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How to Give a Boring Deck More Dimension

Posted on Author adminCategories Decks & Patios, Summer Activities, Summer TipsTags , , , , Leave a comment on How to Give a Boring Deck More Dimension

How to Give a Boring Deck More Dimension

For many people, grill-out season is finally here. We all enjoy long summer evenings, eating family dinners, having friends over, and socializing outdoors. It’s not as fun when you look outside and realize that your deck is boring. Maybe the wood is looking a little dingy, or there just isn’t much to look at period. You don’t have to settle for a boring deck where only the grill is relegated to. Here are five ways you can give a boring deck more dimension and entice your guests outdoors.

Paint or Stain in Two Tones

Painting or staining your deck in more than one shade is a great way to add dimension to your family and party area. If the wood is looking a little weather-worn, now might be a great time to add some pizazz to the overall color. Try painting or staining the floorboards in one color but the railing in a contrasting shade. Get creative with it and remember to prime and waterproof.

Add Some Outdoor Plants

You can spice up the look of your deck by adding some plants. Flowering plants can give a beautiful touch of color to small spaces. Or, you could consider having a potted garden. Many herbs, tomatoes, and some peppers can be grown in pots which you can then use in your cooking. Fresh, homegrown tomatoes have the best flavor and taste great on burgers. Their beautiful colors will also liven up your deck.

Consider Updating Your Furniture

Fading deck furniture always looks drab. Consider purchasing a new set. Or, if you aren’t ready to commit to that purchase, spray-painting metal, plastic, or wicker chairs and tables can bring new life to the furniture you already have. If the cushions are looking worn and faded you can either recover them if you have some sewing skills or you can purchase new ones. Add touches of color with the cushions and include decorative details with pillows, throw blankets, or table centerpieces.

Add Evening Atmosphere Lighting

At night we all enjoy looking at the stars but if you are having a party a little bit of lighting is a great way of giving your deck a bit of ambiance. Paper lanterns can add a fun vibe. Another great alternative is string lights. Or, if you would like something more permanent consider inset lights or strip lights placed under the floorboards which will also ensure that no one trips as they climb the stairs. Insect repellent candles can give you some protection as well as added lighting and ambiance.

Keep Your Lawn Manicured

We’re talking about decks, but many have stairways that lead into the backyard or at very least, overlook the backyard. By keeping the lawn and yard well-maintained you will have a more inviting view that will give your deck more dimension. Put up yard games like croquet, badminton, or horseshoes for the kids. Be sure to mow or have a lawn care service come and cut the grass before any event.

Your deck doesn’t have to be boring. With just a few easy changes you can have a deck that you, your friends, and your family will enjoy all summer long.

 

Swimming Pool Solutions for Smaller Backyards

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Swimming Pool Solutions for Smaller Backyards

Just because you have limited backyard space, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a summertime swim in your very own pool, you just need to use the space you have wisely. There are plenty of contemporary pool solutions that can fit in any backyard space, whether your backyard is just small, unevenly shaped, or even both. While you might not be able to do Olympic laps in one go, you will certainly have the chance to create your very own private oasis and enjoy leisure time with your entire family!

Courtyard pools

These pools are ideal for small backyards as they are compact in size but offer a variety of features for comfort and physical activity alike. They also come with numerous benefits, such as a swim jet system, spa jets and a curved seating area for some much-deserved rest and relaxation. The pool provides the entire family with relaxation, entertainment, and exercise opportunities or it can simply serve as a backyard centrepiece.

freeform pool

Freeform pools

Freeform pools are extremely versatile and can be introduced in almost any backyard setting due to their irregular shapes and naturalistic styles, with flowing lines and curves able to adapt to fit your backyard perfectly. These pools are also known as naturalistic pools as they are made out of natural materials and are often decorated with natural elements, such as rocks, islands and waterfalls. Depending on your backyard potential, you can upgrade your freeform pool into a secluded oasis of privacy and comfort.

