Start Planning Your
LANDSCAPING Do-It-Yourself Build Your Deck Stairs
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Now is the Time to Get
Flood Insurance PAGE 24 Save Time and Money:
Rent Your Equipment 458335_kp1.indd 1
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HERITAGE HOMES
The Right Way HomeTM
701.281.7184 www.heritagefargo.com 2 Outdoor Design 458335_kp1.indd 2
Visit us at the 2009 Home & Garden Show booth #960 to see our new designs and learn about our exclusive 7-step Right Way Home™ Process.
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welcome to
Outdoor Design
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Enjoy
ns
your outdoor space to the fullest. In this issue of Outdoor Design and
ep
Living Guide, you’ll find tips on creative landscaping as well as information on how to maintain your existing deck and clean your flower beds of snow drift debris. Also, learn how to build your own deck stairs by following the steps provided by deck expert Todd Funfar. This issue offers much on how to enhance your outdoor space. Winter 2009 3
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PUBLISHER Studio 7 Productions, Inc.
EDITOR Brian Bestge
COPY EDITOR Kate Mund
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Lynn Hanson Brian Bestge
CONTENT MANAGER Brenda Waterworth
LEAD DESIGNER Jamie Farmen
DESIGN & LAYOUT Mike Biewer Dan Nisbet
CONTRIBUTORS Todd Funfar Karen Halvorsen Michael Johnson Kate Mund Katherine Tweed
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Lynn Hanson Office: 701-356-7770 Mobile: 701-730-4570
MAIL CORRESPONDENCE Studio 7 Productions, Inc.
To the Reader and the doer, The photo to the right better depicts the current state of our Midwestern home, as I realize that the cover photo does not. It is for this reason that our cover was chosen as a way for you to envision and feel the warmth that is about to come forward—once the snow melts. We know that while the cold may linger, we all look forward to the spring season full of renewed vigor and ideas. Last year when I was asked by my in-laws to create a stone patio for their new home, I was a little intimidated by the amount of information I needed to collect. You could say that landscaping is about as green of a thumb that I got from the gardening fairy. To be quite honest, creating a brick patio or a retaining wall gets me kind of excited. But as I began the project and needed to gather information, I was unable to find any one local resource publication to help me with my outdoor project. It was then when the idea hit me like a ton of bricks: why not create an outdoor magazine that centers around all the great resources, ideas and people who can help develop our outdoor spaces? The Outdoor Living and design guide has been developed by homeowners for homeowners. Our goal is to produce a concise and very informative, captivating and educational publication that will help the average homeowner make outdoor dreams a reality. You could say we are a “do-it-yourself magazine on fertilizer.”
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In this issue, you will learn how to plan for a spring landscaping project, create culinary masterpieces out of wild game, and gain important information about purchasing flood insurance. dreaming of Landscaping, Brian Bestge
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503 7th St. N, Suite 104 Fargo, ND 58102 info@outdoordesignandliving.com Outdoor design and Living guide is published quarterly by Studio 7 Productions Inc. Total printing is 15,000 per issue and is distributed in two states. no part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission by Studio 7 Productions Inc. Studio 7 Productions assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Studio 7 Productions does not necessarily agree or endorse content of articles or advertising presented. For advertising information, contact Studio 7 Productions Inc. 503 7th Ave n, Suite 104, Fargo nd 58102.
A note about our advertisers: Our advertisers consist of highly trained and specialized individuals and business owners who are there to help you with any of your outdoor project needs. We value their belief in this magazine and are proud to feature them as some of the best in our area. If your business is interested in advertising, call Lynn at 701-356-7770. Be sure to check out our new website at www.outdoordesignandliving.com
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©2009 Studio 7 Productions, Inc.
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CONTENTS Winter 2009 6–7
Spring Clean-Up
Getting Your Yard Ready for the Season by Chad erickson
7
Deck Corner
The Benefits of Cellular PVC Decking Boards by Todd Funfar
8–10
Curb Your Yard, Not Your Enthusiasm New Trends Improve Border Beauty by Michael Johnson
12–15 Good Landscape Planning Begins Now by Katherine Tweed
16–17 Simply a Wild Game
18-20
Do-It-Yourself
Build Your Deck Stairs by Todd Funfar
22–23 Stain and Maintain Decks by Katherine Tweed
24–26 Now's The Time To Get Flood Insurance by Steve Aune
27
Nature is a Stress Reliever
28-29
Save Time and Money: Rent Your Equipment
by Pam Mortenson
by Kate Mund
30
What's Happening in the Area
by Karen Halvorsen
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Spring
As the winter snow piles recede and the temperatures begin to rise, we can see spring peeking around the corner. Spring, for most of us, is a time to go outside and begin to enjoy Mother Nature’s amenities in our backyard. But as we know, winter can leave a mess behind before the green grass, flowers, trees and shrubs begin to awaken from their long slumber. Here are a few helpful pointers to keep in mind when you venture out to the backyard for spring clean-up. Trees, shrubs and perennials are awakening from their dormancy stage. Focus on supplying their buds with
Clean-Up
nutrients from the roots in the soil. This is a great time to prune most trees and shrubs, promoting vigor growth. Removal of dead wood from winter kill can also rejuvenate root growth. Perennial flowers will normally die back to their growing point, and this is the best time to remove the dead foliage near the base of the plant, allowing the new growing points or buds to emerge from the root base. Besides pruning and foliage removal, spring offers a great time to give your landscape beds a refreshing appearance. Adding fertilizer and pre-emergent herbicide will give your plants the added nutrients and weed control needed during their first months of growth. Pre-emergent
Landscape Maintenance
Professional landscape maintenance enhances the health and natural performance of your trees, shrubs, flowers and lawns, improving the overall esthetics and beauty of your property, and as a result, increasing the value of your home up to 15%.
