Interior designers and contractors are expected to present a list of choices for materials to be used for your outdoor flooring. Among the staple in the list are concrete pavers, brick pavers, interlocking pavers, and cobble stones.

Contractors have been using concrete for outdoor floorings for quite some time now. Intricate walkways, garden paths, patios, driveways, and pool decks have been designed, with concrete as its base element. Concrete pavers have increasingly gained popularity among builders in the US because it is readily available and is the cheapest among all other floor materials. It is also relatively easier to manage than, say, marble or tile. Furthermore, decorative concrete pavers now come in numerous colors and styles that can cater to almost any design aesthetic—from retro to modern; from minimalist to eccentric. You can have it stained, textured, and stamped so it suits whatever aesthetics you have planned.

Stamped concrete pavers are perfect patios and outdoor counter tops on the pool deck. You can add grills and a dining table to complete the space. If you still have a few dollars left, you can opt to buy a waterproof rug to top off the look of your outdoor living room. The outdoor floor should encase the overall scheme of the area. You can choose from plain and solid colored concrete, to stained or stamped designs.

Another alternative for your outdoor space’s flooring is the use of interlocking pavers. These pavers are look like non-rectangular bricks. But instead of grout, sand is used to lock these pavers together. This type of flooring can effectively absorb light to medium shocks from earthquakes and slight ground erosion so they are less likely to crack. Many parks in metropolitan cities are paved with these interlocking surfaces because they have a European feel to them. Commercial contractors are even asked to lay entire city blocks with this type of pavement. However, some people still choose brick pavers over the interlocking ones because like colored concrete, brick pavers have also evolved into various shapes, patterns, colors, and sizes.

Lounging by the pool or having a barbeque by the pool side is a family activity most Americans enjoy. Having a functional and well-designed pool deck adds to the enjoyment of such events. Choosing the material for the pool deck often depends on the surrounding landscape, dimensions of the space, traffic, maintenance, and budget. When budget is a big factor, using concrete is the way to go. It gives the deck a unique look, it is low maintenance, and it costs less than any other material from your set of options. In addition to this, concrete’s versatile character allows it to mimic the look of bricks or natural stone. If you have the freedom to allot a bit more money for your pool deck, flagstones are a clean yet stylish option for the material. They come in big and small sizes and in bold or neutral colors.

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The advantages of outdoor pavers are many, especially over the other options available. For instance, asphalt is a common alternative for driveways and walkways. However, asphalt is rather fragile, and will crack and degrade over time, especially after freeze/thaw cycles in the winter. Asphalt will eventually have to be replaced because of this. Concrete, too, falls prey to these problems, often developing unsightly cracks and crevices over time, also requiring replacement. Outdoor pavers, on the other hand, require much less upkeep and are much more hardy in the face of environmental degradation. The base on which they are installed (aggregate) is strong enough to withstand the elements while also being flexible enough to avoid cracking and settling due to water, ice, or the cold. And, if the pavers have to be replaced, all it takes is replacing one or two pieces, and not the entire installation. The repair looks flawless, and not like it was patched up with an unsightly difference between the new and old sections.

Pavers can be obtained from mason supply yards or other authorized distributors. There are many brands, shapes, colors, and patterns available depending on your particular project. You will also need other materials and tools in order to complete the job, that is, if you wish to install them yourself. While this is a perfectly doable option, many homeowners leave it to a qualified, licensed and insured contractor to install the outdoor pavers over a bed of compacted crushed aggregate base and concrete sand.

If you do decide to hire a contractor, there are a number of issues to keep in mind. Some people have a bad view of contractors in general, in that they are allegedly unreliable, untrustworthy, and unfair with prices. However, as with all stereotypes, this is really just the characterization of a few bad apples. Most contractors want to do a good job in order to satisfy your needs and potentially entice future business from you. That said, there are a few questions you can ask to ensure you’re getting a good contractor to install your outdoor pavers. How many years has he or she been in business? Can they supply references? Do they do the work themselves, or do they subcontract or just drop off a bunch of workers and leave? How long will it take? How much will it cost? And is there a warranty? There are other questions to ask as well, so do your homework and you will have a great experience.

