Posts Tagged ‘patio’

5 Tips for Deck or Patio Designs, Plans, and Remodeling

Tuesday, August 14th, 2012

A backyard deck or patio is the foundation of an outdoor living space, family fun, and entertaining friends. When planning the project and space there are some obvious things to consider. How big to build it? What material will we use? How much will it cost? There are a few more things to consider that may be a part of a deck or patio project, but are often overlooked up front. Having options and decision pop up during or after construction causes delays, headaches, and extra cost; all of which neither a remodeler nor homeowner wants.

Here are five things from the Design Build Pros to consider when planning a deck or patio project: (more…)

Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Pergolas to Enhance the Look and Comfort of an Outdoor Living Space

Wednesday, August 8th, 2012

If you’ve been thinking about how to add more elegance to your terrace, patio or deck, a pergola could be the perfect choice. This beautiful structure is a wonderful way to define your outdoor space without closing it in. Pergolas are classic, architectural features that often covered the walkways in Italian Renaissance gardens. A pergola makes a versatile addition to any outdoor living area because it can be customized to fit the style of your yard, whether it’s formal or casual. Pergolas don’t provide full shelter, but their openness is what provides that look of simple elegance.

Contact the Design Build Pros today and schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to discuss a possible design build remodeling project for your home or outdoor living space anywhere in the United States. Discover how the unique DBPros project design and development process will save you time and money while providing a pleasant remodeling experience for all!

Here are a few photos from Houzz.com of pergolas that enhance the outdoor living space in great settings:

Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Outdoor Living Space with a Portico Overhang and an Open Air Room

Tuesday, July 31st, 2012

Outdoor living spaces have become the poster project of staycations. A staycation is a period of time that an individual or family takes time off and relaxes at home.

Outdoor living spaces can be defined by any or all of an outdoor kitchen, patio, deck, portico covered area, screen or sun room, in-ground pool, spa tub, backyard sports or activities, and as much more as you can imagine.

This covered patio, in Monmouth County, New Jersey, designed and developed by the Design Build Pros and expertly constructed by Mark of Excellence Design Build Remodel typifies an outdoor living remodeling project. The newer built home had no overhang or tree shading from the direct sun in the due-south facing backyard. This is a plus for the in-ground pool, but made it uncomfortable to sit and lounge on hot summer days. (more…)

Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Great Views for Fireworks

Thursday, July 5th, 2012

On July 4, many Americans head to a barbecue or a park, or watch a Main Street parade, capped by fireworks. But let’s suspend reality for a moment: Imagine what it would be like to stay home and have unparalleled access to sea and sky for fireworks. Oh, to nurse a glass of cold American beer by a rooftop fire pit overlooking the San Francisco Bay or sit in a deck chair in Virginia under the blue yonder.

Let’s enjoy our freedom to dream big and celebrate our beloved America with a jaunt through the country’s coolest places, in or right outside of the home, to watch a fireworks display.

How was your view? Check out these spectacular spots from Houzz.com

 


Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Vinyl Siding Will Warp From a Hot BBQ Grill

Wednesday, July 4th, 2012

Summer is perfect for BBQ grills, but vinyl siding is not. Vinyl siding is made from organic materials and can melt when exposed to a significant heat source. Therefore, an outdoor BBQ should be placed a minimum of three feet from any vinyl-sided wall.

I recall occasions that a homeowner would phone in about a warranty claim for their siding warping. Upon inspection, noting that the severely warped area was approximately 3′ wide and 2′ high and 4′ above the deck and patio, it is clear that the cause was a hot BBQ placed too close. 

Many times homeowners will pull mobile grills away from a wall to cook, but then move back when done, but the unlit, but still very hot grill can cause similar damage quickly.

Replacing the ruined section of siding is possible, but not an overly simple task. A siding removal tool, nick named a “zipper” is required to unhook and the re-hook the new panel interlocks. Also, due to weathering, color lots, and discontinued material, matching and blending in may prove difficult.

Enjoy your outdoor cooking and entertaining, but please be safe and aware while doing so.


Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Tips for BBQ Grilling Vegetables

Sunday, May 27th, 2012

The BBQ talk is usually about grilling meat. Don’t overlook grilling vegetables as well! Grilled vegetables are tasty, colorful, and a good healthy compliment to the steaks, chicken, fish, burgers, and hot dogs.

Grilling vegetables is easy. The fact that more people don’t do it is the strange thing. The general rule is to cut the vegetables into pieces that will cook quickly and evenly. All pieces should be of consistent thickness and no more than about 3/4 to 1 inch thick. Soak vegetables in cold water for about 30 minutes before you grill them to keep them from drying out. Pat dry, then brush lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Do not over cook and you’ll have vegetables better than you thought possible. If you like grilling vegetables and want to try smaller things use a grilling basket to keep them out of the fire.

This list of specific vegetables will get you started. (more…)

Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Outdoor Kitchens for the Backyard or Patio

Sunday, May 27th, 2012

Memorial Day is about honoring the lives of men and women who died serving and protecting our country. Many homeowners will raise a glass and celebrate the holiday — the unofficial start of summer — around a tablescape of Americana decor, chilled watermelon, cold beer and a homemade dessert. No matter how you choose to celebrate Memorial Day, let’s enjoy the spirit of freedom and the start of warmer days with ideas from these inspiring outdoor kitchens.


Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Outdoor Living Space

Wednesday, May 23rd, 2012

Does your yard have a patio? Is that patio ready for summer, family fun, and great entertaining? Check out these fabulous outdoor living spaces then contact the Design Build Pros to begin the process of having your very own!


Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Porch with a View

Wednesday, May 23rd, 2012

Any type, size, or style of porch with a great view is a GREAT PORCH!

Check out these porches and some fantastic views and settings. Most likely it will be difficult to just choose one favorite.


Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email

Free Live Webinar for Homeowners and Remodelers

Wednesday, May 2nd, 2012

The staff at Design Build Pros will be hosting a free, live webinar on Tuesday, May 15, 2012. From the convenience of your own computer and internet you can view their unique “Remodeling Design and Development Process.” For scheduling convenience, there will be two separate sessions, both covering the same content. The first session will begin at 1:00 PM EDT and the second at 7:00 PM EDT. The webinar will last approximately 90 minutes, including a question and answer session at the end.

This free webinar’s objective is to illustrate the Design Build Pros approach to residential remodeling project design and development. Tips and strategies that pave the way for a pleasant remodeling experience will be offered for both homeowners and remodelers. (more…)

Share this:
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Plusone Linkedin Digg Delicious Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Posterous Email