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Table of Contents Page 5...
We’re exploring the many elements that go into creating the ultimately appealing home. From trends to tried and true favorites - including entrances, lighting, hardware, verandas, porches, driveways, landscaping, colours and more you’ll come away with an entirely new insight into the importance of creating curb appeal.
Introduction Curb Appeal. Whether you’re a fan of home improvement television or not - curb appeal is one of your home’s most personal, visually and emotionally important elements, which is why designers place so much emphasis on it.
Welcome to Curb Appeal
Page 20...
Build a Great Deck!
Great decks are a combination of the right design, materials, finishes, special elements, furnishings and accessories - all designed to suit both your home and your lifestyle. Our article takes an in-depth look at everything it takes to make your new deck a great new deck.
It is the indefinable something that gives your home its personal stamp, and makes it uniquely yours. Whether you prefer a subtle blending-in of your home in its neighborhood; or love the WOW! factor that makes your home really stand out - while curb appeal begins with concrete elements including siding, entries, windows, roofing, patio stones, plantings, lighting, house numbers and more...it ends as a personal expression of pride in your home - a pride that says without words, “This is OUR home, and we love it.” Our magazine is filled with some of today’s most aesthetically beautiful, quality-manufactured products -designed to stand the test of time and create new beauty and value in your home. We’ve also filled it with information and ideas - intended to inspire you as you
Page 35...
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begin the process of giving your home a new (or updated) face. We hope you enjoy the time you spend reading Curb Appeal, and look forward to showing you these beautiful, innovative products in our stores!
Curb Appeal is published annually by Central Supplies, and is available at all Central stores and on-line at ‘centralns.ca’. All content remains the property of the publisher, and may not be reproduced without express written permission. Please direct all inquiries about this publication to ‘advertising@centralns.ca’.
by Alexandra Kelter While beauty isn’t brick-deep when it comes to a house, and curb appeal speaks to more than just aesthetics, it is your home’s first smile at the world, the initial indicator of what visitors can anticipate encountering within. If a property is well-groomed and cared for, people are already forming assumptions about the interior mirroring the same care, and that includes the more practical elements of a house. We tend to subconsciously read signs of fastidiousness as also being indicative of quality and an attention to the fundamentals; if someone has taken the time to edge their flowerbeds, we jump to the conclusion that they also keep their furnace regularly serviced, and that their roof is checked the recommended four or more times per year. It’s not a fail-proof way to read the world, but it’s something we as humans do. Which brings us back to the value of curb appeal. Whether you’re in it for the long haul or planning to sell your house, this is an area that matters, that requires attention, and is deserving of the investment of time, elbow grease, and finances. While home-ownership is a major undertaking, one that will easily cost you tens of thousands of dollars just in the acquisition of said home, it is also one of the few investments in life in which you can largely guarantee a worthwhile return on your investment, as long as you
Curb Appeal, June 2016
are willing to put in what is required to achieve this. One of the areas that plays a significant role in this is (you guessed it!) curb appeal. For sellers, it’s wise to put yourself in the shoes of your potential buyers. They want a house that will wow them, one where they can easily picture themselves living happily, and the less they have to do to comfortably situate themselves in their new abode, the better. People are busier than ever, caught up in demanding work schedules, the constant slew of errands, children with a full roster of activities and teams and clubs, and so on and so on. More now than ever, we want move-in ready houses. It’s daunting to look at a house that has “beautiful bones” but will require weeks of tradespeople replacing windows or carpets or scraping away that wallpaper from the 1950’s. Today’s busy society is learning to associate a higher financial value with their personal time, which means we are willing to pay more for a property that will require minimal adjustments to reflect our tastes and comforts. The first thing a potential buyer will note when approaching your house is the curb appeal. They’re digesting the overall first impression of the property, taking in the details as well as the big picture. (cont’d. Page 8)
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If the driveway is not tired looking, if the garden is tended, if the paint and shingles all look well, if the exterior doors are high-quality, these are all indicators that this could be “the one.” It also suggests to would-be buyers that the current owner has dedicated time, attention, and care to this property which translates into the belief that he or she has probably likewise invested in the more crucial behind-the-scenes elements, such as insulation, wiring, plumbing, heating, etc. This is the first step in building the buyer’s trust in the value of the property that you’re selling. Another reality about many of today’s buyers is that they tend to fall in love with a home’s appearance before they even seriously consider anything else; if they are taken with the visual characteristics of a property, they are more (cont’d. Page 9) apt to compromise on required repairs.
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Curb Appeal, June 2016
If instead you are committed to staying in your home for many moons to come, it is still worthwhile to maintain the curb appeal, both for your own personal satisfaction and for fiscal reasons; as with most things in life, if you stay on top of the care and maintenance of your home, it will rarely escalate into unexpected and very expensive home repair emergencies. Even things like consistently tending your lawn pay off; a couple of hours a week will save you from multiple eight hour Saturdays spent mowing, weeding, liming, fertilizing and all that fun stuff that no one wants to spend their downtime doing. Your home is more than just a financial investment though,
Knowing which projects to prioritize on your home’s exterior can be daunting, but there are some fail-safe areas which will always be worth your while.
