Repair or replace your old deck?

Repair or replace your old deck? To repair or to replace your old deck is the question. Know when you can salvage what you have currently and know when it is better to scrap the deck and start fresh for your exterior. Loose boards and damaged wood can look like just a quick project from the surface – but you can run into more than you bargained for. Deck repair is a common exterior improvement project that adds value to your home and enjoyment to your outdoor living space. There are many reasons that decks may need repair, from structural to cosmetic. Many people try to repair their own decks, which can be an economical option if you have carpentry experience. If, however, you have little to no experience with carpentry, you will save money and time by hiring a contractor. This will ensure everything is done correctly, and your deck meets important safety guidelines and requirements so you can enjoy it for years to come.

Deck repair costs an average of $1,381 with many homeowners spending between $717 and $2,093. Although it requires an investment of time and money, it costs significantly less than replacement, as long as the deck is structurally intact and the wood is healthy. When your contractor inspects your deck, he or she will be able to tell you if it can be repaired or if you need to tear it out and start over. Here are some cost factors that play into the total cost of deck repair. Look for these signs that you will need to replace deck boards or potentially start fresh and build a new deck: Dry rot, mold or mildew, and termites.

Make sure your deck lasts this time around! To ensure that you don’t need to go through the whole process of repairing or replacing your  exterior deck again for the next few decades, make sure to properly clean and maintain it. It’s a good idea to set up a cleaning schedule to make sure your deck is getting the care it needs year-round. • Set aside time in the spring to give it a thorough wash, sweep and cleaning. Your contractor can recommend the best cleaner for your specific deck, which generally costs$10 to $30. Use the cleaner according to its specifications. For best results, choose a cloudy (but not rainy) day, so the sun won’t evaporate the cleaner. • Seal the deck in late spring, allowing two days for the task. During this step, replace any missing or popped nails and screws, and lightly sand the deck. • During summer, examine your deck for rot or mildew. Pay extra attention to the ledger, joists, posts and beams. • In the fall, set your deck up with a preventative maintenance plan. Sweep away debris and take care of any cleaning or sealing that you didn’t get around to in the spring. With this year-round plan, your deck will stay in great shape for years to come.

DIY Exterior projects award worthy

DIY Exterior projects award worthy Bringing that camping fire or bon fire feel to your backyard is easy. Exterior projects like DIY Fire Pits have grown ever more popular with most time being spent at home, and as outdoor fireplaces can run you in the upwards of $10,000. No matter if you are looking for an easy fire pit project or a more professional looking fire pit – your homes exterior is covered here. Fire pits can be created to be permanent or portable - this of this before designing. The no effort solution to your fire pit desires is attainable in a few steps. 1. Find a desired spot in your yard (10 feet from your home or a neighbor's home) and make level. 2. Purchase a fire pit (or DIY a fire pit) and seating. 3. Set up and enjoy! It’s as easy as that, seriously. But, if you are still scratching your head on number don’t fret. Poured concrete slabs are a great place to set up shop and land your fire pit site, but not the only place you can opt for. Great fire pit areas have been created by simply leveling the ground and pouring sand or going to the extreme of building a deck. Image credit: Jason Ellison This fire pit with built in seating is a great transition and use of the adjoined deck. Placing the deck above ground the designer was able to continue the deck and build custom seating for the fire pit. Image credit: HGTV Yard Takeovers

If you are looking for a more defined exterior fire pit you can contact a professional to design and build a custom fire pit. For safety - permanent seating or chairs should be 2 feet from an open flame. Wood burning, gas or even electric fire pits can be installed for a beautiful ambiance. This custom patio features a built in fire pit and seamless exterior design. Image credit: Scott Cohen Custom fire pits can be designed to have permanent bench seating and/or accent lighting. If you can dream it, it can be built to accentuate your home. Exterior design should not be overlooked when trying to upgrade your home or make it more comfortable. Safety tips to keep in mind when utilizing your newly designed fire pit: 1. A fire of any kind-small or roaring big-demands serious attention to safety. 2. Check wind direction before you light a fire 3. Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc) to light or relight fires 4. Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fit clothing 5. Avoid using soft woods like pine or cedar, because they can “pop” and throw sparks. 6. Know how to safely dispose of ashes

Your backyard design style finder made simple

Your backyard design style finder made simple This is California after all; we have the best weather around but like many you need to make the most of our outdoor spaces. You may cringe if I tell you describe the current state of your home’s exterior, so I will ask you to tell me what you dream for it to look like. Are you dreaming of a picture perfect pool alongside a massive outdoor kitchen, a Zen garden and water fountain to meditate in or lush paradise that reminds you of your favorite vacation? Small or large outdoor spaces can be made simple. Tip, tricks and inspiration to help you figure out what your backyard style is:

Design style: Modern with a chef flare

This large poolside, covered patio boasts a builtin BBQ and cooking area. This is a great way to spruce up your exterior and entertain in comfort. Modern concept of outdoor kitchen designs features almost everything that a regular kitchen has, but in a compact manner.Taking ideas from holiday resorts, an outdoor kitchen concept for homes may also accommodate a bar and a classy fireplace. To talk about functionality, a complete outdoor kitchen can be equipped with pergola, BBQ grill, refrigeration and enough storage.

Design style: Kid Friendly and Compact This outdoor space is perfectly arranged to give the adults a space to grill and chat while the kids have a space to call their own. Using multi-levels breaks up a small yard and makes it appear larger with more functionality.

Design style: Complementary Modern Using the multi-levels in this great back yard the home owner took one flat lot and created a fun outdoor space to enjoy. The small areas of grass and vegetation make this yard low on the list to keep up with yet add that pop of fresh plants that it needs to feel like a backyard getaway. Living in a tight space? Use tall, and thick plants as a natural screen to give you extra privacy.

Design style: Contemporary Clean and cutting edge design does not have to stop inside the door of your home. This yard is almost no maintenance, and includes a great water feature. Do not be afraid to add luxe furniture and pops of art to your patio or outdoor space.

If you didn't find your perfect backyard style here today, drop us a comment and tell us what your perfect outdoor space looks like.