Once the brick have been laid on this base according to the design plans, the cracks (joints) between the brick are filled with sand or other fine materials and compacted one final time. Installation of the pavers is not trivial and may incur lots of time and a moderate cost, especially if the homeowner does not complete it himself or herself.

The benefits, however, of installing outdoor pavers, whether in a backyard patio or pool side, or a garden, or a driveway or walkway, or whatever application, are many and diverse. For instance, instead of spending lots of money to go on exquisite vacations, one can take those funds and pour them into one’s own home, creating a vacation spot in the backyard to enjoy with friends and family. Outdoor paver installations also can increase the appraised value of your property. In this way they are not only an investment in your personal enjoyment but also in your family’s financial future.

Overall, outdoor pavers are a great option for many parts of your home, backyard, frontyard, or other areas. Building a relationship with a trustworthy and fair contractor can pay dividends for you, your family, and your home for years to come.

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By the time winter ends, gardens can take on that all too common but disappointingly jaded look, some can be distinctly uninspiring whilst others show signs of neglect. But as spring time approaches, and daylight hours slowly extend, now is the ideal time to take a hard look at the garden and identify how to rejuvenate the outdoor living space.  

Where to start

At a basic level, garden areas should be clean and clear of clutter. Beyond this a range of annual remedial works might be required, for example, is the fencing and paved areas in good condition? Are trees and shrubs neat and tidy? Are lawn areas green, groomed and refreshing or simply jaded weeded patches?

Apart from the remedial works, the rejuvenation of the garden area will ultimately be scoped by the attention to details such lawn and patio areas, tree and shrub planting, as well as water features and lighting etc which will collectively determine the value of the overall experience and how we enjoy the ‘outdoor room’.

Lawns – should be in good condition, evenly cut with crisp well defined neat edges, weeded and clear of all fallen leaf and grass cuttings. Pale looking lawns can be restored to vivid green with the application of fertiliser. If problems are more serious and lawn is infested with weeds, consider removing old lawn and re-sodding area with new roll turf. Whatever the area size, a well maintained level and groomed lawn makes very striking impression whilst coordinating all the other aspects of the garden area.

A natural stone cobble edging (set in sand and cement and approx 25mm below ground level) not only provides a practical mowing strip but clearly defines lawn profile.

Patios – sometimes particularly in north facing sites which tend during winter periods to be shaded and damp, results in ‘greening’ of paved areas. This greening along with any residual grime, moss, and weed etc can be removed by power washing to restore the stone like new. Also available now are very environmentally friendly stone treatments that can be applied annually to prevent the greening effect. For some added visual interest to Patio areas, a few strategically placed colourful planters can have a dramatic effect. For optimum colour, probably best to use locally available seasonal planting. Other areas that would benefit from some colour include recessed areas which can be overlooked, driveways and entrance/exit points.   

Fencing – repair or replace broken boards or panels. A fresh coat of paint will work wonders for overall appearance. Colour here can be used creatively, light colours for natural or discreet backgrounds or ebony black can be used as a very effective foil to emphasise plant forms and colour and provide a more contemporary/urban look. 

Shrubs, Trees and Herbaceous Flowers – dead head i.e. remove faded blooms old flower heads, trim and prune trees and shrubs, especially low hanging or overgrown branches around windows or over footpaths etc. If there are obvious or unsightly gaps amongst the existing plants, consider carefully the importance of colour when selecting possible replacements. To bring out the bets in colour and impact, consider planting in groups (block planting). Do not overlook the importance also of scent within the garden, some areas for simple but effective ways of experiencing scent throughout the garden include at patio areas, near windows and along footpaths. Popular scented plant varieties include Lavender, Rosemary, Santolina, Helichrysum, and Daphne.

Water Features – water adds a new dimension to any garden, and there are now a wide range of styles and sizes from which to choose. Although ponds require much more regular maintenance and upkeep, all water features should be in good working order and clear of any debris. Water features are always eye catching and because of the mesmerizing appeal of and soothing qualities of running water, water features can be an invaluable addition to any garden. Best position for locating water features tend to be where people sit and congregate i.e. Patio where all the beautiful sight and sounds can be enjoyed. Also with the addition of some architectural planting and subtle lighting, water features can take on a different role at night and using garden light to illuminate water gently cascading over stones can make for a stunning focal point during darkness.

