Meet Our Hardy Hardwoods: Mahogany and Ipe
With decks such an important space in today’s homes, it makes sense for quality-conscious homeowners to seek out premium materials to enhance the appeal and durability of their outdoor living additions. Clients are rediscovering the unique qualities and value of certain tropical hardwoods like red balau mahogany and ipe (pronounced “ee-pay”). In addition to the rich, natural beauty, longevity and scratch resistance of these hardwoods, Colorado’s increasing frequency and severity of hail storms make ipe and mahogany great choices. There can be a lot of confusion about the names of these materials. Like cedar, pine and other types of wood,[...]
Where Has All the Heart Redwood Gone?
From ornate Victorian San Francisco homes to modern outdoor decks, Redwood has been the gold standard for exterior wood construction in the western United States since settlers headed west during the California Gold Rush. The wood has also been cherished in other parts of the country where it’s been less available and very costly. It’s no wonder heart redwood is so beloved! These majestic trees are insect and disease resistant, richly-colored and beautiful from naturally-occurring tannins, which are also found in red wine, rhubarb, cranberries, oak, tea, and other plants. But Redwood isn’t just known for its good looks! These[...]
Gardening On Deck: Dress It Up
You’re probably familiar with interior design and decorating, but did you know that you can also give your deck a makeover with “exterior” design? Container gardening is so easy. It brings the garden to you and works in whatever space you have available. You can grow anything and everything from fruits and vegetables to flowers and herbs, and there’s no better time to start planning your own “on deck” garden than now! Map It Out Deck space is finite, and you’ll want to use that space in the most effective way possible. Planning is key – step back and take[...]
Beat the Heat: Time to Get Shady!
There’s no contest – Mother Nature holds the trademark on the best backyard cooling system ever invented –a mature shade tree. But many of us on the Front Range, especially in new developments and out on the plains, may not have a backyard so well-endowed. So, what are some ways to keep friends and family cool during the dog days of summer? The good news is that you’ve got options, from the simplest to the most elaborate, for enjoying your DeckTec deck on even the sunniest, hottest days. Umbrellas These ubiquitous summer fixtures are either over-the-table or cantilevered –typically 8[...]
Deck or Patio? What’s best for you?
One of the most often asked questions over the years has been: “What’s better, a deck or a patio?” The truth is, a lot of that is determined by the site and the elevation that the house is set at. After that’s first considered, for the homes that are relatively close to the ground, where both are viable options, my answer is simple. Better than a deck or a patio, is a deck AND a patio. You can have too much of anything. Just as you can have too much grass, rock, or concrete, you can also have too much[...]