Contact Oasis Landscape Maintenance for: • Planting Bed Maintenance • Patio and/or Retaining Wall Maintenance • Water Feature Maintenance • Exterior Containers and Planters
Phone: 701.361.2401
www.oasisplantscapes.com
6 Outdoor Design 458335_kp1.indd 6
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By: Todd Funfar
herbicide prevents the germination of unwanted weeds, and as a result, trees, shrubs and flowers flourish with unwanted competition for moisture, light and nutrients in the soil. Winter snowbanks may drop debris within the landscape beds, causing mulch or rock beds to appear dirty or faded. Spring is the time to refresh those beds with a new layer of wood mulch or rock, giving your landscape a fresh and clean appearance. Landscape beds may include additional amenities such as patios, retaining walls and water features. As the frost begins to work itself from the ground, brick paver patios may heave or settle. You may need to adjust the bricks, sweep polymeric sand in between the joints of the bricks and properly reset the edge restraint. Retaining walls occasionally move with the frost, causing the cap block to become loose. The caps may be reset by removing the old glue and applying additional adhesive. When freezing temperatures are no longer a threat, the pumps and filters of fountains, ponds and waterfalls may be installed along with the removal of unwanted debris in the water. For more helpful tips, call or e-mail Chad Erickson of Oasis Landscape Maintenance at 701-361-2401 or oasisplantscapes@msn.com.
LOW MAINTENANCE DECKING MATERIALS:
Composite vs. Cellular PVC
You’ve made the decision to build a new low maintenance deck. Now you have to decide, “Do I go with composite or cellular PVC decking?” Here’s my advice—Go with the cellular PVC. 1. Cellular PVC will not scratch under normal wear and tear–that comes from moving furniture and the grill, sand under foot, or even Fido running to chase a rabbit off of the top step. 2. Cellular PVC will not mold from the inside out like composite sometimes can because it doesn’t have wood flour inside the deck boards. 3. Cellular PVC will not stain like composites, so you don’t have to worry about sunscreens, hot tub chemicals, grilling mishaps, potato chips or even red wine! You won’t even need a deck cleaner with cellular PVC. The only cleaner you need is soap, water, and a little elbow grease. 4. Cellular PVC’s color will not fade. Some composites have grayed after a few years. If you should have to replace a cellular PVC deck board a year later, you will not see a difference in color. 5. Cellular PVC comes in wood grain and has a Class A fire rating. Some of the cellular PVC grains even come with unique black streaks to make them appear as real wood. Here’s the bottom line: my opinion is that the upgrade to cellular PVC is worth it. For the slight increase in expense for the deck boards, you will be impressed with the product. It truly will be ultra low maintenance.
Although Composite (top) and Cellular PVC (bottom) decking planks look similar, their contents make a big difference in upkeep and preservation.
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Your source for outdoor project ideas, products, and DIY tips! www.outdoordesignandliving.com E-mail us your opinions at info@outdoordesignandliving.com
Available at all 6 Hornbacher’s locations, local advertisers and retailers
Curb Your Yard,
New Trends Improve
Not Your Border Enthusiasm Beauty
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Landscaping do-it-yourselfers have been installing concrete pavers or bullet edgers, wooden railroad ties and plastic edging for many years seeking beauty, containment and increased property value. An increasing trend in borders includes continuous concrete curbing. The variety that this option offers is one reason why many yards in the Red River Valley over the past few years have made the switch to continuous concrete curbing. When Mike Strang, owner and operator of M&M Curb Appeal of Moorhead, MN, asked Darin Haugen if he was interested in having continuous curbing installed on his yard, it didn't take him long to decide. “All the other products I looked at involved maintenance of some kind,” Haugen said. The maintenance-free durability of concrete curbing sold him. After
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8 Outdoor Design
ins it t lan be
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is t .
>> If you are interested in
having continuous concrete curbing installed at your home or business, here are some things to consider: What profile of curbing would best fit your needs? What color do you want? What future plants and shrubs are you considering?
