Guest Picks: Concrete Suggestions for Decks and Patios

Hostuder

Like functional sculptures, lots of trendy indoor and outdoor products are created by a fiber cement material that renders the designs lightweight, easily transportable and ideal for urban dwellers. Concrete is a natural material that has long been a favorite among architects and designers because of its durability, in addition to its grand breadth of colors and distinctive finishes that provide a broad spectrum of design choices.

Because it’s most commonly used as a construction material, concrete is obviously ideal for outdoor products of all types. It is weather and UV resistant, making it virtually maintenance free and equipped to hold up to just about anything, such as children and dogs. Additionally, it is porous, so it drains well, making it good for planters since it enables plants to breathe and consume only enough water and nutrients. Better yet, it stays cool, helping maintain appropriate soil temperatures. — Robin from Urban Gardens

Ivanka Studio

Puzzle Slabs

Time for some games. How about mixing it up with these concrete slab mystery tiles interspersed with bud? They’re chic and witty and let you play on the terrace.

Ivanka Studio

Biofire Coffee Table

Ivanka creates this fabulous combination concrete table and bioethanol firepit. The double-duty layout is excellent for smaller spaces since it’s two products in one.

2Modern

De Castelli Claps Stone – $956.81

De Castelli’s lightweight cement Claps Stones are smooth white stones that function as seating, a place for setting a drink or just as decorative pieces. They are perfect for urban spaces, as they are easy to proceed into the rooftop and rear indoors.

Etsy

Concrete Geodesic Planter, Dark Gray by At Stuart

Inspired by the geodesic dome, this hand-cast cement planter is pure natural architecture for your garden. I would fill it with something colorful or using succulents. A group of them are magnificent.

Etsy

Concrete Coffee Table With Moss Planters by LAbC Furniture – $1,100

I’m loving this outdoor glass fiber–reinforced concrete block with moss insets on the surface. It is would be be good for indoor or outdoor use, as it’s lightweight and the moss needs no upkeep except an occasional misting.

Etsy

Concrete/Wood Planter Bench by Tao Concrete – $1,300

This concrete and timber planter seat has a wonderful blend of industrial and natural elements. For the two exterior or interior spaces, it’s a good illustration of a multifunctional piece that’s both a planter. It would be particularly good for smaller spaces where a single piece must do the work of 2.

Etsy

Extra Large Handmade Concrete Gold Planter from Dachshund in the Desert – $40

Oh what a delicious bit of bling this hand-painted concrete could result in any decor! I love the contrasting roughness and gold colour of this planter’s edge, which can be sealed so that it’s perfectly weather resistant and ready for outside.

Etsy

Concrete Birdhouse from Ferguson Mireault Concrete Design – CAD 95

Hi, birdies. Here’s a modern concrete and timber abode for contemporary feathered friends. What do I love? The magnetic lid that may be easily removed for cleanup along with the water-based acrylic sealer that enables it to be left outside all year round.

Stitched Concrete Stools

A study in trendy modern contrasts, these stools combine the appearance of soft fabric with the strength of concrete. The advanced Stitched Concrete stools by designer Florian Schmid are cleverly created by folding cement-impregnated fabric supported with a PVC backing, so they are weather and UV resistant, lightweight, and easily moved indoors or outside.

Concrete by LCDA

Cubik Concrete Table

Think big with this particular concrete and stainless steel dining table that has a design statement indoors or outside. Its lightweight concrete top sits on a base of 2 stainless steel legs, however, the element I love most is the centre well that may hold river stones or plants or — get creative!

ArchiExpo

Concrete Jungle Table

Discuss about funk and function. Jonas Bohlin’s Concrete Jungle dining table is ready to party. Its top concrete disc sits on a black painted steel base. Put some candles into the snowy aquarium gravel (that comes with the dining table), then light up it and revel in the glow.

