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Painting the Inside of Cabinets
Painting Inside Of Cabinets can add a fresh, updated look to your kitchen. It can also be a great way to make better use of your cabinet space.
To get the best results, it is important to remove the cabinet doors and keep them in a safe place while you paint the interior of the cabinet boxes. Wash the surfaces, protect your floors, and apply a thin coat of primer with a foam roller and an angled brush for the corners and details.
Paint can dramatically alter the appearance of your cabinets and is a simple, inexpensive way to give them a fresh look. However, it is important to note that painting over previously painted cabinets will require proper preparation and the right type of paint. If you don’t follow the correct steps, your newly painted cabinets may chip and peel over time, and they may become susceptible to mold and other bacterial growth.
The first step in the cabinet painting process is to remove the doors from the hinges and set them aside. You’ll also want to label the hardware so that you can correctly reinstall it later on. Next, you’ll need to prepare the surface by lightly sanding it and priming it. It’s best to use a mini foam roller for this step, as it will help reduce brush strokes and ensure that the primer is evenly applied.
If your cabinets were previously painted or finished with a high sheen, you will need to sand them enough to dull the finish so that the new paint can adhere properly. After sanding, vacuum up any sanding dust and wipe the surfaces down with a damp cloth or lint-free tack cloth. If you’re unsure what type of paint was used on the cabinets before, you can test the material by rubbing denatured alcohol on an inconspicuous area. If the residue doesn’t come off, the cabinets are probably oil-based and can not be painted over with water based products.
There are a variety of different paints that you can choose from, depending on the desired effect. Semigloss paint is the most popular for cabinets, as it is durable and easy to clean. It is also available in a wide range of colors, making it an excellent choice for those looking to build a bold color scheme. For those who want a more natural look, matte or chalk paint is an option. For a high-end look, you can even use thermofoil, which has the same durability as paint but comes in an extensive color palette.
Keep in mind that paint won’t hide badly damaged or warped cabinets, so if your cabinets are in this state, you’ll need to consider replacing them or refacing them instead of painting over them. Finally, don’t forget to apply a clear topcoat to protect your work and prolong the life of your cabinets.
Preparing the Surface
Before you begin any painting project, it is important to prepare the surface. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly, and helps to create a beautiful finished product. Whether you are painting wood furniture, walls, or cabinets, proper preparation is essential.
For cabinet surfaces, it is particularly important to clean the interiors and make sure that any hardware is removed. This will help to prevent any potential paint drips from damaging the contents of your cabinets. It is also a good idea to remove all the doors and drawers, and relocate them somewhere safe while you are working. You should also clear away any clutter that may be in the way, and cover any countertops or backsplashes with plastic drop cloths to protect them from paint spills and splatters.
It is also a good idea to sand the interior surfaces before you start painting. This will help to smooth out any rough spots, and it will also dull the finish on the wood, which will allow the new paint to “bite” better. You will want to use a medium grit sandpaper for this, and remember to wipe the surface down with a damp cloth or tack cloth to make sure that it is completely clean and ready to accept a fresh coat of paint.
When you are preparing your cabinet surfaces, be sure to keep them well ventilated. This will help to reduce the buildup of dust and fumes, which can ruin the quality of your work. If possible, open windows and use fans to maintain adequate air circulation. This will speed up the drying process, and it will help to reduce the risk of respiratory problems due to inhalation of fumes.
Painting vs Staining
In terms of cost, staining is generally cheaper than painting, but it can also be more time-consuming. It is also a less durable option, as it provides less protection against moisture and wear. In addition, stains can be limited in their color options, making them less versatile for those seeking to achieve a specific look. Painting, on the other hand, offers a wide range of color choices and can create a uniform finish that masks wood grain and imperfections.
