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5 Must-Haves for Outdoor Entertaining

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(Family Features) Gatherings and get-togethers may commonly take place inside, but giving your guests extra space takes nothing more than a little creativity and the right outdoor appliances. Open a new door – literally – and head outside to take advantage of unused deck, patio and yard space.

As a natural extension of your home, a few key pieces of lighting, heating and cooking equipment can turn your backyard into an entertaining oasis. Let your personal style shine and elevate your hosting skills with these ideas from the experts at the Propane Education & Research Council.

Lighting
Flame lighting may not be every homeowner’s first consideration, but more hosts are relying on it to add upscale elegance to outdoor gatherings. Custom lanterns, modern chandeliers, pendants and tabletop units offer stylish additions to modern and classic designs alike.

No matter your tastes, propane flame lighting fixtures can be placed in multiple areas for aesthetic and practical purposes. While it’s hard to top the soothing effect of a starry night while calming flames reflect off your windows and add a glow to your patio, flame lighting also can ward off intruders or animals and help prevent tripping in the dark.

Grills and Cooking Equipment
Propane can help you bring your dream kitchen to life outdoors. First establish a budget and identify a builder then build out the features of your high-performing kitchen in the peaceful setting nature offers. Often, the centerpiece of the space are grills, which are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Some offer features like side burners for sauces and rotisseries.

Because they heat up fast and provide precise temperature control, propane-powered outdoor cooking appliances are a popular choice for homeowners who want to spend less time preparing food and more time enjoying it. With instant on-off convenience just like indoor gas ranges, outdoor propane grills, pizza ovens and ovens help home chefs create perfectly cooked meals with no coals, soot or ash to clean up. The appliances can also be built in to a straight, L-shape or U-shape bar to complete your outdoor cooking paradise.

Patio Heaters
If chilly weather brings on the blues in your region, make the most of your outdoor space with a propane-powered patio heater that allows for entertaining nearly year-round. Propane patio heaters can raise the outdoor air temperature up to 25 F while emitting a circle of radiant heat up to 25 feet in diameter. Next time you want to get outside before patio season arrives, start up a propane patio heater to enjoy cozy warmth in a clean, safe, reliable way.

Fireplaces and Fire Pits
Another option for bringing warmth to outdoor entertaining can happen with the push of a button in the form of a propane fireplace or fire pit. These smokeless solutions come without the maintenance of wood-burning fires, meaning you can enjoy the heat and ambiance of flames dancing in the night sky while skipping the fuss of soot, ash and burning logs. Plus, clean-energy propane delivers heat more efficiently with a lower carbon footprint than traditional energy sources like wood, which take a toll on the environment.

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Pool Heaters
You can maximize your fun for as much of the year as possible and combat the elements with propane pool and spa heaters. Available for in-ground and above ground pools and spas, propane heaters operate at a higher efficiency than electric systems and maintain heat better in cooler weather while also operating cleanly and taking up minimal space.

To find more outdoor entertaining inspiration, visit Propane.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images


SOURCE:
Propane Education & Research Council

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Artificial Turf Creates the Perfect Backyard for Play

Turf Solutions PDX put their technical ability on display and created the ultimate backyard for one Portland, OR client.

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PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Synthetic grass offers more than just money-saving practicality; it also offers homeowners versatile design possibilities that will transform their home into a custom oasis. One family utilized two popular Synthetic Grass Warehouse turf varieties to achieve their dream backyard, seeking a durable landscape solution that would provide hours of fun across multiple interactive backyard activities. From a personal putting green to a low-maintenance pickleball court, Turf Solutions PDX put their technical ability on display and created the ultimate backyard for one Portland, OR client.


Artificial putting green installation in Portland, Oregon by Turf Solutions PDX.