Grupo Bondi

M. Bench – $194.79

A twist on outdoor upholstery, this Grupo Bondi concrete pouf makes enjoyable outdoor or indoor seating and can be also quite a conversation piece.

Stefan Zwicky

Comfort Without Conformity Chair

I am rather intrigued by designer Stefan Zwicky’s concrete homage to the iconic Corbusier seat. This really brings a contemporary classic outside. It is not for each space, but it would surely include a trendy detail into some landscapes.

5.5 Designers

Mobilier a Jardiner

How interesting is this concrete garden furniture? The creative minds in the agency 5.5 Designers came up with a collection of modular concrete bits that incorporate planters of varying sizes and configurations. The furniture is intended to go anywhere you are able to plant it.

Anna Badur

Concrete Bench

Anna Badur’s seat beautifully fools the eye using its “soft” concrete seat. It has buttonholes that Badur says she’s adjusted to the body to provide comfort. I love the way the designer has thought it throughout. It’s drainage holes if it rains, and the powder-coated steel frame and legs add a dash of colour.

HARD GOODS

Triangulum Fire Pit – $1,979

I love to heat up from the flames of an outdoor fire. Envision a group sitting about that one that’s made from durable combination concrete. It is equally good looking and practical. The fire sits 10 inches from the floor, over vertical slots that allow drainage and allow in air to feed the flames.

HARD GOODS

Knotty Stool – $756

These funky hollow-cast concrete tree stumps make fabulous outdoor side tables or additional seating. If you want to bring nature indoors, just add the optional sliders and roll up the Knotty Stool indoors.

Sit Urban Design

Bench With Backrest and Planter

I can see some of these planter chairs together on a terrace overlooking the cityscape. They work nicely as seating, occasional tables or both, and flexible pieces such as these optimize limited spaces.

Next: Concrete Driveways: Poring Over the Pros and Cons

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Emerald – Las Vegas Market 2013

Hostuder

At a partnership with Pantone and , Emerald is amazing with notable products from current and future vegas Market renters, all against the background of recent Pantone colour selections.

View the virtual Emerald ideabook to get product and vendor details whether you are attending Market or engaging from home.

Larry Hanna

Tap the labels for detail about these and other items:

-Mr. Brown Granta armchair and Pablo coffee table

-Arteriors house spore chalk-white mirror

-Capel Arabesque Shade

-Classic Home Penley couch

-Julien Chichester Ptolemey chest

-Jiti Design cushions

Larry Hanna

Larry Hanna

Larry Hanna

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Guest Picks: Christmas Stockings for Stuffing

Hostuder

My family begins decorating for the holidays shortly. But I feel as the stockings constantly get overlooked. We’re supposed to hang on them from the chimney with care, right? Are you currently a conventional stocking lover, or would you prefer something more casual or casual? — Michelle from Stuttering Shell

HSNi

Kurt Adler Elvis Gold Boots Stocking – $14.95

Got an Elvis lover in your life? This stocking is not a blue suede shoe, but it does take you back to Elvis and his embellished jumpsuit.

Pottery Barn

Velvet Stocking – $16

These are the stockings that my family owns (red with green trim and green with red trim). I really like that these stockings are a fantastic size and they’re not too fancy or fussy. The velvet feel is just the perfect touch. In the end, you need your tree, not your sleeves, to steal the show.

The Land of Nod

Dot and Stripe Stockings – $29

Polka dots and stripes done in various shades of green and red felt create for a contemporary layout. These are undoubtedly a fun take on the traditional Christmas stocking.

Pottery Barn

Length Stocking Holder – $34.50

Instead of monogramming your sleeves, why don’t you customize the stocking holder instead? I adore the idea of using a favorite photo to indicate that stocking belongs to each person.

West Elm

Velvet Stockings – $24

The contrasting pompom on the toe of these stockings is ridiculously cute. If I didn’t purchase new stockings this past year, I’d totally scoop up these for my family.