Applying the First Coat
The first coat of paint you apply to your cabinets is a critical step in the cabinet painting process. The quality of this coat can determine how long the painted finish will last, and whether or not you need to repaint. The key is to use a high-quality primer that is tinted to match your topcoat and made specifically for the type of paint you are using (e.g. oil or latex). You should also sand between each coat of paint to remove any brush marks or roller marks, and make sure the surface is dry before applying the next coat.
Before you start painting, be sure to clear out your cabinet interiors and move items like cans and cooking utensils to another part of the house so they are not in the way while you are working. Then clean the insides of the cabinets with warm soapy water and a damp rag or sponge. If there is a lot of grease and grime, a degreaser may be required. Then, you can begin to work. Be sure to label all of the doors and hardware you have removed with their corresponding number to make it easier when it comes time to reattach them. It is also helpful to keep a large box or bag where you can place the hardware when it is dry and ready to be returned to its cabinet.
When it comes to choosing a color for your cabinets, it’s important to consider how the hue will affect the appearance and mood of the room. Colors can have a greater impact than many people realize. They can influence our emotions in a way that can be subtle, yet profound. For example, certain colors can cause us to feel nervous or energetic, while others can have a calming effect.
Once you have chosen your desired cabinet color, you can start to apply the first coat of paint. To help you get a smooth and even finish, be sure to use a foam roller. This will help reduce the number of brush strokes and leave you with a much more professional look. A nylon 2.5″ angled brush is also a good choice for reaching tight spaces and cutting in clean edges.
Applying the Second Coat
Whether you paint the inside of cabinets is up to you, but many homeowners choose to do so for the sake of a uniform look. It’s also a good idea if you’re planning to sell your home, since it will make the kitchen look more appealing. Plus, it can save you money in the long run by avoiding the cost of buying new cabinet hardware and handles.
First, remove all items from the cabinet interiors and clean the surfaces thoroughly with warm soapy water or a degreaser (such as Trisodium Phosphate, or TSP) if needed. Next, sand the surfaces to dull any existing coating, using medium-grit sandpaper. Finally, vacuum any sanding dust and wipe the surfaces down again to remove any remaining residue and prep them for painting.
Once the surfaces are clean and dry, apply the first coat of primer to all surfaces. Make sure to use a foam roller and an angled brush to get into corners and other detail areas, and to catch drips. Depending on the type of primer you’re using, allow it to dry completely before applying your first coat of paint.
After the first coat of paint has dried, sand it again to smooth any bumps and give the surface a consistent appearance. Wipe down the cabinet surfaces and vacuum any sanding dust once more, and then apply the second coat of paint. Allow the second coat to dry completely before re-installing your doors, drawers and shelves, and be sure to let the entire project cure fully before returning items to the cabinets.
While painting the inside of cabinet doors may seem like a waste of time and effort, it’s important to remember that even though these areas are hidden from view they still need protection. Paint acts as a defensive barrier, protecting the wood from moisture and grime that can damage it over time. So, if you’re looking for a way to protect your investment and keep your kitchen looking its best, then it might be worth the extra work!
Water Heater Repair – How to Recognize Common Problems and Troubleshoot Them Yourself
Your water heater is a vital part of your home. You depend on it for everyday tasks such as showering, washing dishes and laundry. But when your water heater begins to fail, it may be time to consider replacement.
If you are noticing puddles around your water heater, this could mean that it is leaking. This needs to be addressed immediately. Contact Denver Water Heater Repair for professional help.
A reliable water heater provides your home with the hot water you need for showers, dishes, laundry, and other daily tasks. Like all appliances, water heaters occasionally experience issues that call for repair. However, many of these issues can be resolved without the need to replace your water heater. Our Water Heater Repair guide provides you with tips to recognize common problems, troubleshoot them, and perform water heater repairs yourself. We also help you navigate the pros and cons of repairing versus replacing your water heater when that decision comes up.
If you notice a lower flow rate from your water heater, there could be sediment buildup on the bottom of the tank. You can flush the tank, following its manufacturer instructions, to get rid of the sediment and restore a healthy flow rate.