Most area installers offer free estimates.
installation of the curb, he realized that it truly put the final finish on his outdoor landscape. “I don't think there is anything better looking out there,” Haugen said. The seamless design of continuous concrete curbing makes it a very attractive and lasting part of a home’s or business’ landscape. Concrete is mixed on-site and then passes through a concrete form in the curbing machine to shape the curb as desired. The curbing machine creates one complete concrete curb that wraps gently around buildings, gardens, trees, playgrounds and more unsightly objects such as propane tanks. After installation, the installer cuts control joints along the way to allow flex during freezing and thawing periods. Of course, any ground will shift with the changing temperatures, and the clayfilled ground of the Red River region is no exception. Dave Grandalen is the owner of Curbing Solutions of Argusville, ND. He says one recent improvement in the curbing industry is the use of a galvanized cable that runs through the center of the curb. He
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started using the cable in the spring of 2008. “Our heavy soil in this region tends to be more challenging for any edging, which is why steel cable is important,” Grandalen said. “It keeps the curbing both level and tight.” He worked with pavers and blocks before getting into the continuous curbing business and believes all types can be aesthetically pleasing; however, curbing clearly has its advantages. “More people are becoming aware of curbing and want it installed at their home,” Grandalen said. “The advantages includes color, texture, strength, custom flowing lines, continuous root barrier and longevity.” The variety of shapes includes profiles that serve as guides for lawn mowers and others that are simply decorative with either a sloping or rounded edge. Strang also used bullet pavers in the past and says the only similarity between pavers and curbing is their ability to provide a border. “Curbing will not rust like metal, decompose like wood, break like plastic or move like pavers,” he said. Though continuous concrete curbing first became available more than 30 years ago, its use continues to grow in this region as new features become available that make it more appealing than any other option. In recent years, numerous trends have become popular, including stamping the curb before it dries to give distinct patterns that accentuate the home or business. There's also never been more color choices to match or complement pre-existing siding, and the latest option is a curb that allows rope light installation inside the curb edge for a stylish outdoor lighting opportunity. More and more business owners and homeowners like Haugen are enjoying the lasting beauty of this growing trend. “It completes my home,” he said.
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Creative, Distinctive
Landscape Planning Begins Now 12  Outdoor Design  458335_kp1.indd 12
If the mantra in real estate is location, location, location, then the motto for effective landscaping is planning, planning, planning. Landscape design involves much more than placing trees, shrubs and other plants on your property. It is an art that deals with conscious arrangement of your outdoor space. Good landscaping means enjoying the space while avoiding hours of maintenance. Good landscape design can significantly improve a structure, whether it be a city home, lake home or business, by adding warmth, livability and personality. The work of an unqualified designer can subdue a building, conceal important features or contradict the intent.
Living Guide 2/12/09 2:29 PM
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Whether you enlist the help of an expert or are a do-ityourselfer, consider the following: • Will the ideas withstand the test of time? Know how large each plant will be at maturity, when it will bloom, what color it will be at different seasons, what sun or shade requirements are, what colors will enhance your home and what textures blend together. Once you know, plan the precise placement. Know your soil and how easily you can water. You may need to consider an irrigation system.
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• Nighttime curb appeal, as well as security, can be helped by landscape lighting. Illuminate walkways, driveways, and prominent landscape features. • Do you enjoy the sound of water trickling down a wall or flowing across a bed of rocks, a fountain or pond? Water features bring sound and movement, and they create a more dramatic, even tranquil environment. Wildlife is often attracted to water features – birds and butterflies can be your guests. • Consider how you want to entertain outdoors. Do you want a modest grilling station or a full kitchen, a fire pit or a masonry fireplace? Decide what will give you a sense of vacation in your backyard. 14 Outdoor Design 458335_kp1.indd 14
• Garden art accessories also bring additional beauty and character. Shop for what will bring additional style and beauty to your landscape and home. Urban landscapers need to ensure they follow city codes. Some trees, grasses and flowers are considered pests. A professional landscaper like Roger Klocke, who started Natural Environments
Landscaping in 1987 and Garden Elegance in 2003, combines his landscape design and garden products center with customer service. Customers, he and his wife, Terri, say, appreciate his attention to all the details that make a beautiful, livable landscape. “He has an incredible eye, knowing what will enhance someone’s home,” Terri said of Roger, whose hallmarks are personalized design, quality products and quality craftsmanship. The Garden Elegance retail center offers the do-it-yourselfer a selection of products from around the world. It has the area’s largest selection of garden art, flagstone, character boulders, natural wallstone and
Living Guide 2/12/09 2:30 PM
much more. The Klockes do recommend enlisting the help of a professional to plan and install your landscape. It will, they say from experience, ultimately save money. If doing the work yourself entices you though, you can still hire their designer to create a master plan and help you find everything you need at their retail center at 5508 53rd Ave. S., Fargo. Landscaping needs “to fit the style of the home and the personality of the people living there, so when you drive down the street, it’s different and unique,” Roger said. Now is the time to plan, visit with professionals, and and be ready for the spring thaw. You also can contact your local Extension Service office for tips and ideas. To contact Natural Environments Landscaping and Garden Elegance, call 701-237-6994 or 701-282-4449 or visit www.naturalenvironmentslandscaping.com or www.gardenelegancegallery.com.
