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	<title>DirectBuy Patio Blog &#187; Patios and Decks</title>
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		<title>Deck Remodeling Expands the Family&#8217;s Living Space</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios-and-decks/deck-remodeling-expands-living-space/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios-and-decks/deck-remodeling-expands-living-space/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jan 2012 18:17:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=4021</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Deck remodeling is one of the most popular and most affordable remodeling projects. Today, decks are almost considered an essential home improvement, particularly in mild-weathers areas where outdoor living is part of the life style.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Deck-iS.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-4076" title="Deck" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Deck-iS.jpg" alt="Design a Deck to Any Style" width="322" height="213" /></a>Deck remodeling is one of the most popular and most affordable remodeling projects to make your <a title="outdoor living" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor living</a> space more enjoyable. Today, decks are almost considered an essential home improvement, particularly in mild-weathers areas where outdoor living is part of the life style.</p>
<p>Decks are a good investment, too, as decks are a feature that home buyers want. You can expect to recover up to 73 percent of the costs when you sell your home.</p>
<h3>Deck Basics</h3>
<p>Decks are typically supported by posts anchored into the ground with concrete piers. Most decks include a complete railing system, complete with posts, railings and balusters, as well as steps that lead from the deck to ground level.</p>
<h3>Choosing Materials</h3>
<p>Strong, easy to install and visually appealing, wood remains the most popular decking material. Pressure-treated wood is the most common, but is not as long-lasting as natural redwood and cedar. Heavy hardwoods are the most durable. All wood decks should be re-stained every few years to extend their life and keep them looking beautiful. Composites, plastic, plastic and polystyrene are popular synthetic deck materials.</p>
<p>Deck remodeling can be enhanced with built-in benches and planters. Decks are one of the least expensive and most attractive ways to expand living space into the outdoors.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide selection of <a title="outdoor accessories" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor accessories</a> , such as <a title="arbors" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/arbors.aspx" target="_blank">arbors</a> , <a title="garden fountains" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/garden-decor.aspx" target="_blank">garden fountains</a> , and all types of <a title="patio furniture" href="../../patio-design.aspx" target="_blank">patio furniture</a> to help you create an enjoyable outdoor space at prices that can save up to 50% off retail.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>Deck Remodeling Adds Value to a Home</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios-and-decks/deck-remodeling-adds-value/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios-and-decks/deck-remodeling-adds-value/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:12:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deck remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Direct Buy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Living]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=3784</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When it comes to adding value to a home, few things can be done to the exterior of a home that will add as much value as deck remodeling. An old, worn and warped deck is an eyesore, but with a little hard work and a small cash investment, an old deck can be transformed into a showpiece.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Deck-iS.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3967" title="Deck" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Deck-iS.jpg" alt="Adding a Deck to Your Home Can Bring Up the Value" width="340" height="226" /></a>When it comes to adding value to a home, few things can be done to the exterior of a home that will add as much value as deck remodeling. An old, worn and warped deck is an eyesore, but with a little hard work and a small cash investment, an old deck can be transformed into a showpiece. Whether you are completely tearing down a deck or simply stripping and refinishing, taking on such a project will pay dividends.</p>
<h3>Wood Choice</h3>
<p>Deck remodeling is only limited by the imagination. A variety of finishes and woods are available. For those with luxury in mind, a tigerwood or teak wood deck looks great. The natural water resistant qualities of the wood will ensure that the deck will last for years to come. There are more affordably priced options for the budget conscious. A composite or bamboo-wood deck looks great and is a long-lasting option.</p>
<h3>Deck Installations</h3>
<p>You can use your remodel as an opportunity to install a hot tub, <a title="barbecue grill" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/grills.aspx" target="_blank">barbecue grill</a> or built-in sitting area. Let your imagination run wild. Take this opportunity to make your deck your outdoor haven.</p>
<p>You will not regret refinishing or remodeling your deck. Every family needs a beautiful, comfortable place to sit and enjoy the great outdoors. A deck remodel is a project that will pay for itself many times over.</p>