Garden Lighting – it is possible to eco–friendly and to illuminate the garden areas. Despite there low lighting capability there is a relatively small role for Solar lights, but for more impact albeit at low energy usage the popular choice for accent lighting at trees or shrubs are the energy efficient CFL bulbs and/or equivalent GU10CFL. Incandescent lamps should all be replaced with CFLs. For more general lighting LEDs are increasingly becoming an alternative to more conventional choices. Colour lamps can be used creatively to highlight particular plant forms or colourways, For gardens with large mature trees, cool touch metal halide lights which are recessed at ground/soil level can be used to uplight tree with dramatic effects.

Garden Design – most people enjoy gardens, for very a small minority gardens are places almost like museums, where plants can be enjoyed, fortunately for the vast majority of people, gardens are outdoor rooms or living spaces where plants, trees and shrubs are structural elements of a greater dynamic of environments for relaxing and living with families, entertaining with friends and playing with the children or pets. It is very important that before undertaking any rejuvenation of the garden area, that the design clearly defines the area in terms of structure, form and character throughout the year. Otherwise any improvements might just be piecemeal and incremental and an opportunity for greater enjoyment and lasting satisfaction lost.

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The life of most Outdoor step lighting products is 60000 hours, they use 0.54 watt per fixture and suitable for direct burial applications. These Outdoor step lighting products are useful for various applications such as paths, aisles, steps, driveways etc, low energy consumption and 100 fixtures per power supply is very useful feature of Outdoor step lighting products. They are available in various colors such as blue, green, and amber and red. They provide various cover options such as bronze, aluminum, white and black. They are easy and safer to use. They can run on 12 volt power supply and useful for in-wall and outdoor burial applications.

Some Outdoor step lighting products can be used for direction lighting, decorative lighting, landscape lighting and driveways.  

These lighting products can detect your walk area and character of your step lights.  They are based on highest quality standards.  They can make your steps classy and admirable. They are durable and reliable. They can make your steps safe and easy to use. The outdoor steps lighting products are easily available in the market. They are easy and safe to use. These lighting products are organized according to their type. They are beautiful and affordable.

Outdoor step lighting products can provide visual solutions to the problem of interior and exterior lighting.  They are useful for residential and commercial applications. Steps lighting products are designed with 88-millimeter projection for flush mounting into stone, wood or masonry.  They are useful for ground level lighting and horizontal lighting. Some steps lighting products are used for driveways and exterior paved areas.

They are available in various styles and colors such as matt black, silver, white, and bronze and green.  They are made by solid copper, high temperature silicon gaskets and temper proof glass lens.

The Outdoor steps lighting products can make your outdoor space and steps beautiful,  so, proper selection of lighting products are essential to make steps or outdoor space beautiful. Some Outdoor steps lighting products are also useful social interactions such as fountains, gardens and any other parts of your yard.  They are useful to fulfill your outdoor steps lighting needs.

Some Outdoor step lighting products are available with latest innovative technologies, they are brighter and secure to use. They are also useful for driveways, roads, and commercial applications. They are also available in various warrantee schemes.

The Solar Outdoor step lighting products are available with solar deck and step lights. They are useful for home as well as for commercial applications. People can buy these lighting products according to their needs and budget. These lighting products are made by some of the best quality standards of the market.  Additionally, steps lightning products are useful to prevent accidents such as slipping from steps or falling from steps.

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Few love spending time in garden, and they can well have a stainless barbeque or grill for this interesting choice. Having a great convenience what liked by all, as the notion of outdoor kitchens is all about setting yourself free from the traditional practices for once in a while. After all, now you have another avenue to invite your guests for.

Having an outdoor kitchen with stainless barbeques will place you amid choices to put up plenty of people at one go even without bothering too much for space. Outdoor kitchens offer comfort and fun together. You get to stay you away from getting stuck constantly in the kitchen room for availing food and things. You just got to pick the things and features needed along with the frequency of dishes you cook routinely to add more flavor to a really charming and fun giving avenue.

Using patio would be a wonderful choice, as you get to just ensure the reliability factor of the patio. Decking things up with the help of a strong wood patio or a concrete patio might well put you away from further pain, as it has got the ability to hold up things well.

