Deck Kits Enhance Outdoor Spaces
With the emergence of new deck materials such as solid PVC, homeowners no longer have to waste excessive time or money on deck maintenance. The vast array of rich colors and surface textures, along with stain and scratch resistant materials have made these items a smart choice over wood. Now, there are kits that accessorize these deck options.

If you’ve ever made a mad dash to retrieve cushions or other items when it rains, then in-deck storage may be in order, according to Mike Gori, deck expert for AZEK Building Products, maker of AZEK Deck. This clever idea provides 17.5 cubic feet of safe, dry storage space that uses the area below the deck. “You don’t have to sacrifice living space or ruin your view with unsightly plastic tubs,” says Gori. The storage unit’s lid sits flush with the deck surface and holds up to 500 pounds. “There are also kits for building benches with planter boxes and custom gates,” he says. “It’s never been easier to accessorize a new or existing deck.”
The Caulk Cure for Energy Costs
One of your home’s biggest money drains can be energy waste – whether it’s warm or cool air leaking out or outside temperatures sneaking in. That is where a bead of quality caulk can be the best bang for your buck. One caulk problem happens when homeowners paint caulk too early, which can cause cracks to form, letting in air and moisture.

“What we came up with is an advanced sealant called ColorCure that actually tells you when the caulk can be painted – it turns from pink to white,” says Jason Ringling, director of marketing at Red Devil, Inc. “If you test caulk by touching the wet bead, the finish is ruined.” Another good practice is to use new caulk and sealant products that are better for the environment as well as high performance. “It’s not only environmentally friendly, but solvent-free and low VOC – and with no plasticizers it won’t leach or pick up dirt which is perfect for painted finishes,” Ringling says.

Have a Great Room Outdoors
Shade pergolas can provide the convenience of a great room in the great outdoors for entertaining al fresco. With dignified beauty, pergolas have many style options that create a picture-perfect gathering spot near the garden or pool.

“These versatile, stylish outdoor rooms provide semi-privacy and are ideal for entertaining or relaxing with your family,” says Sue Donahue, marketing manager for Walpole Woodworkers a leader in premium outdoor structures.

Another advantage to today’s pergola designs is the addition of protective fabric canopies that let the party go on, rain or shine. “Canopies, either operated manually or by remote control, keep furniture and outdoor decor protected at the first sign of inclement weather,” she says.

Pergola styles include arched or classic straight tops, and columns are typically square, tapered, or round. A lattice screen can add more privacy and bring color to the area, with climbing plant and vines. Donahue says to look for pergolas in wood or the new wood-alternative solid PVC materials that are low maintenance and long-lasting.

Prepare for Wet Weather Extremes
Extreme weather events can happen in a flash. Even if you’re not in an official flood zone, inches of rainfall in a matter of minutes, hurricanes and other freakish weather events can cause flooding. The experts at WAYNE Water Systems advise consumers to look for durable, reliable, worry-free water handling pumps.

“It only takes one water event to cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage, so prevention is the key, starting with a quality sump pump,” says vice president of sales Charles Murphy. “Additional layers of protection include battery back-up pumps in case of power outages and water-sensing alarms for early notification.

As homeowner Bill Bellaver of Troy, Mich. reports, his sump pump protected his home for 33 years before taking its last gasp. His friends and neighbors were not so lucky. “Our WAYNE pump has worked well without any issues, while friends with lower quality or no pumps have suffered damage or loss of valuables,” he says.

Homeowners can make smarter choices with today’s new home solutions. It’s a way to reduce hassles, save money and add convenience to their current lifestyle.

The post Innovative Solutions for your Home first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

Upgrading your backyard may work for you on multiple levels. Not only will you increase your enjoyment of the time you spend there, backyard enhancements like decks, patios and landscaping can increase your home’s resale value. You can create your own oasis of luxury at home for much less than the cost of a luxury vacation.

From murals to outdoor kitchens, resort-style luxury can be had for less right in your own backyard. To get an idea of where to begin, think of the features and decor that you most loved about your last resort stay and work toward recreating them at home for a fraction of the cost. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Theme Park
HGTV star Jamie Durie has elevated outdoor living spaces to an art form by creating each design around a specific theme, whether it’s capturing the exotic flavor of Thailand or the dreamy, relaxed style of California. You can borrow Durie’s techniques and create a theme in your own backyard.

Do you dream of a vacation to the English countryside? The right mix of flowers, cultured pathways and gracious seating areas can evoke the beauty of an English garden. Is a beachside retreat more to your taste? Try potted tropical plants, torches and decorating accents in sand and ocean hues to recreate the atmosphere of the beach.

Dazzling Decor
Your outdoor decor can go a long way toward creating a luxury resort feeling. Draw on favorite luxury touches of interior designers, such as luxurious floor coverings and engaging wall murals. An outdoor mural can transform a space from mundane to exotic.

New technology, dubbed SmartStick, can allow you to mount a mural virtually anywhere outdoors. All you need is a flat surface (other than non-painted brick). The space-age material will withstand all weather conditions, won’t shrink or curl, and can even wrap around corners and curves. It’s easily removable, peeling effortlessly away from the surface without leaving any marks or residue, and can then be re-used elsewhere. Log on to www.muralsyourway.com to learn more.

A Splash of Class
For many of us, water play is a key part of a resort experience. If you live in a community that permits pools, you can easily install an above-ground pool for less than you would pay for a luxury vacation. Modern kits include everything from the pool walls and liner to the filter. Prices range from just a few hundred dollars for basic, modestly sized pools to a few thousand for more upscale versions.

If a pool isn’t possible for you, consider adding a different type of water feature. Installing a fountain or building a pond can not only be a great do-it-yourself project for the entire family, everyone will enjoy the delightful presence of water in your outdoor living space when you’re done. Whatever type of water feature you choose, from a tabletop fountain to a bird bath, the object is to deliver the restful mood and charming sound of flowing water.

Seating that Sizzles
For some items, it’s worth paying a bit more to get better quality, and outdoor furniture is one of them. You’ll be spending a lot of time on your deck or patio, and your seating area should be comfortable, inviting and luxurious. A table and at least four chairs is a must, but think beyond the box and consider incorporating loveseats, lounges and ottomans into your seating design.

If you have the space, consider creating seating groupings throughout the yard. Your deck or patio will be the main entertaining area, but a simple bistro set tucked away beneath a tree or beside a flower bed can make a great spot for quiet chats, or reading a book while sipping your favorite wine.

This summer, consider staying home and keeping your money with you by creating a backyard resort that your whole family can enjoy throughout the season.

The post Backyard Upgrades Bring the Resort Lifestyle Home first appeared on The How Do Gardener.