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April 2023
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Get Your Deck Ready For Summer!4/28/2023  Looking to upgrade your outdoor space this summer? Whether you're planning on hosting BBQs or simply relaxing on your deck, there are a few things you can do to make sure it's ready for the season. Here are some tips to get your deck ready for summer:
Not Sure How To Decide Between Paint, Stain, and Sealant For Your Deck? Here are a few helpful things to keep in mind: Paint is a protective coating that completely covers the surface of your deck, while stain penetrates the wood to enhance its natural color. Sealant is a protective barrier that helps to repel water and protect the wood from damage caused by UV rays. Ultimately, the best option for your deck depends on your preferences and the level of protection you need. When deciding which option is best for you, here are a few additional factors to consider: PAINT Paint is a good choice if you want to completely change the color of your deck or if the wood has already been painted. However, it can be prone to cracking and peeling over time, and it can be more slippery than stain when wet, which could be a safety hazard, especially if you have children or elderly family members using the deck. STAIN Stain is a great option if you want to enhance the natural beauty of the wood. It comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can find a look that complements your home's style. If you decide to go with stain, it’s helpful to know that stain will need to be reapplied more frequently than paint, typically every 2-3 years, to maintain its appearance. However, it's generally easier to touch up a stained deck than a painted one. You’ll also want to note that stain, alone, won't do much to protect against moisture, UV rays, or other environmental factors. For that, you'll need a sealant. SEALANT Sealant is ideal if you want to protect your deck from moisture and UV damage without changing the color. It can also help prevent rot and decay, which can be especially important if your deck is in a damp or shady area. In some cases, a combination product known as a "stain and sealant" may be used to achieve both coloring and protection in one step. However, it's important to read the product label carefully to ensure that it meets your specific needs and requirements. Ultimately, the best choice for your deck will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your space. Take some time to consider factors like climate, foot traffic, and the overall look you're going for before making a decision. And remember, no matter which option you choose, regular maintenance will be key to keeping your deck looking great for years to come. If you are still unsure which direction to take, it's always best to consult a professional contractor that can take care of this for you. Livers and Sons is a great choice if you’re thinking about handing this project over. Schedule a FREE estimate with us here.
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 If you’re thinking about taking on an exterior painting project this Spring, it’s important to know that not all exterior paint is created equal. Some factors to consider when painting your home's exterior include the climate and weather patterns in your area, the type and condition of the surface being painted, the desired color and finish, and your budget and timeline for the project. Different types of exterior paint have varying levels of quality and durability, so it is important to choose a high-quality paint that is appropriate for the specific surface being painted in order to achieve the best results. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice.
The Best Kind of Exterior Paint for Siding The best kind of paint for siding depends on the material of the siding. For example, oil-based paint is recommended for wooden siding while acrylic paint is suitable for vinyl siding. It's always best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of siding you have. The Best Kind of Exterior Paint for Trim The best type of exterior paint for trim is typically a 100% acrylic latex paint. It provides a durable finish that resists fading, cracking, and peeling, while also being easy to clean. It's important to choose a paint specifically designed for exterior use, and to properly prepare the surface before painting. The Best Kind of Exterior Paint for Brick or Stone Acrylic latex paint is often recommended for painting brick or stone exteriors because it allows the surface to breathe and expand and contract with temperature changes. Additionally, it provides good adhesion and durability. However, it's always best to consult with a professional or the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific surface you're painting. The Best Kind of Exterior Paint for Shaded Areas The best type of exterior paint for shaded areas is one that is formulated to resist mildew growth and has a low sheen to help hide any imperfections. Look for paints with high-quality pigments and binders for better adhesion and durability. Matte or eggshell finishes are good options for shaded areas as they resist fading and are less likely to show brush or roller marks. The Best Kind of Exterior Paint for Sunny Areas When selecting exterior paint for sunny areas, it is best to choose a paint with high-quality pigments and a UV-resistant formula. Look for paint labeled as "fade-resistant" or "UV-resistant," and consider lighter colors as they reflect sunlight and heat better than darker colors. Additionally, paints with a satin or semi-gloss finish tend to hold up better in sunny areas compared to flat finishes. The Best Kind of Exterior Paint for High-Moisture Areas For high moisture areas, it is best to use a paint specifically designed for such conditions such as a 100% acrylic latex paint or an oil-based paint with a glossy finish. These types of paints are resistant to mold and mildew growth and can withstand high humidity and frequent exposure to moisture. If You’re Still in Doubt… You may want to consider hiring a professional painting contractor to help take care of your project for you.