Plunge pools

If you are dealing with an exceptionally small backyard, but still want to enjoy the benefits of owning a pool, then plunge pools are the way to go. These plunge pool designs are created with elegance, leisure, and entertainment in mind, offering numerous features like spa jets, walk in steps and seat aeration. This type of pools is also excellent for families with smaller children, as it has a solid, even floor, perfectly designed for the kids to learn how to swim and play without fear.

spa

Spas

The spa pool is a perfect fit for extra small spaces in need of an extended, outdoor bathtub. The spa is beneficial for improving sleep, decreasing stress and helping with numerous medical conditions, such as arthritis, muscle soreness, cramps, and joint pains. Equipped with water jets and various seating options, spas offer a wide range of leisure and relaxation option, perfect for spending the afternoons in a tranquil environment with a favourite book in hand. Given their compact size, spas can easily fit on patios, rooftops or courtyards.

Swim spas

Swim spas are ideal if you have a bit more room and simply cannot decide between a swimming pool and a spa, as they combine the best of both worlds in an efficient solution for the entire family, able to meet everyone’s needs. While you take your time relaxing in the spa, your kids can play around in the swimming area, separated only by a spill over bridge in between sections. The spa area consists of ample seating space. It is usually enough for six adults, along with contoured turbo seats with various settings, while you can easily heat the two areas of the pool independently.

Having limited space in your backyard does not mean you cannot enjoy the full benefits of an outdoor pool or spa, it simply means that you need to implement one of these modern solutions into the space you have. Moreover, smaller pools are easier to build, insert and require fewer resources to maintain them year-round. In turn, they enable you to make significant savings in terms of upkeep and installation.

 

How to Transition a Bench from Summer to Fall

Posted on Author adminCategories DIY Projects, Home Decor, Summer ActivitiesTags , , , Leave a comment on How to Transition a Bench from Summer to Fall

how-to-transition-a-bench-from-summer-to-fall

Source

Alright, so maybe it isn’t quite Fall. After all, Starbucks hasn’t even released their pumpkin spice latte! As shameful as it may be to admit, we all know the release date of that blessed drink is our gauge for pulling out plaid and scarves. But just because our cup isn’t flowing with pumpkin lattes, it doesn’t mean that we can’t start the transition into a happy and beautiful fall season.

One of the best ways to do this is with your home décor. Light up the pumpkin candles, break out the zucchini bread, and get started on some DIY projects that will give your home the ultimate feeling of comfy and cozy fall.

Look no further than your living room or entry way for a DIY project that will prep you for cooler weather. See that bench in the corner? When’s the last time you really took a good look at it? Well, a piece as functional and versatile as a bench is deserving of a little more life, don’t you think?

Benches are like the little black dress of furniture; you can dress them up or dress them down based on how you make them over and they pretty much fit every occasion. And with an upholstered bench – well – fasten your seatbelts, because this ride may get a little crazy in the cool department. But don’t sweat it if you don’t have a bench covered in fabric. You can use throw pillows to get a little cushion for those tushes – and what’s more versatile than a throw pillow?

A bench is the perfect setting for putting on shoes on your way out the door or adding additional seating when you need room for more. If you have a bench that gets overlooked, it’s time to take notice and get it ready to turn some heads.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • Bench
  • Fine-grain sandpaper
  • Small brushes
  • Clean cheesecloth
  • Paint brush
  • Chalk paint
  • Wax sealer or polyurethane
  • Staple gun (if reupholstering)
  • Scissors (if reupholstering)
  • Trendy new fabric and/or throw pillows

Step One: Sanding

sanding

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Before you can do much in the way of making over or painting your bench, there is some prep work to be done. That beautiful piece of furniture is going to need a thorough sanding to get rid of any rough edges. Using either a sanding block or a sheet of sandpaper held just in your hands, gently rub your way through every crevice of the bench. Smooth the surface until you can rub your hand over it without anything catching (gloves may be helpful to prevent blisters).

