Archive for the 'Lawn and Garden' Category
May
18
(BPT) – Mosquitoes cause more human harm than any other living organism, according to the American Mosquito Control Association. Not only do these buzzing insects induce itchy red bites, but some species are also responsible for the spread of the Zika …
May
17
10 points to consider before buying a walk mower
May 17, 2016 | Leave a Comment
(BPT) – Warm weather means it’s time to get back in the routine of mowing the grass every week. While it’s difficult to find the motivation to do chores when you’d rather bask in the sun, the right walk mower will make the job easier and faster.Before …
May
11
(BPT) – For many Americans, the longer, warmer days mean an opportunity to roll up their sleeves and get to work on a number of home projects. You may plan to plant some new trees, make a new dining room table or just keep up with the usual list of rep…
May
11
Last minute DIY tips for backyard hosting
May 11, 2016 | Leave a Comment
(BPT) – Summer means outdoor entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a wedding reception, a family reunion or a birthday party, you’ll want to make the backyard get together memorable. Here are some quick DIY ideas to help you get ready for a …
May
9
Simple tips for a DIY concrete patio
May 9, 2016 | Leave a Comment
(BPT) – The centerpiece of any backyard is a beautiful and vibrant patio. It seamlessly extends the interior home living space to an adjacent outdoor area where families and guests can enjoy each other’s company on a regular basis.
The exceptional durability, versatility and strength of concrete makes it a popular choice for patios that transform ordinary backyards into warm and inviting outdoor living areas. Not only will a concrete patio stand up to inclement weather and other everyday wear and tear, but it can be shaped, stained, stamped, painted and finished in a decorative manner that matches other design features of a home like siding, fences, walkways and pool decks.
While it may seem like a challenging project, the technique for making a concrete patio is simple and straightforward, especially when using a pre-blended bagged concrete like QUIKRETE that only requires water in the mixing process. In addition, making a concrete patio yourself is less than $4 per square foot, which is a fraction of the cost of hiring a contractor using a ready mix concrete truck. With the help of a friend or family member, mixing, pouring and finishing a concrete patio can be completed in less than a day by following these instructions.
Note: when working with cementitious products, always wear eye protection and gloves.
* Construct the concrete patio form in the desired area with 2×4 or 2×6 lumber secured in place by wood stakes and deck screws.
* Excavate the concrete patio area to a depth of about 7 inches, allowing 3 inches for a gravel base and 4 inches for concrete.
* Check the forms for level while accounting for 1/4-inch decline for every 12 feet to create a slope that allows rain run-off from the house.
* Evenly spread 3 to 4 inches of gravel and compact using a tamper to create a solid sub-base that helps prevent erosion and slab settling.
* Dampen the gravel base using a garden hose to prevent shrinkage cracking, especially in hot temperatures.
* Mix the concrete according to the instructions on the bag and pour in mounds about 2 to 3 inches above the forms before leveling. Renting an electric concrete mixer will make the process easier and faster.
* Consolidate and distribute the concrete evenly using a hoe so the surface is relatively flat and slightly above the form.
* Screed the concrete using a straight 2×4 by moving the board back and forth across the surface of the concrete in a sawing motion to remove the excess concrete and smooth the surface.
* Add concrete to any low areas and screed again.
* Once the concrete has lost its sheen, smooth the concrete surface using a wood float in an arching motion.
* Run a stiff-bristle broom in the same direction to create a non-slip finish surface.
* Cut in control joints a minimum of 1/4 the depth of the slab at a minimum of every 10 feet using a groover and straight-edge.
* Make several passes in each direction with an edging tool to consolidate and shape the edges of the concrete patio.
* Apply a fine water mist to the concrete patio a minimum of three to five days until it cures. This step can be eliminated by applying QUIKRETE Acrylic Concrete Cure & Seal immediately after finishing the concrete with a roller, garden sprayer or a brush.
For more tips, direction and information including a how-to videos for home improvement, repair, design and décor concrete do-it-yourself projects, visit QUIKRETE.com.
May
5
Top 2016 trends in outdoor living
May 5, 2016 | Leave a Comment
(BPT) – Take a deep breath of fresh air. Feel the warm sunshine on your skin. Kick back and listen to the peaceful sounds of nature. There’s a reason people are investing in spaces that allow them to spend more time relaxing, dining and entertaining ou…