Dark Sky Deck Lighting: The Secret to Supreme Summer Outdoor Comfort
The dishes are done, the kids are in bed, and now it's time to slip into your comfy deck chair to relax and enjoy a beverage by the fire pit. There's just one problem. That darn light! Your neighbor's flood light keeps going on every time the slightest movement occurs, blasting you with a beam of bright light. How unpleasant! There are few things we love more in Colorado than sitting outdoors at night. This is particularly true in the summer when nighttime provides a bit of respite from the intense Colorado heat. The problem is that even away from[...]
Tackling Spring Stains on Your Deck
A well-kept deck is the heart of your outdoor living space, providing a place for relaxation, entertainment, and enjoying nature. However, it's not uncommon for natural wood and composite decks to accumulate stains over time, detracting from their appearance and causing damage if left unaddressed. Spring is the perfect time to spruce up your outdoor living environment and tackle tough stains. The key to any stain is to attack it quickly. Left to penetrate the deck surfaces will only complicate the solution. 1. Grill Drips Grilling and BBQs are time-honored deck pastimes but can lead to grease and food drips[...]
Deck Decluttering and Buy Nothing For Maximum Outdoor Comfort
What does a set of golf clubs, some old batteries, and a freshly picked smoked turkey carcass have to do with spring cleaning? They're the spoils of one of the biggest trends in spring cleaning since the KonMari Method. This spring, two emerging trends are gaining traction among those seeking a minimalist lifestyle and sustainable consumption habits: Buy Nothing Groups on Facebook and the Buy Nothing Year challenge. As you clean off your porches and prepare for an epic deck season, let's examine the two trends and see how organizing can improve outdoor comfort and build community. Buy Nothing Groups:[...]
The Grown-ups Guide To: Do I Really Need to Stain My Deck?
Nobody likes to be told to do something they don't want, especially when that something is like putting stain on a deck. We're adults, mind you. If I want to stay up late, eat ice cream out of the carton, and leave the toilet seat up—welp, you're darn tootin'—that's what I'm going to do. [Note: Reminder to not let my wife read that part about the toilet seat. I've already been warned.] And if I'm not inclined to stain my deck, what's the worst that could happen? How long will a deck last without stain? It may surprise you that[...]
Why Painting Your Deck Floor Boards Is Not a Good Idea
When it comes to maintaining your outdoor living space, many homeowners may consider painting the floorboards of their deck to enhance its appearance and prolong its lifespan. However, while a fresh coat of paint may seem like a quick and easy solution, it can actually do more harm than good in the long run. Here are several reasons why painting your deck floorboards is not a good idea: Increased Maintenance: While paint may initially provide a smooth and uniform finish, it is susceptible to chipping, peeling, and fading over time, especially in high-traffic areas. Safety Concerns: Painted deck floor boards[...]
