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Create an upscale deck for less with easy upgrade ideas

Christine — Tue, 08 May 2012 17:59:41 +0000

Create an upscale deck for less with easy upgrade ideas

(ARA) – Does spending time on your deck “do it for you” – or does your deck simply “do the job?” Now that warm weather has arrived, you’ll be outside more; your outdoor space should be an area that you truly enjoy and are proud to show off to company. You may not need a complete deck remodel to achieve that level of perfection. With some smart deck upgrades you can create an upscale look for less.

Start by looking at the railing. More than just a safety feature, the railing is one of the most prominent design elements of any deck, and changing it is a cost-effective way to make an eye-catching statement.

Remember, your railing doesn’t have to match your current deck material. If you have a wood deck that doesn’t necessarily mean you need wood railings. Think outside the box and blend different colors and materials – such as aluminum, glass and composite – for a complementary look that increases the aesthetic appeal of the entire house.

Aluminum railings are increasingly popular because they allow homeowners to introduce a variety of baluster infills into their deck design. Durable yet lightweight, aluminum won’t rot or corrode, making it a good choice for the outdoors. One example is Deckorators aluminum railing kits, which come in a variety of designs that are black or white powder-coated to weather the elements, plus they’re backed by a lifetime limited warranty.

If you like the look of wood, but want something more durable without the maintenance hassles, consider railings made from composite materials. With a look that emulates real painted wood, composite railing options won’t split, warp, rot or suffer from insect infestation.

While you’re researching railings, it’s wise to also look at balusters – the railing spindles – and decide what styles you like best. You can mix and match with your railing materials to get a one-of-a-kind look. Metal and aluminum balusters are popular and come in many shapes, styles, colors and sizes.

If you really want a distinctive look for your outdoor space, consider glass balusters. This is a particularly great option for decks with grand views, since the glass allows you to enjoy the landscape without the visual obstruction of traditional railing infills.

To create a dramatic appearance, consider adding a design to deck posts. Decorative postcovers enhance the personality of your deck by providing a stone pillar appearance to the entire length of each post. Deckorators cast stone postcovers fit over standard 4-by-4 or 6-by-6 wood posts corners of deck railing, and provide a realistic appearance of authentic stone, giving decks an upscale look at a fraction of the cost.

Finalize your deck upgrades with some decorative elements. Deck railing accessories can add the perfect stylish touch to any outdoor space. Decorative post caps, for example, install quickly and easily, changing the look of any railing to suit your design tastes. Ornamental post caps come in glass, metal, wood and planter styles. Some even feature solar lighting that provide a beautiful ambiance after the sun sets.

Some simple changes to your current deck structure can take it from drab to fab without the cost of a complete remodel. Explore your options today to create a deck you’ll enjoy for many seasons to come.

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Buying a new mower this spring? What to look for

Christine — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 19:05:23 +0000

Buying a new mower this spring? What to look for

(ARA) – Ah, spring! The weather warms, songbirds return and backyards burst with showy spring blooms. Of course, all this resurgence of life will require some care, which means it’s also time to start thinking about lawn mowing.

From saving money to getting exercise, there are plenty of positives about mowing your lawn. To do the job right, however, you’ll need the right tool of course – a good lawnmower. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute recommends replacing worn out equipment with the latest models to take advantage of new equipment efficiencies. If you’re in the market for a new mower this spring, here’s what you should consider before you buy:

* How big of a mower do you need for your lawn? Generally, the more grass you have to mow, the more mower you’ll need to buy. If your lawn is relatively small – a half acre or less – a walk-behind mower should be sufficient for your job. For larger lawns, you’ll probably want a riding mower (also called a lawn tractor). If you decide on a walk-behind model, you also need to consider whether it should be self-propelled or a standard push style. While a push mower will give you a better workout, if your lawn is rough or hilly, self-propelled can make the job more manageable.

* How frequently will you need to mow? During the height of summer, grass can grow quickly, especially in regions with moderate temperatures. It’s not unusual for a lawn to need care twice a week. Grass may grow slowly in dryer, hotter regions, so mowing once a week may be sufficient.

* How important is energy efficiency? If you have a very small lawn, you may be able to use an electric mower. With most lawns, however, a gasoline-powered mower will mostly likely be the choice.

Assuming most homeowners will opt for a lawnmower with a gasoline engine, here are key items to look for in that engine:

* How easy is it to start? Some walk-behind mowers can be as complicated to start as they are to repair. Look for a model, like Kohler’s Courage XT6.75 that requires no priming or choking to start. The mower manages the start-up process so all you have to do is pull the cord and go.

* Can it handle your lawn and terrain? A professional grade engine can give you the power needed to cut through the grass of your lawn. Whether you are trimming your yard or tackling a little taller grass and weeds, the engine should deliver consistent power to maximize cutting, bagging and mulching performance. Plus, a tough cast-iron design helps your engine last longer, so you can keep the mower longer and reduce costly trips to the repair shop.