The thermostat is a critical component of your heating and cooling system, always working to keep your home’s temperature at its set point (also known as a “setback”). It does this by using the principles of thermal expansion and contraction. Traditional thermostats use two pieces of different metal bolted together to form what’s called a bimetallic strip. This strip acts as an electrical circuit’s bridge. When the thermostat senses heat, one of the metals expands more than the other, and the strip bends slightly. This creates a current that switches the heating system on or off. The other metal contract, and the current stops.
In a similar fashion, the thermostat on your water heater works on the same principle to control its operation. When the thermostat senses heat, it turns your water heater on or off to maintain a desired temperature.
If you can’t relight your gas water heater’s pilot light, it could be due to a faulty thermocouple. This is an easy fix and only requires the purchase of a new thermocouple, which can usually be found at your local hardware store. Once replaced, relight the pilot and test your water heater to make sure it’s functioning correctly. This final step brings closure to your DIY water heater repair and ensures that the work you did is complete and safe.
Anode Rod
The anode rod is one of the most vital water heater parts. It is a secondary method of protecting the steel tank from corrosion. The sacrificial anode is made from less noble metals than the tank itself, so minerals and other corrosive elements in the water naturally attack it first before heading for the tank. This allows the anode to last a very long time, and protects the water tank from leaks and rust.
The rate at which the anode rod is consumed depends on the composition of your home’s water. Hard water tends to corrode it faster than softened water. A professional will be able to recommend the best type of anode rod for your particular situation, based on the results of a water quality test.
Like other sacrificial anodes, the anode rod will eventually be exhausted and dissolved, so it needs to be replaced. The good news is that doing so is relatively easy. It involves draining some water, removing the old anode rod, and inserting the new rod. Then, the technician will re-attach the breaker bar and reconnect the gas line.
If you suspect it’s time to replace the anode rod, there are a few signs to look for. The most obvious is a metallic taste or smell, which can indicate bacteria are growing in the anode. You may also notice rust spots or water pooling around the anode rod.
You should replace the anode rod as soon as you see these signs, or at the very least have it checked out by a professional to make sure it’s still functioning properly. If it isn’t, you may want to consider getting a flexible anode rod instead. These have short segments that snap together much like tent poles, making them easier to remove and replace in the future.
While it is possible to replace an anode rod yourself, it isn’t a recommended DIY project for most homeowners. In addition to having the right tools, you need a large enough area to safely access the water heater and drain some water. A plumber or HVAC technician will have the experience, tools, and equipment necessary to do this quickly and effectively.
Dip Tube
The dip tube is a critical water heater component that transports cold water into the bottom of your hot water tank. The tube is attached to the cold water inlet pipe and, when activated by new water pressure, pushes water down to where it’s heated and then rises back up to the top of the tank. The constant churning of new water and old water is what allows your water heater to maintain a steady supply of hot water without running out.
A defective dip tube can impact your hot water supplies in a few different ways. The most obvious is that lukewarm water will start to come out of your taps. This is because the dip tube is not working properly and is allowing cold water to escape to the top of your tank and mingle with your hot water.
Corrosion is another cause of dip tube failure. Because the tube is submerged in hot water of varying temperatures and acidity levels, it is susceptible to erosion over time. Minerals from hard water build up in the plastic, reducing its lifespan by up to two years.
Replacing the dip tube is a relatively easy DIY project, although you’ll need to take safety precautions. First, shut off the power to your water heater at the circuit breaker to ensure there’s no risk of electric shock. Next, disconnect the water supply line to your water heater and drain it using a garden hose connected to the drain port. Then you’ll need to turn off the water flow at the inlet nipple and use a wrench or flat screwdriver to loosen the dip tube and then remove it.
Once you’ve removed the old dip tube, install a new one, attach it to the inlet nipple and then reattach the water supply line. Once the tank is refilled and all connections are secure, switch your water and power back on and check the temperature and pressure of your hot water to ensure everything is functioning properly.