Step Two: Wipe Down, Dust Off

dusting

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Using clean cheesecloth, start to wipe down the bench to remove any dust particles left behind from sanding. For hard to reach crevices and decorative detailing, small brushes may be helpful. If you don’t have either, cut up an old tee shirt and use a toothbrush for the odd angles.

Step Three: Paint

paint

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Now comes the fun part. Hopefully, you didn’t rush through the other two steps. It can be incredibly tempting to skip the prep work, but if you want a piece to last, the prep work has to be done and done well. Once that’s all over, though, it’s time to break out the paint. The type of paint you use is totally up to you, but chalk paint is making its sweep in the world and for good reason.

Chalk paint is easy to use and can even be made at home with a few simple ingredients. For Fall, stick to warm hues or those with a golden tone. Apply a thin, even coat as a base. Wait for the first coat to dry and repeat until you’ve reached the desired finish.

Step Four: Apply Wax

That beautiful bench is now glistening with a fresh coat of paint. To keep it looking brand new for years to come, put a finishing coat of wax or polyurethane over the dried paint. If you think you’ll be painting your bench again soon (maybe Spring?), this step may be unnecessary. It’s most useful to apply the wax with a brush and wipe off the excess with a clean piece of cheesecloth. Allow the wax to dry before moving on to the next step.

Step Five: Reupholster the Cushion

If your bench has a cushion on it, you can easily swap out the fabric for something a little more reminiscent of the fall months. Golden hues go well with pumpkins, right? Take off the cushion and remove any layers of fabric from previous recovering’s. Leave the original. Use any layer scrap as a template for your new cushion.

Once the fabric has been cut, center the cushion over the new fabric rectangle. Cover the edges of the cushion by pulling the fabric tight on the underside of the cushion and stapling. Repeat until the fabric is no longer puckering and loose and is tightly adhered to the cushion. Turn upright and assemble your bench!

Step Six: Add Throw Pillows

The final touch is upon us: add throw pillows. Throw pillows are not only great for cushioning bums, but, by golly, they’re cute! Be inspired with seasonal throws to finish the look.

The great part about furniture is how versatile it is. Seasons change, trends change, and alongside it, furniture does, as well. Give your bench a new look for fall with a few, small modifications. A new coat of paint and a few new throw pillows can give your furniture that cozy feeling everyone loves in the fall months.

Author Bio:

Kacey MyaKacey is a lifestyle blogger for “The Drifter Collective.”  Throughout her life, she has found excitement in the world around her.  Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations, cultures, and styles, while communicating these endeavors through her passion for writing and expression. Her love for the world around her is portrayed through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts.

The Drifter Collective: An eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us.

https://twitter.com/kacey_mya

https://www.instagram.com/thedriftercollective/

 

Does Your Porch Truly Reflect Your Lifestyle?

Posted on Author adminCategories Decks & Patios, home improvement, Summer ActivitiesTags , , , , , , , Leave a comment on Does Your Porch Truly Reflect Your Lifestyle?

porch

In the past, the porch had quite a prominent place in every home. It was a place of gathering, family reunions, friendly neighbor visits and small talk. It was a sort of a summer living room, where homeowners and their guests could catch the refreshing breeze in the shade while the rest of the garden basked in buzzing sunlight. The porch brings memories of a creaking rocking chair and grandpa reading his daily papers. Don’t deny your children these memories when they grow up. A splendid porch should be the elemental to every suburban home.

Where to Start?

The porch should first and foremost be an extension of your house, and as such comfortable as any living room or study. A well-designed and functional porch on the other hand requires careful planning, and a lot of inspiration and creativity. For the beginning, in order for people to feel comfortable, the porch should be spacious. Which can be achieved in two ways, either you make it bigger, or you smartly outline and draw the arrangement of the furniture. You can find different ideas online that can inspire you and let you see what works for you. Whichever option you choose, remember that the porch is a relaxing and soothing space, which shouldn’t break your budget.

