Whether you want to spruce up your deck or patio, or build a new structure, the options may seem endless. With some careful consideration of your living space and which materials to use, you can get the patio or deck that you want for your family to enjoy.
One quick addition to an existing deck or patio is a pergola. This popular feature adds a touch of shade and casts an interesting gridded shadow over an otherwise plain patio or deck. Pergolas are fairly easy to install and will not cost you a fortune. The prices depend on size and materials used.
If you want to add a deck or remodel an existing one, you may want to look at composite materials, especially if you live in or near the woods, suggests Architect Ryan Coyle. They resemble wood, but moss and mold from trees can easily be cleaned off, increasing your decks longevity. You can update your deck by adding bench seating and new rails made from composite materials for a long lasting, attractive new look.
There are also aluminum spindles and for a little more money, wrought iron railing can be used to create beautiful, elegant look.
Another interesting product on the market is the stone decking. It mimics stone but is much more durable and easier to maintain. Natural stone, pavers, or crushed stone can be used for patios. If you’d like to give a concrete slab a new look, you could try decorative cement.
The process of stamping concrete can give you the look of cobblestone, brick, or slate patios. It is best to check prices first and compare the costs of each one before deciding. You may be able to replace the patio for close to the same price. Concrete prices vary depending on which state, region, or country you’re in. Stamped concrete is normally priced at $8 to $15 per square foot.
Another option is the colored or stained concrete for about $4 to $8 per square foot. It has a smooth, colorful finish with durability of concrete. Custom stenciling is also growing in popularity. “Imagine adding your favorite team logo to the border of a patio, sidewalk, or driveway. Now it can be done,” says Marvin Gray of Irving Materials, Inc.
Once you have fixed up your deck or patio you may want to add some new furniture. Outdoor furniture is moving beyond al fresco dining. People are not just dining outdoors these days; they are hanging out long after dinner. The selection of lounge furniture on the market is expanding every year. One good option is a teak couch. Teak is more expensive, but is made to last.
Once you’ve given your deck or patio a new-look and added some new furniture, there won’t be much more to do except round up family and friends and enjoy the great outdoors.
© 2009 Athena Goodlight
If you want to add a deck or remodel an existing one, you may want to look at composite materials, especially if you live in or near the woods, suggests Architect Ryan Coyle. They resemble wood, but moss and mold from trees can easily be cleaned off, increasing your decks longevity. You can update your deck by adding bench seating and new rails made from composite materials for a long lasting, attractive new look.
There are also aluminum spindles and for a little more money, wrought iron railing can be used to create beautiful, elegant look.
Another interesting product on the market is the stone decking. It mimics stone but is much more durable and easier to maintain. Natural stone, pavers, or crushed stone can be used for patios. If you’d like to give a concrete slab a new look, you could try decorative cement.
The process of stamping concrete can give you the look of cobblestone, brick, or slate patios. It is best to check prices first and compare the costs of each one before deciding. You may be able to replace the patio for close to the same price. Concrete prices vary depending on which state, region, or country you’re in. Stamped concrete is normally priced at $8 to $15 per square foot.
Another option is the colored or stained concrete for about $4 to $8 per square foot. It has a smooth, colorful finish with durability of concrete. Custom stenciling is also growing in popularity. “Imagine adding your favorite team logo to the border of a patio, sidewalk, or driveway. Now it can be done,” says Marvin Gray of Irving Materials, Inc. Once you have fixed up your deck or patio you may want to add some new furniture. Outdoor furniture is moving beyond al fresco dining. People are not just dining outdoors these days; they are hanging out long after dinner. The selection of lounge furniture on the market is expanding every year. One good option is a teak couch. Teak is more expensive, but is made to last.
Once you’ve given your deck or patio a new-look and added some new furniture, there won’t be much more to do except round up family and friends and enjoy the great outdoors.
© 2009 Athena Goodlight