* How easy is it to maintain? From filling it before each use to cleanup tasks before storing it for the winter, your equipment will require routine lawnmower maintenance to keep it running well. Look for models that make all these tasks as simple as possible. For example, the Kohler Courage XT features the trademarked Accu-Fill gas tank, which is designed to ensure fewer spills and less wasted gas. Simple measures like changing the oil and spark plugs, and cleaning the air filter, can help keep your mower running better, longer, and you’ll be more likely to keep up with those chores if they’re easy to do.

Finally, perhaps the most important question to ask before you invest in a new mower is how much it will save you over the life of the product. When you compare the cost of a new mower to the average cost of professional lawn care, it’s easy to see that the scales tip in favor of doing your own mowing. Choosing the right mower with a quality engine can help ensure your mowing experience is productive and positive. Visit www.kohlerengines.com to learn more about lawn mowers and engines.

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Tips for fall lawns and garden care

Jennifer — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 21:40:02 +0000

The cool, wet months of the fall are ideal conditions to prepare your lawn and garden for the cold months ahead. Here are a few tips to help your garden survive the winter and thrive in the spring:

• Remove any debris, leaves and diseased foliage from your lawn and garden.

• Continue to mow your lawn at a height of around 2.5 inches as long as it is actively growing.

• Overseed and aerate your lawn. The cool and wet conditions of fall make it the perfect time to overseed your lawn with a pure premium grass seed for a thicker lawn that will crowd out weeds in spring.

• Repair any damaged spots now, while temperatures are cool and there’s more rainfall and heavier dew. Try a product like Scotts Patch Master lawn repair mix for an all-in-one solution.

• Apply a winter care fertilizer approximately four weeks before you expect frost. The fall is the most important application of fertilizer because it helps your lawn emerge healthier in spring after a long winter.

• Plant any flower bulbs in the fall to provide welcome blooms at the first sign of spring. Feed bulbs with an organic choice bone meal.

• Add a layer of mulch to new plants and rake leaves onto flowerbeds and around shrubs to create a warm blanket to protect against the cold.

• Be sure to clean out all your gardening tools and spreaders and lubricate any pivot points or axles. Clean all tools using a wire brush and spray bare metal parts with a penetrating oil to prevent rust.

• Tightly seal all packages and store all fertilizers and chemicals in a cool dry place.

• Drain water from all hoses and coil and hang them properly so they won’t split, sag or kink.

To speak with a Scotts expert on lawn care call 1-866-436-7645. For a Scotts Garden expert call 1-866-436-8477 or visit www.Scotts.ca.

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Help your lawn thrive next spring

Jennifer — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 21:37:15 +0000

Take the time now to protect your yard and you will be rewarded with a lush, beautiful and weed resistant lawn and garden in the spring.

As the cooler temperatures roll in it’s time to get your lawn and garden ready for the winter months ahead. Take the time now to protect your yard and you will be rewarded with a lush, beautiful and weed resistant lawn and garden in the spring.

Start by removing any debris and leaves off your lawn before your final cut. Your lawn should be put to bed at the same height it is maintained during the summer – around 2.5 inches long. Keeping your grass clippings on the lawn will also help return at least 25 per cent of the turf’s nitrogen back into the soil. Aerating your lawn will help create passageways for essential nutrients and worms that contribute valuable microorganisms to your soil.

“You can help your lawn grow thick and strong in the spring by overseeding in the fall.” explains Scotts lawn care expert Scott MacDonald, “Cool nights, more rainfall and heavier dew in the fall provide the ideal conditions to repair damage caused by the hot, dry summer.”

Bare spots are best repaired by using an all-in-one product, such as Scotts Patch Master lawn repair, which combines grass seed, starter fertilizer and mulch all in a bag for ease of application.

One of the most essential things to do in the fall is to fertilize. Many people do not realize that fall fertilizing is the most important application because it gives your lawn the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. Winter care fertilizers energize turf, producing a strong and healthy root system and ensure they emerge greener than ever in the spring. After your last cut of the year, a fall feeding provides the nutrients your lawn needs to withstand the harshest weather. Winter care fall lawn fertilizer provides the best ratio of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (N-P-K).

The fall is also a great time to prepare your garden for the winter ahead. Remove any debris, diseased foliage and weeds, plant flower bulbs now that will provide welcome blooms at the first hint of spring. Plant bulbs with bone meal using something like Miracle-Gro Organic Choice bone meal to promote healthy plants and bigger spring blooms. Most perennials, shrubs and trees benefit from fall planting, giving them time to anchor and establish new roots. Be sure to add a two to three inch layer of mulch to new plants and rake leaves onto flowerbeds and around shrubs and bushes to create a warm blanket to protect plants against severe cold. Finally, don’t forget to thoroughly clean your gardening tools and sharpen your mower so you’re ready as soon as spring arrives.

To speak with a Scotts expert on lawn care call 1-866-436-7645. For a Scotts Garden expert call 1-866-436-8477 or visit www.Scotts.ca.

- News Canada

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