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Simply A
Wild Game
My husband loves to grill, especially on the weekends, when we have time, as a family, to really enjoy the great outdoors. Some people might laugh, but unless the temperature is humanly unsafe to sustain life, my husband has developed simple techniques that enable him to grill practically every weekend of the year. We are blessed to have a large deep freezer to hold all the different types of meat we stock. Our favorite is wild game, usually venison. Some friends give us wild game from
their successful hunting endeavors. (Unfortunately, my husband doesn’t seem to find the secret to hunting success, but that’s another topic.) One day one of these friends showed up with a goose to give us. I smiled, “Oh, thank you so much!” Later that night, I panicked after I put the whole goose into the deep freezer, wondering how on earth was I going to cook that? I didn’t have a recipe! Over our Thanksgiving trip to visit my in-laws, my husband’s mother mentioned that we should cook the goose with the
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48” Salem Table with Shell Back Dining Chairs
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pr gri
oose Grilled Gple Serves 4 to 6 peo
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
2 goose breasts
cup vegetable oil
¾ cup red wine
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
¼ cup soy sauce 1 medium onion, sliced finely
oil and goose breasts in a Combine all the ingredients except the thwise to make 4 thin fillets. large bowl. Slice the goose breasts leng a fork. Brush the vegetable oil Pierce both sides of the breasts with 1 hour. Place the breasts in on the breasts and let stand for about in the refrigerator. the marinade mix and let sit overnight k on a hot charcoal or gas Drain the breasts on a paper towel. Coo ter is warm. The meat will be grill. Take care to only cook until cen and serve with wild rice or dry if overcooked. Slice into portions other accompaniments.
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Venison Steak Marinade
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1/2 cup dry red wine
I decided to contact a friend, Sara Watson, caterer at Mosaic Foods. Sara suggested, “Here is a simple recipe to try…it has great flavor; the trick is to not overcook the goose as it will get dry!” Thawing procedure: For thawing frozen goose, you need to pull it from the freezer about two days before you need it (three days if you are going to marinate it overnight). Let it thaw in the refrigerator until ready to use. Seasoning/marinating procedure: Marinate the goose by pulling back the skin and sprinkling it with your favorite seasonings. Then, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the meat, pull the skin back over the meat and let it sit at room temperature (for no longer than one hour prior to grilling, which helps the meat to remain tender as it cooks on the grill). Serving suggestion: Once removed from the grill, serve the sliced goose over wild rice pilaf with grilled vegetables on the side. Thanks, Sara, for giving us a great recipe for preparing simply a wild game, goose, on the grill!
1/4 tsp. ground cardamom
1/8 tsp. garlic powder 1/3 cup salad oil 3 tbsp. soy sauce
Combine ingredients; pou r marinade over deer steaks in glass bak ing dish. Leave steaks in marinade at roo m temperature 1 to 3 hours, turning occ asionally. Drain steaks; broil to desired don eness over charcoal or under oven bro iler, brushing frequently with marinade while broiling. Yield: marinade for 1 pou nd of venison
To learn more about wild game, how to care for the meat in preparation for coo game recipes, take a look at king, and wild this compilation by the No rth Carolina Cooperative Service – Martin County Extension Center and NCSU at http ://www.ces.ncsu.edu/marti Contact your local Wildli n/wildrecipes/. fe Officer for information on hunting regulations and seasons.
e Casserole gether in a 2 quart ic R d il W d n ients to Pheasant a Mix all ingred sant on top. d put the phea cut up 1 pheasant, rice d long grain 1 box wild an mix y onion soup 1 package dr chopped 1 small onion, ry, diced 2 stalks cele ooms 1 can mushr n broth 1 can chicke
2 hours at casserole, an 1 1/2 hours to ke ba d an er Cov celery soup F. Pour 1 can s ee gr de 0 35 t and serve. sserole. Hea over top of ca
g, and wild ion for cookin eat in preparat perative Extension m e th r fo re ca olina Coo pes/. game, how to the North Car artin/wildreci e about wild compilation by tp://www.ces.ncsu.edu/m To learn mor is th s. at on ok as lo take a ns and se SU at ht game recipes, enter and NC nting regulatio tin County C rmation on hu Service – Mar l Wildlife Officer for info loca Contact your
Winter 2009 17 458335_kp1.indd 17
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You have a vision of what your deck should be when it’s finished. You can already smell the barbecue from the grill and are ready to spend time on your new deck with friends and family. You’ve spent time planning it out, and now it’s time to actually assemble it—and that includes building the stairs. A deck stairway adds visual interest and utility and should be built with safety in mind. But if you’ve never built stairs before, it can be a little tricky. Building stairs requires exact measurements and careful layout. Here is some information that should help you with your first stair building experience. Stair Terminology: Understand It FIRST! Before you can build some stairs of your own, you need to understand the deck builder’s lingo. The most common style of deck stairs is a straight run of notched stringers. A stringer is the structure of the stairs. They are often notched pieces of lumber that support the treads. They must be strong enough to support the heavy loads imposed by people walking on the steps themselves. This is usually 2x10" or 2x12" minimum. Each step consists of the tread, which are the horizontal pieces a person steps on. The riser is the back part of the step. It’s the height between the treads. Nosing is the overhang of the tread. 18 Outdoor Design 458335_kp1.indd 18