<p>If you want to make your outdoor spaces attractive and enjoyable, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has a wonderful selection of most everything you need for your patio or deck, whether <a title="outdoor lighting" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/lighting.aspx" target="_blank">outdoor lighting</a>, <a title="patio furniture" href="../../" target="_blank">patio furniture</a> or other <a title="outdoor accessories" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor accessories</a>, you will find a great selection at great savings of up to 50% off retail.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Adding Plants to Your Patio Provides Warmth and Luxury</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios-and-decks/patio-plants-add-warmth-and-luxury/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios-and-decks/patio-plants-add-warmth-and-luxury/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 30 Nov 2011 13:46:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home and Garden Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Decor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Plants]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=3829</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Adding plants to your patio is an easy way to make it more inviting and attractive. Warm up the space, hide unattractive features and add luxury to the area by strategically placing colorful flowers or pots of tall, graceful plants.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Patio-Plants-iS.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3939" title="Patio Plants" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Patio-Plants-iS.jpg" alt="Adding Plants to Your Patio " width="325" height="238" /></a>Adding plants to your patio is an easy way to make it more inviting and attractive. Warm up the space, hide unattractive features and add luxury to the area by strategically placing colorful flowers or pots of tall, graceful plants.</p>
<h3>Camouflage</h3>
<p>Utility boxes, air conditioning units and water meters are just a few of the items that could detract from the beauty of your outdoor living space. Large potted plants like zebra grass or calla lilies can effectively hide the utility meter and even the air conditioning unit.</p>
<h3>Warmth</h3>
<p>The bare walls of your home can appear boring when you are creating an outdoor retreat. Plants can be placed on the wall using brackets or special pots that are designed to mount directly on the walls. You can add color, warmth and life to the area with some strategically placed greenery.</p>
<p>Adding plants to your patio is an affordable and effective way to make it feel more luxurious. Plants will create warmth and allow you to hide the utilitarian items that are found on your deck.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide range of <a title="patio furniture" href="../../" target="_blank">patio furniture</a>, <a title="umbrellas" href="../../umbrellas.aspx" target="_blank">umbrellas</a>, and other <a title="outdoor accessories" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor accessories</a> to help you furnish any outdoor area in style – high quality products at prices up to 50% off retail.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>Make A Plan For Your Deck Remodeling</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios-and-decks/make-a-plan-for-your-deck-remodeling/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios-and-decks/make-a-plan-for-your-deck-remodeling/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 17 Sep 2011 14:47:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=3426</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whether you are outgrowing your existing deck, wanting to change the layout, or just ready for a new look, deck remodeling can help create an outdoor space your entire family will love to spend time in.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong></strong><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Deck1.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-1956" title="Deck" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Deck1.jpg" alt="Remodel your deck or patio for more outdoor enjoyment." width="347" height="230" /></a>Whether you are outgrowing your existing deck, wanting to change the layout, or just ready for a new look, deck remodeling can help create an outdoor space your entire family will love to spend time in.</p>
<h3>Big Or Small, Have A Plan</h3>
<p>From putting railings on to protect little ones from a fall to removing and replacing a wraparound porch, your remodel project will go much smoother if you create and stick to a plan. A plan can help you budget for the remodel, and give you a detailed shopping list to get you started.</p>
<h3>Choose Your Materials Wisely</h3>
<p>Do your research up front to know exactly how you want to proceed with your material choices. From wood to vinyl, there are quality levels, brands to research and durability to consider. You may find that spending more up front for synthetic decking materials will save you in the long term by giving you fewer replacement costs.</p>
<p>Deck remodeling can be a fun and exciting project to undertake. If you make sure to research and plan ahead, you will ensure a much smoother building process and give yourself that much better chance of a successful remodel.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide array of <a title="outdoor accessories" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor accessories</a> , <a title="patio furniture" href="../../" target="_blank">patio furniture</a> , <a title="garden décor" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/garden-decor.aspx" target="_blank">garden décor</a> and more to help you create an outdoor area that fits your lifestyle and makes the outdoors much more enjoyable.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Taking Decks and Patios to the Next Level</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/outdoor-accessories/taking-decks-and-patios-to-the-next-level/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/outdoor-accessories/taking-decks-and-patios-to-the-next-level/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:10:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Living]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Direct Buy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=3142</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[With summer now in full swing, one of the best places to kick back and enjoy it is on patios and decks. Here are a couple of ideas for these two options.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong></strong><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Deck1.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1956" title="Deck" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Deck1-300x198.jpg" alt="Remodel your deck or patio for more outdoor enjoyment." width="300" height="198" /></a>With summer now in full swing, one of the best places to kick back and enjoy it is on patios and decks. Here are a couple of ideas for these two options.</p>
<h3><strong>Multi-tiered Deck</strong></h3>
<p>When looking to build a new deck or add on to a current one, making the desk multi-levels is among the latest trends in deck building. Having separate, open areas provides the look of a larger deck while keeping it all tied together as one deck. This can be as simple has having one area a step lower than another, or having a double-decker built with an entire staircase leading from one area to the other.</p>
<h3><strong>Patio Stain</strong></h3>
