The perfect patio is every homeowner’s dream. Complete with a view of the nearest mountain range or urban skyscape, lounging on the deck with a few friends and cocktails to watch the sunset is the scene that captures many a home buyer’s imagination. Builders know that a beautiful deck is often the low-cost amenity that will later seal the deal for the realtor.

Unfortunately, not every home comes equipped with a patio, so adding a high-quality patio deck to the property tops the list of home improvements which brings out the tools, blueprints, and lumber catalogs.

The needs of your patio deck will be different from other types of wooden flooring. For starters, the challenge of building and maintaining a level surface while coping with discontinuities may be a bit of an engineering feat in itself. Selecting a flat surface for supporting struts is not always possible, so invest in a professional contracting level before designing any outdoor addition.

(more…)

Installing a hardwood floor represents a major investment of time and money. Whether you do the work yourself or hire a contractor, preserving the shine and veneer of the most-punished surface in the home is a top priority.

Wood treatments often contain toxic ingredients, such as toluene, which is hardly the sort of stuff you want toddlers or pets crawling over, so consider this factor when selecting a top coat for wooden flooring.

In general, the darker the stain; the more natural the formula will be, as the most toxic substances in wood sealers and protectors are employed to preserve a transparent finish. Natural oils and pigments, especially those approved for use in the food industry, are to be preferred over synthetic blends which are not appropriate for human consumption. After all, even if you don’t plan to dine on the floor, shouldn’t it be fit to eat off of anyhow?

(more…)