From cobblestone to brick, homeowners are given an abundant choice of materials with which to pave their driveways. It’s important to choose a driveway material that falls within budget, endures the climate of a particular geographic region, and meets an achievable maintenance schedule. Driveways serve a clear purpose—to be a durable pathway for cars to move from the street to a garage. They are safe places to park a vehicle when it is not being driven. A beautiful driveway can …
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Midwestern winters are severe, with belting sleet, snow, and hail. Protecting the patio from harsh conditions is an important step in preparing for the cold season. Homeowners who winterize their patio ensure it endures throughout the seasons. Follow these practical steps to protect the patio this winter. How does cold weather affect patios? The unprotected brick or stone on an outdoor patio are affected by winter weather. Freeze-thaw cycles occur, where moisture in the mortar joints freezes and expands in …
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Maximize the strength, stability, and durability of a backyard patio by filling the spaces in between the pavers. Sand and grout are common materials used to lock the pavers in place. Between these two options, sand is the best choice for six key reasons. What are grouting options? Using grout to fill the spaces between the pavers may not enhance the appearance of the patio but it does offer numerous benefits. These include protection from the elements and water damage. …
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A backyard oasis is a DIY project away. Build a swimming pool with brick pavers and tiles this fall and enjoy a refreshing splash in the water when the sun beats down. Brick adds a timeless aesthetic to the pool area. You can follow these steps to enhance your backyard living space with a new pool. Why choose brick pavers? Brick pavers, offering durability and weather-resistance, are excellent material choices for building a swimming pool. They come in a wide …
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Building a brick paver patio with a flaming fire pit is one of the “hottest” trends today. Homeowners experience a wide range of benefits when they finish this simple DIY project. Cost-effective and doable within a few days, building a fire pit should be a prime consideration. What are the benefits of building a brick paver patio with a fire pit? A sense of community is felt as friends and family sit around the fire pit on cozy nights, swapping …
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The soft glow of string lights above the patio turns the backyard into a magical, inviting place. The patio area at once transforms when darkness sets in and the lights automatically switch on. Here’s how homeowners can beautifully illuminate their outdoor patio with string lights. What are string lights? Overhead lights hung outdoors go by many names. Some people call them fiesta lights, festoon lights, or party lights. They are also commonly known as string lights. The literal string of …
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A brick paver patio accentuates an outdoor living space while also adding functionality. But brick pavers can become lodged with dirt from muddy shoes, windblown debris, and standing water. Cleaning the brick paver patio is essential to maintaining its crisp lines and extending its lifespan. A lack of routine maintenance can lead to the pavers loosening or becoming uneven. Regularly cleaning the brick paver patio is necessary to maintain its rich, natural color and prevent the pavers from looking worn …
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Lighting up the fire pit for an evening outdoors with friends is a relaxing way to end the week. But when the fire creates excessive smoke, air is harder to breathe, eyes become irritated, and foul smells engulf the air. You can reduce fire pit smoke with these 10 tips. Why does the fire pit smoke? A smoky fire pit is an unenjoyable experience. The good news is that the unwanted smoke can be avoided. For example, if the fire …
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The patio is a beautiful backyard getaway. Filled with furniture and cushions, it’s the ideal place to host a gathering or relax in its intimate spaces. But when mold infests the cushions, it turns the outdoor sanctuary into a revolting mess. Rather than panic, clean the mold with these steps. Why does mold grow on patio furniture cushions? Unless the homeowner invests in mold-resistant furniture, the cushions are bound to grow mold. As moisture from rainwater and humidity penetrates the …
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A backyard haven awaits homeowners who learn how to decorate their outdoor patio. Transform the patio into an inviting space by personalizing the décor. Use these 12 designer-approved tactics to breathe new life into an existing patio and double the enjoyment of spending time there. The typical patio has the potential to be a cozy outdoor space for quiet evenings around the fire pit, a place to share meals with friends and family, or simply serve as a peaceful place …
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