Turf Solutions PDX recently installed 1,745 square feet of Synthetic Grass Warehouse’s Nylon Putt 2-Tone and Tacoma in a home in Portland, OR. TigerTurf Nylon Putt 2-Tone — used for the putting green surface — features a dual coloring of field green and lime green, and it has a face weight of 36 ounces. With a 0.5-inch pile height, it is ideal for residential and commercial putting green applications. Everlast Tacoma — used for the fringe around the putting green — has dual field green and mid-olive green blade tones, and it has a pile height of 1.75 inches. With a 90-ounce face weight, it is ideal for projects anticipating moderate to heavy foot traffic. Both turf products are manufactured with UV inhibitors for long-lasting color that won’t fade with extended exposure to sunlight. All artificial grass products from Synthetic Grass Warehouse are also non-toxic, lead-free, and will drain at a rate of more than 30 inches per hour per square yard.

Turf Solutions PDX’s client was seeking to transform their backyard with two custom putting greens and a pickleball court. With so many interactive elements that would receive high foot traffic, they chose these two Synthetic Grass Warehouse turf products for their durability and low maintenance requirements. They wanted something that would last them for years to come, so the low pile heights used for the landscape turf and putting green surface accomplished this while remaining lush and beautiful. They also needed a landscaping solution that would remain green, dry, and playable year-round. “It is difficult to grow a healthy, natural lawn in the Pacific Northwest due to the many months of cold, wet weather,” explained Turf Solutions PDX co-owner Dave Parker. “Artificial turf is a perfect alternative for our clients.”

Turf Solutions PDX was founded by co-owners Dave Parker and Ron Rios in 2019, and they now proudly serve the Greater Portland area. With more than a decade in the industry, Parker and Rios sought to provide high-quality, long-lasting, evergreen synthetic grass to a waterlogged PNW clientele. They pride themselves on supplying a wide range of the highest-quality synthetic grass products on the market, and they pair these products with sublime installation quality that guarantees customer satisfaction. Although currently serving the Portland area, they plan to continue growing the company and hope to branch out into other states in the future.

Turf Solutions PDX is Synthetic Grass Warehouse’s “Install of the Month” winner for September 2023.

Turf Solutions PDX:
Turf Solutions PDX is proud to serve Portland, OR, and the surrounding area. Founded by co-owners Dave Parker and Ron Rios in 2019, Turf Solutions PDX prides itself on providing beautiful, resilient, and safe artificial grass installations that last for decades. Parker and Rios’s years of experience and strong partnership are reflected in their team’s technical competence and attention to detail. You can learn more about Turf Solutions PDX and view their other installations by visiting https://turfsolutionspdx.com.

About Synthetic Grass Warehouse, Inc.:
Synthetic Grass Warehouse is the exclusive national distributor for TigerTurf and Everlast brands of artificial grass products. Founded in 2004, Synthetic Grass Warehouse specializes in turf products designed for landscaping, pets, putting greens, and playgrounds. SGW provides same-day shipping on all turf orders. Learn more at https://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com.

SOURCE Synthetic Grass Warehouse, Inc.

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6 Tips to Prepare for a Cold, Stormy Winter

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(Family Features) Weather fluctuations are the norm these days, and cold winter weather is on the horizon.

This winter, don’t get caught out in the cold when it comes to heating costs. There are things you can do now to help save money by reducing your energy consumption. Consider these tips from the experts at Carrier to help you reduce usage and home heating costs this season.

1. One of the easiest ways to save on your heating bill is turning the heat down to the lowest setting you are comfortable with. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, turning the temperature down an additional 10-15 F while you are sleeping or away can help save about 10% a year on energy costs.

2. Installing a programmable thermostat can make turning down the heat automatic. Depending on the model, you can set different temperatures for when you are home, away or asleep. Better yet, a WiFi-connected smart thermostat can make automatic adjustments and is controllable remotely using a smartphone.

3. Keep up with regular maintenance of your home heating system so it runs efficiently. Change your filter as recommended by the manufacturer and have a professional conduct an inspection and tune-up before the weather gets cold and appointments become harder to get. A dirty or clogged furnace filter can cause your furnace to work harder than needed and waste energy in the process. According to the experts at Carrier, regular, routine maintenance and cleaning can help your furnace run more efficiently and potentially extend its life. 

