Friday, November 30, 2018

Build an Outdoor Deck

Build an Outdoor Deck Whether spending a day at the shore, exploring the woods or working at the garden, outdoor living gets dirty pretty quickly. Rather than tracking the outside into the house at the end of the day, this outside shower is a luxury that is surprisingly affordable. Offering sufficient privacy to shower or change and convenient enough to be used to hose feet off, pets or kids, this weekend project could be built everywhere a garden hose may reach using basic lumber, corrugated tin and a simple plumbing assembly.



You Will Need Six panels 25-1/2-inch x 72-inch corrugated tin / four 4-inch x 4-inch x 9-foot poles / six 2-inch x 4-inch x 46-1/2-inch boards / six 2-inch x 2-inch x 65-inch boards / 2 5/4-inch x 6-inch x 57-inch planks / one 5/4-inch x 6-inch x 46-1/2-inch planks / 1 3/4-inch x 46-inch galvanized pipe / 2 3/4-inch galvanized pipe flanges / one box 3-inch deck screws / one box #12 x 1-inch roof screws / 1 quart wood stain or paint / shower pipes assembly / 72-inch shower curtain / 1 square yard #57 gravel (optional) / posthole digger / drill with Phillips head screwdriver tip / measuring tape / level / paintbrush



Establish Location Locate a level site with good drainage on that to build your outdoor shower. Select a place to establish the back right corner of the enclosure and then dig a pit 24 inches deep and 6 inches in diameter with a post-hole digger.



Quantify and Dig Post Holes Dig three more 24-inch-deep post holes spaced at 46-1/2 inches to create a square. The 2-inch x 4-inch x 46-1/2-inch timber to be utilised in later steps might be placed on the ground as spacers instead of measuring tape. Place the 4-inch x 4-inch x 9-foot articles in the holes.



Level Posts Make sure articles rest securely in the pockets and use a level to level and square. All posts should stand in a uniform height of 7 feet. Nail or screw temporary wooden stakes to adjacent sides of every post to maintain in place. Although all articles are theoretically level and perfectly positioned, employing the bets rather than filling the holes in at this time will make it a lot easier to make necessary adjustments as framing is installed.



Attach Top Rails Having a helper, span the distance between the articles on the right side with a 2-inch x 4-inch x 46-1/2-inch, using straps to support it. Center and align with the wood flush with the top of each pole. Confirm rail is level (making adjustments as needed) and secure with two 3-inch screws at every post. Remove clamps once protected.



Twist Staying Top Rails Repeat the process shown in preceding step to set secure top rails at the back and at on the left side of the enclosure (leaving the front open).



Attach Bottom Rails Mark a spot 12 inches in the ground on each post. Working with one plank at a time, place 2-inch x 4-inch x 46-1/2-inch rails between poles using the same method used to secure top railings. If the floor isn't perfectly flat, alterations will be needed to make sure bottom rails are level before attaching using two 3-inch screws at every post.



Attach Vertical Braces Put 2-inch x 2-inch x 65-inch rails at each post between the top and bottom railings. The fit will likely be comfy--vertical braces might be tapped into place using a rubber mallet or block of wood. Attach vertical braces to posts with 3inch screws and attach to top and bottom rails by forcing screws in at an angle. The now-completed frames are used to hang the walls and help stabilize the structure.



Attach Top Cap The cap is primarily decorative, but also can help stabilize the enclosure. Place a 5/4-inch x 6-inch x 57-inch plank in addition to the right-hand posts together with the rear end and inside edges flush with the articles. The front of the top rail will overhang by approximately 1-3/4 inches. Secure to articles and top rail using 3-inch screws. Place a 5/4-inch x 6-inch x 46-1/2-inch plank in addition to the back edge of the enclosure, butting the end against the installed side and flush across the inner border. Stable with 3-inch screws and attach another 5/4-inch  x 6-inch x 57-inch plank to the top of the left side of the enclosure to complete.



Fill in Post Holes Use a level to check all sides one final time to verify enclosure is level and square. Make any necessary adjustments, then fill in place holes with dirt and pack. In places where weather could be intense or where soil is sandy, the holes could be full of concrete instead of dirt to offer added stability.



Employ Paint or Stain Using stain or paint is an affordable way to add design to even the simplest structures. Here we use a rosewood semi-transparent stain.