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isn’t it? It’s also an emotional one. We build our lives in it; we are most ourselves within its walls. Our homes are where we shake off the day and the outside pressures and demands; we enjoy the company of loved ones, we relax, we rediscover ourselves, something that today’s hectic world has also created a greater need for. In today’s white noise, we need a quiet refuge for our own peace of mind and for our well-being. It’s the physical embodiment of our history as we write it; the front hallway becomes the place where your son took his first steps. The kitchen is where you were at last able to make a flan rise, much to your mother-in-law’s admiration. The back deck is where you and friends reminisced and made new memories on quiet summer nights. Our home is very much a reflection of ourselves, which is why we have every reason to take pride and care in its outward presentation to the world.
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Knock, Knock Let’s start with your front door. Let me be clear: this is an item where quality absolutely matters. Investing in a solid, hard-working, attractive front door will always be a sound venture, and this includes the hardware. You want a sturdy security system that will
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protect your home and all that you hold dear within it. It will also play a role in the heating and cooling of your house. A hardy, properly-installed door will save you
If you want a workhorse of a front door, steel is probably your best bet. Stronger and more durable than their wooden or fiberglass counterparts, steel doors, apart from
money on your monthly bills, as otherwise your expensive heat will be leaking out of it all winter and your very-much appreciated cool air will be escaping all summer. Remember that exterior doors should open inwards so that the hinges are inside the house; this is for security reasons as a burglar can otherwise easily unhinge the door and walk right in.
paint peeling, don’t really react to the elements. Available in a wide array of colours and finishes, including embossed wood grain, the only drawback is different conditions, including time, can cause the finish to peel, allowing the door itself to acquire rust spots; this is something you will definitely want to address if this has already occurred and you are selling. It’s best to try and repair wearing finish on a steel door as soon as it begins; sanding, treating, re-painting, and re-sealing is not a fun processes, but it becomes much more work if rust sets in, and if the rust takes too much hold, you may have to replace the door entirely.
Front doors are available in a wider selection than ever. The choice for materials alone is astonishing! While older homes often have wooden doors, this is a beautiful yet high maintenance feature, particularly in a Maritime weather and climate. Wood warps and wears under direct sunlight, high moisture, and intense rain and snow (all of which we encounter regularly in Atlantic Canada). Modern advances have made the new wooden doors far more durable. Depending on your budget and the style you’re after, you can opt for a hardwood or solid wood door (your most expensive option), a wood-paneled door which usually has an insulation core, laminate or veneer wood exteriors over insulation core or engineered wood core, or even steel and fiberglass doors made to look wooden. If you opt for a veneer wooden door, it should be furniture grade veneer and at least 1/16 inch thick for durability. For non-veneer options, pay attention to the stains and finishes, which offer varying levels of protection for the wood. There is also the type of wood to consider, but this is more based upon your aesthetic preferences.
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For a sturdy yet visually attractive option, fiberglass doors are excellent. They tend to come with the best warranties, and they can be made to look just like different wood finishes, as well as being available in a wide array of colours and designs. They’re a no-maintenance option, but expect to pay more than you would for a steel door. If you’re replacing your front door purely for selling purposes, you should get back almost all you spend on a steel door. Similarly you can expect to recoup about 70% of the cost of a fiberglass door. Quality wooden doors are expensive, so if your goal is simply to flip the house, I would avoid this option. These figures are generalizations though; it really comes down to the quality of your door and how (cont’d. Page 11)
Curb Appeal, June 2016
and how well it ties into the look of your house. Aesthetically speaking, your front door plays a large role in setting the tone for the entire house; if it’s stylish and highquality, these same valuable characteristics are conveyed to the rest of the property. One of 2016’s brightest trends is seeing front doors given vivacity and character with colourful hues. When choosing a colour for your front door, it’s important to keep in mind how it will interact with the look of your siding, roof, shutters, and any other similar elements. That doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun with it though! Many types of outer doors can be painted (a bonus if this is something you may want to change up in a few years). Coastal blues are always a popular choice; they are visually appealing and timeless, while also creating a restful, soothing ambiance. Red can be a bold yet elegant choice for a front door given the right corresponding palette, and in some cultures it’s even believed to invite good luck. There has also been a rise in popularity for
Curb Appeal, June 2016
cerulean, indigo, and teal doors and embellishments—a fun and inviting selection. Green has become a favourite, with owners of cottage-style houses opting for some very bright, cheery shades, while others prefer a deeper, richer green to echo that English manor vibe. If you’re looking to sell, select a colour that will be universally appealing. Instead of lime green, tone it down and go with a more subtle choice, like a pale sage. While your personal preference looks lovely I’m sure, not all potential buyers will have the same taste. When selling, it’s wisest to think of the house as a canvas you’re prepping for someone else to paint their lives onto; you want to make it as easy for them to envision as possible, which is key to a quick sale. Depending on the style of your house and the existing colour scheme, soft, grey-hued blues are almost always a reliable choice. That particular family of shades adds some colour, but in a friendly, restful, less obtrusive way than certain bolder options. (cont’d. Page 12)
