Contractor Services

5 Big Considerations Before You Build That Deck

Amelia Desimone November 3, 2021

5 Big Considerations Before You Build That Deck

So you’re all set to add a new custom deck or replace that aging wooden one that’s giving your home an unflattering reputation in the neighborhood and hindering your outdoor living fun. What are the key issues you should consider before signing up for a custom-designed deck?

Based on our 5-star reputation designing and building decks for nearly 30 years, here are the top 5 issues to consider:

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#1 – Price

Let’s not beat around the bush: price is the first question just about everyone asks. It’s the first line item folks turn to when they receive a proposal, and (wisely or not) it’s often what makes or breaks a deal. So let’s talk about price for a moment.

When it comes to the cost of a deck, we’re pretty big on the Goldilocks principle, meaning you don’t want to go with the cheapest proposal and you probably don’t want to go with the most expensive either (unless there’s a ton of customization involved, but that’s a different story).

Take a drive around just about any neighborhood and you’ll find cheap – er, inexpensive – decks. How do you know they’re cheap?

The contractor used nails instead of screws, which means after a full calendar year of freezes, thaws, rain, heat, and more rain, the boards already are starting to loosen.Like a bad haircut or poor-fitting suit, the deck’s design doesn’t work well with the house. This would adversely impact the resale value of the home as well.They’re made of wood (often cheap wood) resulting in premature weathering and a costly (so much for those initial savings) never-ending need to apply sealant.Non-uniform gaps, crazy angles, and other unorthodox modes of construction, telling you a contract-for-hire work crew built the deck rather than a true outdoor living craftsman.

The key here is to find a price that works with your budget and ensures you will be adding an attractive, high-quality deck to your home that will last for years and maintain (or even increase) the value of your home.

#2 – Construction Practices

You’ve decided to have that surgery you’ve been putting off and have a few choices. Do you make your decision based on the track record and expertise of the surgeon or photographs of the hospital’s operating room?

In our experience, one of the smartest things a homeowner can do is focus at least as much on how a design is to be implemented as the design itself. Yes, everyone loves looking at beautiful images of decks, but it’s in the actual build that the true character of that design will be brought to life.

A simple example: remember we mentioned using screws rather than nails? Most deck builders, particularly the cheaper guys, use nails. Nails are perfectly fine for things like internal home framing for the simple reason that they’ll never be exposed to the weather. Decks, on the other hand, take a meteorological beating and nails will corrode faster and start to lose their grip. (Don’t just take our word for it.)

So take some time and quiz your contractor on construction practices and habits. The craftsmen of the bunch have mastered the art of deck building.

#3 – Design

Now for the fun stuff. Our era of social media means homeowners can dreamily scan endless deck photos and designs on Pinterest, Houzz, Facebook, and Instagram in addition to vendor websites. Who doesn’t get excited about envisioning Bill Gates’s deck added to their home? (Bill Gates does have a deck, doesn’t he?)

But that’s the thing about design: you need to ensure the design works with your home and your outdoor living space. The key here is to find a design that:

Creates a natural complement to your home’s own designEmploys materials that work nicely with your home and its surroundingsAccommodates all of your family’s outdoor needs

#4 – Timing

Many of our customers ask us how we’re able to compete on price with lower-cost deck builders. Our answer: we only employ true craftsman. We understand how to design and build a deck with proven techniques that save our time and the homeowner’s money.

Find a contractor who builds quality decks at a timely, dependable pace.

#5 – Professionalism

One of our neighbors recently had new siding adding to their home. Each morning and evening as we walked the dog we were able to monitor the progress of the work. What stood out most was something few homeowners consider asking about: the overall behavior of the workers on their properties. In this instance, the contractors left a disaster in their wake every day, leaving the lawn littered with scrap materials, construction equipment, and even leftovers from their lunches.

Contractors are like temporary visitors, occupying a part of a family’s lives while they’re there to perform their work. Find a contractor who respects your property and lifestyle as much as you do.

We hope these tips are useful in your quest for a new deck!

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The post 5 Big Considerations Before You Build That Deck appeared first on Core Outdoor.

