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pool deck

Here they come! Getting the pool ready for kids

When the schools close their doors for the summer, our backyard gates open up. Take these last few days to prepare your patio for the fun-seeking, towel-snapping, sticky-faced (but loveable!) throngs. Summer is a celebration of all things outdoors. Picnics and parties, pools and patios are at the center of the activities. A little planning

The look of wood with none of the worry

Capture the natural beauty of wood in a paver tile that is extremely durable and long lasting with Lastra Wood-look Porcelain Tiles. These porcelain tiles bring the stunning look of wood but are without wood’s inherent problems. Wood, especially when used outdoors, can quickly turn into a high-maintenance surface. Lastra tiles offer an alternative that

Power on the patio

Here’s how to juice up your patio for family and friends. Patios and pool decks aren’t simply for sunbathing. Parties, family meals, work sessions, movies and more all happen out there, too. These days, outdoor electrical outlets, charging stations, wifi, sound and media devices are must-haves for many homeowners. Unfortunately, most houses were built well

Choose the patio furniture that works for you

It’s officially spring, and patio furniture ads are in full force. Here are some things to consider to help you choose patio furniture that works for you and your budget. Outdoor rooms are an extension of your home’s living space. Comfortable furniture and beautiful  accessories are the necessities that make any patio space usable and

Rumble under the patio: outside earthquake damage to look for

On November 30, 2017, an earthquake shook the area of Dover, Delaware. Rumblings of the quake, which measured 4.1 on the Richter scale, were felt in a very large radius from the epicenter. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), even a “light” earthquake warrants a check of your home, landscape and patio for

Grass tech fills in the gaps: Synthetic turf and patio pavers

Artificial grass has come a long way. It’s not the fake grass made of sharp bright green plastic found in the cheesy store displays of yore. If you are looking for a great-looking, low-to-no maintenance solution for your landscape, you may want to give synthetic grass another look. The new artificial grasses can fool the

3 things to know to keep your pavers looking great

A paver patio is a big investment with huge returns to your home value and life satisfaction. The best part: upkeep is simple. 1. Sweep first   Here’s the order of care for pavers: Sweep, hose, soap. Most of the time your pavers won’t need anything but a pass-through with the broom. A good sweeping

National Flip-Flop Day is perfect for patio and pool repose

According the National Calendar Day website, every year the third Friday in June is National Flip-Flop Day.Let’s break out our best pairs to celebrate. Flip-Flops are named for the flapping sound and motion the minimalist sandals make as a person walks in them. Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary notes 1600 as the first known year of use

Spa and pool designs: the basics

The placement of a backyard spa is more controversial than you may think. When homeowners are beginning to consider buying a home with a pool or installing a pool, the many discussions and articles written about design options may overwhelm them. Spa and pool owners can have strong opinions on which set-up is best. For

Environmentally-Friendly Lighting Design for the Patio

As the days get shorter but the weather stays mild, some relaxing time outside is in our future. The evening can be a peaceful time to unwind and get some fresh air after a long day spent indoors. Getting extended-hour use out of your patio is one of the main reasons to install an outdoor