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I touched on the hardware of your door earlier; this is a surprisingly loud detail. Available in a wide range of metals, colours, and finishes, the hardware is the finishing touch to your front door and its more widespread visual effects. Choose a style that complements the house, otherwise you’ll quickly realize just how noticeable this feature is. This is also something where price tends to coincide with security, meaning you do not want to skimp on this purchase. It’s definitely worth the investment though, both for your safety and when it comes to selling. Unless you are extremely knowledgeable in home improvement projects and have a solid selection of tools, this is a good project to bring a professional in for. A lock that is improperly installed is a major security risk; it’s definitely worth the extra money to ensure that your home is secure. Lighten Up Outdoor lighting, like your front door, is crucial, both for visual and security purposes. Keeping the exterior of your house properly lit discourages crime, makes it safer for you and visitors (you’re much less likely to fall on an icy driveway if you can see the ice), and allows for easier navigation around your property. It also happens to look great, when done properly. This is another area where it’s wise to seek professional input; you want your lighting to highlight the architectural features of your house, but you also need to be cognizant of how the light will shine into your home (no one wants a bright outside light glaring into their bedroom all night), as well as your neighbours (they will appreciate being kept up by your outdoor lights even less). A professional can help ascertain the best spots for fixtures, the type of lighting (will it be on the ground with upward facing light? Will it be installed higher with downwards facing light? These decisions play a very significant role in the overall effect of the lighting), and they can properly install it for you. It’s never safe to mess about with electrics unless you fully understand them, and frankly only the professionals really know what’s going on with all those wires, particularly the below-ground ones. For you sellers: remember that most people take a drive after work when considering buying (cont’d. Page 15)
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Curb Appeal, June 2016
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a home, meaning they’re most likely to first see yours at dusk. If it’s accentuated by great lighting, the odds are much higher that they’ll be returning for a proper viewing with an agent.
easier for weeds to creep in. Try to avoid watering in the evening, as the water will not really soak in until the morning, and standing water on a lawn at night invites fungus and mildew to take hold.
Landscaping
Landscaping is important. You don’t need to create a garden that will require hours and hours of attention a day (in fact that’s a turn-off for most buyers, because so few have the time or inclination to spend that much time working on their garden). But well-placed flower beds, shrubs, bushes, and even trees, go a long way in adding to the curb appeal of your property. Maybe more important than this even, though, is that the landscaping you do have always looks cared-for. This means watering flowers, edging the beds, trimming shrubs, bushes, and trees, and in general providing the attention and work that all gardens require. Like your lawn, this is a project where ongoing small doses of work will keep you from having to invest more heavily.
According to studies, an astonishing 62% of home buyers say the lawn influences their decision to purchase a property. This builds a strong case for why it’s so important to lime, fertilize, weed, and mow your lawn. If you stay on top of those chores, they won’t overwhelm you, and your required investment will be minimal, both in terms of your time and your finances. Weekly mowing, edging, trimming, and weeding will ensure that your home looks groomed, and a manicured lawn creates the illusion of seeming larger. You want to stay on top of pesky hindrances, such as weeds, otherwise the problem can quickly escalate, and replacing your sod is not cheap, easy, or fun. Grass is a plant, and while it’s heartier than many, it still requires care. Try to avoid a lot of foot traffic on your lawn when it’s very wet or covered in snow; the grass is vulnerable at these times and can easily be crushed or damaged. This can then lead to rot setting in, and before you know it your whole lawn will be in a sorry state. In the summer, it’s recommended that you give your lawn a very thorough watering one to two times a week, preferably in the morning when it’s still a bit cool. Frequent light waterings promote a shallow root system, making it much
Curb Appeal, June 2016
When choosing vegetation for your garden, be cognizant of where the sunlight falls, for how long, and when; it’s also wise to consider other environmental factors, including rainfall, the acidity levels of your soil, and average temperatures. Choosing options which will flourish in your climate translates into less maintenance, and more lush growth. The Red Carpet (Your Driveway) If properly looked-after, your driveway should be subtle, (cont’d. Page 16)
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contributing to the overall appeal of your property without drawing any particular attention to itself. Usually if the spotlight is on this area, it’s for negative reasons. Driveway maintenance varies depending on the type of driveway that you have. Cracks, potholes, missing slabs, weeds and grass growing through the asphalt, and similar driveway problems, will have a severely negative impact on the impression that your house gives. If you really study other properties, you’ll also notice that an unkempt driveway immediately creates a sense of neglect, which depreciates the fiscal value. Addressing these issues as soon as they arise prevents them from escalating or spreading, and keeps your driveway looking its best.