If your water heater is showing signs of damage, it may be time to call a professional plumber to help. They can conduct a full inspection of your water heater to identify the underlying issue and recommend the most effective repair or replacement options for you.
Pressure Valve
A water heater relies on a pressure valve to keep operating at a functional pressure level. This valve is typically installed in series with your home’s main water supply line and soon after your water meter. A conventional spring-loaded valve features a disc that seals against a valve seat. When system pressure exceeds a set threshold, the valve disc is pushed up (or lifted) from its seat and releases the excess water to prevent overpressure and damage. Once the water pressure returns to normal levels, the disc seals back in place.
A gas water heater has additional components to maintain safe operation, including a pilot light that stokes the main burner flame when needed; control valves managing flow rates and temperatures inside the unit; and a thermocouple acting as a safety device shutting off the gas supply in case of a pilot light outage. Gas water heater repair can be more complex than electric repairs, so if you suspect one of these parts is broken, it’s best to call in a professional.
When a water heater has stopped heating water, it’s usually due to a broken heating element that needs to be replaced. A water heater repair technician can easily replace this part to restore hot water production. However, a broken heating element can also be an indication of the appliance’s age, which may have reached its end of life. In this case, replacing the unit may be a more cost-effective and reliable solution.
If you’re interested in repairing your own gas water heater, here are some helpful tips: Before starting the repair process, it’s important to shut off power and water supply to your unit. This step helps to prevent injuries and potential electrical shocks. Then, locate the circuit breaker that controls your unit’s power supply and turn it off. Find the shut-off valve for your water supply line and close it as well.
Once your gas water heater is repaired, it’s a good idea to test it out by running hot water through the unit. This will help to ensure that all repair work was completed properly and that your unit is functioning correctly.
Massage Magic: How Touch Can Transform Your Health
Massage involves pressing, rubbing or manipulating your skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is commonly used to reduce stress and pain. It is also being increasingly offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations.
Massage stimulates the body’s natural relaxation response, which decreases heart and breathing rates, lowers blood pressure and relaxes muscles. Visit their Website for more details.
Stress is a normal part of life, but excessive levels of it can lead to serious health problems. Regular therapeutic massages can help lower stress, improve mood, increase relaxation, boost energy and alertness, decrease pain and muscle tension and promote general wellness.
Massage therapy stimulates the body’s natural release of happiness-inducing hormones and reduces stress and anxiety by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system. Studies have shown that even a 10-minute massage can boost the levels of endorphins, serotonin and dopamine, decrease cortisol, and increase tissue elasticity.
In addition to these physical benefits, a therapeutic massage can also foster emotional healing. People often feel cared for and supported during massage, which can lead to feelings of euphoria and happiness. The sense of caring and support can also help with communication in some settings, such as with children with profound disabilities, where touch may be the only means of communication.
During a massage, the body releases oxytocin and serotonin into the bloodstream, which cause an immediate feeling of well-being. They also help to reduce the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that causes depression and anxiety. Cortisol inhibits the brain’s use of glucose and curbs functions that are nonessential in a fight-or-flight situation, which can contribute to stress. During a massage, cortisol levels are decreased and oxytocin and serotonin are increased, which can help to alleviate stress.
Another way that massage relieves stress is by decreasing heart rate and lowering blood pressure. This is a result of the relaxation of the muscles and the overall stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system. Additionally, massage increases the circulation of blood throughout the body and helps to eliminate waste products.
In addition to decreasing the heart rate and reducing blood pressure, massage increases the temperature of the skin, which relaxes the muscles and promotes general wellness. A study published in the journal Scientific Reports found that just ten minutes of therapeutic massage significantly increased psychological and physiological relaxation compared to rest. Including massage as part of your health regimen can help you feel, look and be healthier far into the future.
Reduces Anxiety
A massage stimulates the autonomic nervous system encouraging the release of positive hormones like endorphins, serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters are responsible for reducing stress, anxiety and depression. Moreover, they reduce the level of negative hormone cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a hormone that increases the “fight or flight” response and suppresses the immune system.
