July 19th, 2010
Do you ever look out into your backyard and wish that that unsightly eyesore ruining your perfect landscape would magically disappear? Artificial rocks are a perfect to solution to any visual conundrum. With both natural looking and aesthetically appealing they are also durable, sturdy and ready for anything. As they come in a variety of shapes and colors, the ideal fit is not difficult to find. Here are some ideas for how to take your backyard or walkway from an eyesore to eye candy.
Hide Outdoor Plumbing
Use a rock to hide ugly centrifugal pumps, irrigation valves or septic lids or cleanouts. These outdoor necessities definitely have their purpose in our lives and we probably would miss them if they were gone; however, we don’t necessarily have them in sight for them to do their job. Not only do they take away from the visual purity of our landscapes, but they can also be dangerous if located in a busy walking area or if small children play near them. A low to the ground rock is an easy solution. Not only does it eliminate the eye sore, but it can also completely change the focal point of your landscape. Now, instead of wishing the traces of indoor plumbing would disappear, you can easily forget about them.
Address Plaques
Do people visiting your home ever complain that they can’t read the faded address number spray painted on the curb or can’t find the numbers hung next to the garage? Make things easier for everyone by installing an address plaque rock. The unique flat surface lends itself nicely to the addition of numbers or characters while the size, shape and color of the rock still look and feel like the real thing. Add a solar powered lighting source next to the rock and never hear a guest complain about driving aimlessly up and down the street looking for your house again.
Pool equipment
We all love our backyard pools…or our neighbor’s pools. Again though, there are certain upkeep and plumbing realities that may spoil the aesthetic beauty we’ve tried so hard to achieve in our backyards. Pool filters, pump equipment and even large wells can be completely hidden from view with some of the larger rock models. So instead of trying to camoflague unattractive hardware with a good imagination, simply cover the whole thing up with a easy-to-install and readily relocated rock.
Hoses
Rocks aren’t the only way to hide all those things you’d rather not look at. A unique turtle or frog shaped hose hider makes outdoor clean-up a snap while cleverly disguising clutter and potentially dangerous gardening tools and hoses. Stop looking at shovels, picks, trowels and hoses strewn about the yard and hide them nicely, neatly and cleanly under a cute little garden animal.
Sometimes you just need to change the flavor of your backyard, or decorate an empty space. A rock can be an understated accent to a garden scene or a flower bed that will not take away from the natural beauty. The authentic colors and real life shapes make these rocks perfect additions to any patio, backyard or walkway and can be easily moved as easily and as often as you change your mind.
Tags: artificial rocks, backyard, decor, easy, ideas, landscape, landscaping ideas, rock enclosure
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January 18th, 2010
What makes Bamboo Fencing so popular is it’s versatility and low maintenance. Despite how easy it is to utilize and care for bamboo fencing, since it is a natural material, there are still things you should periodically do to ensure the life and look of your bamboo.
To prevent molding on your bamboo we always suggest keeping it from being submerged in wet ground. If you live in an area with frequent rain or if your grounds are constantly wet from a sprinkler system, we suggest placing a spacer of some sort between the actual bamboo fence and the ground.
To remove dirt and some stains, you can use a mild detergent and water to clean your fence. Once a year, or depending on need, you can use a pressurized spray to remove any caked on debris. Once your bamboo fence is dry, it is recommended that you use a waterproofing sealant. Depending on your climate, you can re-apply this sealant once or twice a year, this will also help maintain the color of your bamboo. Remember that certain colors such as Mahogany, are more prone to fading than the natural color.
Remember that can also paint or stain your bamboo. You can do this by first sanding the natural coating, then applying your stain/color of choice. After you reach the desired color, and your bamboo is dry, you can apply the sealant.
Some solutions to getting rid of mold on your bamboo are using either vinegar or a fungicide spray on your fence. It is important to ensure that the mold is gone and that your fence is dry before applying sealant.
Bamboo fencing can be used anywhere in your home and garden for almost every decorating or functional purpose, but because it is a natural material, to prolong the length of your investment, you should practice these simple steps to keep it looking beautiful.