Amelia Desimone

Types of Roofing and Their Uses

Everett Roofing is an important part of your home’s construction. Whether you decide to install tile, slate, or rubberized asphalt, you should be aware of the different types of roofs, their uses, and the pros and cons of each. You will also need to understand the difference between synthetic underlayments and non-bitumen underlayments. Roofing tiles made from clay are a good choice for homeowners who want a roof that is durable and resistant to the elements. They can be found in a variety of colors, shapes, and finishes. This type of roofing is also considered to be an eco-friendly option. Clay tile roofing requires the expertise of a skilled contractor. The material weighs a lot, so it is important to install it properly. Also, the roofing system needs to have heavy-duty gutters and perimeter flashing components. The benefits of using clay roofing tiles include a long life span, low maintenance, and the ability to recycle the material once it is no longer useful. However, the downside is that these tiles can be expensive. The first step in selecting the perfect tile is to determine whether it will be appropriate for your home’s climate. If your home is located in a humid climate, you may not be able to use this type of roofing. It is best to consult with your local Roofing contractor for information about the different types of clay tiles. In some places, air circulation under a tile roof can help keep temperatures inside your home cooler in the summer. In hot climates, the tile’s high thermal capacity can also reduce your utility bills. Roofing shingles are a great way to enhance the aesthetic of your home. They provide a decorative shelter while also protecting the materials underneath them. But not all shingles are created equally. It is important to choose the best shingle for your home. The five types of roofing shingles are the strip shingle, the 3-tab shingle, the dimensional shingle, the luxury shingle, and the architectural shingle. Each has its own unique benefits. The strip shingle is a relatively inexpensive option. However, this type of shingle can be prone to blowing off in strong winds. This type of shingle is also a bit difficult to install. On the other hand, the 3-tab shingle is a popular option for modern homes. These shingles have a tile look and can last for two decades or more. You can buy bundles of shingles to cover a square of your roof. A dimensional shingle is thicker and heavier than a strip shingle. These shingles can be cut to mimic slate or wood shake. If you like the look of cedar or wood, these shingles are perfect for your home. Another option for a durable shingle is the rubber shingle. Made of rubber tires, these shingles can last 30 to 50 years. Some manufacturers offer a full 50-year warranty on these shingles. Slate roofing is one of the oldest forms of roofing, and one of the most durable. If installed correctly, a slate roof can last a hundred years or more. However, a poorly installed roof can lead to problems such as leaks. To get the most out of your investment, hire an experienced roofer. Roofing companies offer different policies. Some cover only a few years of maintenance, while others are there for the long haul. Make sure to ask about the specifics of the warranty. For instance, does the manufacturer guarantee your roof’s lifespan? Do they give you a free inspection before it’s time to replace it? And what’s the average age of your roof? Generally speaking, most roofing systems only last 20 to 30 years before they require replacement. Natural slate is one of the most eco-friendly forms of roofing. It is a surprisingly robust material but can be very expensive. A natural roof may cost you anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 for a house. When choosing a roofing company, you want to make sure they have experience installing slate. The company should explain how it’s done, and they should be able to provide you with a warranty. The waterproofing of roofs and other vertical surfaces is a crucial factor. There are many types of roofing systems, including hot-applied rubberized asphalt. This type of roofing is resistant to acid rain and fertilizers. It is also very flexible, allowing it to be applied to a variety of substrates. Depending on the substrate, it can be applied to vertical, horizontal, or below-grade surfaces. There are two types of roofing membranes that utilize this technology. One is the fabric-reinforced HRA membrane. Another is the unreinforced HRA membrane. Both require the use of an approved waterproofing membrane.
The Benefits of Working With a Mortgage Broker