Lay Gravel (Optional) Gravel will assist with drainage and prevent a few locations from turning into a mud pit after prolonged shower use. Although this step is optional, its clean look and functionality go a long way.



Attach Temporary Support Twist a 2-inch x 4-inch towards the base of a bottom brace using wood clamps affixed from the inside of the enclosure. This temporary brace will help hold the tin siding place while it is attached.



Attach Siding Place a 25-1/2-inch x 72-inch panel of corrugated tin vertically in the very first framework, supported by the temporary brace. Make sure it rests level and sits flush against the frame borders and contrary to corner post. Use roofing screws attach tin to top and bottom rails securely.



Attach Siding After first panel is secure, add another panel to fill out the side. Anticipate an overlap of 1-1/2 inches in the middle. Attach second panel and repeat the procedure on the trunk and opposing side of the enclosure to complete three-sided enclosure.



Build Plumbing Shower assemblies may be bought as a kit or put together using cheap parts. Our assembly utilizes one 1/2-inch x 30-inch galvanized pipe, one 1/2-inch x 5-inch galvanized pipe, one 1/2-inch ball valve, 1 hose to 1/2-inch pipe adapter, one 1/2-inch pipe connectors along with a shower head with adjustable hose.



Attach Plumbing to Enclosure Employing pipe straps and 3-inch screws, attach plumbing assembly to the post in either corner of the enclosure. Be sure that the hose attachment extends below the bottom edge of the siding and the valve is easily achieved.



Attach Hose Attach a hose into the bottom of the plumbing meeting. If the shower will be used rarely, the hose may be attached when it will be used. To get a shower that will see regular usage, be sure the hose is protected and doesn't pose a tripping hazard.



Twist Shower Head Clip Utilize a 3-inch twist to attach the holder to the shower head to the enclosure frame. Turn on the water to be certain that there are no leaks and the holder is well-aimed. Although a rigid shower pipe may be utilized, a handheld fixture is useful for hosing off dirty feet, sand-covered children or muddy dogs.



Attach Shower Curtain Rod This sturdy rod doesn't only support a curtain, it helps add significant stability to your arrangement. Measure down 2 inches from the top of the enclosure and combine a 3/4-inch x 46-inch threaded pole throughout the entryway utilizing 3-inch screws to combine two galvanized flanges.



Finishing Touches You can now put in a shower curtain, pavers or other substances to work as a shower floor, extra hooks for hanging towels and your shower is prepared to go.



International Homes Winner: Squamish, BC, Canada -- Presented by Macdonald Real Estate Group Inc., a member of Luxury Portfolio International

International Homes Winner: Squamish, BC, Canada -- Presented by Macdonald Real Estate Group Inc., a member of Luxury Portfolio International Gated and protected by five security cameras, this ultra-private 13-acre property was your favorite in the International Homes category.   This backyard view shows off the pairing of stone and neutral siding that were used for the outside. The landscape and hardscape comprises a small pond and evergreen trees.



International Homes Winner: Squamish, BC, Canada -- Presented by Macdonald Real Estate Group Inc., a part of Luxury Portfolio International The spacious living area features large windows that highlight the surrounding mountain view, in addition to a vaulted exposed beam ceiling that gives the space a bigger look. A floor-to-ceiling gray rock fireplace lends a cozy vibe, even though a brown leather couch offers a cozy location for relaxing.



International Homes Winner: Squamish, BC, Canada -- Presented by Macdonald Real Estate Group Inc., a member of Luxury Portfolio International The master bath features a drop-in bathtub positioned immediately facing a floor-to-ceiling grey stone fireplace. Large windows offer a mountain perspective, even though a glass door allows for outdoor terrace access.



International Homes Winner: Squamish, BC, Canada -- Presented by Macdonald Real Estate Group Inc., a part of Luxury Portfolio International The large backyard allows room for a stone-lined stream and plenty of brilliant foliage.



Urban Abodes Winner: Seattle -- Presented by Windermere Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The winner of the Urban Abodes category is an outstanding Queen Anne-style house boasting amazing vistas and in-city solitude.   From the master bedroom, floor-to-ceiling windows frame fabulous views of Seattle. A soft, neutral color palette makes it possible for the scenery and colorful artwork to be the main focus.



Urban Abodes Winner: Seattle -- Presented by Windermere Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International Overlooking the Seattle waterfront, the dining nook provides casual dining for four and features full-length windows to take advantage of the beautiful views.