How Big is Enough?

back-porchIt goes without saying that the size of your porch will be determined by the thickness of your wallet. You should know that there are several types of porches, like rooftop integrated, wraparound porch, sunroom porch and front porch. Every type comes with its own set of pros and cons, and with a different price. The most common type, however, is the roof integrated, but be warned that this is also one of the most expensive, as it follows the roofline and requires more calculation and complex construction. If you’re looking for a more available option, there you have the front porch, which can be added any time later.

Decorating the Porch

The only rule in decorating your newly built porch is that there are no rules. Everything you do will be directed by your budget and creativity. The safest and the most effective way is to decorate it in a way that reflects your lifestyle and the home interior décor.  In a recent chat with reputed Sydney-based outdoor furniture retailers , I found out that another approach is to decorate the porch according to its purpose. If you want a nap spot, involve a daybed, a swing, a hammock or just a softly cushioned rocking chair with a wool blanket. It is often said that what makes a good porch is a good nap. The best strategy is to have several more chairs on reserve for guests.

Accessories and Embellishment

screened-porchThe extra stylish look of the porch is achieved by decorative wall hangings, while potted plants bring it close to the garden. Match the blankets and pillows to the rug, creating a serene and peaceful color effect. The key is to use as few metal objects as you can and to consider taking the pillows, blankets and even rolling the carpet up indoors, as they tend to absorb moisture if left unattended in rainy weather.

Eventually, you should try to envisage the porch as a sanctuary, a place where you can escape from the stress of your work or house chores. So, however much you invest in it, it will pay back tenfold, providing you with countless hours of pleasure and joy.

 

Grilling in the Great Outdoors – Essential Ideas for Your Outdoor Kitchen

Posted on Author adminCategories home improvement, lawn and garden, Summer Activities, Summer TipsTags , , , , , , , 1 Comment on Grilling in the Great Outdoors – Essential Ideas for Your Outdoor Kitchen

outdoor kitchen

source: telecomwiz.com

Building an outdoor kitchen isn’t easy, and there are a great many things to consider when you’re planning your next outdoor improvement. Designing from the ground up isn’t easy, but you’re in luck – part by part, we’ll cover some of the basic elements of the outdoor kitchen and give you a solid base for the work to come.

Outdoor cooking is more popular than ever before, so there’s a lot of inspiration to go around. Let’s have a look at some of the best ideas to build around.

The Pizza Oven

If you’ve never had a brick-oven pizza, you’re missing out on something special. With the right bricks and the perfect design, you can make better pies than anyone else in the neighborhood. The best part? You pick the ingredients. Whether it’s sausage or sardines, you can choose your own daily special.

pizza oven

source: pcbrickovens.com

The Grill

Your options are virtually endless when it comes to the outdoor kitchen’s mandatory grill. If your space is located near your indoor kitchen, you can easily choose to extend your electric or gas hookups to a gas grill. Prefer charcoal? Even that can be elegant.

outdoor kitchen grill

source: baysideoutdoorcentre.com.au

The Bar Cart

If your current version involves a Styrofoam cooler and a bag of ice from the gas station, it might be time for an upgrade. If you plan to host parties involving anyone you’d like to impress, a bar cart is a worthy investment.

bar cart

source: img2-3.timeinc.net

Remember the Basics

It’s easy to get caught up in the construction and the appliances, but storage is equally – if not more – important. The more thought you put into essentials like storage and garbage, the happier you’ll be when you’re cooking in your new kitchen.

outdoor storage solutions

source: fourgenerationsoneroof.com

Protect Your Kitchen

It’s important to consider the protection of your investment. Even if you live in a region that’s not concerned with rain or snow, you’ll still have to worry about wind, dust and sun damage. Be sure to keep your outdoor living space safe.