Licensed loan officers sell mortgages as a career. They work with borrowers to identify the loan they can qualify for and help them through applying for a loan. However, they may be biased by their relationships with lenders. They aren’t required to disclose the price at which they sell mortgages. Licensed loan officers sell mortgages as a career Licensed loan officers at Steve Wilcox W/Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc. sells mortgages as a career. They help people buy homes and provide advice about loans and other financial options. Banks and credit unions employ loan officers. They must pass the NMLS mortgage license exam with 75% or higher. If they fail the exam, they can wait up to 180 days to retake the exam. Loan officers can work part time or full time. They can earn a base salary plus a commission. The commission is usually negotiable. The salary ranges from about $59,000 to $93,490 in 2020. Loan officers can earn a commission on the loans they sell. Mortgage loan commissions are the largest commissions. The commission is usually $500 to $1,000 per $100,000 loan. Loan officers usually have at least a bachelor’s degree in finance or business. Loan officers also receive on-the-job training. Many financial institutions use a software platform to underwrite loans. They also rely on a software platform to keep track of leads and client information. Mortgage brokers work on the client’s behalf to find a lender Whether you’re buying your first home or refinancing your current one, you may find it useful to work with a mortgage broker. Not only are they familiar with the mortgage industry, but they can also save you time and money. They will compare the various offers and rates available in your area, and help you find the right lender for you. Most brokers charge between 0.5% and 2.75% of the loan value. The exact amount varies from lender to lender. A broker’s compensation may also be tied to the competitiveness of the market. A mortgage broker can also provide clients with a streamlined application process. The broker can gather all of the relevant information from the client, and then submit the documentation to potential lenders for approval. They aren’t required to disclose the price at which they sell mortgages Whether you’re looking for a mortgage loan or have recently purchased a home, you need to make sure you’re getting the best possible terms. A mortgage broker can be a key player in the home buying process. They can help you choose between various lenders, and can help steer you away from costly mortgages. You’ll have to do a bit of homework to find a mortgage broker that works for you. You can ask your real estate agent for a referral, check the Better Business Bureau for complaints, and look for reviews online. You can also ask friends and family for recommendations. A mortgage broker works on commission. Typically, brokers earn between one percent and two percent of the total amount of the loan. The amount paid by the borrower will depend on the loan type and the commission paid by the lending institution.
Golf Lessons

Golf Lessons help golfers improve their swing and become more aware of how their body and club affect it. Anyone can take these lessons, whether they are beginners or experienced golfers. They can be taken online, by professionals, or at a public course. These lessons are essential for golfers who are serious about improving their game and want to improve. Golf lessons are a great way to improve your game. They can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a full morning. Make sure you arrive a few minutes early and dress appropriately. You will need to wear golf shoes and gloves. You should also practice playing golf before your lesson. The cost of golf lessons depends on the location and instructor. You can find the cheapest lessons at driving ranges and public golf courses. On the other hand, upscale studios can cost more. Golf is an expensive sport, and it takes a lot of time to improve your game. In addition to golf lessons, you will need to invest in equipment and greens fees. This can easily add up to several thousand dollars. Make sure you’re willing to spend the money on quality instruction before taking a golf lesson. The duration of a golf lesson is another important factor. Typically, a lesson will last thirty minutes to an hour. However, a lesson lasting two hours or more will cost more. You can also choose a group lesson that lasts for a few hours instead of an hour. The advantage of group lessons is that you’ll have multiple instructors to choose from. This way, you’ll get to learn from different teaching styles and philosophies. Plus, group lessons are typically more affordable than private ones. The cost of golf lessons can vary widely, but you can reduce this expense by asking around for prices. Ask golfers in your area for recommendations for quality golf lessons. Ask for packages and plans and compare prices. Most golf coaches offer discounts for regular lessons, and they usually offer lesson packages and lesson plans. So, take advantage of these special offers and save money on your lessons. Depending on where you live, the cost of golf lessons can range from $40 to $80 an hour. This price varies based on the instructor’s skill level and experience. If you want a more personalized experience, you can pay more for an individual lesson. Golf lessons come in a variety of styles. They can help you learn the proper technique, course management, and strategy. They are useful for both beginners and experienced players. They can help you improve your game and correct bad habits. Ultimately, these lessons will help you enjoy the game more and lower your score. While golf lessons may seem like a great way to learn the basics of the game, some people may not be cut out to learn how to play the game. Golf lessons can be too narrow, focusing on swing technique, putting technique, course management, and even mental toughness. Regardless of their purpose, golf lessons should focus on the parts of the game that will help you develop your skills. Group lessons are advantageous if you want to meet new friends and get tips from others of different levels. Furthermore, group lessons offer the opportunity to learn from multiple instructors with different teaching styles and philosophies. In addition, group lessons are generally more affordable than private lessons. In addition, group lessons can be great if you’re new to the game and don’t know anyone who plays the game. Prices for golf lessons vary based on where you live. In high-end areas, lessons can be quite expensive. Therefore, it’s best to compare prices for lessons before making a decision. Some instructors offer discounts if you book multiple sessions with them. While you’re learning new skills, don’t forget to practice often. Private golf lessons are usually more expensive but also more effective, as the instructor is able to focus solely on you. Group lessons are cheaper but less effective because the instructor must divide their time between several students. Private golf lessons are ideal for people who want to learn advanced techniques. But if you’re just looking to learn the basics, group lessons are a great option. Golf lessons can vary widely in price, largely based on the popularity of the instructor or the location. Higher-class instructors will likely have more expensive equipment. Higher-end golf lessons will often include a launch monitor, which has higher operating costs.
Types of Garage Flooring