Tags: cleaning bamboo, fencing, how to clean
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January 4th, 2010
Happy New Year everyone! It’s that time again for resolutions, starting fresh and of course putting away the holiday decor, which for some reason always seems a lot more arduous then putting it up. This year before you pack everything up, or trash your tree and broken ornaments, support the green movement by re-using or recycling the holiday decor.
After each holiday season, one of the biggest items to unfortunately end up in the landfill is Christmas trees. The ideal solution is to promote the use of artificial trees that could be re-used or keep a tree planted that can not only be re-used but also grow with the family. If you have a cut tree that is in need of disposing of, look up local recycling centers that you can drop your tree, wrapping paper, paint and more to be recycled.  If you can trim your tree down to smaller pieces, many areas now offer recycling pick up.
Over the years of holiday decorating, many of us end up with mis-matched ornaments or even broken ones from storing and moving. Rather than throwing them out, or purchasing new matching sets each year, take broken ornament pieces and fill a vase with other mixed ornaments to reflect color and create a surface centerpiece for any table.
(image from freshome)
Instead of buying new art, why not create it? Pick up a canvas at your local art store, spray with adhesive and sprinkle varying sizes of the broken ornaments to create an abstract and colorful art piece. Re-use your candles for dinner parties, as bathroom or even kitchen accents.
Holiday colors such as greens, reds, silvers and blues work wonderfully in contemporary color schemes.
(image from oregonlive)
Many home decor stores often sell pricey decorative balls to fill vases, accent bowls, or even hang from ceilings. They are made from wicker, bamboo, wire and more. Rather than purchasing abstract decorative items, save money and take the DIY (do it yourself) route. Take the string of holiday lights that have burn out bulbs, cut off the lights and use the green wire to create various sized balls that you can make into a wreath for the following year or just as a table or wall accent.
View the entire tutorial here.
Stringed lights can be used for more than just your roof and Christmas trees. Restaurants such as Rubios use white or colored LED lights to accent their tropical decor or dinner setting. You can line them under your Thatch Umbrella to provide dining light at night and add ambiance.
So with this New Year, in addition to your resolutions and plans, take time to support going green and re-use or recycle your holiday decor.
Tags: holiday decor, recycle, reuse
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December 18th, 2009
Although eating and drinking are considered to cater to our sense of taste, it is undeniable that we eat first with our sense of smell and sense of sight. How a dish smells and how the food is presented, greatly affects the eating experience.
For centuries now, people have used the experience of eating to bring people together, celebrate important events and join in happy festivities. With the holiday season now here, we wanted to give you some no fuss, quick and easy tips on spicing up your table setting.
We always talk about how lighting is key to any home or garden design. Candles have been used for centuries as a source of light and to accent tables. By grouping candles together of different heights or colors, you can create a visual landscape across your table.
During the holidays, between wrapping presents, decorating the tree and your home, there is always excess material around. Ribbons make wonderful accents to table settings by inducing a bit of decorative flare. You can also tie ornaments to the ribbons and lay them along your table or around the candles. These cute little ornaments with ribbons can also be used as party favors for your guests to take home as a sentimental holiday treat.
No matter how hard we try to efficiently utilize wrapping paper, it seems that there is always so many strips wasted, that are either too narrow or too short. Grab a pretty vase, and with your excess wrapping paper, crumple them into small balls and fill the vase with them, to create a popcorn color effect. Complete the vase with a ribbon around the neck, or mix in holiday ornaments for added dimension.
To add a tropical flare to your table setting, add flowers such as Birds of Paradise or Hibiscus in place of Holly or Poinsettia. Also don’t feel limited to the typical holiday colors of green and red, use oranges, brighter greens and even yellows to brighten up the table and add some remnants of summer. It is best to stick to just a few colors and work around that theme.
Tags: centerpiece, christmas, decor, decorating, eating, holidays, ideas
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December 11th, 2009
Shown in picture (30in x 57in Palm Thatch Runner Rolls Layed)
Tropical decor generally paints imagery of summer days and warmer temperatures, but what many don’t know is that items such as thatch and bamboo structures can actually help to keep your home or an area warmer during the cooler months.