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You may want to consider edging your driveway to give it that detailed finish. Edging can also make driveway maintenance easier. Stone, bricks, pavers, flowerbeds, even wooden framework, can offer aesthetically pleasing edging options. This helps discourage plants from taking root beneath your driveway (they can cause a great deal of damage and work for you when they start growing through the driveway), and can add more personality and style to this otherwise rather drab aspect of your property. Your Garage On many homes, the garage door is positioned at the front (cont’d. Page 17) of the house, giving it a huge
Curb Appeal, June 2016
role in curb appeal as it’s occupying such a large portion of the visual real estate of your property. According to the Remodeling 2015 Costs vs. Value Report, a homeowner can usually expect to recover around 88% of the cost of a new garage door, which makes this a very worthwhile update for your home. That being said, if your garage door isn’t in need of replacing, a fresh coat of paint and regular maintenance will prove just as beneficial. Replace the weather stripping along the bottom of the door as soon as it starts to become brittle, crack or show other signs of wear; this protects the contents of your garage from the elements, and keeps the overall appearance looking groomed. Similar to a steel front door, you want to address peeling paint before it turns to rust. It’s also a good idea to give it a mild hose down every two weeks or so in the warmer seasons. Giving it a gentle (seriously, gentle! Otherwise your cleaning efforts could wear the finish off) scrubbing with a mild all-purpose cleaner then hosing it down will do wonders for keeping it looking fresh and new. It’s All About the Details
buyers want to envision themselves, or if you’re not selling, you’re adding to the beauty and appeal of your property while also giving yourself somewhere nice to sit and enjoy the fruits (cont’d. Page 18) of your labor.
One of the biggest things to address for your home’s curb appeal is actually the little things; never underestimate the significance of details. Easy, thoughtful touches, such as a pretty mailbox, well-tended and properly-placed flower pots, a tasteful mat for your front door, and similarly small steps give your home that finished, polished look. They also allow you to really personalize the exterior and to inject your own unique personality, but in such a way that it can be easily changed with the seasons or if you decide to put your house on the market.
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A favourite with buyers, which also creates comfort and style for dwellers, is to have some furniture on your front porch. It shouldn’t be a ton of pieces, and they need to be proportionate to the space; you don’t want them to dominate your veranda. Some stylish chairs with a small side table really create that sense of a home. Include some outdoor pillows for a quick way to add colour which also completes the look. By making these kinds of outdoor areas inviting, you’re creating a setting where potential
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TLC When you are happy with the exterior of your home, the most important thing you can do to protect your investment is regular upkeep. If you stay on top of projects like replacing the weather-stripping on your garage door, or keeping your trim painted, or mowing the lawn regularly, your home will always look groomed and valued. While the visual effects of this care are in and of themselves hugely beneficial to your property value whether you are selling right now or not, they tend to also have positive influences on the health of your house. For example, by keeping your steel front door painted and sealed, you are preventing rust, which in turn can cause enough damage that the entire front door system needs to be replaced. The more on-top-of your home’s maintenance requirements that you are, the less time-consuming and expensive projects
and problems will get. By being aware of the exterior elements of the house and property and working on and around them regularly, you’re able to identify and repair issues before they escalate, minimizing your risk of any surprise housing disasters. Your Home and You If your neighbourhood is an elaborate dinner party, think of your home’s curb appeal as the first smile it gives to the other guests. It’s reflective of you, your tastes, and the attention to detail, and hard work that you have to offer. Often without our permission or realization, our minds form opinions of each other on outward elements, such as how we care for our homes; if it’s clear that you value and care for your house, this suggests you also recognize your own worth. (cont’d. Page 19)
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Eventually, most of us intend to sell our property, whether because we are moving, retiring, or just ready for a change. Establishing and maintaining a high level of curb appeal is important in ensuring that you will get a fair and
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ELEMENTS OF A by Alexandra Kelter
Great Deck
Whether you’re sipping a coffee and watching the leaves change colour in the fall, bundled up in a cozy sweater with a half-forgotten paperback on your lap, or you’re gathered with friends and family to enjoy barbecued summer favorites, laughing and talking long past dusk as the sunshine fades and the stars come out, your deck is the perfect venue for enjoying life, the seasons, and your home. While it adds definite curb appeal and charm to your property (as well as added value when it’s time to sell your house), your deck also creates an outdoor space suited to a myriad of uses, including dining, relaxing, working on certain DIY projects, and more. Being knowledgeable about your deck will help you maximize its use and fiscal value, as well as ensure that you give it the proper care required to protect those enjoying it in addition to the financial investment you put into it. What’s It Made Of?