Build Your Deck Stairs Step 1: Figure Out the Rise & Run This will be a throwback to your Tread high school algebra classes. There’s a Riser formula that deck Nosing builders use for the Unit Run ideal relationship Total Rise between the rise and Stringer Unit Rise run. Yep—you’re going to have to do a little math in order to Preferred Angle 30-35 Deg. build your steps! • Twice the rise plus the tread should Total Run be between 24-26". Example: tape measure is your best friend when you’re 7½" + 7½" Rise + 10" Tread = 25". building your stairs. Why? Because after your • The sum of one riser and one tread should stairs are built and someone walks up or down equal 17-18". your stairs, they will subconsciously measure • The riser multiplied by the tread should equal the height of the first few risers. If your stairs between 70-75". aren’t the same height, you will have people It’s extremely important that all of the treads tripping up or down your stairs because they are and all risers be at the same size and height, so not the same height. So my number one rule of measure carefully and don’t just "think" that it’s building stairs is measure twice! "about" this height or that height. Your trusty
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Step 2: Determine the Number of Risers The total vertical distance a stair must cover is measured from the top of the decking to where the stairs will land. If the ground slopes away, make sure you measure where the stairs will land. Divide the distance in inches by 8" of rise; this is the maximum height according to code. In the event your answer is not even, round up to the nearest whole number, as it is not possible to have only a fraction of a step. Then divide the original distance by that number to find the height of each riser. Here is an example to illustrate this process:
75" ÷ 8" = 9⅜ steps. Round the answer up and divide the height to get the rise. 75" ÷ 10 steps = 7½" per riser. If you want a lower rise, divide by 11 steps and get 6 13/16" per riser. I like to cut the tread at 10". This works out nicely for decking as two 5 ½" decking boards = 11" + 1/8" gap = 11 1/8" so you will have an overhang of 1 1/8". And here is another little helpful hint: There is always 1 less tread than riser, so if you have 10 risers you will have 9 treads. Nine treads x 10" each; the stairs would land out at 90".
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Step 3: Cut the Stringers
Place a 2x10" or 2x12" of appropriate length on a pair of sawhorses. You need to sight along the edge of the lumber to determine if there is a crown. As you are cutting, make sure the crown side is up. Figure 3-1. Using a framing square, set the buttons to 7½" and 10". Start on the bottom of the stringer and continue along the length, marking off each step. After marking the notches, I make several critical adjustments before cutting the stringers. Shorten the bottom step to the thickness of the tread material. Mark 1½" off the bottom front riser, and mark 1½" off the back of top riser.
Figure 3-1. Figure 3-2. Using a circular saw, cut out the steps, running the front of the blade just to the intersection of the marks for risers and treads. Because the blade is circular, there will be a bit if wood remaining on the underside of the stringer. Figure 3-3. Cut this with a hand saw or jigsaw. After your first stringer is created, use this one for a pattern for the remaining stringers.
Figure 3-2.
TERMINOLOGY Stringer – The structure of the stairs; notched pieces of lumber to support treads; it must be strong enough to support heavy loads imposed by people walking on the treads; usually 2x10" or 2x12" minimum
Tread – Each step consists of a tread which is the horizontal pieces people step on
Riser – The back part of the step; the height between the treads; the vertical part
Skirt Boards – Finish boards to cover treated stringers, ends of decking and risers to provide a more finished look
Total Rise – The sum of all the risers
Total Run – The sum of all the treads Nosing – Overhang of tread
Figure 3-3.
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Step 4: Assemble the Stairs Figure 4-1. Attach and screw a 2x6"
on the top back of stringers and a 2x6" on the bottom front stringers for support. Temporarily tack the stair section to the deck. Now locate where your bottom rail posts will be installed. Remove stairs and dig holes to code depth.
M
Figure 4-2 and Figure 4-3. You are now
ready to install the riser and tread material to your stringers. I like to start at the bottom and work my way up. Figure 4-4.
Install the riser material first and follow by securing the treads. Screw the bottom back of each riser to the tread. I like to
Reattach stairs, square stringers, plumb, and securely attach the posts to the front 2x6" and outside stringer.
add another 2x4" along the side of each stringer for double the strength. Add skirt boards on the side of each outside stringer for a more finished look.
After building decks for almost 25 years, I’ve "learned by doing." Some common things that people make mistakes on are that they do not realize that the variation between the largest and smallest riser can be no more than 3/8" and that the maximum riser height is 8". Open risers on stairs are not permitted. Nor do people realize that the minimum stair width is 36", and that they need a railing on stairs if there are more than three risers. There also
is a minimum tread depth of 9". I think that my "top 4" list of things that you need to be aware of when building your first set of stairs are: Don’t put your top tread even with your deck. Remember that when adding a railing on the insides of a set of stairs, you shrink them by around 1". Some stair kits require between 30 and 35 degree angles for the stringers. Lastly, some companies recommend strings be at 12", so be sure to read their recommendations. It’s good practice to always consult with your local building department. All city codes are not the same, and you want to build a deck that fits within your city’s code. It’s also good to know that every city does not have to adapt to the National Building Code.
Figure 4-1.
Figure 4-2.
S
Figure 4-3.
Todd’s Final Thoughts Every time I build a deck, it’s a different experience. The things I’ve shared in this article are just helpful hints about how I’ve learned to build stairs for decks over my career. Every deck has its own challenges, and building the stairs to a deck is what completes the deck. Take your time to plan well, do the math, measure twice, cut once, and adjust to your conditions. If you do those things, your stairs will be sturdy and strong, just like your deck!
