DIY Network

Backyard Decks From canopies that simply just snap into place, to gadgets that'll keep you cool in summer and warm in the fall, we've got it all. From "Today Show Tips" episode DTST-115

(Continued from page 1)

Outdoor Living

You can get more usable space from your home if you know what products to buy. Here are some suggestions for bringing the comforts of indoors to the back yard.

• A canopy provides shade as well as a sense of defined space. You can find models that need no hardware for assembly; the pieces just slide into each other.

• Wooden outdoor furniture has become very popular again. While teak is the wood that often comes to mind first, eucalyptus provides a slightly less-expensive alternative. Look for products made with wood from managed forests, which help protect the environment. While this kind of furniture is very weather-resistant, it's still a good idea to bring it indoors during the winter. That will add years to its life span.
  

  advertisement

  
  
  

  This solid-wood chair assembles with pegs and wood glue.

• Some manufacturers now offer ready-to-assemble furniture, which helps keep the cost down. All you need to provide is some wood glue.

• Cast-aluminum is another kind of furniture that is extremely popular. It's sturdy and affordable, and you can choose from many styles ranging from contemporary to traditional. Also take a look at furniture with aluminum frames but all-weather wicker seats and backs. It's very durable; you can leave it outside all winter.

• Consider buying a battery-operated fan that mounts under your umbrella. It will provide a breeze even on a still day. Some even come with a radio.

• Most people like to dress up their patios with potted plants, but you have to make sure you're getting a container that will stand up to the elements and can be moved without too much trouble. Look for lightweight metal containers from a company called Novelty Manufacturing; they have a finish like automotive paint, so they are very durable.

  Plastic planters are another option. You can find some that are self-watering. They have reservoirs that will hold a couple of gallons of water, which helps keep the plants happy if you have to go away for a week or two.

  If you want to customize your containers, use a spray paint such as Rust-Oleum American Accents. You can get very creative with them and end up with great-looking containers for very little money.
  

  This realistic "rock" is actually lightweight plastic that can be used many ways in the garden.

• If you like the look of stone edging for raised garden beds, check out SmallRock Designs. The pieces in their kits all fit together to use as borders or small, natural-looking retaining walls.

• Outdoor heaters can increase the number of hours you can use your outdoor space, but they used to be very expensive. However, BernzOmatic, a company that's been in the construction industry for years, makes an affordable propane unit that looks great and keeps everybody warm.

• And with the deck looking so good, you'll want to have everybody over just to go "ooh" and "ah." For the perfect finishing touch, install solar or low-voltage ambient lighting right on your deck posts. DIY kits for deck lights can help get you started.
  
  
  

  1 | 2 | 3

  
  
  

  ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:
  	Backyard Decks