Kirkland’s

Merry Christmas Stocking Holder – $29.99

Never have I noticed a stocking holder like this before, but I enjoy the idea of not needing to put holes from the mantel or utilizing those heavy, clumsy stocking holders. At least this stand guarantees that your stocking will not drop from the fireplace.

Grandin Road

Enchanted Christmas Stocking – $79

This stocking yells anything but conventional. It’s semi-reminiscent of a court jester, but I really like its bright colors and glittery look. Should you decorate for the holidays with bold, bright colors, then this is the stocking for you.

The Orvis Company

Dog Breed Needlepoint Stocking – $39

My dogs have their own Christmas stockings — after all, they should not be excluded from all the holiday fun. I adore the appearance of these needlepoint stockings from Orvis. They’re a must-have for any puppy lover.

Kirkland’s

Western Boot Stocking, Red & Green – $9.99

I really like this whimsical, Wild West–themed stocking isn’t your traditional appearance.

Ballard Designs

Tabletop Stocking Holder – $39

Here’s another unique stocking holder. These could be left out annually or used for different things, like holding wreaths. The wrought iron appearance would fit nicely with all kinds of decor.

The Business Store

Appliquéd Holiday Stockings – $25

These felt stockings are super cute and perfect for any child — or child in your heart.

Pier 1 Imports

Emerald Sequin Stocking – $25

This really is a stocking which is begging to be full of goodies! Santa surely won’t miss this because he comes down the chimney.

Ballard Designs

Personalized Christmas Stockings – $39

These whimsical stockings out of Ballard Designs are fun and funky. Plus, you can customize them at no cost! If you’re not a traditionalist when it comes to holiday decor, these might be ideal for you.

Pier 1 Imports

Glitter Bell Stocking Holder – $19.95

This stocking holder is fun. I really like the oversize glittery bell. It’ll remind you to believe in the soul of Christmas.

Cost Plus World Market

Twist to Santa Pocket Stocking – $9.99

This is a neat idea for a stocking. On Christmas Eve, your little one can leave a note for jolly ol’ Saint Nick.

Garnet Hill

Hable Christmas Stockings – $58

For those who desire something more than a plain design and enjoy vibrant design, these stockings from Garnet Hill are just perfect. Each family member could have their own layout, and all of them coordinate nicely with each other.

Pottery Barn Kids

Red Ribbon Velvet Stocking – $22

This striped stocking has just a hint of gingham across the top edge. It’s so easy yet so sweet at the exact same time.

Personal Creations

Metal Photo Stocking Holder – $14.99

This stocking holder frees up your mantel for more holiday decorating. You can customize each holder with a picture also. I adore the idea of keeping stockings near the fireplace, but marginally aside from the fireplace in the exact same time — particularly if you use your fireplace in the wintertime.

RedEnvelope

Custom Graphic Felt Stocking – $29.95

Here’s another option for pets. With a simple shape and a monogram, you’ve got a gorgeous stocking to hang from the fireplace for your treasured four-legged companion.

Etsy

Knit Christmas Stocking by Loops and Lines

There’s something warm and reassuring about a hand-knit Christmas stocking. It’s simple in design yet elegant in appearance. These are definitely worthy of being hung from the fireplace.

Next: Create a Fireplace Focal Point

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How to Dry Plywood

Hostuder

Plywood consists of thin layers of softwood laminated together using a strong, adhesive-like urea formaldehyde or polyurethane. While the adhesive is waterproof, the wooden layers aren’t, and they are able to swell or deform when exposed to moisture. The adhesive bonds weakens if the wood stays wet for a protracted interval, and the layers can finally separate. This is a frequent phenomenon when plywood is used for basement walls, exterior siding and subfloors. Once plywood has become moist, you need to encourage the water which has soaked into the wood fibers to evaporate to allow it to be dry again.

Stack loose sheets of wet plywood in a dry place with plenty of flow. Place blocks between the sheets so that air can circulate across both faces of every sheet, and makes sure all of the edges are vulnerable.

