Four Ways That You Can Decorate Your Used Patio Furniture

If you have wicker patio furniture that you purchased years ago and you are thinking about getting something new don't do it. There are four ways that you can decorate your used furniture that will extend the life and give it a whole new fresh look that will make it appear that you've just purchased something new. It won't cost you a lot of money and isn't very difficult to perform. What are these four things? Keep reading to find out.

You can always repaint your furniture for a whole new look. Since wicker last for years there is no need to throw it away. If you do then someone else will get these benefits. All you need to do it make sure that it is clean before you do any painting. You can use oil based paint which will help decrease the harmful UV rays from the sun. Or you can use spray paint. Either choice is inexpensive and can be chosen to suit the color décor for your home. If you want to go with a more natural look then you will need to strip the color that is on the wicker if any and use varnish to have a more natural look.

Furniture covers will also give your furniture that extra appeal. You can find many colors and designs to match whatever you might need. The fabric that you choose is also important as you need to be certain to pick something that is based upon long term usage. As your wicker patio furniture will last you want your covers to last as well. Even though it is not expensive you don't want to pick something that you won't get the full monetary value from.

For your outside patio furniture you can get a brand new umbrella. It wears down from much use as well. It protects you from the sun while you are outside in the spring and summer months and also the water at other times. They don't cost a lot of money so it won't hurt your wallet. You can find styles you like in your favorite store or online.

Repurposing your furniture breathes new life into it. Pieces that were formerly used in your dining room may now have a whole new adventure in your backyard. Or certain pieces can you used in your home office or sunroom. When you start to imagine what other places you could use your furniture you will see that your money has been extended and you can have a whole new look in your home.

When you bought your wicker patio furniture it was a wise decision. Not only is it durable and inexpensive but it lasts for years and years. Because it doesn't wear out you might eventually get bored with it, but if you don't throw it out you can find many new usages for those pieces by repainting it, getting new furniture covers, buying a new umbrella or even repurposing it.

Learn more about patio furniture and wicker patio furniture.

Caring For Wood Patio Furniture

Owning wood patio furniture is not as simple as buying the various pieces and then leaving them out on the patio. You need to take care of the wood patio furniture and ensure that they last a long time. How do you do this?

1. Take them inside

One of the most important things you have to learn about wood patio furniture is the fact that exposure to the elements tend to slowly destroy them. Although wood patio furniture is meant to be placed outside, there are certain instances when it would be wise for you to bring them inside.

It is often advisable to bring the wood patio furniture inside when you are facing the winter season. That is, of course, if you are not living in a place where the climate is temperate. This will help you make sure that no moisture gets into the wood and rots it.

By taking the wood patio furniture inside, you would be able to make sure that your investment remains for a long, long time.

2. Buy covers

If you find that carrying those heavy pieces of wood patio furniture needs more effort than you can exert, you might want to consider buying furniture covers instead. When doing so, you need to make sure that you get high quality ones which give your wood patio furniture lots of protection.

When you cover them up, make sure that they are completely covered so as not to let in any dust or moisture. This ought to help you slow down the ravages of the elements.

3. Use rubber leg covers

Many people fail to pay attention to the legs of wood patio furniture. They often go to great lengths to make sure that the body of the furniture remains covered but neglect to see that the legs are exposed just the same to the environment.

Because of this, they are surprised and frustrated when they learn that all their efforts have come to naught. In order to truly protect your wood patio furniture, you need to protect the parts which encounter moisture the most - the legs.

You need to make sure that the legs are not exposed to moisture which could definitely ruin them. A great solution to this would be to give rubber soles to the wood patio furniture. This would help you make sure that the legs remain dry even when the ground is wet.

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The Enclosed Patios - How to Build One

Having a patio is great way to improve your homes. This addition would generally allow you to enjoy much of your underused spaces. Hence, you get a chance to conduct parties, lounge and get a better site of your garden, and you also get an additional space for other kinds of activities. However, patios are no longer limited to be just an open addition to your homes. You have the choice to enclose it so you can do your relaxation activities in this part of the house all year round. If you want this privilege you can choose to build an enclosed patio or opt to convert your existing one.