4. The average life of a furnace is 15-20 years, so be prepared when it comes time to replace. Oftentimes, people wait to buy a new furnace until their current system breaks down and have to resort to buying what’s in stock. Planning ahead lets you shop for a system that’s right for your home and preferences. Right now may be a good time to consider replacing your aging furnace with available manufacturer promotions, energy company incentives and tax credits associated with the Inflation Reduction Act.

5. If you replace your furnace, consider switching to a high efficiency model. They offer a higher level of comfort and energy cost savings. Many homeowners are opting for higher efficiency heat pumps, units that handle both heating and cooling. They are powered by electricity and a growing choice for consumers who want to use less fossil fuels. For example, Carrier’s award-winning Infinity line is among the most energy efficient on the market and operates down to -15 F.

6. Check for drafts around doors, windows and other openings. Seal with caulk or weatherstripping. Also ensure your home is insulated properly. Some utility companies offer to check your home’s insulation for free. Having less cold air to heat can yield considerable cost savings.

Being prepared for cold weather can help save money in the long run. Find more tips at Carrier.com/Residential.

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SOURCE:
Carrier

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Amplify Autumn Curb Appeal: 5 home renovation projects to tackle this fall

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(Family Features) With lower temperatures and milder conditions, fall provides a perfect opportunity to tackle that home renovation to-do list. Whether you plan on making minor improvements or wholesale changes are on the horizon, taking on a few DIY projects can help you boost your home’s curb appeal (and its value) while also prepping for colder weather in the days ahead.

Making investments now – like putting time and money toward long-term energy efficiency – can pay off down the road, whether you’re planning for a potential sale or simply looking to get more enjoyment out of your home. Plus, many exterior upgrades can be completed by homeowners, meaning there’s no need to hire a professional when it’s time to give your home a refresh.

Beautify those dull areas, boost resale value and add comfort with these ideas from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products, a manufacturer of high-quality, low-maintenance products designed to meet the specifications and needs of building professionals, homeowners, architects, engineers and distributors.

Add or Replace Shutters
As a classic exterior design element, shutters can add instant charm to your home. With a variety of materials and colors to choose from, you can add shutters that suit your style and budget to give your home a more polished look. If it’s already adorned with shutters, consider updating them with newer styles for a fresh appearance.

Upgrade with Stone Veneer
Natural and textured home trends continue to rise, leading many building pros and homeowners to gravitate toward stone veneer, or manufactured stone, as it can replicate the look of real stone. The wide range of exterior and interior applications means you can add comfort, character and beauty while complementing your existing style. Consider an option like Versetta Stone from Westlake Royal Building Products, which offers homeowners an authentic, hand-crafted look in a panelized format that’s easy to install with nails and screws. There’s no need to paint, coat or seal once installed for a low-maintenance solution for accent walls, fireplaces, siding, entryways and walkways.

Refresh Porch Columns
Routine cleaning is one way to maintain porch columns, but if they’re rotting or splitting, consider PVC porch column wraps for a visual transformation. Easy and often affordable, they’re durable and decorative to fit existing columns or poles and can be painted to match your exterior color palette. They’re resistant to pests, moisture and weather damage for long-lasting and nearly maintenance-free upgrades.

Invest in Insulated Siding
Good insulation is key to keeping your home warm, cozy and weather-proof during colder months. While there are many ways to upgrade the insulation of your house, some homeowners are turning to insulated siding for a long-term solution. Long-lasting, weather-proof, durable and aesthetically pleasing, CraneBoard Solid Core Siding from Westlake Royal Building Products offers a cost-efficient way to beat the cold. It’s low maintenance, built to last and withstands temperature fluctuations and hurricane force winds for a highly functional option to keep cold out for years to come.

Update the Driveway
Whether you’re looking to make some simple updates or it’s time for a complete renovation, showing your driveway some love can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. Adding an address post with a hanging basket or planting trees, shrubbery or flowers along the sides lends immediate aesthetic improvement. For added low-light visibility and visual appeal, install lights along the perimeter to help the greenery stand out in the evening. If you’re ready for a major overhaul, consider upgrading the driveway using cobblestone, pavers or stamped concrete.

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To find more ways to boost curb appeal this fall, visit WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com.


SOURCE:
Westlake Royal Building Products

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