Expose the faces of sheets which are installed in a floor, ceiling or wall and can’t be removed. Wipe any standing water using a sponge, and circulate air around the moist areas with a fan.

Eliminate wet sheets of plywood from wherever they’re installed, if at all possible, which means you can circulate air across the borders. The advantages are the parts of the sheets which are most vulnerable to water damage and might stay moist even if both faces dry out.

Boost the surrounding temperature to speed drying. If the sheets are in closed area, raise the room heat or place a mobile heater nearby. You can also lower the ambient humidity by running a dehumidifier. If you’re drying sheets outside, stack them in sunlight.

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How to Clean Sandblasted Metal Before Painting

Hostuder

Sandblasting is an efficient method for removing old paint and rust from a metallic item to prepare it for painting. Sandblasting is performed on virtually any metallic item, from patio furniture to car parts, and creates a smooth surface as a result of abrasive qualities of the sand. After sandblasting, the metallic object must be thoroughly washed to remove all traces of dirt and grease in addition to residual traces of sand which will interfere with all the paint.

Transfer the metal object to an outside location where you have plenty of space to work.

Fill a bucket with 1 gallon of water and then pour in 2-3 tbsp. Of a strong detergent cleaner. Mix the solution well until soap bubbles shape in the top.

Add a stiff-bristle brush to the sterile water mix and then scrub the entire surface of the metallic item, working your way from top to the bottom. Be certain to work the bristles to any small crevices and connection points to remove grease and buildup from them.

Wipe the metallic item thoroughly, using the spray from a garden hose. Rinse the item from top to bottom until no longer soap bubbles form on the surface.

Analyze the surface of the metallic item carefully to determine if a faint rust-colored residue is evident, which can be known as”flash rust” If flash rust is present, wear rubber gloves and then soak a rag in paint thinner. Wipe all surfaces of the metal to remove the residue.

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Removing White Spots on Wood Furniture With Vaseline

Hostuder

When you set a wet object, including a glass with melting ice, on a piece of wood furniture, the condensation can drip down and leave behind a white spot, often a telltale ring. Spicy dishes set on a table without a coaster may also leave behind white stains, which would be the consequence of water penetrating the timber’s finish.To eliminate the mark, you must utilize something which pulls the moisture from the end, such as Vaseline or a different brand of petroleum jelly.

Mix oil soap formulated for cleaning wood according to the package instructions.

Put on the soap to a damp white cloth. Wipe the white spot softly to remove any polish or wax buildup. Reapply as needed according to the package instructions.

Dry the washed place using a dry white cloth.

Scoop out Vaseline or other brand of petroleum jelly with your finger or a different white cloth to cover the blot.

Rub a thick poultice of the Vaseline or other petroleum jelly into the stain and leave it on overnight.

Wipe away the excess oil jelly with a dry, white cloth after 24 hours.

Repeat Steps 4 through 6 as necessary until the white spot is gone.

Reapply wax or wax into the cleaned spot according to the package instructions.

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Tips for Cleaning Exterior Brick

Hostuder

Cleaning outside brickwork such as walls, paths and fences on a regular basis not only retains the brick looking fresh and new, but also increases its lifespan. Moss, mildew and layers of grime trap moisture that degrades the surface of the brick. Removing grime will conserve your brickwork for years to come.

Condition is Everything

Inspect the brickwork for any damage, before cleaning. Cracks, chips and missing chunks of mortar may allow water to seep beyond the surface, resulting in irreversible damage. Make any necessary repairs prior to cleaning the bricks that water and detergent do not make the issue worse.

Test It Out

If you’re planning to use any detergent on the bricks, test an inconspicuous area prior to cleaning. Spray or use the cleaner on the brick, scrub as you would during cleaning then rinse. Check the brick when it dries to guarantee that the detergent hasn’t caused any discoloring.