Urban Abodes Winner: Seattle -- Presented by Windermere Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Perfect for outdoor entertaining, the deck boasts striking city views of Seattle, which glows brightly beneath the night skies. Potted plants are arranged around the pergola, which offers some cover and surrounding light.



Urban Abodes Winner: Seattle -- Presented by Windermere Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International From the backyard, a private patio surrounded by a lush garden creates a whimsical, relaxing spot to enjoy alfresco dining.



Overall Winner Waterfront Homes Winner: Tiger, Ga. -- Presented by Harry Norman Realtors, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The professionally equipped kitchen is the greatest centerpiece for entertaining with three islands, four dining areas and a cozy fireplace.  



Overall Winner Waterfront Homes Winner: Tiger, Ga. -- Presented by Harry Norman Realtors, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The residence has a total of six bedrooms, one of which warms up the relaxed and large living room. Wood beams criss-cross the ceiling and a huge stone archway welcomes people into the kitchen.



Total Winner Waterfront Homes Winner: Tiger, Ga. -- Presented by Harry Norman Realtors, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The huge covered porch with its incredible tree-trunk beams and posts behaves like an outdoor great space and includes a large stone fireplace, multiple lounging areas and a dining table.



Privacy, Please Winner: Omao, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Agents, a member of Luxury Portfolio International Set on 26 acres on Kauai's sunny South Side, the ranch-style property that won in the Privacy, Please category offers an infinity-edge pool, a 12-foot spa and 1,600 square feet of covered lanais.   A personalized end in the pool surround mimics the rippling water and blends well with all the lush, tropical landscape.



Privacy, Please Winner: Omao, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Agents, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The deep blue ripples of a gorgeous infinity-edge pool direct the eye into a stunning vista of mountain and valley.   This idyllic backyard also includes flowering gardens and an outside kitchen.



Privacy, Please Winner: Omao, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The entryway of this Hawaiian stunner comes with an arched door with an intricate, carved wood transom and iron-laced doors. A hot faux finish on the walls gives the space a cozy, homey feel despite its expansive measurements. A covered portico protects arriving guests from the elements, whether sun or rain.



Privacy, Please Winner: Omao, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Wide lighting in and around the customized pool produces a beautiful outdoor space that is usable at all hours of the night and day.



Glass Homes Winner: Haena, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Nestled behind private gates, this contemporary estate earned high honors in the Glass Houses category. The airy living area features a neutral upholstered couch and armchairs paired with floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the magnificent ocean view.



Glass Homes Winner: Haena, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The open-plan dining area allows for easy transition between the kitchen and dining spaces, while vulnerable beam vaulted ceilings give the rooms a broad look. Natural light flows through windows on either side of the room, illuminating the dark brown table and chairs.  



Glass Houses Winner: Haena, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Agents, a part of Luxury Portfolio International An exposed beam vaulted ceiling and cherry hardwood flooring add an exotic touch to the bedroom, while floral throw pillows keep the decoration fun. Sliding glass doors offer access to the deck with a waterfront view.



Glass Houses Winner: Haena, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Agents, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The contemporary estate boasts stunning vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows which allow a panoramic ocean view. A wraparound deck offers several places for outdoor relaxing and entertaining.



Tiny Homes Winner: Westerly, R.I. -- Presented by Lila Delman Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International Recently renovated, your favourite Tiny Home is a Cape Cod-style shore cottage set on Misquamicut Beach, which delivers a range of family-friendly activities, such as Blues on the Beach, a carousel, go-carts, batting cages, kiddie rides, weekly big screen movies on the shore, loads of excellent restaurants and a whole lot more.



Tiny Homes Winner: Westerly, R.I. -- Presented by Lila Delman Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Bright and airy, the family room invites indoor-outdoor living with a large, sliding glass doorway linking the space to the beachfront, whirlpool bathtub.



Tiny Homes Winner: Westerly, R.I. -- Presented by Lila Delman Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International White shaker-style cabinets paired with soft grey stone countertops generate a classic, clean look for this kitchen design. A mosaic mosaic tile backsplash and minimal coastal accessories are the perfect combo for your tiny beachfront residence.



Tiny Homes Winner: Westerly, R.I. -- Presented by Lila Delman Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Classy stunning views of Misquamicut Beach in Rhode Island, the wraparound deck provides alfresco dining as well as lounge chairs to enjoy some sunbathing.



