Warm weather is here and now is the time to plan barbecues and other outdoor parties! Make this summer even more fun by building or redoing your deck.

Decks add to your living space during the summer. It provides a place for relaxation and entertainment. Add comfy outdoor furniture to create the perfect space to kick back and relax.

While most people think of a deck and a simple 20×20 space, there are so many design options to make sure it matches your needs. Add built in benches for additional seating or multiple deck levels for different areas for entertaining.

You can add personality to your deck by adding plants, additional lighting or an outdoor kitchen. It’s sure to be a gathering place for all your guests to enjoy the beautiful weather and time with friends.

There are also many different options for what type of products to use to build your deck. Wood is typically less expensive up front, but may require additional upkeep. Composite decking is lower maintenance but will cost more.

Fun aside, decks also have a more functional use. They can enhance the value of your home and can be a feature to help sell your home. Decks can offer up to 72.8 percent return on investment, better than many other outdoor improvements.

A deck can be a quick addition to your home, taking just a week to build, and cost significantly less than other home improvements.

Are you ready to create your summertime entertainment space? For a limited time we are offering free 2x green treated framing with purchase of select composite decking and railing packages. Purchase must be made in April or May. For details, contact us at 320-356-7342.

Winter cold spells can be very hard on your home. Avoid emergencies or uncomfortable experiences by getting your home ready for winter with these tactics.

Replace Caulking and Weather Stripping

The cracks and spaces around windows and doors create drafts and heating inefficiencies. Cracks less than 1/2” wide can be filled easily with caulk and painted over. For larger gaps and spaces between the door jams, apply weather stripping. If you can see outside through the crack, it should be sealed up.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Your heater does not have to work overtime. If you are gone for a significant time each day – say when your family is at work or school – program your thermostat to drop its temperature to the lower 60’s. You can even drop the temperature at night during the hours you sleep. A programmable thermostat installed in your home can save you enough money to pay for itself in just a couple of years.

Replace Your Furnace Filter Monthly

When it gets cold, we rely heavily on the machines that heat our home. Be sure to have your furnace checked and tuned up at the beginning of the season if you are concerned about leaks. It is wise to replace furnace filters monthly to keep airflow unhindered in your house.

Prep the Plumbing

Before the freezing temps cause an issue, be sure to drain your outdoor faucets and shut off the water supply leading to them. If you have anti-freeze outdoor faucets installed, you do not have to worry about this step. However, it is still wise to prepare the plumbing in your home by wrapping insulation sleeves over pipes to prevent heat loss.

These simple steps can ensure your home is all set for the winter cold! If you’re in the market for a new home or property, contact the experts at Lumber One.