There are many different options available for garage flooring. You can either go for a painted look, or you can stain concrete to give it a natural stone or watercolor effect. Concrete staining is inexpensive, and it will create a natural stone or watercolor look with minimal maintenance. It can also be a durable and long-lasting flooring choice because it is made of concrete and won’t chip or peel off. One popular option is a polyaspartic coating, which dries within an hour. It is durable and has little to no odor. It also won’t fade under UV exposure. However, it isn’t the cheapest option. If you don’t mind the cost, choose the polyaspartic option. You can also opt for an epoxy coating. This type of coating is durable because it contains a thermosetting resin. You need to prepare the floor first. Then, mix the hardener with the epoxy. Apply the mixture quickly, but don’t leave any gaps or imperfections. After two hours, apply a clear coat for protection. This durable coating will resist oil stains and is easy to wipe clean. An epoxy coating is one of the most popular types of garage flooring. It is available in a variety of colors and can be customized with various materials and colors. A great thing about epoxy flooring is that it is durable enough to use outdoors and can withstand most substances. There are several pros and cons to choosing this type of material for your garage flooring. For those who don’t have time for a large, complicated project, modular flooring is a simple, low-cost option. It doesn’t require primers or pouring and drying time and can be installed quickly. It can give the appearance of brand-new flooring without the risks of a hard-core DIY installation. Moreover, modular flooring can be installed anywhere in the garage. Depending on the shape of your garage, you can begin laying the flooring in the middle or one corner of the garage and work your way out from there. Choosing the right type of flooring for your garage is crucial. Different materials are better suited for different situations. The most popular is concrete, but there are also some options that are more budget-friendly. For example, you can choose between polished concrete or engineered wood. Both options have their benefits, but if you want a DIY option, you can choose painted concrete. This will protect the concrete and make your space look more attractive. Another option is laminate flooring. It comes in click-together forms, which are easy to install. It is beautiful, durable, and can withstand the weight of cars and other items. However, make sure to read the manufacturer’s specifications and choose a high-quality laminate flooring. If you’re planning to use your garage for multiple purposes, this type of flooring is the best option for you. These flooring options are also easy to install and remove. You can also use resilient vinyl floor tiles for your garage flooring. These tiles are made of heavy-duty vinyl or rubber and have an interlocking edge that helps them stay in place. These tires provide extra stability for your garage, especially if there are cracks in the concrete. They’re also easy to install and can take a single day to complete. Another option for garage flooring protection is crack sealer. This product can protect the floor from further damage by preventing future stains. It can also be used as a water stop cement if there is a problem area in the garage floor. It’s the cheapest option, but you should also remember that it won’t last for a long time.
Some Ideas About College You Should Know

Whether you are a traditional or non-traditional college student, your college experience will be a memorable and enjoyable one. You will soon be exposed to new people and ideas, unlike any you’ve encountered thus far. Use the tips you’ve learned from this article to get the most out of your college experience. Begin preparing for college your junior year. Most students wait until their senior year before getting serious about college. Instead, use your junior year to tour different colleges, learn about the scholarships available and begin applying for the colleges of your choice. Using this technique will help you accomplish everything in plenty of time. Be realistic when you set your college class schedule, especially if you are working while attending. If you are the furthest thing from an early bird, you probably shouldn’t schedule an 8am class. Schedule your classes to fit into how your brain works throughout the day. Keep in touch with your family. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s hard sometimes to keep in touch with your siblings and parents when you have so much going on in your college life. Make time for at least one call or Skype session every week, and you’ll make them happy. If you are trying to make some extra money when you are away at school and do not want it to interfere with your studies you should check out work study. Most of the time you will be able to get a position within your area of study and you can actually learn something. It is not important how old you are, or what the circumstances are that get you to school. The college experience is unlike anything you’ll ever encounter. It doesn’t matter what your major is, these tips are helpful for all students. Try these suggestions to get closer to having a happy and healthy student life. You can also visit our other websites and post your article. Rosi Trucks, Woodshall Craftshop, Good Trek, RLI Illinois, Roofing Contractors Province , Business Turn Around, Work Ready For Me, Accurate Transformers, Computer Repair Vancouver, Seo Company Survey, Seo Out Source Online, The Intern Source, Tree Removal Phoenix Company, Best Blender For The Money, Kiasu Trader, Lost for Travel, Fnb Platteville, Network Security Computer, Vintage Home Computers, /Everything Internet, Hill House Farm Garden, Best Homes Miami Beach, Clayton Moves, Eat Local Berrien, Engaging Mobility, Gate Away Bagel, Moab Epic, Contract or Website Services, Ram Houston, Arnies Appliance, Fitness Model Book, PatBarnestu, Louis Ville doula project , Creative Activities, Inspirational Leadership Summit, Itcse, Moab Epic, My Contract or Website Services, Patbarnestu, Fort Peck Marina and RV Park
5 Minute, 3 Step, Easy, Mess Free, Easter Eggs!