Thatch in its many varying forms and though light weight, can actually withstand heavy winds, which help in deflecting those winds from hitting your home directly. In addition to this, the layers of panels have natural insulation properties which can assist in keeping cold out and heat in. Just like in the summer, thatch can also help to keep you cool by providing shade from the sun’s rays.
In addition to thatch, another strong, versatile and eco friendly building material you can use is Bamboo. You can provide additional insulation by lining outside walls with Bamboo Fencing, while still providing your landscape with a tropical look.
Bamboo Rugs, can help keep your feet warm during the winter months and cool during the summer ones. Place them on indoor tile or marble or even the outside concrete. What makes them so functional is how low maintenance they are and how much value they provide for what you’re paying.
Winter doesn’t mean that you can’t keep the island flair alive. The great thing about our products is that they are functional and aesthetically fitting all year round.
Tags: decoration, heat, how to, insulation, landscape, thatch, warm
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October 20th, 2009
Extending from Polynesian culture, Tiki statues have a magical way of adding island flavor and charm to any tropical design. Had crafted from authentic Coco Palm trees, each statue is made to represent and house different spirits to spread good luck, love, fortune and even protection.
Even though Tiki statues are durable and weather resistant their look can change as a result of the environment they are kept in. Here are some helpful recommendations to help keep your Tiki in top condition.
Maitenance
Just like any organic wood, elements such as rain, snow and sun will alter how the surface of how your Tiki looks. For areas with lots of rain, try placing your Tiki on top of a surface that does not house that much moisture, such as concrete or a stepping stone. You can also apply a water sealant such as “CWF”, that will help in preserving your Tiki’s color, and also give it a deeper finish.
Constant sunlight may cause your statue to fade or dry out. Mineral oils will not only help clean your Tiki but also prevent the surface from drying out and fading too much.
Customization
Because Tiki statues are hand carved, no two are alike. Each variation in the Tiki statue contributes to what makes it unique. If you wish to further accent certain details of your Tiki, you can use a propane torch to subtly flame the surface until you reach your desired darkening. Remember that your Tiki is made of a wood, so it can burn. If your Tiki does not have color, you can pick up a thick wood paint from any home improvement store. This is where your creativity is free to explore.
Caring and maintaining your Tiki statue will help to extend its life, but the changes over time are what help to tell your piece’s story and add to it’s charming character. Enjoy your Tiki for years to come!
Tags: care, color, decor, indoor, Outdoor, paint, tiki statue, tropical, varnish
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September 9th, 2009
There are many joys when it comes to the owning a water fountain. Water features have been used for centuries to adorn courtyards belonging to royalty or accent government establishments. Today, fountains and water accents provide a design and decorative essence in homes, gardens, corporate structures, landmarks and more. There is a certain calmness that flows with the sound of water and that serenity continues to emanate into the surrounding environment.
Whether your fountain is planned for indoor or outdoor use, with a few simple efforts, your fountain can run smoother, cleaner and provide any space with beauty and elegance for ages.
Once You Get Your Fountain
When shopping for a fountain, you want to have a good idea as to the space that this structure will occupy. This will help determine the size, water capacity, and preparation needed. Depending on whether your fountain will need to be mobile, you can then decide on a fiberglass or concrete one. Concrete or stone fountains are much more durable when it comes to handling the outdoor elements such as heat and snow.
Once you have your fountain selected and ready for installation, you want to ensure that the floor where the fountain is sitting on will not be damaged by humidity, condensation or water splashes.
When filling your fountain you want the water level to be no higher then a ½” below the basin rim, and no less than halfway full in the basin. Maintaining proper water levels will ensure the correct flow and life of your water pump.
Before turning on your fountain, wet the surface that the water will flow upon. This will break the surface tension to reduce splashing and promote a consistent path flow.
To control splashing or water flow, adjust your water pump or ensure that your fountain is perfectly leveled.
Caring for Your Fountain
Once you have your fountain set up there are minor routine things that will help keep your fountain clean and in good condition.
