Tag Archives: deck remodeling in Kansas City

Go for a Safer Deck in May

The North American Deck and Railing Association officially recognize May as Deck Safety Month. It’s the best time of the year to have your deck inspected to ensure that it is a safe structure for the upcoming season.

Multi-level deck by Outdoor Environments

NADRA suggests that the following deck features should constitute a full and complete deck safety check:

  • Wood that shows signs of splitting or decaying – The section where the deck attaches to the house is known as the ledger board and is a common source of deck failure. Support posts, joists, damp areas and holes should also be checked.
  • Flashing  – This metal or plastic guard is supposed to keep moisture and debris from collecting in between the house and the deck’s ledger board.
  • Loose or corroded fasteners – This includes screws, anchors and nails that may be protruding or completely removed. Those that are rusted should also be replaced since they can eat away at the surrounding wood.
  • Railings and banisters – These features should be sturdy enough as not to move or sway when pushed. Rails should be close enough in proximity so that children and pets cannot easily slip through.
  • Stairs – Handrails should be firmly in place. Also, items like toys, plants and decor that can cause accidental falls should not be placed on the stairs.
  • Cleaning and maintenance – Wet leaves and debris can promote the growth of mildew, so the deck should be cleaned regularly as needed. This can even be done with a waterproof coating.
  • Grills, fire pits, chimneys, heaters and candles – These items should be placed far from anything that’s flammable. All manufacturers instructions should be followed for safe use.
  • Lighting and electrical – Fixtures should be operable, clean and located where they do not cause a tripping hazard. Childproof and waterproof features are always recommended.
  • Outdoor furniture and storage – Furnishings should never be placed near the edge of the deck. Storage boxes should have childproof latches for safe keeping.
  • Surrounding trees – Hanging branches and tree limbs should be trimmed to prevent them from falling onto the deck and near grilling areas.

Would your Kansas City deck pass an inspection? If not, let Outdoor Environments make your deck a safer and happier place to hang out. Call us at 913-897-2706 to discuss your deck needs.

How Long Should a Wood Deck Last?

Save $500 on your next outdoor project!

The Midwest is known for unpredictable weather patterns, particularly over the past year or so. Traditional cold periods have reached record high temperatures, a trend that’s expected to continue.

For homeowners who live in these parts, it can be frustrating to deal with outdoor living areas. Daily weather patterns make it difficult to know when and how you can enjoy your outdoor oasis. And this can be particularly troubling for anyone planning for a custom built or remodeled outdoor space.

But there is some hope, according to The National Association of Home Builders. Their Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components sheds some light on various home features and how long you can expect them to last.

So, how long should a custom wood deck last?

Because they are subject to a wide range of conditions in different climates, the life expectancy of wooden decks can vary significantly. Under ideal conditions, they have a life expectancy of about 20 years.

One sure way to make sure that your Kansas City deck is up to par is by trusting a qualified and experienced Certified Remodeler, which is available right here at Outdoor Environments!

Information from This Old House

Families Opt for Luxurious Backyard Havens

Do you think that home remodeling and add-ons have taken a dive since the economy fell into a slump a few years ago?According to a recent Chicago Tribune article, that’s not entirely true. In fact, outdoor remodeling has become a must for many homes across the U.S.

Homeowners have been drawn to many outdoor features:

  • Natural stone hardscapes
  • Gourmet grilling kitchens
  • Major electrical upgrades

Family travel has taken a dip while outdoor entertaining and family time have become more enticing among American households. And what better way to enjoy time with each other than with a custom built or remodeled deck, patio, porch or another outdoor living space?

If you haven’t entertained the thought of sprucing up outside, it’s about time to give it some serious thought. Outdoor Environments is currently offering $500 off select outdoor projects… call us in Overland Park, KS at 913-897-2706 for details!

Choosing Your Deck Materials Wisely

By now, you probably already know that a new or remodeled deck can earn you a huge return on your investment – sometimes as much as 80 percent!

The great thing about a deck is that it provides a wonderful space for parties and gatherings and it’s much more cost-effective than building an additional room onto your home. With a deck, your living space is still expanded; it’s just outside instead of inside.

The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to a new or remodeled deck. And the cost can vary greatly depending on what type of material is used. One thing homeowners should know is that it’s not always the wisest idea to penny pinch when it comes to deck materials. That’s because the cheaper the material is, the more maintenance and upkeep you’ll be responsible for. Wood is a popular material, but they need to be cared for regularly and usually require a new coat of staining every couple of years. If maintenance is not appealing to you, consider synthetic materials that require little maintenance over the life of the deck.

If you aren’t sure what type of deck is right for you, that’s what Outdoor Environments is here for. Call us today at 913-897-2706 to speak with us today!

Image from My Home Ideas via Southern Living

Outdoor Lighting for Decks

It’s still National Deck Safety Month!  And it’s a popular time of year for decks. Since home improvements seem to peak during the spring, it’s important to note that deck construction and upgrades are the third most popular home remodeling project behind kitchen and bath remodels. And what are consumer looking for in upgraded decks this year? They want more deck add-ons, particularly outdoor lighting.

Consumers are interested in adding value. They don’t necessarily have to have the best or biggest deck on the block. They want features that will enhance their outdoor living experience while adding beauty and safety. That’s why outdoor lighting is such a hot commodity.

The types of lighting that consumers can choose from include:

  • Tiny, recessed LEDs for deck edges
  • LED strips for running underneath deck railing
  • Light with remote controlled dimming
  • Energy-efficient lighting that incorporates some or all of the above

All of these lighting options help to create a safer outdoor living environment if you plan to use your deck after the sun goes down. If your deck is in need of remodeling and outdoor lighting, call Outdoor Environments in Overland Park/Kansas City at 913-897-2706.

Information from KPVI

Image from Houzz