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In today’s market, there are more choices than ever when it comes to decking material. Pressure treated lumber remains the most popular option because of its durability, versatility, and affordability. It is also an easy material to work with, which is always a bonus in home improvement projects whether you’re doing the work yourself or have hired a contractor. Nova Scotia manufactures high-quality pressure treated lumber, which also allows you to support your local economy, and the chemicals this wood is now treated with are less harmful to the environment than their predecessors. Though it’s often recommended that you wait 6 months to 1 year after initial construction of a deck made of pressure treated lumber before painting or staining the wood (in that time, the wood will contract due to moisture, which would cause the new finish to crack and peel), there is an enormous variety of stains and colours to choose from, making this the most versatile material when it comes to finishing style. (cont’d. Page 22)
Curb Appeal, June 2016
style so beautiful, it can only be
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In terms of maintenance, you should expect to be sweeping off organic debris (such as leaves) once a week, and while many will recommend that you pressure wash your deck, I’m of the opinion that this should not be your go-to method for cleaning pressure treated lumber. The high pressure water, particularly when combined with corrosive cleaning materials, is a recipe for wearing away your deck finish and weakening the wood. If your deck is in need of a power wash, I strongly suggest hiring a professional who will know how best do so without damaging the deck, something that even a person familiar with using a pressure washer will almost certainly not be as knowledgeable about. Instead, every few weeks of the warmer months I recommend that you apply a gentle but effective cleaning solution to the deck, then scrub it with a wide angle broom or soft sponge. Give it a rinse with the hose, and you’ll have a lovely, clean area without damaging the building materials. In Maritime climates, you’ll probably have to reseal this type of deck about once a year. You will also likely have to re-stain or repaint it every 1 to 2 years, depending on how your finish stands up to the environment and use. Regardless of the decking material you choose, pressure treated lumber is the most common material used for a deck’s framing, foundation and support. This is largely due to its durability and price. Cedar is another popular decking material, thanks in large part to its resiliency to mold, mildew, and insects. Though you can stain or paint cedar, it’s not recommended as you will have a hard time getting the finish to adhere to the wood. Instead, cedar is valued for the beautiful silver it turns when exposed to time and the elements. If you choose this decking material, opt for heartwood cedar to ensure grain uniformity. In addition to its natural beauty, cedar also tends to be subtly aromatic, something which helps deter insects. Like pressure treated lumber, cedar is an easy building material to work with for decks, however it is a bit more expensive. Available in FSC certified options, this certification is only given when the wood has been generated by approved sustainable procedures via select providers. With a cedar deck, plan to apply a semi-transparent oil based stain after initial construction is completed, then once a year. Give the deck a cleaning with a scrub brush, soap and water beforehand any time that you are sealing the deck. It will probably need to be refinished (cont’d. Page 25)
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Curb Appeal, June 2016
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Composite decking is usually made of wood fibers and recycled plastics. Available in a variety of colours, this durable option is low maintenance and weather resistant. It cannot be stained or painted, so make sure that you like the style you choose. Warping, cracking, and splinters are virtually eliminated with composite decking, and this building material often comes with some pretty excellent warranties. Upkeep on a composite deck varies by manufacturer, but is usually only required every 1 to 3 years, depending on the make and environment. Just be sure to follow the instructions, otherwise you can accidentally damage your deck or null your warranty. Though vinyl decking is the least natural-looking option for a deck, it also requires the least amount of maintenance. Resistant to mold, mildew, scratches, rot, splitting, and stains, vinyl is also impervious to moisture and insects. Like its composite counterpart, vinyl is available in many different styles and colours, and similarly it cannot be stained or painted. Often equipped with a lifetime warranty, vinyl decking can be pressure washed once a year without fear of damage, and you’ll probably only need to give it a cleaning once or twice during the summer season. There is no sealing or finishing required with vinyl decking, and it can be recycled into new materials. Your deck will need fasteners, anchors, and similar hardware for its construction. Electroplated galvanizing fasteners are not recommended, whereas high corrosion-resistant steel is the prime choice whenever possible. Composite and vinyl decks often come with manufacturer-specific hardware, and it’s very important to follow the instructions for what materials to use, both for the durability of your deck and to uphold your warranty. Aluminum is strongly discouraged for use with pressure treated lumber, as is copper, which reacts to pressure treated lumber and cedar resulting in the destruction of the copper. It’s important to use hardware that’s compatible with your decking material, otherwise the fasteners can corrode, resulting in permanent stains on your deck and even causing the deck to fail structurally.
Officials Association can both offer insight into these requirements (check their websites for some helpful information), which include things like your handrail’s minimum height, the deck’s foundation type, and more. You also need to acquire any necessary building permits. Maintenance Keep leaves, grass clippings, and other debris off of your deck. It’s a good idea to incorporate sweeping off deck into your list of weekly chores. It doesn’t take long if you stay on top of it, but piles of organic debris sitting on your deck create the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and insects, all of which can severely damage the structural and visual integrity. It is also recommended that trees and bushes be no closer than 12’’ from your deck, otherwise this too can create an ideal situation for rot and insect damage. Unless you opted for composite or vinyl, your deck needs to be sealed. Depending on the building material, foot traffic, and weather, you will probably have to do this every 2 to 3 years. To test whether your deck’s sealant is still doing its job, splash some water on the deck; if it beads, you’re good to go, but if the wood absorbs the water, it’s time to clean and reseal. (cont’d. Page 26)
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In the spring, before you start really using your deck again, do a thorough inspection. Hammer any nail heads that may have risen during the winter, check your hardware and decking for signs of erosion, splitting, or wear, and repair or replace accordingly. Ascertain whether the deck needs to be refinished or resealed, and check for signs of mildew, rot, and insect damage. I also recommend you repeat this inspection in the fall when you’ve put away your seasonal outdoor furniture. You’ll have just finished using your deck the most, and you want to make any necessary repairs before the harsh winter sets in, particularly as there will be times when large volumes of snow will be sitting on your deck (though you should always make a point of shoveling this off).
has rendered it less necessary than before. Still, it’s helpful to have somewhere to plug in twinkle lights (they create such a whimsical, cozy feel to your summer backyard get-togethers) or to even charge a cellphone while keeping it handy if you’re outside.
