WAYS TO SET THE STAGE FOR
THE PERFECT SUMMER SOIREE
The backyard barbecue is a staple of the American
summer. Long days filled with sun, fun, family and friends
are what make lifelong memories. Now is the perfect time
to start planning for your next barbecue, so you, too, can
create memories you won’t soon forget.However, before
you fire up the grill, you will want to ensure your backyard
is prepped and ready to host your friends and family.
Here are three tips to help you create the perfect
setting for your patio party:
LAY THE GROUNDWORK
The first step to setting any stage is to lay the groundwork.
Unfortunately, many deck or patio surfaces become
uncomfortably hot in the direct sun. The problem affects
dark-colored deck boards, especially, which absorb heat
throughout the day, as well as some composite boards
that hold heat. As a result, what should be a comfortable
stroll across your deck might end up feeling more like
a crash course in the ancient art of fire walking. An
overly hot deck is especially problematic for young
children and pets, whose feet are more heat sensitive.
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WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE
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JUNE 2018
“Many people tell us they love the beauty and durability of
their composite deck, but not the heat,” said Brent Gwatney,
vice president of MoistureShield Decking. His company
has developed a solution they call CoolDeck technology.
The boards are engineered to absorb up to 35 percent
less heat than other composites in similar colors, for a
noticeably lower surface temperature on hot summer days.
CREATE SHADE
Once you have protected your feet from the heat,
you’ll want to shield the rest of your body from the
summer sun with a pergola or gazebo. These stylish
coverings provide a refreshing shady area for friends
and family to relax and enjoy themselves. Turn this
area into the ultimate relaxation zone by adding
hammocks or hanging chairs, along with climbing vines
for added beauty and extra protection from the sun.
If you are a weekend do-it-yourself type, look for gazebo and
pergola plans on popular social media sites like Pinterest
and Houzz. For the less handy, many deck builders will
complete the project for you without breaking the bank.