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Monthly Archives: May 2011

Award winning pond designed and built by the Deck and Patio Company in Huntington Station New York. This pond is 16′ X 25′ with a 35′ stream around the back. It was built in Cold Spring Harbor  New York. The pond features all Aquscape products including and grande biofall and grande skimmer, a 10,000 gph  ADI pump, 3″ plumbing, 45 mil liner with underlayment, all Moss rock pond stone and waterfall, and river gravel. This pond is an ecosystem, and requires very little maintanance. To see more award winning ponds, pool and waterfalls go to http://deckandpatio.com/awards/Awards2007.html

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The Deck and Patio company is concerned about old and poorly built decks. Decks are the perfect place to enjoy warm weather with friends and loved ones. With May upon us, the days are getting longer and it’s not too hot or too cool to go outside to spend time relaxing, firing up the grill, or throwing a party on the deck. For many, this time is generally spent on decks.

After the winter months, when snow and ice have hit hard, decks can develop trouble spots. Some of the common reasons a deck will collapse ranges from age of the deck, poor maintenance, exceeding its load capacity to improper building methods.

Below are some common tips to check:

Substructure – Check several different areas of the deck to be sure the wood substructure is still sound. This includes the ledger board (where the deck attaches to the house and a common source of deck failure), support posts and joists under the deck.

Railing and Balusters – These should be secure. Push on them to be sure there is no give.

Stairs – Check any railings or handrails to be sure they are firmly held in place; check also the risers and stringers to be certain they are securely attached. Keep stair pathways clear of planters, decor, toys and other items that can present a tripping hazard.

Lighting and Electrical – Clean any light covers to allow maximum light to shine through and trim any plants or trees limbs that may be blocking light. Be sure all electrical outlets, appliances and features are up to code, in good condition and childproof if children are present. Watch that any electrical cords do not present a tripping hazard.

Cleaning and Maintenance – Clean away any leaves and debris, since they can be slippery.

Outdoor Furniture and Storage – Test all outdoor furniture to be sure it is sturdy. Avoid placing seating right at the edge of the deck. If you have a swing or hammock installed, test the chains and ropes to be sure they are secure.

Surrounding Trees – If you have trees overhanging your deck, make certain there is no danger of decaying limbs breaking free and falling from trees surrounding the deck.

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The great thing about hot tubs is that everyone can enjoy them – whether you’re old or young, anyone can find an escape, relaxation, and pure happiness in the swirling warm water with massaging jets. Ahhhhhhh!

That said, there are certain hot tub activities that are approved and others that are nothing but trouble; the list of “hot tub dos and don’ts below is both your guide to bathing bliss and a warning against, well, stupidity.

DO: Rest and Relax

couple relaxing in a hot tub

 The single most significant benefit to any hot tub is its ability to offer unparalleled rest and relaxation. Whether it’s stress, headaches or a lack of sleep, the warm water helps to release endorphins that naturally reduce stress and increase circulation. If ever you’re high-strung or simply feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders, DO soak in a hot tub and let the warm water wash away your worries.

 

DON’T: Fall on Your Face

 If you’ve done too much relaxing in the warm waters, you might find that your muscles are so loose that they won’t work as fast as your brain would want them to. If your body is in a deep state of tranquility, mind your motor skills when getting out and DON’T fall on your face!

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May 2011
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