Armed with a Plan
If you have more than 2 people in your immediate family or anticipate hosting company on your deck in the summer, a seating and a table large enough to accommodate several people is ideal. The seating should be comfortable, making it conducive to lingering over meals and enjoying lengthy conversations. Alternatively, a lovely bistro set is perfect for tête-à-têtes or enjoying a cup of tea and your own company
It’s a good idea to have a plan for what purposes you wish your deck to serve. If you intend to use it a lot for entertaining, this will require a different layout than if you’ll be spending most of your time relaxing. You may even want to consider a multi-tiered deck. Different levels make it easy to designate areas for specific past-times. For example, a table and chairs perfectly suited to dining may be on the top tier, while the next level may be where you set up your recliners for naps in the sunshine. If possible, plan to have an outdoor power outlet close to your deck. This is always a useful feature, though solar powered lighting
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It never hurts to sketch out a plan for where you want furniture and other design elements to go. The pieces need to be proportionate to the size of the space, and you want there to be enough room that you can easily maneuver around them; no one likes bumping into something with every step, and that also creates a sense of clutter, which in turn causes stress. Furnished and Fabulous
Outdoor furniture is now being designed to incorporate elements from interior furniture, making it more attractive and inviting than ever. Your deck can be the perfect setting for an outdoor living roomstyle set, complete with a love seat, chairs, and coffee table, or a similar variation. Many outdoor ottomans also double as storage, giving you (cont’d. Page 28) a perfect place to keep cushions when not
Curb Appeal, June 2016
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in use, and other handy backyard necessities, such as bug spray. There are also beautiful bench seating options available which are both decorative and functional. Some builders even incorporate bench seating into the deck’s construction, using it as a hidden means of storage as well as a way to add seating. Most outdoor furniture is made of wicker or metal, both of which are easy to clean but need to be stored from fall to spring. When purchasing your deck furnishings, keep in mind that you will have to store them somewhere. Though you can opt to tarp pieces and keep them outside, in our harsh winters this will shorten the life of your furniture and it’s almost impossible to set this up in such a way that it truly protects your furniture. Accoutrements Dressing a deck may be my favourite part. This is your chance to really
inject your personality and taste into your outdoor space. Seat cushions are almost a necessity, depending on the type of furniture you go with. Most recliners are now made comfortable enough without one, but it does give that extra level of luxury, and it’s an easy way to add a design or colour. Most outdoor sets will come with cushions, but with others you may have or want to buy your own. While it can be easy to snap up seat cushions and other details based purely on if you like them in the moment, creating a colour scheme for your deck will take it to that next level of style. This doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with patterns, but if you choose a palette, your deck will flow better, and it keeps bold patterns from being overwhelming. My other favourite part about remaining loyal to a colour scheme is that you can then have a piece in a bold and unexpected colour, which should be placed somewhere you wish to draw focus to; for example, if your cushions are navy and white, creating that coveted nautical vibe, (cont’d. Page 29) a cherry red lantern on a corner side table
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Curb Appeal, June 2016
will pull the eye to that area of your deck and brighten a corner that may otherwise be a bit less vibrant. Outdoor pillows began appearing en masse a few years ago, and they are a must. Whether you’re placing one in your wooden love seat rocker, or have some scattered amongst your wicker set, they add a very comfortable, homey feel to your outdoor space, and there’s something sophisticated about having beautifully designed pillows outside. They are made in weather resistant materials (though you should still put them away when it’s raining, just as you would seat cushions), and come in every size, colour, theme, and design you could desire. Depending on your vision for the deck, it’s nice to have some “background pillows” in neutrals or unobtrusive patterns (horizontal stripes are one of my personal favourites as they add the illusion of length to any furniture they’re displayed on) then some more unique pillows as focal points.
