Saturday, July 30, 2005
Snap-together panelscreate an easy deck
Turning a concrete patio into a deck has just become a snap.
A new decking product called Ezydeck consists of panels that snap together without the need for hardware or adhesives. The panels have a plastic base topped by 1-inch-thick wood planks.
Ezydeck is available in five styles and is made of jarrah, an Australian hardwood that resists decay and insect damage. It can be laid over any solid, well-drained surface, including brick, wood decking, asphalt and gravel.
The product can be ordered directly from the warehouse at (706) 226-1301. A sample package is $25, and a carton of tiles covering 10 square feet is $69.90. Shipping and handling are extra.
More information can be found at www.ezydeck.net.
Book has many ideasfor window treatments
Do-it-yourself decorators can get ideas and instructions for making a variety of window treatments in "So Simple Window Style" by Gail Abbott and Cate Burren.
The book coaches readers on such considerations as decorating style, light and privacy needs, then gives them instructions for 30 projects.
A chapter on basic techniques covers measuring windows, helps users determine how much fabric they'll need and teaches common stitches.
"So Simple Window Style" is published by Creative Homeowner and sells for $19.95 in softcover.
Hardwood flooringis simple to install
Is your floor at home tile or linoleum over concrete? That's a built-in formula for cold feet. However, there's nothing like the feel of wood plank underfoot. So, deep-six that concrete chill and replace it with the beauty and warmth of hardwood flooring. The easiest method is to install factory-finished parquet or laminated hardwood directly over the concrete. Just make sure it's clean. Then glue it down.
Another option is a floating floor. With this choice, individual laminated planks are glued together, but not "anchored" to the floor. They float on a layer of foam.
Both floating floors and traditional solid wood planks on plywood need plastic-sheet vapor barriers because moisture creeps up through concrete slabs. Without this barrier, wood floors twist, cup, split and come loose.
List stored materials
When you put furniture and other items in long-term storage, make a detailed list so that you won't lose track of what you do have and end up buying duplicates. Also note and make sure any items that may be affected by changes in temperature or moisture are sealed and protected.