A study published in the “Journal of Clinical Psychiatry” suggests that massage can increase serotonin levels which is known to help with depression, phobias and anxiety. This is because when there is an increased level of serotonin, it helps to decrease the stress hormone cortisol. In addition, an article published in the “Prog Cardiovasc Nurs” suggests that massage can decrease anxiety for those awaiting invasive cardiovascular procedures.
Massage can also increase the feeling of connection between patients and their healthcare practitioners. For example, a study on the effect of massage on HIV/AIDS patients and their quality of life found that people who received massage reported less depression and anxiety than those who did not receive a massage. It is thought that this is due to the fact that those who received a massage felt cared for, and this can lead to improved communication between patients and their caregivers.
Another study found that massage can help with anxiety in those with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). GAD is characterized by unfocused worries that can interfere with daily functioning and is twice as common in women as men. The study found that massage significantly reduced GAD in the participants, and the benefits were maintained at follow-up.
Unlike some studies that have compared massage to medication, this one used an experimental design and randomized the participants into two groups. One group received a 10 massage sessions and the other did not. Both groups were evaluated on their anxiety levels using a visual analogue scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Results showed that both the hand massage and hand holding group and the control group experienced a significant decrease in their anxiety levels compared to premassage measurements. However, the hand holding group had an even greater reduction in anxiety.
Relieves Pain
Massage relieves pain by triggering the release of chemicals called endorphins, which act as natural painkillers. Additionally, if you have a muscle or joint injury, massage may stimulate the release of cytokines, which are molecules that reduce inflammation and swelling in the injured area.
Studies have found that massage increases a person’s range of motion in the joints, decreases muscle tightness and tenderness and improves overall mobility. Many people with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, find that regular massage helps to ease the symptoms of their condition and may even prevent flare-ups.
If you have a chronic pain disorder, talk with your doctor before getting a massage. You will need to provide a medical history and your health care provider may want to do an examination before recommending massage therapy. In addition, it is important to communicate with your health care provider about any discomfort or pain you feel during and after a massage.
Therapeutic massages are designed to release deep layers of muscle and connective tissue using slow, firm strokes. These techniques include kneading, stretching and cupping. Depending on your needs and the type of massage you choose, your therapist will use different amounts of pressure. Some massages, such as deep tissue, may be slightly uncomfortable, but the therapist will adjust the pressure and technique to your comfort level.
Tight muscles can result from increased stress, comorbid health conditions or just everyday wear and tear on the body. These tight muscles can increase pain, restrict your range of motion and cause other health problems. Massage reduces pain and stiffness by increasing blood flow to the tissues, which carries oxygen and nutrients and flushes waste products.
Massage can also reduce the level of a neurotransmitter called ‘substance P’, which sends messages along pathways in the nervous system including those that are sensitive to pain and inflammation. By reducing the levels of this chemical, massage can diminish pain and decrease inflammation.
Massage can also be used to help manage a variety of health conditions, such as fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. In one study, patients with knee osteoarthritis who received weekly massages showed improved range of motion and decreased pain compared to a control group that did not receive massage.
Promotes Healing
Massage increases the circulation of blood and lymph. This enables oxygen and nutrients to flow to damaged muscles, tissue and organs and removes waste products, improving the function of tissues and cells. Massage also decreases swelling and promotes the removal of scar tissue.
In one study, patients with chronic fibromyalgia experienced improved sleep, cognition and mood following five weeks of weekly massage treatments. Massage may also be beneficial for people living with cancer or other illness. According to a report in Integrative Cancer Therapies, massage can alleviate the physical and emotional stress of cancer pain, as well as the fatigue associated with it. Massage can stimulate the release of feel-good hormones, such as oxytocin and serotonin, which are known to boost immunity and reduce depression.