In keeping with bringing the inside out of doors, rugs made especially for the deck and exterior spaces are another design necessity. Like pillows and cushions, they are an easy way to have style and colour on your deck, but they are affordable and can be replaced when you’re ready for a new colour scheme or ambiance. Outdoor rugs are a great way to create zones on your deck. For example, having one under the coffee table in your seating area immediately sections that off in a way that still keeps it open. This is both visually appealing and will make your outdoor space feel bigger and more designer. Solar lighting has made it easier than ever to have unique lighting options for your deck. Battery-pack string lights are available just about everywhere now, and come in varying colours, sizes, and styles, allowing you to create a cozy or dreamy space, depending on your preference. There are also fun options, such as palm trees or birds, if you want to use them as a focal point rather than (cont’d. Page 30)
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Curb Appeal, June 2016
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Having some greenery on your deck will make it feel more airy and fresh, and flowers will add colour and can even be selected to contribute based on your colour scheme. It’s important to consider lighting and how much direct sunlight your deck receives when choosing vegetation for it; your life will be much easier if you go with plants that thrive in your environment. Be sure to water, deadhead, and prune any plants you have on your deck to stop them from looking messy or inviting deck pests, such as earwigs and rot. Your Outdoor Gallery Whether you’re making use of an exterior wall, your deck’s railing, or displaying it on your outdoor furniture, artwork used sparingly outside is the last word in deck finishing. Mirrors are particularly popular for exterior walls, because they instantly make the space a subtle means of adding to the overall atmosphere of your deck. Flameless LED candles, usually run by batteries but also available in solar power, are an awesome development for decks everywhere. They eliminate the safety hazards of candles, there’s no concern about wax dripping onto your deck or outdoor furniture, and they still add the beautiful lighting of a flickering flame. Traditional lanterns are very big this year, but they’ve been reinvented in varying sizes, shapes, and modern colours. Armed with a flameless candle, these are not only a great way to safely light up your deck in the evening, but they also look beautiful in the daylight. Your Deck in Bloom Decks can offer ideal spots for flower pots and container gardens. Just as with the furniture, you don’t want to clutter the space with too many, but fortunately small groupings of plants and flowers in pots of varying sizes always looks unique and adds dimension. Having a small herb garden on a railing or corner will give you homegrown flavours for your cooking, add a lovely scent to the air, and look very chic. Terrariums have witnessed a major revival in the last year or so, and make a very trendy centerpiece for an outdoor dining or coffee table. When adding flowers, don’t forget to look up! Hanging baskets give you the benefits of plants and flowers without claiming any foot space on your deck. They also make an outdoor space feel bigger by drawing the eye upwards.
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feel larger and brighter by reflecting the natural light. These types of finishing touches personalize the space, and the attention to detail elevates the overall feel of your deck. Covered Areas We all love the summer sunshine soaking that vitamin D into our skin, but if you’re sitting on your deck it’s nice to have some shade. If the space isn’t overly large, an umbrella, either as a removable part of your dining table or freestanding and weighted, is a great way to offer adjustable shade without taking up a lot of space. This also gives you the flexibility to put it away when not required or if you need more floor space. A pergola won’t really offer you shade as its beams are open at the top, but you can drape beautiful fabrics to create an airy, oasis feel. Alternatively you can hang an outdoor chandelier or string lights through it for major style and ambiance. Having vines growing around it can wear the pergola’s wood faster but is beautiful and adds the benefits of greenery to your deck without requiring planters. There are various types of awning you can have over your deck if you want a full roof over part of it. This also gives you the options to have siding, giving you a longer season to sit outside and enjoy the space. Fabric awnings can usually be cranked back or taken down when you want full sunlight, whereas structural ones (cont’d. Page 32)
Curb Appeal, June 2016
are more permanent. When selecting awning, it’s wise to consult with a professional as they can advise on which materials will trap heat (otherwise you may turn that part of your deck into a little oven), what weight your deck can support, and whether your option will yield a solid return on your investment.
anytime soon.
An Extension of Your Home
Just as the living room and dining room have moved onto the deck, so too has the kitchen. Homeowners want to be outside as much as possible, and they’re really starting to value their decks as another room of their home. An outdoor kitchen is great for barbecuing and preparing meals, and usually extends your grilling season to as much as 12 months of the year depending on the set-up and weather.
We’re seeing a shift in the appreciation and value placed on older concepts, such as really enjoying and celebrating your home, and spending quality time doing so. Because our lives have become so hectic with work and similar demands on our time, we are less and less inclined to then spend hours in traffic driving to a weekend or week-long getaway. This is resulting in people opting for “stay-cations” where they spend their time relaxing at home, having loved ones over, and making the most of what is essentially an enormous investment of their finances.
This is not an inexpensive feature to have on your deck, but it adds major value to your home because it comes with a “wow” factor. Because many of us now spend so much time in offices, we are eager to enjoy the outdoors but reluctant to part with the comforts of home; creating an outdoor space with many functions and luxuries ticks all of those boxes, and buyers are willing to pay for them when it comes to purchasing a new house. They also hold great value for your personal enjoyment as a homeowner if you are not planning to sell
Turning your outdoor space into a place where you can really unwind and have fun will encourage you to put down the cellphone and get outside, whether it be to fire up the grill after work or to catchup with your nearest and dearest over a pitcher of iced tea. As our society relearns the value of spending some time off the grid and reconnecting with our families, our homes are becoming the epicenter for this shift, and your deck is the perfect spot for doing so while also enjoying nature. ✯
Outdoor Kitchens
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Curb Appeal, June 2016
Without the need to scrape, sand, or paint this railing, you’ll spend your weekends sitting back admiring it instead of maintaining it.
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Page 34
Without the need to scrape, sand, or paint this railing, you’ll spend your weekends sitting back admiring it instead of maintaining it.
