autumn Drab” to “Fall Fab.”
“Most people think spring or early summer are the only seasons to spruce up the deck, but fall is an ideal time to get things done before the worst of weather hits,” explains Terry Guest, marketing manager from Weyerhaeuser. “Best of all -- deck dwellers in warmer climates can immediately enjoy any ‘beautifying’ improvements a few extra months, while the rest of us get a jump-start on next year’s decking season.”
Taking the time to complete those easy-to-procrastinate repairs, much-needed upgrades and backyard brightening projects ensures your deck remains a favorite spot for the entire family. When developing a checklist of things to accomplish or create this fall, consider the following ideas and tips for keeping your backyard deck beautiful:
Simple Repairs and Quick Fixes
Occasionally, you may need to address structural repairs like replacing a damaged board or re-nailing loose boards. Fixing these items in autumn provides better protection against additional damages over the winter months, like warping or cracking.
Also, cleaning your deck is a critical part of the entire deck care process. Aesthetically, cleaning can make a dramatic visual improvement by removing years of built-up dirt on surfaces that have weathered due to the elements, mold and mildew, and worn-out finishes. And be certain to sweep away all leaves, needles and branches from your deck and remove all debris from between deck boards. Dirt and leaves can build up, preventing rain or other moisture from draining. Proper ventilation is crucial to avoid moisture build up -- standing water is your deck’s worst enemy.
Little Touches Are Lovely
One of the easiest ways to brighten and improve any outdoor living space is with window and planter boxes made from all-natural Western Red Cedar. These stylish boxes are simple to build and can dress up your front or backyard when filled with colorful flowers, herbs, vegetables, etc. Best of all, the vegetation can be easily changed out to keep the look fresh.
Additionally, placing some weather-resistant furniture just outside the main deck entrance provides a smooth segue between indoor and outdoor spaces -- thus inviting guests to move freely between each space. Be sure to choose furniture cushions that visually tie the interior and exterior together for a cohesive look.
Decks are great venues for events like birthdays, holidays or casual entertaining -- so decorate it for drama. With a little imagination, you can theme your deck to match the occasion making it a festive location to enhance the moment. For instance, strategically inserting “Happy Birthday” streamers and balloons throughout the deck railings -- or proudly displaying your team colors with flags or bunting for the big game.
Easy Upgrades
One of the most popular decking trends these days involves adding stylistic upgrades throughout the entire decking area. For example, built-in cedar benches make a great way to capitalize on longer stretches of decking with unobstructed views – and add both style and function to the deck.
Additionally, decorative railings offer a stylish, yet easy solution when upgrading any deck. Incorporating railings allows you to create distinctive and unique designs, thus distinguishing your deck from others. The possibilities are endless here, but choosing decorative flair to complement the architectural feel of your house will add the most appeal.
A Complete Overhaul?
If you’re considering a complete renovation or overhaul, autumn may be the time to do this as well. Because fall is typically a slower season for professional deck builders and contractors, homeowners may be able to save time and money by avoiding the summer decking rush. Price breaks and quicker turn-around times are more likely to happen during this off-peak season.
If a new addition or a completely new deck is in order for you, a number of decking material options are available these days. While a number of imitation products have hit the market in recent years, all-natural Western Red Cedar, like Weyerhaeuser’s CedarOne decking, remains one of the most widely favored and versatile decking materials. Many people choose CedarOne materials due to its aesthetic all-natural appeal and physical properties. For centuries, cedar has been known for its exceptional beauty, versatility and longevity – and cedar brings an exceptional all-natural look, aroma and character to outdoor spaces.
CedarOne products are known for their consistent quality and are distributed by one of the world’s premier forest products companies -- Weyerhaeuser. They are specially designed to meet performance and appearance requirements.
Additionally, CedarOne materials offer a rare combination of aesthetic appeal and strength. Many choose this wood over others because of its outstanding physical characteristics, including rich color, smooth grain and dimensional stability. Even better, the properties inherent to CedarOne products naturally resist decay. It’s also easy to cut, saw and nail with common tools.
To learn more about CedarOne’s all-natural Western Red Cedar decking products, visit: www.cedarone.com. To find a dealer nearest you, call the customer service line at (877) 235-6873 (United States) or (888) 439-8822 (Canada), or visit your local home improvement center. Courtesy of ARA Content
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