Lighting is an integral part of deck and patio design that can help you create the ambiance you want in your outdoor living space. Today, we share four creative lighting ideas to consider for your new patio or deck area. [Read more…]
3 Questions to Ask Your Patio Company
When it comes to your new patio installation in Bismarck, ND, you want the results to be beautiful, long lasting, and unique to your aesthetic. That’s why it is important to vet you potential contractors and designers before you decide to take on the job. If you want to guarantee you’re working with a true professional, be sure to ask your installation company these three key questions.
- Do You Do Custom Work?
Unless you are looking for a cookie-cutter patio, cookie-cutter patio companies in Mandan, ND, need not apply. No two personal styles are exactly alike, just as no two outdoor spaces are exactly the same. Both of these factors make it important to find someone who offers custom work. This enables you to curate the patio of your dreams as well as one that speaks to your unique aesthetic. Your contractor should also be able to provide a wide array of materials and design options.
- How Long Have You Served the Bismarck Area?
This question is important because it lets you know the depth of experience your patio or deck company in New Salem, ND, offers. North Dakota is known for being home to some of the most gnarly winter weather in the country. If your patio isn’t built to properly withstand these brutal conditions, you may find yourself needing repairs or a new one altogether by the time spring finally rolls around. Additionally, the answer to this question can reassure you that your contractor has a long-standing and positive reputation.
- Do Your Patios Have Weight Restrictions?
If you plan on using your patio for entertainment options such as hot tubs or large grills, be sure to inquire about any weight restrictions for the materials you are using. A subpar company may, for example, only work with low-quality materials that crack under pressure. Avoid this frustrating and expensive scenario by double-checking weight limits first.
By asking these questions, you can feel confident in your patio installer.
How to Decorate Your Deck This Summer
Part of the joy of having a deck installation is spending time enjoying it during the summer. If you have a patio or deck, you also have instant outdoor living opportunities. No matter what your personal style or budget is, there are a few easy things you can do to decorate your outdoor space and maximize summer entertainment. Here are a few suggestions for decorating your deck.
- Make Repairs First
Before you start choosing furniture, focus on function. It is critical to make any outstanding repairs first, as hiding mold and mildew with a new lounger is not a good look. Additionally, a damaged deck can put your safety at risk. Make sure your outdoor space not only looks good, but also performs well this summer.
- Know Your Space
Take it from your deck company and know your space. If you only have a small amount of square footage to play with, for example, you may want to rethink that heavy sculptural display. Smaller decks may be better served by just a few chairs and a simple table.
- Add Outdoor Living Elements
If you do have the room to play with, of course, feel free to incorporate several different elements into your deck décor. A grill is a no-brainer during the summer, as is a hammock or lounging chair. If you are an entertainer, spring for that sectional to accommodate many guests and encourage lingering well into the long summer evenings.
- Complement With Flowers and Plants
Hardly anything complements the wood and natural tones of deck materials like plants and flowers. We especially love the look of a small vegetable or fruit garden, but you don’t have to have a green thumb to make this look work. There are many low-maintenance flowers and plants that look beautiful with little work.
These are just some tips for beautifying your patio or deck this summer.
Prepare Your Deck for Warmer Weather
North Dakota winters have the tendency to linger, but that doesn’t mean it’s too soon to start thinking about summer. In fact, with milder temperatures already on the way, there’s almost no better time to take the tarp off your deck and start preparing it for spring and outdoor living. Here are a few tips to ease the last traces of winter out of your deck installation.
Remove All Remaining Snow and Ice
Nothing wears down a deck faster that water and ice. If you covered yours with a tarp, it’s time to take it off and assess the condition of things. You may find a few small piles of rogue snow or ice. If so, make an effort to remove them. If you didn’t cover your deck with a tarp, use a shovel to clear large piles of snow. You’ll want to get your deck as dry as possible.
Clean Thoroughly
Once all lingering precipitation has been cleared, it’s time to start cleaning. Start by getting rid of any large debris like rocks or twigs. Next, use a hose and a mild cleaner to gently wash the surface of your deck. We recommend avoiding high-powered pressure washers, as these can damage sensitive deck wood.
Check for Loose Nails
The fluctuating spring weather has the tendency to make existing cracks in your deck expand and contract with changing temperatures. This can cause nails to become unfastened and work their way out, so be sure to check for any loose pieces. If you find a loose nail, resist the urge to hammer it back in, as this can make things worse. Instead, replace the nail with a screw to ensure a secure connection. You can always schedule professional deck repair to tend to any problems.
Apply a Sealant
Finally, take it from your deck company and apply a weather and sun-proof sealant. This will protect your deck wood and keep it looking nice for years to come.
What to Do Before Installing a Patio
The decision to proceed with a new patio installation is an exciting time. You’ve probably already envisioned all of the outdoor entertaining you’ll be doing in the coming months, and we want to help make those visions a reality. Before you dive headfirst into a new patio or deck installation, however, there are a few important administrative steps you need to take.
Get a Permit
Every city and state has its own specific ordinances. Unless you want to gamble with violating those ordinances, you’ll need to apply for a permit. Holding a permit means your project is approved and your new patio meets all local requirements.
Clear Municipality Codes
After you have a permit, the next step to take is to clear all municipality codes. These are different from permits and are decided by your city or county. It’s important to check your area’s specific codes and make sure your project doesn’t violate any rules, or you could find yourself in trouble with the local government.
Ensure HOA Approval
Of course, nothing is as terrifying as facing the wrath of your neighborhood Homeowners’ Association. Even after you have gotten permit and cleared all project plans with your local municipality, you still have to get the approval of your HOA. If you skip this step, don’t be surprised to find a note on your door from your friendly HOA letting you know your new patio violates the neighborhood’s rules.
Schedule an Inspection
Finally, it’s essential to schedule a professional inspection with your deck or patio company. This ensures your new outdoor living area is built according to all industry standards and is deemed safe and ready for guests.
Find a Great Contractor
If all the preliminary work sounds like too much to bear, find a contractor who can do it all for you. They’ll be able to handle all of the logistics and administrative work so you can focus on enjoying your new patio.