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When was the last time you updated your space? It's probably time! We only have a few more weeks to go before Spring gets here; and depending on where you live, it might feel like it's already been here. Regardless, this is a great time to start thinking about sprucing up your space with some lighter, fresher vibes. Here are 5 great ways to upgrade your space without breaking the bank.  1. Rearrange Some Stuff
Moving furniture around is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to transform a space. It will blow your mind how just moving a few things around can make a room feel like an entirely different space. The best part is that it won’t cost you a dime… just a little bit of your time. 2. Add Some Greenery Adding some green plants to your space not only brightens up the space, but also helps to freshen the air by removing various pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and carbon monoxide. For those that don’t have a green thumb, it’s ok. Silk plants may not help freshen the air but they are just as effective at freshening the space and transforming the atmosphere. 3. Swap Out Fabrics Swapping out heavy blankets, curtains, and pillows for lighter, airy options is a great, low-cost way to lighten up the look and feel of your space and bring Spring inside. 4. Get New Artwork Brighten up your space with some cheerful artwork and decorations. Not only will this will give your space a much-needed touch of spring, but it's also a great opportunity to tap into your creative side to make some original pieces for your space. Get messy with some glue and paint, or get creative with your camera. It doesn’t matter, just have fun! 5. Get A Fresh Coat of Paint. Finally, one of the best ways to freshen up a room is to get a fresh coat of paint. It’s a fairly inexpensive way to transform the atmosphere and make a room feel brand new. Don’t let Spring pass your room by. Move some things around, add some green plants, swap out heavy fabrics, tap into the kid in you to create something new, and get a fresh coat of paint. By the time you’re done, your space will be completely transformed!
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 Did you know that your living and working spaces can actually affect your mental health and your ability to rest or be productive?
If you’ve ever walked into a dark and cluttered room and felt a bit of anxiety creep up then you know it’s the truth. Numerous studies (especially since the pandemic) have revealed a significant correlation between a space and a person’s mood and mental health. For example, significant time spent in a dark space can result in lethargy, laziness, and in some cases, even lead to feelings of sadness. On the contrary, lighter & brighter rooms can often produce feelings of peace and creativity. If you’ve noticed that your home or office has become a source of stress, the way the room is set up may have a lot to do with it. So here are 3 impactful ways that you can transform your atmosphere and lift your spirit. 1. Get Organized. If you’ve ever spent half the day trying to find something that you’ve misplaced in your house, then you know how frustrating it can be to not know where things are. Having a designated space for all of the things in your home not only reduces clutter but also eliminates the frustrations that come with having to look for everything all the time. Think about how much time and energy you could be saving just by knowing where things are. This is a simple thing that can really go a long way. 2. Get The Right Lights. Lighting is everything! Whether you are trying to create atmospheres of elegance, tranquility, productivity, or energy, lighting plays a huge role. The wrong lighting for the occasion will absolutely affect your mood, energy levels, and general well-being (especially if you live in the northeast where it starts to get dark around 5 pm during the winter months). Many studies have shown that warm and natural light can make small rooms feel bigger and produce a calm yet productive mind. On the other hand, darker, dim-lit rooms can generate feelings of tiredness and indifference. 3. Get A Fresh Coat of Paint. When it's not possible to knock down walls and completely renovate your space, a fresh coat of paint is your best next bet. It’s a fairly inexpensive way to make an old room feel brand new. Not only that, it’s a great way to align your space with your goals. There have been numerous studies conducted over the last few decades that show how different colors can positively and negatively affect your mood and productivity levels. Choosing a soft, light color palette for your office, for example, can help promote higher levels of productivity versus a darker color palette that promotes sleep (which might be better suited for a bedroom). Now that you have a better understanding of the effects of your environment, take a moment to make sure your spaces are aligned with your personal and professional goals. Get organized. Get the right lights. Get a fresh coat of paint. |
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