When you build an enclosed patio, know that they have different forms and means of construction. The first one is the sunroom. This is just some structure that you can have outside your home, generally attached to your house, with the purpose of being able to further enjoy your surroundings. And the good thing about it is that you can be heavily protected by extreme conditions. Typically it is built with the use of brick, wood or glass for the base or framing and the PVC is used as the knee wall. The roofing can be made of glass because transparency is much needed for the sun to come in (since that what its name denotes).

Updates on sunrooms involve use of aluminum as part of the base structure. Roofing can also be made of shingles and other roofing materials similar to the main house only that this time people would normally have skylights on them to allow more natural light to come in.

Another type of enclosed patio that you can build is a screened porch. How different is this to the sunroom? They are similar to the sunroom and sometimes with fiberglass or glass roofing. But the walls are made of screens. Hence, there is free flowing of air in all parts of the room. So everything is all natural. You have seating areas, tables and plants all around you. Hence, there is no need for heating and airconditioning.

There is also what they call a portable enclosed patio. How do they make this? They use canopies and attach it to the main house. Canopies are usually wall less. Hence, to convert them into enclosed patios, you can make use of those with nettings. They can either be built in with the canopies or you can make your own through a curtain type. Once the netting is in use, the canopy would resemble a screen porch. The only difference is that you have the option to take disconnect it from your homes and put them somewhere in the middle of your lawn.

These are some of the ideas that you can use to make an enclosed patio at home. To be able to choose wisely, you need to look at the advantages and disadvantages of all the choices. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you want to be able to use the room all throughout the year?
2. DO you want your home value to increase?
3. Do you want to be able to bring down the room with ease?
4. How much are you willing to spend?
5. How urgent do you need the room?

So, good luck to you. And hopefully, you will be able to build the right kind of enclosed patio for your homes.

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Care and Maintenance of Your Outdoor Wood Patio Furniture

Some of the most beautiful Outdoor Patio and Deck Furniture is made from wood. Wood is a natural product, but when exposed to moisture and changes in temperature and humidity, wood will respond in a variety of ways. Proper maintenance of your Wood Patio Furniture will ensure longevity through years of exposure to the elements.

Caring For Different Types of Wood

Teak is perhaps the most desirable and, arguably, the most expensive outdoor wood furniture available. Teak is a beautiful, honey-colored, dense, tropical hardwood that is resistant to insect infestation and contains natural oils which make it resistant to rot and decay. Unfortunately, teak trees require at least 60 years to reach harvestable size, and, because teak furniture is in such high demand, teak supply is not as readily available as supplies of other woods like cedar, oak, or pine. With supplies not able to meet demand, the price of teak has increased dramatically. The advantage of teak, though, is that, with proper maintenance, it can last for more than 50 years, which makes the initial investment worth it for many homeowners.

While cleaning teak is not necessary, it is not a bad idea to clean outdoor teak furniture each year to remove any buildup of pollen, sap, or mildew. Follow each cleaning with a coat of teak oil (optional) if you wish to keep the wood its original honey color.

Other tropical hardwoods, like Eucalyptus, have become increasingly popular as the price of teak has grown prohibitive for many homeowners. Eucalyptus wood, like teak, is beautiful, dense, durable, and resistant to rot and insect infestation. The rapid growth of eucalyptus trees makes them more readily available and more easily affordable. Like outdoor teak furniture, outdoor eucalyptus furniture can be treated with teak oil following an annual cleaning to help preserve the wood's natural color (if desired).

Other popular choices for outdoor wooden furniture include cedar, redwood, oak, and pine. These woods, though (especially pine), must be treated with a preservative to prevent decay, which can occur quickly depending on weather conditions. Protecting this wood furniture with a water-resistant stain, protective oil, or polyurethane is also recommended. Your local hardware store will have many options from which to choose, and a store associate should be able to assist you in selecting the most appropriate protectant for the weather conditions in your area. Furniture should be cleaned annually, and the protectant you choose will need to be reapplied regularly (check manufacturer's instructions for details).

Cleaning Your Wood Furniture

Outdoor wood furniture should be cleaned once a year. Mix one tablespoon of bleach, five tablespoons of a gentle dishwashing liquid, and a gallon of water, and gently scrub the mixture on the surface of your wood furniture with a soft bristle brush. Wash the solution from the furniture, and allow it to dry completely in the sun. Repainting or restaining wood furniture may be necessary at this time to cover and protect any worn or damaged areas.

