Making Good Use of Your Outdoor Deck

If you are lucky enough to have a deck on your home, you already have what many homeowners and renters just dream about, and you may have an under-used gem in your possession. Employ a few of the following suggestions and you could have a whole new space to live in.

Finish or Refinish

Maybe the reason your deck in not used very often, is because the wood is rough and not user-friendly. In this case a power sander could become your best friend. Sand down the entire deck so it is barefoot- friendly and will take a finish uniformly, then apply a stain or colored wood preserver to maintain its new beauty.

Fix up the Hot Tub

If your deck is not located near a pool, your hot tub can take its place in many instances. Family talks, entertaining or just relaxing after a hard day are all good reasons to make the most of your hot tub. Add a table of similar height so that you have some place to sit sodas and ice to refresh your guests and place a couple of reclining lounges nearby. If your hot tub is not operating at its best, call the hot tub and pool maintenance Pittsburgh homeowners rely on to make their repairs.

Add Some Lights

String up some Edison lights or hanging lanterns to add a bit of a magical glow to the deck area. Try to use yellow-tinted bulbs if you have a problem with mosquitoes or bugs. You might also enhance the atmosphere and bring more light in with candles, but keep in mind that breathing citronella vapors can be harmful people and they are no longer thought to keep bugs away. Opt instead to use soy wax or even battery operated candles to add to the intimate feel.

As you can see, you can create a dreamy oasis away from everyday worries, or at least a peaceful place to contemplate them, by updating your deck. You may find that it becomes one of your favorite places to gather with your family and to end your day.

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Be Aware of the 3 Most Common House Pests

No home is vulnerable to pest invasions. Whether the building is brand new or has been around for years, owners should prepare for any unwelcome organisms that can affect their property, comfort and health. While climate conditions, location and other factors can impact the types of pests that residents encounter, they can expect to see these creatures more often than others.

House Spiders

Webs in the corners of most rooms are the work of house spiders. These arachnids are usually brown with yellowish and white colors and inhabit small spaces where their webs can catch smaller insects for food. While they do not tend to bite unless threatened and are generally harmless, they can still be a nuisance to owners trying to keep the area clean. The sealing of cracks is the best way to prevent house spiders and vacuuming webs can effectively eliminate them.

Bed Bugs

A bedroom can be considered the most intimate part of a house; therefore, it also needs to be the safest. Unfortunately, bed bugs can prey on sleeping inhabitants and feed on their blood. These creatures can even move through unusual locations like stuffed animals and airplanes to seek new hosts. This pest is not easy to eliminate, so owners recruit exterminators who specialize in bed bugs fort myers to achieve effective results.

Rodents

Not all home pests consist of insects and arachnids. Mice and rats can fit through every small opening and space throughout the building. If left unchecked, these rodents can terrify people, destroy property and carry powerful hantaviruses. Just as with most pests, the best way to prevent them is by covering every void and crack, as well as maintaining a strong drainage system. Professionals must interfere if rodents are present.

Pests always negatively impact home life, ranging between nuisances and health hazards. Homeowners need to observe the presence and frequency of these organisms to contact experienced exterminators and resolve the situation.

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