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Curb Appeal, June 2016
Lin
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BUILDING MAGIC WITH
Ledgestone When it comes to building a home, some of the methods are so tried and true, so reliable, that very little done is to change them even as decades go by. There are new techniques and products which prove to be fads, enjoyable in their time but unable to withstand the longevity of their more proven brothers. And then there are some products that come along and using the benefit of our contemporary knowledge and tools, offer an easier, more environmentally friendly, quality alternative.
The natural stone veneer uses, you guessed it, cuts of naturally occurring stone. Because there are so many stones in nature, you have many colour options, ranging including varying shades of tan (some a bit more golden, while other types with tinges of brown), and grey (from deep blue-grey to pale silver), as well as mixed veneers, which blends cuts that are different colours for added dimension. Manufactured stone is usually made of
Ledgestone combines a timeless style with modern practicality to give homeowners a new way of creating beautiful stone detailing, both on the exterior and interior of their home, but for a fraction of the cost and time it would take to build a complete stone fixture.
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Available in natural and manufactured stone, ledgestone is much lighter and easier to work with, but gives the same look as layers of cut rock made into siding, cladding, interior statement walls, fireplaces, and more. Cut and positioned to be intentionally uneven for a rugged, natural texture that appeals to our appreciation for the unique and original, thin strips of stone are cut and adhered to a type of thin mesh then applied to your house. Depending on the manufacturer, type, and finished look you are after, it can also be stacked, dry-laid, grouted, or jointed. Though the thin pieces of stone look like they are in fact a wall of solid full-sized stone, they offer the convenience of being much lighter, easier to work with, and less expensive.
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GARANT-Pubs_Curb_Appeal.indd 4
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concrete cement blended with things like iron oxide pigments to create the desired coloration. It is handcoloured and shaped in molds cast from actual stones for a very natural appearance. Because it is man-made, there are more colour choices available. Advances in the molding process have achieved the goal of creating each cut to look unique, meaning you won’t notice a repeating stone on your veneer wall. Depending on the make, manufactured stone can sometimes be more cost-effective than natural stone. Choosing which option is best usually comes down to the project. Manufactured stone veneer weighs a great deal less than its natural stone counterpart, making it the better choice for any application with major height. It is easier to work with, so your installers will be able to put it on the high part of an exterior wall, for example, with much less equipment and time, resulting in a lower invoice for you. Its weight also makes it ideal for wood and core walls. The increased weight of natural stone veneer usually requires additional reinforcement to support it, including additional footings, expansion joists, and more, depending on the project and your local building codes. Usually the veneer must weigh less than 15lbs per square foot otherwise additional structural support is required. Depending on local rock quarries, you may also be facing an additional cost to bring in a specific type of natural stone if it’s not native to your part of Canada.
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Natural stone has the benefit of being from the earth, so when it’s trimmed it still has the beauty and uniqueness of stone, whereas it is often visible where man-made stone is cut due to interior differences. Many contractors prefer to use it for smaller exterior jobs, such as wrapping a lighting column and accenting stairs, because they prefer to use natural materials outside. There are different options for installing ledgestone, and because of considerations such as weight on the existing structural supports and the specialized tools often required for proper installation, it’s a project where it’s worth hiring a professional. For exterior jobs in particular, the elements need to be taken into consideration. An expert will know what to work with to protect your ledgestone from high winds, heavy precipitation, and the freeze/thaw pattern of our spring, all of which can prove harmful to improperly installed ledgestone cladding and siding. When done right however, the ledgestone will help protect and further insulate your home. Stone accents, finishes, siding, and other home details have long been a desirable and popular choice, however it was so heavy, expensive, and difficult to work with that it just simply wasn’t an option for most homeowners. Ledgestone has now made this superior style accessible, making it a very in-demand product. Its versatility opens up your options for (cont’d. Page 38
Curb Appeal, June 2016
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YOU’VE HEARD IT BEFORE, FIRST IMPRESSIONS MATTER. Friends and acquaintances can tell a lot about you by observing your home and how it is decorated. In fact, one of a visitor’s first impressions is the door hardware on your home’s entrance. So show the world who you are by expressing your lifestyle with
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how to use it. While it’s beautiful used in more traditional applications, such as siding, it also adds dimension and a designer finish to, for example, your outdoor kitchen. Stone finishes are very popular now, yes, but they’ve been so for more than a hundred years. This timeless style
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has a rare ability to look on-point without ever seeming dated. Ledgestone simply offers an easier and more affordable way to take this magic home. We aren’t reinventing the wheel, we’re just making it a smoother ride. ✯
Curb Appeal, June 2016
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Your home is your castle. It’s also your cathedral and your magnificent monument. Its home, sweet home. That’s why choosing the right door is one of the most important decisions you, as a homeowner, will make - because your entrance is your home’s first impression, and the welcome your home offers family and guests. At Atlantic Windows, we believe that choosing the ideal door is about more than appearance. It’s about choosing a product that will give you and your family security and peace of mind. It’s about finding a door that will increase energy efficiency and resale value, while decreasing maintenance costs. And it should be designed to look beautiful, and engineered to stay beautiful.
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With thanks to the following suppliers for their support of the Curb Appeal Makeover.