Protecting Your Furniture From Water, Temperature, and Chemical Damage

No matter what type of wood is used for your outdoor furniture, all woods are susceptible to rot and decay if left in moist, wet, or shady areas for extended periods of time. Wood that becomes saturated with rain water is more likely to warp and rot, so using waterproof protective covers when your furniture is not in use is highly recommended to keep your wooden patio furniture in good shape. The bases of furniture legs are probably the most vulnerable when it comes to water damage. If wood furniture is kept in the grass, at the poolside, or on a surface that collects even a small level of rain water, the legs can become easily saturated and damaged. Covering the bottoms of each furniture leg with rubberized material or small sections of cedar fencing material will help protect your furniture from rotting from the bottom up.

In addition, temperature extremes can take a toll on wood furniture. During the cold winter months, keeping your wooden patio furniture protected in a shed or garage is highly recommended.

Finally, exposure to chemicals including solvents and chlorine, and exposure to common items such as alcoholic beverages, plants and flower nectar, and hot items (off of a grill, for example) can stain or damage wood and many wood finishes. It is also important to prevent plastic objects, like plastic table cloths, toys, placemats, and appliance covers, from lying on wood furniture for a long period of time because plastic can discolor wood. Plastic can also stick to and damage a wood finish.

Lifespan of Outdoor Wood Furniture

The lifespan for any wooden patio furniture depends greatly on the type of wood used and local weather conditions. Properly maintaining your outdoor wood furniture can significantly improve its lifespan and maximize your investment. Outdoor wood furniture makes a comfortable, natural addition to any backyard, deck, patio, or garden, and, with care, it will continue to make a beautiful impression for many years.

Trey Collier is owner of BackyardCity.com, North America's finest Outdoor Casual Living Store, designed and created to help fashion the outdoor living space, deck, porch, or patio you've always dreamed of having. Since 2001, BackyardCity.com has offered internet customers quality outdoor living products, including Wood Patio and Deck Furniture, at very reasonable prices.

Planning Ideas For Patio Garden Design

Flower Garden Designs for Everyone

Design garden is perfect for those who live in the city but still want to consider creating a garden for their patio. There are different designs for your patio garden and it's up to you to think of the color combinations, the pots, how they are arranged or aligned, etc. You can release your creativity in designing your own patio garden, after all, it's yours and it's going to be your pride and joy. These are mainly guidelines because in designing, you have no rules. You can choose from many varieties regarding patio garden design from modern to classic, whatever suits you, really.

When you do your garden design, you don't limit yourself to space; you limit yourself to time and interest. If you don't see yourself working on your flower garden designs, then this isn't for you. Designing your garden requires time and effort and of course, your interest in engaging yourself with such activity. You have to have a lot of time on your hands to create a personal touch to your patio garden design. Once you've set your mind into designing your garden, you can now pick your place where you like to build a garden.

You can choose from different themes like, modern, classic, chic, or whatever suits your personality. There are different materials from stores that could fit your theme, for sure. As mentioned, time and interest is needed in designing your patio garden. If you did everything in a hurry, it would be noticed with the lack of alignment and organization. Before you start designing your patio garden, always think of a concept so that when you execute your design, you won't take a long time deciding on how to fix everything and stuff. Organize everything and have your materials all set so you could start your flower garden designs already.

Uneven edges are dangerous for children, and adults, too. Safety is part of your garden design and it's not something you should miss out. Your lives and safety are in your hands. Always take precautionary measures before setting up your patio garden. If you're guests consist mostly of kids, you should be sure to check if everything in your garden would be safe for them. Make sure that the floor isn't too slippery or that there aren't too many sharp edges for kids tend to play roughly with other kids.

If you have the time, space, interest and budget, then you're ready to start designing your patio garden. Always set aside some time for planning and organizing before going all hands-on on your patio garden. It's not all about fixing and hard work, you really need time to plan everything out before getting dirty and excited. Always consider the place where you live in and always keep in mind that landscaping is important in your design. Of course, you shouldn't miss out on your budget. Always make a list so that you wouldn't be caught short in the middle of designing your patio garden. Remember that you should have fun because it's your patio, anyway.