Dec Our your mat show deck
DEC Elite
Todd Funfar is the owner and operator of Deckmasters in Fargo, ND. He can be reached at 701-232-4001 or www.deckmasters.net.
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Figure 4-4.
550
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Millions of Questions,
One Place for Answers
Supply Design Build Deckmasters has been in business for 20 years. Our experienced staff can assist you in designing your dream deck, or help you find the right materials to do it yourself. Our 4,600 square foot showroom and Total Deck Supply Store is full of deck ideas and products. DECKMASTERS is now a Timbertech® products Elite Dealer, and a Trex® Pro Gold Dealer.
5507 53rd Avenue SW Fargo, ND 58104 458335_kp1.indd 21
Cad & 3D Drawing Deck Designs Outdoor Furniture Cellular PVC Decking Fencing Play Sets Low Voltage Lighting Sport Court Railing Kits Pergolas & Gazebos Custom Built Decks
701-232-4001
Deckmasters
Locally owned and operated since 1989
www.deckmasters.net
dealer Winter 2009 21
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Stain &
Maintain
DECKS
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Your deck is covered with snow, perhaps stored furniture, an empty pot or two waiting for spring planting. You’re looking longingly at the grill, waiting for summer fun. You’re ready for spring. When the snow thaws and you’ve swept the slush away, it’s time to evaluate the health of your deck and what you need to do to protect the wood, composite or cellular PVC decking material. Spring cleaning is important for your deck. If you have a deck constructed of composite materials, simply hosing it off may be enough. If dirt, sap or other winter debris sticks to the surface, there are many products to boost cleaning power. Cleaning of deck material can be done with mops, brushes and power cleaners. Cleaning is a bit more complicated if you want to keep the lustrous look of your wood deck. When a wood deck is first built, Todd
Funfar, owner of Deckmasters for 19 years, recommends it be stained the first and second years, then every other year. In a perfect world, that’s been done and spring cleaning is easier. You can rescue and maintain the wood in your deck if time and the elements have caused damage. Using a wood cleaner helps deep clean into the grain. It can be mopped, brushed or sprayed on the surface, then worked in so that the deck is covered evenly. “That will get the wood 80 percent clean,” Funfar said. Then use a wood brightener to remove the dark tannins. Do cleaning and staining when it’s shady or cloudy, never in hot sun. Pressure washing seems like the easiest way to clean, but following directions is critical. The age of lumber used to build the deck makes a difference in how well power washing works. Blasting the wood may damage it beyond repair, splitting the wood and damaging the grain.
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Paul Hilborn is a certified wood restorer. He is a franchisee of Roof-to-Deck Restoration and works in a 200-mile radius of Fargo-Moorhead. His company uses pressure washers with, he said, “the right pressure, right tip and right chemical to clean.” To make sure the deck is dry, they use a moisture meter that must show less than 12 percent moisture before they stain. Both Funfar and Hilborn agree that wood has to be clean and dry to absorb stain. After a few good drying days, you can stain your deck. The drier the wood, the deeper the stain will penetrate and the longer it will last. Funfar’s advice for do-ityourselfers is to apply stain to the first decking board, the entire length of the house, by hand. Roll the entire length of the next two or three boards using a roller with a broomstick handle. Then use a foam brush between the boards. Repeat the process until the staining is complete. Be careful so that stain doesn’t puddle. This can cause improper drying, glossy spots or an uneven finish. Wipe off excess stain in about half an hour so the surface isn’t blotchy. It takes about 24 hours before foot traffic should be on the deck.
reader feature
r ve g n. t
Send in or email your photo of your own oasis. It may be featured in an upcoming issue.
Submissions become the property of Studio 7 Productions, Inc. and will not be returned.
he r
od
homeowners. The Funfars, Todd and Lori, build decks of all shapes and sizes, gazebos and pergolas, and install awnings, Sport Court surfaces and Rainbow Play Systems. Their 4,640 square foot showroom at 5507 53rd Ave. SW, Fargo, displays deck ideas and products to help you think of ways to stretch and savor summer. You can design your own project, or Funfars can help you find the right materials to do it yourself. Deckmasters has North Dakota’s largest selection of composite decking and materials, as well as exotic hardwoods. In 2007, Deckmasters was honored by Trex, a manufacturer of composite decking, as a Trex Pro Gold dealer. Trex is the world’s largest recycler – when you have something built of Trex, you could be walking on your old grocery bag. Whether you hire a professional, Stain your deck the first or do it yourself, you can have and second year, and then beautiful outdoor living space – and stain it every other year. keep it clean, stained and a welcome addition to your home. Deckmasters supplies all the products To learn more about Deckmasters, go to needed to care for decks, whether wood or www.deckmasters.net, call 701-232-4001 or composite material. e-mail info@deckmasters.net. Decks are the foundation of To learn more about Roof-to-Deck, go Deckmasters, a family business that now to www.rooftodeck.com, call also builds customized outdoor rooms and 1-866-277-3639 or e-mail recreation areas for all kinds of homes and paul.hilborn@rooftodeck.com.