- Water treatments: It’s easier to maintain a clean fountain than have to deal with getting it clean. Purchase an algae and mineral deposit solution to prevent a rabid algae bloom in your fountain which could disrupt the flow and begin to emit a bad odor.
- Clean and change the water every 4-6 months for larger fountains and 2-3 for smaller ones. How often you need to clean the water depends on how much debris or algae are in your fountain. It is suggested that outdoor fountains that are exposed to substantial sunlight should be cleaned monthly.
- Clean your water pump in addition to your fountain. Once the water is emptied, take your water pump apart to clear any debris or blockages.
- Remove the water during winter, since water expands when frozen it can crack or damage your fountain.
Dealing With Algae
Algae are more likely to grow faster in outdoor fountains that are exposed to constant direct sunlight. Once you have a full out algae bloom, water treatments will not remove the algae quickly enough. Over time algae will thicken the water and obstruct flow, which could damage your water pump due to having to work harder in making the water flow.
With an algae bloom it’s best to empty the water and clean the fountain. A safe and natural way to clean the fountain without harsh chemicals is with vinegar and a soft brush. NEVER use bleaches as they can harm your fountain’s color surface.
To clean smaller spouts, pipe cleaners are flexible and efficient at catching and removing algae surface growths.
Once your fountain is clean, refill the water and maintain a consistent water treatment schedule.
Tags: algae, care, clean, fountain, how to, water
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August 19th, 2009
The sentimental saying “Home is Where the Heart is” holds such truth especially when it comes to personalizing and dressing up the place you live in. Whether your home is a house with a back yard, an edgy loft or an uptown studio, style and décor are never limited by spatial boundaries.
There are common misconceptions that in decorating small spaces, almost everything has to be kept minimal and walls should be plain and white to make the space look larger. The truth is contrasting colors, textures and well selected pieces can expand your space into a vast area. The advantage to decorating apartments, lofts and studios is that since you are working with a more limited space and key items make a world of difference, a smaller budget can go a long way.
The Beginning Steps
Just like starting a painting on a canvas it is easier to start with a blank page then try to re-work an already painted piece. This doesn’t necessarily mean getting rid of everything you may already have, but before designing, de-clutter as much as possible. Sort out items such as picture frames, vases, candles, lamps or furniture you may want to keep and re-use. This will also help in deciding the theme to your space.
Color Choices
The old saying of keeping your walls white to increase space is a myth! There are no rules when it comes to selecting the colors for your space. Start by planning your color placement on your walls first. Lighter colors opposing light sources (windows) and/or darker walls visually open up an environment. Keep your palette choices to sharper more saturated colors. Dull colors, even when in lighter shades, can diminish the liveliness of an area. If your apartment happens to have a hallway or walkway painting it a darker color than the room it leads into can make the room appear bigger.
Once you have the walls planned out, the fun part is embellishing and accenting with more colors. Window sills, an old radiator, and even floor vents can complement the room’s aesthetic with a fun shade of paint. Match cohesive pieces to tie in the design like having throw pillows that match with a lampshade.
Lighting
Similarly to how lighting opens up a back yard and highlights varying textures, inside a smaller space, light can also reveal a landscape of details. Well placed mirrors not only give the illusion of larger room, but it also helps direct and reflect light. Sheer window curtains or Venetian blinds allow slivers of light to gently highlight areas of your room. Railed lighting along your ceiling is the perfect way to light up the entire space or direct lighting towards paintings or pictures that adorn your wall.
Furnishing and Accessorizing
When it comes to fleshing out your interior, don’t rely on furnishing alone. Accessories can go a long way. To make the most use of your space and to avoid clutter, try purchasing furniture that serves a double purpose. For example, rather than using a coffee table, purchase an ottoman than can open up to store magazines, remotes or throw blankets and have a sleek serving try on top if you wish to place refreshments on it. Old trunks not only provide a classic and rustic accent, but they are versatile in their functions. Trunks can act as tables, storage facilities for blankets and pillows, and if you place cushions on top, they can also act as a bench. Many armoires can be used as both a unit for your TV, and storage for items in the drawers.