protect your outdoor kitchen

source: img.hgtv.com

Don’t Neglect Ventilation

You may be outdoors, but that doesn’t keep you out of the woods when it comes to smoke. If your neighbors live downwind, there’s a good chance you’ll hear about the smoke produced by your cooktop or grill. Think ahead and save yourself some trouble by looking into some proper ventilation.

 outdoor kitchen ventilation

source: cchpools.com

Don’t Forget the Kitchen Sink

Even if you’re just building a small outdoor BBQ, having a sink nearby can make your life easier every time you pick up the tongs. If an extension of your water source is in the budget, you certainly won’t regret the installation.

 outdoor kitchen sink

source: wowhomedesign.net

Rooftop Grilling

The backyard is the go-to standard when it comes to outdoor kitchens, but have you considered the roof? It can eliminate those smoke concerns we mentioned earlier, and it provides a better view besides. If your home is built in such a way as to sustain it, moving the backyard grill to the top of the roof might be the best thing you’ve done this year.

 rooftop grilling

source: kalamazoogourmet.com

Go Country

If you live in the right climate, the southwestern look is the standard for a reason. It fits in perfectly with the countryside, and it inherently reflects the natural surroundings.

 country outdoor kitchen

source: kleinslandscaping.com

Winter is Coming

Outdoor kitchens aren’t limited to dry climates. There are appliances and building materials that can stand up to snow and rain season after season.

outdoor kitchens source: weblando.com

A Garden is the Perfect Touch

Nothing goes with an outdoor kitchen like a garden. It offers more than just a vivid look and a fresh scent – you can harvest fresh herbs growing just steps away. If that doesn’t improve your culinary skills, nothing will.

outdoor kitchen garden

source: www.devcenteronline.com

An outdoor kitchen can bring another dimension to your family’s life at home, and that’s not all – it can also increase the value of your home, improving the resale value when you’re ready for a change of scenery. Making the right choices during its design and construction will pay every type of dividend imaginable.

 

Summertime Home Improvement Projects

Posted on Author adminCategories home improvement, Home Improvement Tips, Summer ActivitiesTags , , , , Leave a comment on Summertime Home Improvement Projects

Summertime home improvements don’t have to be all work and no play

summertime home improvement projects

If this year’s summer vacation plans involve more hardware than beachwear, don’t fret. Just apply tried-and-true trip-planning principles to your “staycation” renovation plans and you can ensure both your time and money are well spent.

Set a budget

kitchen renovationYou would rarely take a vacation without setting a limit on the amount of money you can spend. That budget affects your destination and hotel choices, length of stay and more.

The same principle goes for your home improvement vacation. Set a budget for tools, supplies and new purchases as you decide whether you’re investing in big renovations, like installing new cabinets, or small touches, like a new area rug. Be sure to consider small, added perks as you’re building your budget. For instance, you likely won’t want to cook in the midst of a kitchen remodel, so don’t forget to include money in your budget for restaurant meals or take-out.

Splurge a little

Every vacation needs a guilt-free splurge item. If your time off will be spent working on your home, you’ll thank yourself later for selecting a high quality paint. Choose a premium paint. Not only will your home look beautiful, but because higher quality paint goes on smoother and often in fewer coats, you’ll save yourself time and avoid frustration during the application process. Plus, a superior paint will last longer, look new for years and be easier to maintain, so you can sit back and relax when your next vacation rolls around.

Plan ahead

You would never begin preparing for a trip the day you leave. In order to make the best use of your time, the same level of planning should be considered when using time off for home improvement projects.

You’ll want to determine the projects you’d like to complete several weeks before your staycation begins. Start by creating a prioritized list so you focus time on the tasks that matter most to you, whether that is painting the kitchen, installing a new vanity in the bathroom or reorganizing the garage. Then, just as you wouldn’t shop for flip flops and bathing suits on your way to the beach, don’t shop for brushes, rollers, spackle and caulk on the day you want to start your home improvement projects.