The type of massage you receive, and the way it is applied, can have a big impact on its effectiveness. Research shows that deep tissue massage is the most effective for relieving chronic back pain. This type of massage involves rubbing or kneading the body’s soft tissues, which are made up of muscle, skin, connective tissue and other fibrous tissues. Massage can be applied with hands, fingers, elbows, forearms, knees or feet or by using a massage table.
One theory for how massage relieves pain is that it interrupts the body’s pain loop. Another is that it stimulates the nervous system. Pain signals travel on small-diameter nerve fibers, but massage can stimulate larger, more receptive nerves. This causes a “muffling” of pain messages, and the brain begins to interpret pain signals differently.
In addition, massage may increase the production of antioxidants in the blood, which can protect tissues from damage and reduce inflammation. It may also improve the immune system by reducing levels of inflammatory proteins called cytokines in treated muscles. Studies indicate that massage can help the immune system clear injured muscle tissue faster, which may help speed up the healing process. Massage also increases the elasticity of muscles, which allows them to move more easily and reduce strains on joints. This can also help prevent future injuries.
Dream Lawn Designs
You’ve daydreamed about your perfect lawn and backyard for some time. Now, it’s time to turn those dreams into reality. Here are a few ways to do just that.
Dream Lawn Designs uses Living Biology to improve soil health and reduce over 70% of synthetic chemicals. Click the button to learn more!
Decks
A deck is a versatile addition to a home and can be designed in a variety of ways to suit the needs and aesthetics of your yard. For example, a deck can be built to include a BBQ grill and dining area, an outdoor bar, or even a custom-built pool! Getting the most out of your deck and backyard requires thoughtful planning. To start, consider the likes and needs of your family and guests. Likes are based on what you want your deck to look like, while needs involve practicality, usability and safety.
For instance, if you are having a large party, you’ll need enough room to fit everyone comfortably as well as any other gear you may have like chairs, tables, and an outdoor bar. You’ll also need a staircase to safely exit the space when needed.
Decks are increasingly being used as a space for barbecues and family gatherings. They’re also being incorporated into hotels and office buildings as open-air cafeterias and lounges. If you have any special landscaping or notable features on your property, a custom deck is the perfect way to highlight them.
When you’re ready to start building your dream deck, the best thing to do is hire a professional contractor who can take care of the details for you. They’ll know how much the project is going to cost and make sure you stay within your budget. They’ll also handle the necessary permits and inspections for you, making your construction process as stress-free as possible.
Sheds
Sheds aren’t just for storage; they can represent the personality of the owner and be a focal point in the yard. They can serve a variety of purposes, from a playhouse for the kids to an artist’s studio, a backyard office, or even a personal bar. Sheds are highly customizable and can be designed to match the trim, siding, roofing, and design of your home. Decorative options like dormers, shutters, finials, and weathervanes can be added to enhance the shed’s exterior. Practical options like a potter’s bench for mixing soil and ventilation systems can be included in the design.
If you’re willing to invest a bit more, sheds can even be transformed into tiny living spaces. These shed homes are known as accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and must follow local rules for construction. A professional can help you determine the best option for your property, including what type of structure and materials to use.
Wood, resin, and metal are all popular shed building materials. Each offers its own set of benefits, including price, durability, and assembly time. Once you’ve selected a material, the next step is to decide what layout and features you’d like in your shed. Some common design elements include doors and windows, a loft or sleeping area, and insulation. You’ll also want to consider the location and size of your shed, as well as the cost of construction and site preparation.
To make your shed a more inviting space, add some cozy furnishings and decor. A plush area rug and some throw blankets can instantly transform the shed into a relaxing retreat. For a more dramatic look, paint the shed in bright hues or incorporate handmade fabric artwork to create a whimsical touch.
Outdoor Kitchens
A full outdoor kitchen makes it easy to host family and friends for alfresco meals. Whether you want to grill hamburgers, fire-roast pizza, or prepare a steak and vegetable medley, you’ll find the equipment needed in a well-appointed cookspace. To help you choose the best layout and design for your kitchen, consider what kind of entertaining and cooking style you enjoy, then select the right appliances, materials, and accessories to complement your taste.