Your outdoor kitchens with stainless barbeques give you immense gains, but then you have to consider the hook ups to avoid being in even slight trouble. A kitchen outside presses you to put things in place again, as it will tempt you to have outlets and wiring for electricity to realize the convenience you have set-out for. Using pre-built cabinet bases would be good, as it dishes out prospect to arrange them in a certain way.

Outdoor kitchens will be nothing less than unlimited fun places, but not for all times. As you will have to go through the grind of bad weathers that will certainly carry rain along, and will leave you with no choices. Having non-wood cabinets or countertops or having treated lumber can save from such conditions.

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A pool deck can be a very important part of a home, providing countless opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Aside from providing an area for lounging around beside the pool after a swim, it can be a place to spend time in for quiet reading, for lengthy conversations and even for cooking and dining in the fresh air.

Any existing pool deck can be greatly enhanced or totally made over with the use of thin concrete pavers. They make a big difference aesthetically with a lot of colors and designs to choose from. There are even interlocking pavers in various shapes. They are also very durable and long lasting and, thus, are cost efficient.

Thin concrete pavers have a thickness of one inch but a compressive strength of 8000 psi, meant to last a lifetime. They are colored through, with the dye thoroughly mixed into the cement in the production process. Because of this, the concrete pavers retain their color and do not fade even when washed frequently and exposed to the sun and elements.

Thin concrete pavers can be installed over any existing deck, whether made of concrete, tile, acrylic or river rock, even one with cracks and issues on settling. In some cases, a thin bed of sand is first layered over the existing deck to even out any irregularities before the thin concrete pavers are installed.

There are special transition pavers that are used around the perimeter of the pool. These are called bull-nosed coping pavers which have smooth surfaces for safety. They are usually made in solid colors to clearly highlight the edge of the pool. This is a safety measure that can also be designed as a contrasting accent for aesthetics.

You should keep in mind, though, that thin concrete pavers are best used for pool decks and other outdoor flooring that are only for pedestrian use. They cannot be used for areas intended for vehicular loads and vehicular traffic such as driveways and garages. Thicker brick pavers can instead be used for these vehicular areas. Brick pavers come in two thicknesses. The thin ones measuring one inch and a half in thickness are only for pedestrian use but the thicker ones measuring two and one fourth inches can take vehicular traffic.

When asking for an estimate from your commercial contractor and builder, you will need to provide them with information on the total pool deck area that will be paved, the measure of the pool perimeter area, the measure in linear feet of drain, and issues on slope and water retention. The commercial contractor and builder will probably want to do the inspection and measurement themselves. They will also take into account skimmer lids, existing drains, existing planters and even screen doors for enclosed pool decks.

If you are ordering materials for your pool deck remodeling project, make sure that you allot four to six weeks lead time from your order date to actual delivery. The construction work on the pool deck remodeling itself will, on the other hand, take three to four days on the average.

Imagine how your poolside will look like after your contractor and builder have finished with your pool deck remodeling project. It will be just like having your own private resort right at home. Outdoor living will definitely become a major part of your lifestyle then.

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Most professional quality basketball hoop, goal and flooring, everything you need to bring excitement to your gymnasium or backyard basketball court is what many people want. Every basketball hoop, goal, court flooring should be durable all weather, colorful, low maintenance and built for recreational use or aggressive basketball hoop professionals.

Most manufacturers sell wall-mounted hoops as packages that comprise a backboard, rim, net, and mounting kit. Some of these outdoor hoops also have an extension arm that allows the rim and net to extend outwards.

The portable hoops are equally easy to use. They need no formal installation because they come with a wheel-mounted base that can be filled with water or sand for stability What’s more they can be wheeled back into a garage after a game is over. These outdoor hoops are especially suitable for those players who play once in a while, and don’t want to block there drive ins or backyards with a basketball hoop.

Those who prefer permanent structures have the option of installing in-ground systems. These outdoor hoops require more effort and time to set up, because a hole has to be dug to install the pole. According to installation kits, six 90-pound bags of cement need to be used to secure the pole. Otherwise, there is the danger of the pole coming unstuck when a player holds onto a basket during a dunk.

A disadvantage of an in-ground system is that the ground has to be dug up whenever the basketball pole is to be moved. To reduce the damage, a few equipment makers sell bolt on systems. These systems bolt the basketball pole to an anchor that has been set in concrete.