503 7th St N, Suite 104, Fargo, ND 58102 info@outdoordesignandliving.com
T The U Unique B Back Y Yard Koi, Goldfish, Water Plants, Pond Supplies Pond Designing, Construction & Pond Maintenance 206 Center Ave W., Dilworth, MN Hours Vary. Please Call Ahead
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Now is the time to get
INSURANCE Fargo-Moorhead has a 90 percent chance of major flooding by April 30, according to the National Weather Service. What can affect this: 1. More snow this winter. 2. Ice damming on the Red or Wild Rice Rivers 3. Quick spring melt 4. Spring rain along with snow melt Does my home/renters insurance cover for flood damage? The quick answer is no. Flooding is normally excluded from home/renters insurance. You will want a stand-alone flood insurance policy that is offered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). These policies are offered by licensed agents. Use a local agent as there are specific rules that apply to our region when you are looking at flood insurance. Go to www.floodsmart.gov and search for locally certified agents who are educated to provide you with the correct advice. FEMA is updating the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Cass and Clay Counties. There will be preliminary maps released for Cass County in 2009, and FEMA will officially adopt the new FIRM map approximately nine months to one year after the preliminary maps are released. Here is a summary of flood insurance zones: • Zone A – high risk flood zone. • Zones B, C, or X, – low risk flood zone • PRP – Preferred Risk Policy, low risk and never flooded 1. You have to have a policy in place at least 30 days before it 24 Outdoor Design 458335_kp1.indd 24
is effective and will pay a claim if needed. So, if you look at the National Weather Service date, (April 30), back that up 30 days, you should have a policy written with premium paid by March 31. I would suggest having one by February 25 to be more conservative. 2. If you are not currently in Flood Zone A (high risk), and currently not required by your lender to carry flood insurance, then you cannot escrow the premium. You must pay the full year premium at time of application. You can pay by check, debit card, or credit card. 3. If you are not currently in a Flood Zone A, then you may qualify for a Preferred Risk Policy (PRP). This means that if your property is not in a current high risk flood zone (A), and you have not had a flood claim, you should qualify for a PRP policy. That’s not always the case, though. Make sure your agent checks for qualification before you assume what your premium will be. If you do qualify for a PRP policy and you are rezoned into an "A" zone (high risk), then you will be grandfathered in a low risk rate class as long as you have the PRP policy in force and paid at least 30 days prior to the rezoning "adoption" date. It will not protect the
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PRP premium; however, you will not pay high risk premiums at renewal. You will be in a low-risk rate class. To view the different premium samples from FEMA go to: http:// www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/ flood_policies/premium_schedules.jsp
4. If you do not have a mortgage and you are not required to carry flood insurance and you will or may be rezoned into an "A" zone (high risk), it may be in your best interest to have a flood policy in force to protect your premiums if you ever plan to sell your home. The flood policy can be transferred to the buyer of your home, and that could help the sale of the property. 5. Flood insurance covers both homes and businesses. With residential coverage, you can get up to $250,000 of insurance to protect your home and up to $100,000 to protect its contents. If you are located in
(or moving into) a high-risk area, federally regulated or insured lenders will require you to have flood insurance for the amount remaining on your mortgage, or $250,000, whichever is lower. With commercial coverage, you can get up to $500,000 of insurance to protect your building and up to $500,000 to protect its contents. Basements: The NFIP defines a basement as any area of a building with a floor that is below the natural ground level on all sides; otherwise, it is considered the first floor. The following items are covered under building coverage as long as they are connected to a power source and installed in their functioning location: · Sump pumps · Well water tanks and pumps, cisterns and the water in them · Oil tanks and the oil in them, natural gas tanks and the gas in them · Pumps and/or tanks used in conjunction with solar energy · Furnaces, hot water heaters, air conditioners and heat pumps · Electrical junction and circuit breaker
boxes and required utility connections · Foundation elements · Stairways, staircases, elevators and dumbwaiters · Unpainted drywall and ceilings, including fiberglass insulation · Cleanup The following items are covered under contents coverage: · Clothes washers and dryers · Food freezers and the food in them Flood insurance does not cover basement improvements or items not necessary in making the home safe, sanitary and functional, such as carpeting, finished walls, paint, floors, ceilings, furniture or personal belongings that may be kept in the basement. Necessary items are included under building coverage and some under contents coverage. The NFIP encourages people to purchase both building and contents coverage for the broadest protection. For more information, please contact your current flood insurance provider. If you are concerned about flooding, please consult with a competent insurance agent that has been certified by FEMA. Remember that for a small annual premium, you can have peace of mind…the spring thaw is right around the corner. Contact Steve Aune at Country Insurance for assistance in getting flood insurance: www.countryfinancial.com/ steve.aune or 701-356-0505.
Find Your Picture PerFect Home Just call me. I'm ready to take on the challenge!