Let’s be honest. It has been a doozy of year! Last Easter who would have thought we would still find ourselves socially distancing in a global pandemic? Yet here we are. So it’s time to have a little fun while spending time outdoors. TikTok has become the source of fun life hacks and we have been, ahem, dying to try this one. Here is a super fun and easy way to get outside, enjoy some fresh air and dye some Easter eggs without the usual hassle and mess! This fun, new technique is so fast and easy. Plus no fear of spillage! Here is a step-by-step guide to get you started:Step 1: Grab a carton of hard boiled eggs, Ziploc bags, rice and food coloring. Step 2: Divide the rice into Ziploc bags and then add a few drops of food coloring. Next drop in an egg. Step 3: SHAKE! Just make sure you close the top of the Ziploc first. For additional ease in clean up, grab a cute spring-themed vinyl table cloth. We got ours from Walmart for about $3 because you can just wipe off the table cloth afterwards and it will protect your patio, porch or deck. You could get a few tablecloths and lay them 6 feet apart. This is a safe and fun way to get together. Tag us in a photo of you enjoying your patio or outdoor space and let us know how your eggs turned out! Link to the original video by Celena Kinsey: https://www.tiktok.com/@celenakinsey/video/6942588293112466693 The post 5 Minute, 3 Step, Easy, Mess Free, Easter Eggs! appeared first on Core Outdoor. Did you miss our previous article… https://www.ramhouston.net/?p=123
5 Big Considerations Before You Build That Deck