<p>One of the newer looks on the market today is that of the stained patio. Concrete is durable and long lasting, but it is not much for being aesthetically pleasing. Because of this, stains can be added to the patio surfaces to give it a different look, or to tie it more in with the appearance of the house.</p>
<p>Either of these options will add a fresh new look to your outdoor living space.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers an incredible selection of <a title="patio furniture" href="../../" target="_blank">patio furniture</a> , <a title="outdoor lighting" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/lighting.aspx" target="_blank">outdoor lighting</a> or other <a title="outdoor accessories" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor accessories</a> at savings of up to 50% off retail prices on top-quality brand-name products.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Lawn Care – Mowing Fundamentals</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/outdoor-living/lawn-care-mowing-fundamentals/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/outdoor-living/lawn-care-mowing-fundamentals/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:16:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Lawn Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Living]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=3019</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Across neighborhoods, weekend mornings are associated with the sounds of lawnmowers and the smell of fresh-cut grass. As pleasing as the weekly ritual may be to homeowners, lawns do not always flourish on a once-a-week cutting schedule.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong></strong><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Lawn-Mower.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-3036" title="Lawn Mower" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Lawn-Mower-300x180.jpg" alt="Keep your lawn trimmed neatly for outdoor enjoyment." width="300" height="180" /></a>Across neighborhoods, weekend mornings are associated with the sounds of lawnmowers and the smell of fresh-cut grass. As pleasing as the weekly ritual may be to homeowners, lawns do not always flourish on a once-a-week cutting schedule.</p>
<h3>Let the Seasons Be Your Guide</h3>
<p>Grass grows vigorously in the spring and may require cutting every 4 days. In summer, letting the lawn grow a little higher than usual allows the grass to shade the heated soil below, protecting the roots and reducing the need to water as often. Cutting the lawn a bit shorter in the rainy fall months helps the soil dry more quickly.</p>
<p>A general rule is never to cut off more than the top third of the grass blades. What height to set mower blades depends on the variety of grass. For Bermuda grass, set the blades to 1 inch. Bluegrass and rye grass do better when blades are set to 2 inches. For Fescue, blades should be set to 3 inches.</p>
<p>Begin mowing by making a pass along the top end and bottom end of the lawn. Then mow in an up and down row pattern, overlapping a bit along each row. Following these basic fundamentals for of lawn care will keep lawns looking their best.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide range of <a title="patio furniture" href="../../" target="_blank">patio furniture</a>, <a title="umbrellas" href="../../umbrellas.aspx" target="_blank">umbrellas</a>, and other <a title="outdoor accessories" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor accessories</a> to help you furnish any outdoor area in style – high quality products at prices up to 50% off retail.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Utopia on Your Patio</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/garden-decor/utopia-on-your-patio/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/garden-decor/utopia-on-your-patio/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Jun 2011 12:16:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Garden Decor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Living]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chaise Lounge]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Grill]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Kitchen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Furniture]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=2995</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Spring and summer are the seasons for outdoor living.  Once the weather warms, many folks spend most of their available, waking hours out on their patios.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/lounging.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1022" title="lounging" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/lounging-200x300.jpg" alt="Create a relaxing patio at your home." width="200" height="300" /></a>Spring and summer are the seasons for outdoor living.  Once the weather warms, many folks spend most of their available, waking hours out on their patios.</p>
<h3>Get Off to a Good Start</h3>
<p>Start the day off with breakfast on the patio.  Let the children play in the back yard as the dew dries on the grass. When the temperature finally rises, a dip in the pool followed by cooling off in the sun on a chaise lounge will be in order.</p>
<p>Enjoy lunch by your pool or take a break from work by simply sitting and marveling at your outdoor living area.  If you work from home, make a space on your patio to accommodate your laptop so you don’t feel like you can never escape the office.</p>
<h3>Enjoy an Outdoor Evening with Friends</h3>
<p>Fire up the grill in preparation for supper and prepare meals in your outdoor kitchen. As the sun starts to ease toward the western horizon, a bottle of crisp white wine can be opened and the salad tossed. Steaks served with roasted vegetables will be eaten on the patio table in the cool evening with friends.</p>
<p>Round out the day with watching the stars and deep conversation with your favorite somebody.  Outdoor living when the weather is just right is as close to utopia as you can get.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> can help you furnish your patio with stylish, functional <a title="patio furniture" href="../../" target="_blank">patio furniture</a> of all types. Direct insider wholesale prices can help you save up to 50% on your <a title="outdoor décor" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor décor</a>.</p>