Spray It Off

Use a pressure washer to remove grime and surface dirt. Take care to not damage the masonry using the maximum pressure or holding the sprayer too near the bricks. Keep the pressure below 3000 psi. Typically, pressure washing will be sufficient to wash out the brick. When it is stained or heavily soiled and the sprayer doesn’t depart the brick tidy, you might have to use a detergent.

Do-It-Yourself Detergent

Utilize a commercial brick cleaning solution to remove stains and grime, or create your own. For grime, mix equal portions laundry detergent and water. Particularly those due to moss, mix one part bleach. Or, make a paste you could spread on the brick by mixing one part salt and one part dishwashing liquid then adding only enough water to make a thick paste. Start at the base of the wall and work your way up, letting the detergent endure for five to ten minutes prior to scrubbing with a brush and rinsing.

Blast It Off

As a final resort, you may use abrasive blasting to remove stains and dirt. This process can damage mortar and bricks if not done properly. It is not suitable for historical or soft bricks. This sort of job is best performed by an expert. If you decide to do it yourself, test a small area first to make sure the abrasive doesn’t pit or damage the brick. Abrasive blasting options include lavender, nut shells, cherry or peach pits and glass rings.

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How to Clean Kitchen Knobs

Hostuder

They might be expected while it’s easy to overlook the knobs on cabinets, drawers and appliances as soon as it comes to kitchen cleaning. Baking or grease, food supplies coat the knobs grab them, leaving behind a mess that dries set up. Clean those knobs with things already in your kitchen.

White Vinegar Wonder

A soft cloth dipped in vinegar and rubbed every knob over cleans the plating and removes mineral residue left from water if the knobs get wet.

Foil Finisher

Wet aluminum foil rubbed above a chrome-plated knob generates an aluminum-based gloss that smooths knobs and even eliminates some rust. Until the knobs feel clean and smooth, then wipe off the residue with a soft fabric rub.

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How to Remove Black Marks From Pfaltzgraff Dinner Ware

Hostuder

Pfaltzgraff began as a house pottery company in the early 1800s, offering dishes and serving pieces in various ceramic materials, like stoneware and earthenware. Black marks occasionally develop on Pfaltzgraff dinnerware when tiny pieces of metal from aluminum or silver utensils become deposited on the hard glazed surface. These dark “scrapes” or lines may seem unsightly, but you can typically remove the marks having an inexpensive, homemade glue.

Wash your affected Pfaltzgraff dinnerware piece under running warm water. This helps remove any tiny dirt or food particles that might thwart your mark-removal efforts.

Pour two to three tablespoons of baking soda into a small mixing bowl. Slowly add water and stir the 2 ingredients together till you get a thick paste.

Dip a clean, damp sponge into the baking soda paste. Apply the glue directly onto the black marks, using light pressure to tighten it into the lines. Allow the glue to sit for three to five minutes.

Rub the paste gently with the sponge in a circular motion until the black marks completely come off the dish. Clean your dinnerware piece as usual and dry it with a clean, soft towel.

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The Way to Scotchgard a Massive Couch

Hostuder

Sizes stain inhibitors prevent liquids from quickly penetrating the surface of couch fabric. While they don’t prevent liquids from penetrating totally, they usually maintain the liquids on the surface long enough to give you time to have the paper towels.

Sizes Away

Buy spray stain inhibitor designed for upholstery fabrics. Check the label for the square footage of coverage at each can and buy enough to give your couch at least four coats of spray. Test the spray on an inconspicuous section of the couch, checking for cloth colour fastness, and if the spray shifts the pliability of the cloth — particularly on microfiber, chenille or velvet. Remove the pillows and at a well-ventilated room, spray the couch. Begin at the peak of the rear and cover the surface with an additional spray. Examine the application directions for the best distance to maintain the can from the fabric. Let the couch dry, then apply the rest three coats — just one after every drying session. Spray one side of each one of the pillows, allow it to dry, then spray the remaining side. Should you place clean a section of the couch afterwards, reapply the spray to the washed area.

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