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Water Fountains - An Attractive Way to Impress Your Guests

Adding elegance and appeal is the main focus of the indoor water fountains. They can really provide a mesmerizing look to the whole decor of your house. The fountain is just perfect for those people who really want to add some additional features to their home. These days the excellent water fountains have become extremely famous all around the world and more and more people are installing this luxurious accessory at their homes for a different look. There are special dealers and craftsmen operating in the market who can really provide you some unique water fountains for your home and office. People who want to get the fountain installed according to their own specifications can really take the help of the internet for more information.

If you really need all the information about excellent water fountains then this article is just perfect for you. So, now let me tell you about the numerous different fountains that are available in the market.

1. Unique stacked triangle water fountain
The stacked triangle water fountain is really very unique and has an individual style that can really impress all your guests. It has a very new design and is construction is carried on by professional craftsmen and dealers. This fountain has a very different water flowing movement that can really please your senses. In this fountain there are mainly three triangles which are placed on top of each other. You can easily install this fountain at your home, spa, restaurant and office. It would surely be able to please all your guests and friends.

2. Diamond water fountains
People who really want to install something luxurious at their homes can take the help of the diamond outdoor water fountain. This mountain has an extremely beautiful focal point which is incrusted with diamonds. It would give you a falling diamond appearance which would really add a magical touch to your house. It is an enchanting addition to your home as besides providing beauty to your house this fountain also helps in relaxing and refreshing you. LED lights are installed inside the fountain which also helps in saving your power.

3. Double wall fountain
The double wall fountain has two sections and it the best option for your office. If you want to customize it then you can also add the logo of your office to this marvelous water spout. This fountain has a copper roof and an excellent pump that helps in distributing the water in all directions. It is durable product and it does not even require maintenance. If you want you can also install it in your patio or lounge area.

4. Scallop Outdoor Fountain
The Scallop Outdoor Fountain is another great fountain that has been recently launched in the market. It is made of natural stone that is why it is durable and available in various exciting designs. You can install this fountain in your garden for backyard to give your house an enchanting appearance.

I am sure this article, would provide you all the information that you need about the different types of water fountains.

Are you looking for Water Fountains? Read more about wall fountains and get more tips and ideas to decorate home or office.

Quality Teak Patio Furniture

There has been a real surge in the interest of teak wood patio furniture. With the popularity of the internet and beautiful mail order catalogs consumers are much more aware of the beauty of teak furniture. Import Companies have also made teak wood easier to obtain. Teak is also more affordable now as well.

There are many suppliers of quality teak wood furniture. Quality teak wood patio furniture manufacturers make their furniture by hand and build it to last a long time. A good warranty 0f 10 years and a money back guarantee of 60 days is also a sign of quality. A sign of quality is that flush mortise and tenon joinery is used in every slat for quality. A quality manufacturer will use kiln dried teak between 10-12% moisture content to make sure it will last a very long time. Some manufacturers will first sand by machine then sand by hand after construction.

Teak wood has a high concentration of oil that allows it to last for decades. Teak is resistant to mold, mildew, splintering, rot and insects. It is extremely sturdy and heavy. Teak wood can be as maintenance-free as you would like; maintenance is not truly required.

Teak wood is expensive because it is in high demand and it requires tedious processing. Teak trees are aged 30 to 50 years and then stripped of their bark for three years, as they die a lasting death. The trees are then, cut down. Then the wood is kiln dried for eight months until most of the moisture is gone. Once the wood is dry, the lumber is sliced.

A large amount of the world's teak comes from Indonesia. The Indonesian government manages a majority of the teak supply. Plantations grow a majority of the teak trees. The Plantations operate under the Smart Wood program of the Rainforest Alliance, an organization that encourages ecologically sound practices of timber harvesting.

Lesser quality teak furniture that you get at a big-box store could start deteriorating in only two to three years as opposed to the quality teak that will last anywhere from 30-50 years. One way to determine if you have a quality piece of teak furniture is the price. Usually the higher the price tag, the better the product. However, some dealers get around the high price tags by selling in large volume.
Another way to determine the quality of your teak furniture is the weight of the product. A quality piece of teak furniture is not light! A quality teak chair will weigh in upwards of 35 to 40 pounds. An inexpensive chair from a discount shop will weigh much lighter.

High-quality teak has a smooth grain and no knots or small pieces glued together. A lesser quality piece of teak furniture is likely to be lightweight, knotted and held together with metal screws and bolts.

If you are shopping for high quality teak, do your research. Make sure you are getting your moneys worth.

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