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		<title>Stamped Concrete for Your Patio</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios/stamped-concrete-for-patios/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios/stamped-concrete-for-patios/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 May 2011 01:51:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Concrete]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=2921</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Improved techniques in stamped concrete have made its popularity continue to increase over the last couple of years.  Stamped concrete is a beautiful and cost-effective application for patio floors, garden pathways, driveways, etc.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Improved techniques in stamped concrete have made its popularity continue to increase over the last couple of years.  Stamped concrete is a beautiful and cost-effective application for patio floors, garden pathways, driveways, etc.</p>
<h3>Enhance Your Outdoor Living Area</h3>
<p>Stamped concrete is a wonderful way to enhance the overall appearance of your outdoor living area.  It mimics the look of natural materials such as stone, wood, tile, brick, and slate.  Create different patterns and have limitless options when it comes to color selection.</p>
<p>Along with being cost effective, the solid surface of stamped concrete does a better job of blocking out weeds.  These advantages coupled with its durability and beauty make stamped concrete a perfect choice for patio flooring, garden walkways, and much more.</p>
<p>Check out the great selection <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has to offer for all of your <a title="outdoor" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor</a> and <a title="patio" href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/" target="_blank">patio</a> needs. Hundreds of brand-name products are available at prices up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Paver Patterns for Your Patio</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios/patio-paver-patterns/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patios/patio-paver-patterns/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 28 Apr 2011 15:10:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Front Patios and Porches]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[patio pavers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=2918</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Brick or other stone pavers can be used to create interesting floor patterns on your patio.  Pavers are used to transform patios from drab to dramatic and you don’t have to break the bank to have the design you want.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/patio-paver1.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-2919" title="patio paver[1]" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/patio-paver1.jpg" alt="" width="226" height="168" /></a>Brick or other stone pavers can be used to create interesting floor patterns on your patio.  Pavers are used to transform patios from drab to dramatic and you don’t have to break the bank to have the design you want.</p>
<h3>Popular Patio Paver Patterns</h3>
<p>Some homeowners create their own patterns to use as patio flooring, but there are several standard patterns used when working with pavers.</p>
<ul>
<li>Herringbone</li>
<li>Basketweave</li>
<li>Running Bond</li>
<li>Random</li>
<li>Radiating Stack Bond</li>
<li>Radiating Circles</li>
</ul>
<p>Do-It-Yourselfers can often do patio paver projects themselves.  If you decide to take on the project yourself, ensure you have a drawing of the pattern and the correct measurements so you will lay the pavers correctly.</p>
<p>Change the overall look of your patio by installing a pattern of pavers over your existing flooring.  It’s an inexpensive way to enhance the style and beauty of your outdoor living area.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide array of <a title="outdoor accessories" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor accessories</a> , <a title="patio furniture" href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/" target="_blank">patio furniture</a> , <a title="garden décor" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/garden-decor.aspx" target="_blank">garden décor</a> and more to help you create an outdoor area that fits your lifestyle and makes the outdoors much more enjoyable.</p>
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		<title>Contrasting Textures Work on the Patio Too</title>
		<link>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patio-furniture/contrasting-patio-textures/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/patio-furniture/contrasting-patio-textures/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:44:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patio Furniture Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Furniture Styles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Furniture Types]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios and Decks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Living]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/?p=2915</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Contrasting textures are often used in home interior designs to create more depth and interest.  This same design idea can work wonders on your patio too.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/patio-textures1.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2916" title="patio textures[1]" src="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/patio-textures1-208x300.jpg" alt="" width="208" height="300" /></a>Contrasting textures are often used in home interior designs to create more depth and interest.  This same design idea can work wonders on your patio too.</p>
<h3>Mixing it Up in Your Outdoor Living Area</h3>
<p>A décor doesn’t necessarily have to be uniform to present a cohesive look.  You don’t have to keep all “like” materials in a single area.  Experiment with mixing materials to create and uniquely interesting design.</p>
<p>Concrete, wood, metal, plastic, and stone are some of the most popular materials used on the patio.  Blend these items generate more depth in the space.  For example, you can use a wooden patio table top set on concrete pylons and instantly have a great dining table.</p>
<p>Don’t for get to add splashes of color throughout by incorporating plants, planters, cushions, or rugs.  Mix it up with contrasting textures on your patio and watch it come to life.</p>
<p>For all your <a title="patio furniture" href="http://www.directpatiofurniture.com/" target="_blank">patio furniture</a> and <a title="outdoor living accessories," href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor living accessories,</a> turn to <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> where you’ll find top-quality products at prices up to 50% off retail.</p>
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