Outdoor Living

We’ve finally completed our backyard pool area! Well, almost. We’re still waiting for the automatic cover to be installed, but that hasn’t stopped us from already enjoying our pool during these hot summer days.

Going into this project, we knew that it was going to be a big undertaking. We didn’t have much of a backyard, and what little bit we had was on a pretty steep slope. So we had to bring in a lot of shale to build it up and level it out. Even though it took a lot to get here, we are so happy with the way it turned out. And we think that creating this usable space has added value to our home.

Pool decking is the hardscape area that surrounds your pool. You also may see it referred to as a surround. There are quite a few pool decking options that you should consider before making your final choice. They all have their pros and cons and after you learn about them, you should be able to make the best decision for your space and lifestyle.

If you have a new deck or just wanting to refresh an old one, painting or staining is a great option. So which one is best? There are a lot of factors to consider and each has its own pros and cons. You’ll want to look at the cost, ease of application and maintenance, color choice, and longevity just to name a few.

Learning how to clean your outdoor pillows and cushions is key to getting them to last for years. With a little time and elbow grease, you can have beautifully clean cushions, free of dirt and stains. You’ll be surprised how just clean cushions can make your outside area look and feel wonderful to both you and your guests.

I don’t know about you, but our deck/porch area is where we spend lots of time. We find ourselves gathering there more than anywhere else in the house during the warmer months of the year. Whether dining, watching a ball game or just relaxing, we make lots of great memories in this area of our home.