5 Big Considerations Before You Build That DeckSo you’re all set to add a new custom deck or replace that aging wooden one that’s giving your home an unflattering reputation in the neighborhood and hindering your outdoor living fun. What are the key issues you should consider before signing up for a custom-designed deck? Based on our 5-star reputation designing and building decks for nearly 30 years, here are the top 5 issues to consider:.fusion-accordian #accordion-1141-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box{ color: #ffffff;}.fusion-accordian #accordion-1141-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box:before{ font-size: 8px; width: 8px;}.fusion-accordian #accordion-1141-1 .panel-title a{font-size:18px;}.fusion-accordian #accordion-1141-1 .fa-fusion-box { background-color: #333333;border-color: #333333;}.fusion-accordian #accordion-1141-1 .panel-title a:hover, #accordion-1141-1 .fusion-toggle-boxed-mode:hover .panel-title a { color: #de6e1f;}.fusion-accordian #accordion-1141-1 .panel-title .active .fa-fusion-box,.fusion-accordian #accordion-1141-1 .panel-title a:hover .fa-fusion-box { background-color: #de6e1f!important;border-color: #de6e1f!important;}#1 – Price Let’s not beat around the bush: price is the first question just about everyone asks. It’s the first line item folks turn to when they receive a proposal, and (wisely or not) it’s often what makes or breaks a deal. So let’s talk about price for a moment. When it comes to the cost of a deck, we’re pretty big on the Goldilocks principle, meaning you don’t want to go with the cheapest proposal and you probably don’t want to go with the most expensive either (unless there’s a ton of customization involved, but that’s a different story). Take a drive around just about any neighborhood and you’ll find cheap – er, inexpensive – decks. How do you know they’re cheap?The contractor used nails instead of screws, which means after a full calendar year of freezes, thaws, rain, heat, and more rain, the boards already are starting to loosen.Like a bad haircut or poor-fitting suit, the deck’s design doesn’t work well with the house. This would adversely impact the resale value of the home as well.They’re made of wood (often cheap wood) resulting in premature weathering and a costly (so much for those initial savings) never-ending need to apply sealant.Non-uniform gaps, crazy angles, and other unorthodox modes of construction, telling you a contract-for-hire work crew built the deck rather than a true outdoor living craftsman. The key here is to find a price that works with your budget and ensures you will be adding an attractive, high-quality deck to your home that will last for years and maintain (or even increase) the value of your home.#2 – Construction Practices You’ve decided to have that surgery you’ve been putting off and have a few choices. Do you make your decision based on the track record and expertise of the surgeon or photographs of the hospital’s operating room? In our experience, one of the smartest things a homeowner can do is focus at least as much on how a design is to be implemented as the design itself. Yes, everyone loves looking at beautiful images of decks, but it’s in the actual build that the true character of that design will be brought to life. A simple example: remember we mentioned using screws rather than nails? Most deck builders, particularly the cheaper guys, use nails. Nails are perfectly fine for things like internal home framing for the simple reason that they’ll never be exposed to the weather. Decks, on the other hand, take a meteorological beating and nails will corrode faster and start to lose their grip. (Don’t just take our word for it.) So take some time and quiz your contractor on construction practices and habits. The craftsmen of the bunch have mastered the art of deck building.#3 – Design Now for the fun stuff. Our era of social media means homeowners can dreamily scan endless deck photos and designs on Pinterest, Houzz, Facebook, and Instagram in addition to vendor websites. Who doesn’t get excited about envisioning Bill Gates’s deck added to their home? (Bill Gates does have a deck, doesn’t he?) But that’s the thing about design: you need to ensure the design works with your home and your outdoor living space. The key here is to find a design that:Creates a natural complement to your home’s own designEmploys materials that work nicely with your home and its surroundingsAccommodates all of your family’s outdoor needs #4 – Timing Many of our customers ask us how we’re able to compete on price with lower-cost deck builders. Our answer: we only employ true craftsman. We understand how to design and build a deck with proven techniques that save our time and the homeowner’s money. Find a contractor who builds quality decks at a timely, dependable pace.#5 – Professionalism One of our neighbors recently had new siding adding to their home. Each morning and evening as we walked the dog we were able to monitor the progress of the work. What stood out most was something few homeowners consider asking about: the overall behavior of the workers on their properties. In this instance, the contractors left a disaster in their wake every day, leaving the lawn littered with scrap materials, construction equipment, and even leftovers from their lunches. Contractors are like temporary visitors, occupying a part of a family’s lives while they’re there to perform their work. Find a contractor who respects your property and lifestyle as much as you do.We hope these tips are useful in your quest for a new deck!.fusion-button.button-1 .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-1 i {color:#ffffff;}.fusion-button.button-1 .fusion-button-icon-divider{border-color:#ffffff;}.fusion-button.button-1:hover .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-1:hover i,.fusion-button.button-1:focus .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-1:focus i,.fusion-button.button-1:active .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-1:active{color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-1:hover .fusion-button-icon-divider, .fusion-button.button-1:hover .fusion-button-icon-divider, .fusion-button.button-1:active .fusion-button-icon-divider{border-color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-1:hover, .fusion-button.button-1:focus, .fusion-button.button-1:active{border-color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-1 {border-color:#ffffff;border-radius:0px;}.fusion-button.button-1{background: #f26e27;}.fusion-button.button-1:hover,.button-1:focus,.fusion-button.button-1:active{background: #fcc300;}.fusion-button.button-1 .fusion-button-text {text-transform:uppercase;}Back to Blog The post 5 Big Considerations Before You Build That Deck appeared first on Core Outdoor.
Deck or Patio?