Cell 701-491-0572 dheller@cableone.net www.dede-heller.com 2521 So. Univ. Dr. Fargo, ND
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Nature is a
Stress Reliever In these tough economic times, we all need to get away to refresh and recharge ourselves. There is not a more cost-effective way of observing nature and recharging or relaxing, than that of watching and hearing beautiful birds around your home and office. Something as simple as a Clingers Only Feeders, available at Critters Feed and Seed in Moorhead, MN, filled with No Waste Mix or sunflower kernels, will attract lots of beautiful, amusing songbirds. Watch as a chickadee picks just the right seed and flies off to enjoy a snack. Downy woodpeckers, goldfinches, nuthatches and more will even come right up to your window to eat. With the NO Waste mix or sunflower kernels there is no mess on the window sill, deck or patio. Or maybe you would enjoy watching the curious and acrobatic squirrel jumping up on a Squangee corn cob feeder, also available at Critters Feed and Seed, to fetch a kernel of corn only to be bounced around like it was on a bungee cord. Don’t worry; the squirrels like the extreme ride just as much as your average teenager. Regardless if you like watching the gentleness of a pine siskin or the playfulness of a gray squirrel, enjoying nature in your own back yard is a great stress reliever.
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Premier Lawn & Power, Inc. 701-365-0707
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Quality Products, Quality Service We service all makes and models
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SAVE TIME AND MONEY: Rent Your Equipment When planning an outdoor project, it’s sometimes easy to get caught up in the excitement of it all. Do you have the motivation to complete the project? Check! Detailed plans, the time required, a list of the necessary building supplies? Check, check, check! How about the equipment needed to complete the project effectively and efficiently? Uh-oh. You didn’t build a posthole digger, skid steer loader and stump grinder into your budget. You can’t justify – or necessarily afford – buying the equipment
for a one-time project, and none of your friends or family members have all the equipment you need. Now what? Has your project ended before it even began?! Calm down, take a deep breath and reach for your computer keyboard or phone book. All is not lost. Do an Internet search on “rental service stores” in your area or look under that section in the yellow pages. That’s right:
you can rent the equipment you need. Hardware and home improvement stores may also offer rental equipment. Taking the rental route can simplify your life, save you money and provide: • Expanded project capabilities and possibilities because of professional-grade
•
• •
eq •
For Your Deck
Cad & 3D Drawing Deck Designs Outdoor Furniture Cellular PVC Decking Fencing Low Voltage Lighting Railing Kits Hidden Fasteners Joist Hangers Stainless Steel Screws Post Caps
•
ToTAl Deck SupplY STore Supply Design Build 28 Outdoor Design 458335_kp1.indd 28
s
5507 53rd Ave SW, Fargo 701-232-4001 www.deckmasters.net
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Don’t Buy It; Rent It! Rental, hardware and home improvement stores offer a vast array of tools and equipment that can be rented for outdoor projects. Here is just a sampling of what’s available:
n e
er t. al ify
de
tools • Access to experts who can provide advice, help and options for your project • Training on the safe and proper use of the equipment • Saved time that would otherwise be spent using manual or sub-standard tools Now, before you rush out to rent your equipment, keep these tips in mind: • Before renting equipment, organize your work area. This preparation can save you money because you are charged for the time the equipment is in your possession, not for the time you actually spend using it. • Call the rental, hardware or home improvement store and describe your project. When store personnel know details (and the more, the better), they
•
Aerators
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Blowers
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Brush chippers
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Chain saws
•
•
Power shovels
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Sandblasters
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Skid-steer loaders (including attachments)
Dethatchers
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Sod cutters
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Edgers
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Sprayers (including paint sprayers)
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Hedge trimmers
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Spreaders
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Jackhammers
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Stump grinders
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Ladders
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Tillers
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Lawn rollers
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Trailers
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Log splitters
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Trenchers
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Pole pruners
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Utility tractors
•
Posthole diggers
•
Weed eaters
can recommend exactly the type and size of equipment you’ll need. • When you pick up the equipment, ask how to use it safely and correctly. If you don’t understand everything perfectly clearly, ask again. • Ask about and understand the store’s rates, hours and return policy. You may be able to rent by the hour, half day, day, week or month. Generally, hourly rates have a set minimum time that is less
expensive than renting for the entire day. • Completely understand your responsibility for the equipment. The money you save in renting versus buying can be used to upgrade supplies in your current project or be put toward your next big project. Good luck, and happy renting! Don’t have it to complete the job?
Rent it fRom Joe!
Rental - Sales & Service Available
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2811 Fiechtner Dr. South, Fargo www.joerents.net scaffolding • concrete tools • heavy equipment • sod cutters • misc. supplies • trenchers • tables/chairs • pumps • drills • power rakes • chain saws • aerators
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In our Next Issue Coming Spring 2009
Spring Planting Find out what plants are best to plant in the spring.
Summer Grilling Learn about the history of the barbecue grill and how to choose one that will work best for you.
Featured Products Discover new products for enhancing your outdoor spaces and learn where to find them.
$1000 Budget Weekend Project
What can you do in a weekend with only a grand?
and more!
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Our Red River Valley is a wonderful place to live. Whether at work, home, or at our favorite winter or lakeside retreat, we are reminded of that often. Knight is grateful to have been a part of this wonderful community for 120 years, and thankful for the quality of life we are able to enjoy with our families and neighbors. We are committed to wise stewardship of our gifts and mindful of using them in responsible and sustainable ways. Rich Slagle, CEO and President
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LIvIng guIde 701.235.1121 / knightprinting.com / 16 South 16th Street, Fargo, ND 58103
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