Decorate and select themed items that you can take with you if you ever move to a larger place.
Decorating Your Patio Balcony
Just because you don’t have a large backyard it does not mean you cannot create your own getaway space as well. The great thing with balconies is that you’re generally provided with a fencing structure that you can utilize for support. HGTV, suggested bamboo fencing is a cost effective, easy and green way to instantly dress up your balcony. Adding flowers and plants is a great way to add color and life to an area. Often time’s balconies either come with a faux green turf or cement floor, bamboo rugs are perfect for adding appeal to your floor while still being durable for outdoor use. Throw in a quaint table with some foldable chairs, or even a corner water feature and you have an outdoor environment in which you can escape the world to.
Decorating a small space simply requires selective pieces and ideas along with a bit of creativity. Remember to not get discouraged and to start one thing at a time. So no matter the size of your home, you can create your relaxing retreat.
Tags: apartment studio balcony fencing bamboo rug small spaces furniture decor
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August 13th, 2009
Durability, a natural aesthetic and versatility to compliment almost any environment or décor are a few of the features that make Bamboo such an ideal building material. Bamboo fencing in particular can conveniently cover an old fence, accent a wall, or serve as a gate to separate varying spaces. With a little creativity, accurate measurements and basic tools, you can use utilize the benefits of bamboo for almost any function.
Although bamboo has a natural protective coating, and depending on what type you purchase, it could also have a varnish or stain on it, just like any natural material, there are steps you can take to care for, treat and help prolong the life of your building material.
Whether you are interested in enhancing, treating, or restoration techniques, here are some convenient and effective ways to help you garner the most use and extend the life of your bamboo.
What to do when first purchasing your bamboo
Before purchasing your Bamboo, you want to have an idea of what it’s uses will be. The best color for outdoor use is “The Natural” lightest color or the Natural Black, if the fence is going to be exposed to natural elements. Mahogany can be used outdoors if not kept in direct sunlight, as the color will fade. Tokin Bamboo has been used for thousands of years as a construction material in Asia, so when your bamboo is treated and cared for, it can last decades for many uses.
Cleaning Bamboo
Proper care for your bamboo will help maintain the color and look of it. To clean your bamboo and remove any dirt or environment stains:
• Wash with soap or detergent and water, and rinse with a pressure wash.
• Before applying any water sealants or protectants, ensure your bamboo is completely dry.
• A good powerwash is recommended atleast once a year.
Splitting and Cracking
It is natural for bamboo to crack or split in certain areas especially in dryer and hotter climates. Bamboo which is smaller in diameter is less frequent to crack then larger ones. To help prevent and reduce the cracking you can do the following:
• Between each node on the bamboo, drilling holes will help release air and pressure
• Run a long object (similar to broomstick) through the entire pole.
• Certain sealants that are flexible to movement in woods can aid with minimizing cracking.
Staining Bamboo
It is natural just like any building material, if not treated and exposed to direct sunlight, to transition color over time. Bamboo can eventually turn to a silvery gray color and though is typically light in color anyway; you can stain it to be darker.
• Because bamboo naturally has a protective coating, you will need to sand the bamboo first. Not too deep, but enough to where you notice the difference in texture consistently throughout the bamboo.
• Test the color of your stain on a small area first to ensure a desired coloring.
• Apply the stain with a paintbrush and after a few minutes wipe the excess off with a towel. Anywhere from 2-5 coats of stain should deliver the desired effect. Just monitor the coloring after each application.
• Finally do not forget a sealer to help prolong the color.
Preventing and caring for mold/mildew
All organic building materials, especially woody products, are subject to surface mildew but using a sealant with a strong fungicide will minimize and prevent this occurrence.
There is no doubt that there are an infinite attributes that make bamboo an ideal material for many purposes, but by purchasing bamboo you are not only investing in an economical and durable material but you are also making a conscious decision to support the use of a renewable resource. Join the Green Revolution!