Be sure to select paint colors ahead of time. Pick up color chips at your local hardware store or paint retailer or bring home tinted samples to try out and come to a color conclusion before your time off begins.

Eye your itinerary

You may not need to compile a minute-by-minute breakdown of your day’s activities, but it’s a good idea to develop an itinerary of to-dos and project milestones to garden-partyaccomplish each day.

Scheduling a “no work” day mid-week can help you maintain your sanity. Use this day to sit outside, go see a movie or do just about anything other than work on your home. It’s a nice break and prompts you to unwind and de-stress. Finally, end the week with a celebration to appreciate all you’ve accomplished.

Even though there is much to be done on a home improvement holiday, there are ways to be sure you enjoy that time. Approach the time off like any other vacation – with some planning, patience and prudent expectations – and you’re well on your way.

Need help with your home improvement project? Give us a call or contact us for a free estimate!

Top 3 Reasons Why You Need Professional Pool Maintenance

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Whether you have a salty swimming pool or a fresh water one, doing regular maintenance and cleaning is crucial in maintaining the condition of both the water and the pool. However, with numerous parties on your schedule as well as other concerns to address, you may not have adequate time to maintain your swimming pool. For this reason, hiring pool maintenance professionals may be the way to go. This article explores the top 3 reasons why you should hire a professional swimming pool maintenance service company.

Water Balance of the Swimming Pool

swimming pool
Image Source: Flickr | KorayGokhan
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mosfet/

The water balance of the swimming pool is very critical. One of the most important reasons why professional pool cleaning services are important is because the water chemistry is kept in check. Regular cleaning also ensures that the water remains always sanitized. Poor sanitation of your swimming pool may have disastrous health implications. Numerous cases of skin diseases among other contagious ailments have been reported in pools with poor water sanitation. According to the Pool Gear, the professional cleaning service you hire is going to check on the five pool water key components. These components are alkalinity, chlorine stabilizer, dissolved solids, pH levels, and calcium hardness. These five components are very essential in the maintenance of a healthy swimming pool. For example, removing all dissolved solids reduces mineral buildup on the tiles of the pool as well as the surrounding areas. This contributes a lot in the general outlook of your pool.

Pool Safety

Safety is also another reason why professional swimming pool maintenance services are important. Your home swimming pool has to be safe because you risk endangering the lives of your loved ones with an insecure swimming facility. When regular pool maintenance is ignored, hazardous pathogens as well as other dangerous microorganisms may thrive in a poorly kept pool which puts your family and friends at risk. According to SLVHealth.org, poorly maintained pool water can make important machinery and pumps at risk of poor function which can cost thousands of dollars in repair. Ignoring precautionary measures and failing to use professional maintenance services may affect your confidence in your swimming pool. On the other hand, hiring qualified services ensures that your pool is safe and an enjoyable environment for all.

Peace of Mind

After your swimming pool has been worked on by professionals, you are going to have a lot of peace of mind as well as free time to plan for your future gatherings and upcoming family get-togethers. This is because pool maintenance is time-consuming and it may take much of your time in case you were to do the cleaning yourself. As such, giving this task to professionals will save you much headache that comes with maintaining your swimming facility.

When scouting for swimming pool maintenance services, you should be keen to hire the very best! Check around your neighborhood for the most trusted pool maintenance services. If you have a neighbor whose swimming pool looks great, ask them which companies they hired. You also can search online for well-reviewed swimming pool service providers who have good ratings of customer satisfaction.

About the Author:

Max Kierstead is a blogger and writer for Big Splash Pool and Spa, a company that provides quality pool cleaning services, pool maintenance and Park City hot tubs repair.

 

10 Ways to Improve Your Outdoor Living Space

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gazebos

More and more people are utilizing their outdoor living spaces in interesting and fun ways.  We hope you enjoy this list!  Did we miss anything?