Deck or Patio for Nothern Virginia Homes — Which is Better?If you have a low-to-ground exit at the rear of your home, chances are that you have an old ground-level deck hovering over your rear property. Popular for decades, these decks were the norm for creating an outdoor living space. When it’s time to replace, however, you may be wondering whether a custom deck or stone patio is the best choice. People ask us this all the time, and we explain the numerous advantages of a patio versus a ground-level deck. First off, wood does not like near-ground or in-ground contact. This encourages rot and mildew to build up. It also traps moisture that permeates through the deck surface and sits near the foundation, looking for ways to enter your basement. Patios, on the other hand, are sloped just a fraction to allow moisture to follow gravity away from your home. Also, masonry patios are less expensive than decks in most cases, and especially in comparison to higher-end composite decks. Patios usually require no building permits and have no zoning setback restrictions, whereas all decks do. Also, patios require much less maintenance and cleaning over their lifetime when compared with ground-contact decks. When underground utilities exist, patios have a major advantage over decks. Paver patios, in particular, make it easy to access buried utilities by digging up and repairing affected patio areas. Low-elevation decks, on the other hand, most likely need to be destroyed to repair any problems underneath. Masonry patios are also hot-tub ready–unlike a deck, these patios require no additional foundation modifications. You can just drop a hot tub wherever you want on the surface. The same goes for the ever-popular fire pits which work well with patios but not with decks. Finally, there is the popularity factor. With the advances in masonry materials along with the reductions in price, patios have become increasingly popular over the past few years. So if you’re planning to sell down the road, you will receive a much better ROI for a well-constructed patio than a ground-contact deck (not to mention more enjoyment along the way). Choosing the right surface may take some planning, but there’s a good chance a patio will be the best choice when you consider cost, flexibility, and long-term performance..fusion-button.button-2 .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-2 i {color:#ffffff;}.fusion-button.button-2 .fusion-button-icon-divider{border-color:#ffffff;}.fusion-button.button-2:hover .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-2:hover i,.fusion-button.button-2:focus .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-2:focus i,.fusion-button.button-2:active .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-2:active{color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-2:hover .fusion-button-icon-divider, .fusion-button.button-2:hover .fusion-button-icon-divider, .fusion-button.button-2:active .fusion-button-icon-divider{border-color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-2:hover, .fusion-button.button-2:focus, .fusion-button.button-2:active{border-color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-2 {border-color:#ffffff;border-radius:0px;}.fusion-button.button-2{background: #f26e27;}.fusion-button.button-2:hover,.button-2:focus,.fusion-button.button-2:active{background: #fcc300;}.fusion-button.button-2 .fusion-button-text {text-transform:uppercase;}Back to Blog The post Deck or Patio? appeared first on Core Outdoor.
Should Your Deck, Porch or Pavilion Pop or Flow?

Should Your Virginia Deck, Porch, or Pavilion Pop or Flow?When it comes to your new deck, porch or pavilion, should it pop or flow? That may sound like a funny question, but it’s actually an important one. After all, every custom-designed composite deck, wooden deck, screened-in porch, or pavilion we’ve built over the past 20 years has either included a unique blend of color combinations (i.e., Pop) or followed a more uniform design (i.e., Flow). It all depends on your personal sense of style, of course, and we remind clients there is no right or wrong answer. But we understand the confusion, so let’s dig into the topic more thoroughly. Typically, decks and screen porches come in one of two design styles. The first and most common design is where the floor is one color and the railing and trim are white. The school of thought here is to keep both the horizontal and vertical colors consistent and let the adjacency of the two create an appealing contrast. The second and less common design is where the entire structure is a uniform color. The flooring, railing, and trim components all draw from the same color palette. While these are the two most prevalent designs, you don’t have to be handcuffed by them. You can deviate as heavily or minutely as you please, and we can help you break it all down to identify what design works best for you. For example, you can preserve the railing post and trim in white, and introduce a colored post cap to match the floor. Some clients go gaga over this look, while others find it less appealing. Another option is that the railing can be one color while the pickets (technically called the balusters) can be a different color. This is a bold choice that appeals very deeply to some people. The key is knowing which colors work best together. A less common but potentially stunning idea is to introduce a third material, such as matte-black or antique-bronze railing, with white trim and a third color for the floor. It is unusual and risky to mix three colors of composite into one deck railing, trim, and floor package, but it can work to great effect. You just need to choose carefully. A major factor in this decision process is your existing home colors. We want your outdoor living space to blend harmoniously with your home, so we consider this oft-overlooked aspect during every design session. Two-color combinations that don’t involve white can be fantastic choices. Darks and light browns work great together. Black with mostly-dark composite colors such as redwood, cedar, walnut or teak also looks great. We calibrate our advice by observing your home, landscape, and individual tastes. We also listen carefully to you and integrate all of these factors with current trends as well as the feedback we’ve heard from hundreds of clients, designers, real estate agents, and partners over the past 21 years. None of that amounts to anything, though, unless you’re thrilled each time you step onto your new deck or screen porch that was designed with you in mind. This is why we’ll review photos with you and offer to take you on a tour of our completed projects in your area. We also have access to several showrooms where you can see the materials and combinations firsthand. Once we figure out what you like, we’ll leave you with samples so you can play around with different combinations. We never rush you or try to force our sense of style on you. This is important stuff, so we give you the tools and information you need to make the best decisions for you. With a little time and diligence, you’ll be rewarded with many years of pleasure in your outdoor living space..fusion-button.button-3 .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-3 i {color:#ffffff;}.fusion-button.button-3 .fusion-button-icon-divider{border-color:#ffffff;}.fusion-button.button-3:hover .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-3:hover i,.fusion-button.button-3:focus .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-3:focus i,.fusion-button.button-3:active .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-3:active{color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-3:hover .fusion-button-icon-divider, .fusion-button.button-3:hover .fusion-button-icon-divider, .fusion-button.button-3:active .fusion-button-icon-divider{border-color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-3:hover, .fusion-button.button-3:focus, .fusion-button.button-3:active{border-color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-3 {border-color:#ffffff;border-radius:0px;}.fusion-button.button-3{background: #f26e27;}.fusion-button.button-3:hover,.button-3:focus,.fusion-button.button-3:active{background: #fcc300;}.fusion-button.button-3 .fusion-button-text {text-transform:uppercase;}Back to Blog The post Should Your Deck, Porch or Pavilion Pop or Flow? appeared first on Core Outdoor. Did you miss our previous article… https://www.ramhouston.net/?p=114
The Importance of Contractor Transparency