Homes With a History Winner: Belvedere, Calif. -- Presented by McGuire Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International This three-level residence, which earned the most votes from the Homes Using a History class, was originally built circa 1904 by C.O. Perry, a wealthy San Francisco banker. The home underwent a $30 million restoration to retain its original architectural detail while bringing the property into the 21st century. Secluded on Belvedere Island's scenic crest, the Greek Revival-style masterpiece offers unobstructed 270-degree views which encompass the San Francisco city skyline, the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, Angel Island and the picturesque waters of this bay.



Homes Using a Background Winner: Belvedere, Calif. -- Presented by McGuire Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Big, open windows and French doors in the lavish living area boast spectacular views that extend out of Angel Island and the majestic Raccoon Strait to the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco city skyline. Elegant furnishings fill out the space for sophisticated entertaining.



Homes Using a History Winner: Belvedere, Calif. -- Presented by McGuire Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International The master suite boasts its own seating area complete with breathtaking water views. Furnishings in crisp whites and soft neutrals combine with ample natural light to create a bright, airy setting.



Homes With a Background Winner: Belvedere, Calif. -- Presented by McGuire Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The covered porch -- which offers astonishing views from all vantage points -- includes a seating area and dining room area with comfortable, casual furniture. The big white columns enclosing the space emphasize the home's grandeur.



Beautiful Kitchens Winner: Dana Point, Calif. -- Presented by Willis Allen Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International An open floor plan kitchen with creamy cabinets, marble countertops and an ornate range hood got your support from the wonderful Kitchens category. 2 types of marble tile are used since the backsplash: thin rectangles over the countertops and a herringbone pattern over the stove top.  



Beautiful Kitchens Winner: Dana Point, Calif. -- Presented by Willis Allen Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The spacious kitchen includes several dining room: a long, rectangular table, a cosy breakfast nook plus a trio of barstools in the middle island.  



Amazing Kitchens Winner: Dana Point, Calif. -- Presented by Willis Allen Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International A modern chandelier sits above a cozy breakfast nook. Potted plants flank the space, bringing a bit of nature indoors.  



Amazing Kitchens Winner: Dana Point, Calif. -- Presented by Willis Allen Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The spacious floor plan of the southern California home allows for breathtaking views of the ocean from virtually everywhere. Just off the kitchen, the comfy living room contributes to an outdoor loggia with graphic-patterned sectional.  



Curb Appeal Winner: Central Point, Ore. -- Presented by John L. Scott Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International A custom wrought-iron gate opens to cobble stone pavers and a circular driveway with this spacious private land, the winner of the Curb Appeal category.   The Spanish-style luxury property has stunning views of the Oregon valley.



Curb Appeal Winner: Central Point, Ore. -- Presented by John L. Scott Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The bright patio includes a fountain, dining area and gorgeous landscaping.



Curb Appeal Winner: Central Point, Ore. -- Presented by John L. Scott Real Estate, a part of Luxury Portfolio International The brick terrace is covered with a pergola and surrounded by greenery.



Curb Appeal Winner: Central Point, Ore. -- Presented by John L. Scott Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International Inside the house, a big, open-plan kitchen is designed with lots of natural light. Beautiful Spanish-style details include charm throughout the residence.



Backyard Retreats Winner: Princeville, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a member of Luxury Portfolio International The winner of this Backyard Retreats category combines multi-player outdoor features with amazing views. Measure on this rock terrace and kick back in one of those lounge chairs lining the home's 50-foot salt water pool and waterfall grotto. Just beyond the pool area lies an assortment of tropical foliage and flowering plants, while off in the distance is a panoramic view of the mountains framing Hawaii's Hanalei Bay.



Backyard Retreats Winner: Princeville, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Lush tropical greenery and flowers line the pool edge adding to the natural "decoration" of the outside area.



Backyard Retreats Winner: Princeville, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Agents, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Illuminated at night, the numerous windows during this Hawaii-based house shows off the many rooms throughout the home, such as an open-air great room, a guest room and a private master suite.



Backyard Retreats Winner: Princeville, Hawaii -- Presented by Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a part of Luxury Portfolio International Inside the home, a brown wicker sectional and ottomans with chairs that are neutral provide ample room for relaxing, while the mountain view, pool and waterfall add the allure of outside life.