Benefits of Owning a Pool in Your Backyard

Posted on Author adminCategories home improvement, lawn and garden, Summer ActivitiesTags , , 14 Comments on Benefits of Owning a Pool in Your Backyard

Owning a swimming pool has become a popular addition for many people.  During the summer, you’ll find families flocking to their backyard swimming pools (or those of their neighbors).  A pool can offer you numerous benefits that you will get nowhere else. Below are some of the reasons as to why owning a pool could be a great idea for you and your family:

benefits of owning a swimming pool

General health benefits

Apart from the entertainment benefit, a swimming pool provides you with many health benefits. Spending a few minutes a day in the pool helps to exercise your body with no risk of injury as those caused by high impact exercise.  Swimming is also a great aerobic activity!  If you’re trying to keep fit without the hassles of going to a public place like a gym, then owning a pool is a great option for you.  Personal pools are hygienic, easy to maintain and accessible at whatever time you choose to exercise. 

Helps save money spent on recreational activities

Someone who loves swimming or engaging in other recreational activities will find owning a pool to be beneficial especially when it comes to saving time and money.  You’ll no longer need to pack up the kids and head out to a public pool thus saving money in gas and time.  Your backyard will become the center of your families recreational activities.  There’s no end to the amount of fun you can have in your own private backyard oasis!

A pool can also help add value to your home

Having an in ground swimming pool in your backyard can easily add value to your home and even attract  buyers in the event that you plan to sell your home. Many prospective buyers will opt for a home equipped with a pool over one that does not have one. This is especially the case if the pool is properly designed, landscaped and built by a professional pool construction company.

A pool can add an aesthetic touch to your backyard giving it an alluring appeal. Just the look of the sparkling clean water in the neighborhood will transform your home into a charming place where everyone wants to visit and spend some time.  Always be sure to keep your pool maintained and the patio area safe and tidy!

Author About:

Jacqueline Mya is a passionate writer who loves to write Home Improvement related tips. By the way, you can find out more about Pool Maintenance Raleigh  as well as much more information on all types of services at Pool Repair Raleigh

What are your thoughts on installing a swimming pool in your backyard? ~Gary B.

Fun with Fido: Tips for an active summer with your dog

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Enjoy Summer activities with your pets!Pet parents know that the best way to put an extra wag in a dog’s tail and a spring in his step is to mention the word “walk” or “outside.” We’ve all seen it before. Pets automatically perk up at the opportunity for time outdoors. Additionally, an active lifestyle is just as beneficial for the pets as it is for the pet owners and promotes a healthy routine, while strengthening the loving bond.

It’s the perfect time of year to incorporate some extra activities into your pet’s schedule. The warmer weather and longer daylight hours offer additional time outside. When planning vacations, weekend getaways, or even weeknight outings, be sure to include activities that are pet-friendly. Try these tips and share in an active summer with your four-legged friends.

* Go for a hike. Getting out in the woods is a thrill for dogs – everywhere they turn, there’s something to sniff, look at or maybe even chase. Hit the trails with him for an active outing that’s refreshing, healthy and fun. It’s important to be well-supplied for hikes. Be sure to bring plenty of water as well as wholesome snacks.

* Explore new neighborhoods. Most people and pets have a well-worn path on their neighborhood walks, so why not switch up the scenery? Stray off the usual route, or drive somewhere different to go for a stroll. Try to find dog-friendly business districts that encourage visitors to bring pets along. In urban cities, dog-friendly parks are great places to spend time with your dog and even meet fellow pet parents. Make sure to pack treats to keep everyone refreshed and fueled, and be courteous by bringing baggies to pick up after your dog.

* Do good for charity. Supporting local and national charities that benefit dogs and other pets goes a long way toward giving animals in need the life they deserve. One way to participate is through fundraising walks that support charities such as animal shelters and animal welfare organizations. Charitable organizations that are also pet-friendly are the perfect way to participate in a great cause while being active with a pet.

Health and activity are closely linked for both people and pets. So what’s good for people is good for furry family members. Think creatively about how to do more together with your pet, and you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the season and each other.

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