The Importance of Contractor TransparencyIt is an unfortunate side effect of being in the outdoor living business that far too many companies behave unscrupulously, giving the rest of us a bad name. Fortunately, there are a few traits you can use to identify the deck, screened porch, and patio contractors with which you do – and do not – wish to work. In this post, I’ll discuss just one: transparency. Case in point: Like most men I know, I do not enjoy clothes shopping. As a result, I’ve developed the following 3-step process: 1) Once a year, I find a pair of pants and a shirt that I like. 2) I buy three of each color. 3) Bam! I’m good until next year. This year, I went shopping with my 11-year-old son, and the clothing store did something that made me really uncomfortable. The cash register’s display didn’t show my purchases as the cashier rang them up. Instead, the display kept scrolling to remind me to “Have a Great Day!” I quietly pointed this out to my son and asked him why he thought the store wasn’t showing us our purchases. He off-handedly said, “They don’t want us to know if they make a mistake.” As I wiped a tear of joy from my eye, I told him that I agreed with him. My wife and I have tried to help our children become educated consumers, and this was a parental high-point! Next thing I knew, the cash register’s display had changed and it was now showing our purchases. I looked up and the cashier had a sly grin on her face. She had obviously overheard me and had hit a button to change the display. Apparently, she didn’t like the store’s anti-consumer policy either. Now, what in the heck does this have to do with decks, screened porches, and patios? Well, it reminded me of something we do that is highly pro-consumer. Whenever there is a change to our proposals, contracts, invoices, etc., we always highlight those changes in bold-orange and point them out to our clients. We do this to ensure that everyone knows exactly what is happening along with any financial impacts. If there is any concern about a change, we want to know upfront. We dislike the typical contractor behavior of grouping changes at the end of a project and then pressuring clients into paying up to avoid a conflict. We want our clients to be completely comfortable each step of the way. If there is a concern, we want to know immediately so we can work together to resolve it. We sometimes make mistakes, and the only way we can fix it is when it’s pointed out to us. Like any healthy relationship, the key to success is communication. Everyone at Core Outdoor is also a consumer, and we want each of our employees to be proud of our pro-consumer policies. Most importantly, I want my son to know that I followed the golden rule by treating our clients the way I wanted to be treated. Happy shopping!.fusion-button.button-4 .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-4 i {color:#ffffff;}.fusion-button.button-4 .fusion-button-icon-divider{border-color:#ffffff;}.fusion-button.button-4:hover .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-4:hover i,.fusion-button.button-4:focus .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-4:focus i,.fusion-button.button-4:active .fusion-button-text, .fusion-button.button-4:active{color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-4:hover .fusion-button-icon-divider, .fusion-button.button-4:hover .fusion-button-icon-divider, .fusion-button.button-4:active .fusion-button-icon-divider{border-color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-4:hover, .fusion-button.button-4:focus, .fusion-button.button-4:active{border-color:#333333;}.fusion-button.button-4 {border-color:#ffffff;border-radius:0px;}.fusion-button.button-4{background: #f26e27;}.fusion-button.button-4:hover,.button-4:focus,.fusion-button.button-4:active{background: #fcc300;}.fusion-button.button-4 .fusion-button-text {text-transform:uppercase;}Back to Blog The post The Importance of Contractor Transparency appeared first on Core Outdoor.