Tags: care bamboo stain crack mold mildew wash sun color fade how to
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August 5th, 2009
In addition to longer days and warmer temperatures, summer seems to also bring out a lot of un-welcomed pesky visitors in and around your home. Insects seek refuge from the heat and can find a world of resources and food supply in your home. Chemical pesticides are available to take care of these invaders but can also be harmful to the environment, you, your children or pets. Just like natural homemade cleaners, there are also green and safe ways to help take care of insects in your home. Here are some things you can do and natural ingredients you can use to help deter and remove common household bugs.
Ants
In any efforts of deterring insects, one of the things that have to be done first is removing any attractants. Ants are usually in search of food and water. Clean up floors and counters of any crumbs or food stains. Water sources such as faucet drips, left out cups of water or soaking dishes will also invite ants, so be sure to keep things dry or sealed. Here are some more tips if you already have an ant problem.
- Cucumbers, especially bitter ones, are a natural repellent to ants. Cut slices of the cucumber and skin to leave at points of entry or along their pathways.
- Leave garlic cloves or mint tea bags at highly active areas.
- At night for areas of high ant activity, leave a low wattage night light on. The change in light patterns can help discourage their rummaging patterns.
Fleas
For those of us with pets, we all know how troublesome a flea infestation can be, especially during the summer when their populations are rampant. Fleas usually gain entry into a home by using animals as a carrier, then lay eggs on the pet and in the environment. Though bombs and topical chemical flea treatments work well, they often garner varying reactions from humans and animals. Treating fleas is an ongoing process that can take weeks before seeing a dramatic difference but here are some easy methods to help speed up the process.
- Use a flea comb to check your pet regularly and clean after use. For every flea you find, you are reducing the amount of eggs being laid.
- Bathe your dog in mild soap, rather than insecticides. Water drowns the fleas, and eggs wash off.
- The natural acidity in citrus makes it a natural flea deterrent, so mix boiling water with sliced lemon and let the mixture sit over night. Spraying or sponging this mixture on your pet will kill fleas.
- Vacuum and wash bedding frequently, especially the area in which your animal resides.
- For the backyard you can plant fleabane, which is flower that repels fleas.
Dust Mites
Dust mites cause problems especially for those with allergies. They reside everywhere from curtains to bedding, stuffed animals, clothing and shelving. To help reduce dust mite population do the following.
- Vacuum fabric surfaces often. Beds, couches, pillows, carpet and curtains are prime homes for dust mites.
- Because detergents have no effect on dust mites, wash your items in hot water (130F+)
- For allergy sufferers keep books, rugs, laundry hampers and excess stuffed toys out of the bedroom.
- Laminated covers for mattresses and pillows prevent dust mites from penetrating. Fabric covered headboards since can’t be washed are more likely to harbor more mites.
- Avoid the use of humidifiers; dust mites prefer humid and warm environments.
Moths
Many of us have experienced the presence of moths by finding holes in our clothes. Here are some natural moth repellants.
- Items such as cedar chips and dried lemon peels act as a moth deterrent and can be placed inside a closet.
- For taller closets, make hanging sachets filled with lavender, rose and rosemary petals.
Cockroaches
The most efficient way at controlling cockroaches is to first take preventative measures. Keep your bathrooms and kitchen area clean. Just like ants Cockroaches are foragers.
- Catnip acts as a repellant to cockroaches. The active ingredient is nepetalactone which is non-toxic to humans or animals. Catnip can be put into satchets to be placed in areas of high activity or be soaked to make a spray mixture to be applied in hidden places. Use this option if you don’t have cats.
- Soapy water if sprayed on roaches directly will kill them.
- Boric acid also works effectively against cockroaches and can be applied for high places. It is however toxic by the mouth so keep away from children and pets.
- Bay leaves, cucumber slices and garlic are also a good aversion to roaches.
Silverfish
Humid, wet and warm environments are what attract silverfish which makes the kitchen and bathroom prime areas for them to reside. The best way to control them is to control damp conditions and remove food particles and vacuum up their eggs.
Tags: bugs, eco-friendly, green, home, insects, natural, remedies
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