To add extra comfort to your patio kitchen, consider installing an outdoor fireplace to provide warmth and ambiance. A fireplace also helps to create a defined dining space for guests to gather around, and it can be a focal point that brings your patio together as a cohesive whole.
An outdoor kitchen should include plenty of storage to keep essentials close at hand. When planning your layout, be sure to leave room for trash and recycling bins, cleaning supplies, and tableware (like dishes, utensils, and glassware). If you don’t have built-in cabinets or drawers, bring in furniture like a standalone island or rolling cart to boost organizational capacity.
For a modern aesthetic, opt for sleek stainless steel appliances and neutral colors that complement the existing home architecture and landscaping. Natural materials and simple lines define the space and make it feel like a true extension of the home.
To bring a natural vibe to an outdoor kitchen, surround the cooking area with abundant greenery. In this luxurious outdoor kitchen and dining space, a neat line of arborvitae frames the grilling station, offering privacy and visual interest. A long stretch of concrete countertops doubles as food prep and a serving bar, and the stacked stone cladding and cypress cabinets offer a timeless, weather-resistant style.
Pergolas
Pergolas are the perfect way to add beauty and interest to any outdoor space. They can create shade on a deck or patio, serve as an entryway into your yard, and even grow vines to create a natural roof for an outdoor lounge area. At Backyard Discovery, we have a number of options for you to choose from, including cedar pergolas and modern steel structures. We can also install a variety of decor and accent pieces to personalize your pergola to fit any backyard space.
One of the most popular uses for a pergola is to provide a focal point around a pool. This combines two of the most popular HGTV-approved backyard trends: an outdoor kitchen and a relaxing swimming spot. When placed over a pool, pergolas create an eye-catching color contrast between the white of the structure and the tan of the surrounding landscape.
Another great use for a pergola is to create an outdoor dining area or sitting space. This is a simple, inexpensive way to create an inviting space that is perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing with your family. If you want to keep the costs low, we recommend pairing your pergola with a simple outdoor kitchen that includes a grill and some picnic tables.
Before installing your pergola, think about how you plan to use it. Will you be dining in it, lounging alone, or hosting large parties? This will help you determine how big a space you need and the style of decor you’ll want to add.
You should also consider whether you want to assemble your pergola yourself or hire a professional. If you’re planning on assembling it yourself, Backyard Discovery offers kits that include step-by-step instructions and a free BILT app to make the process easier. Depending on your level of expertise, you can often assemble a pergola in just a few hours with a helper.
Gazebos
Gazebos are a great way to frame an area of your garden, or create a relaxing space where you can sit and enjoy the view. These structures can also be used as a spot for entertaining guests, and are usually built from durable materials such as wood or metal. They can be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can often accommodate other hardscape features such as paths or walls. The design and style of a gazebo should compliment the style of your home, and blend in with the surrounding garden and landscaping.
If you’re looking for a way to add some privacy to your gazebo, consider adding lattice walls on one or more of the sides. This will allow vines to grow up and over the structure, creating a private hideaway where you can relax by yourself or with friends. A gazebo is also the perfect place to install a hot tub. You can then use it as a place to soak up the sun during the day and stargaze at night.
Another consideration when planning for a gazebo is the climate where you live. If your yard is prone to harsh winter weather, it’s a good idea to cover the structure when not in use. This will protect it from heavy snow and ice, which could cause the gazebo to collapse. You can also add insulation to the roof of your gazebo to make it more comfortable during the coldest temperatures.
Upgrades are a great way to enhance your gazebo and make it a space that you will love spending time in for years to come. Blogger Liz Marie added a wood bead chandelier, patio furniture, a small white buffet and plants to this farmhouse-style gazebo to create a tranquil outdoor living room.
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