There are two other points that need be kept in mind while using outdoor hoops. The first is the shape the backboard. Fan-shaped backboards may look pretty but they should be avoided because it is difficult to play bank shots against such a background. The second is the backboard color. It should be opaque so that the player is able to make out the basket when playing in an outdoor environment.

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Architects and contractors have been using concrete for landscaping for quite some time now. Intricate walkways, garden paths, patios, driveways, and pool decks have been designed, with concrete as its base element. Concrete pavers have strongly gained popularity among designers and builders in the US because it is readily available and is cheaper than most decorative surfaces. It is also relatively easier to manage than, say, marble or tile. Furthermore, decorative concrete pavers now come in numerous colors and styles that can cater to almost any design aesthetic—from retro to modern; from minimalist to eccentric.   

You can choose to keep it simple by using stamped concrete for the patio, with colored concrete for the counter tops. You can add grills and a dining table to complete the space. If you still have a few dollars left, you can opt to buy a waterproof rug to top off the look of your outdoor living room. The outdoor floor should encase the overall scheme of the area. You can choose from plain and solid colored concrete, to stained or stamped designs. Designers soften the presence of concrete tables and counter tops with a few small furniture like woven chairs and accent pillows.

Another alternative for your outdoor space’s flooring is the use of interlocking pavers. These pavers look like uniquely shaped bricks except that instead of using grout to lock them together, sand is poured in between them to stabilize the whole layout. This type of floor actually absorbs a degree of shock from earthquakes and slight ground erosion so they are less likely to crack. Many parks in metropolitan cities are paved with these interlocking surfaces because they have a European feel to them. Commercial contractors are even asked to lay entire city blocks with this type of pavement. However, some people still choose brick pavers over the interlocking ones because like colored concrete, cricks have also evolved into various shapes, patterns, colors, and sizes. They are also relatively cheaper than the other type of paver mentioned above.

Lounging by the pool or having a barbeque by the pool side is a family activity most Americans enjoy. Having a functional and well-designed pool deck adds to the enjoyment of such events. Choosing the material for the pool deck often depends on the surrounding landscape, dimensions of the space, traffic, maintenance, and budget. When budget is a big factor, using concrete is the way to go. It gives the deck a unique look, it is low maintenance, and it costs less than any other material from your set of options. In addition to this, concrete’s versatile character allows it to mimic the look of bricks or natural stone. If you have the freedom to allot a bit more money for your pool deck, flagstones are a clean yet stylish option for the material. They come in big and small sizes and in bold or neutral colors. If you want a sleek look for your deck, this material is for you. Designers also call this material “bluestone.” The only downside to them is that they easily absorb heat upon exposure to the sun and have the tendency to get slippery.

A combination of flagstones, brick, and concrete can also be part of your options. Designers usually recommend this when constructing a new deck or when you decide to do a little pool remodeling. Updating your pool deck does not always mean tearing away the old concrete because builders now do pool deck resurfacing. A concrete overlay is applied on the original deck and is sculpted, stained, colored, and given texture depending on your preference. It is a cheap yet safe way to give your deck a new look.

Wooden decks are also gaining popularity among homeowners, however, using this material costs more and is likely to last longer.

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Fusion Garden Decking -  Timber Porch Canopies

Visually stunning and easy to install, Fusion outdoor balustrade injects contemporary designer style into any outdoor living area.

The system can be fitted to most hard landscaping surfaces, from textured decking boards to contemporary paving slabs, or concrete layouts. You can complete the overall look with a choice of either acrylic panels or two distinctive infill option; slatted panels or vertical balusters, available in both; hardwood & softwood.

The Fusion Decking Range includes; Aluminium Rail and Hardwood & Softwood Top Rails, Aluminium Newel Posts and Hardwood & Softwood Balusters, Acrylic Infill Panels, Hardwood Slatted Infill Panels, Softwood Slatted Infill Panels, Aluminium Rail-to-Rail Brackets, Aluminium Rail-to-Newel Brackets and Baluster & Timber Rail Brackets.

Treated Timber Decking Boards are also available at JAS Timber. 

Special Offer

The Richard Burbidge Fusion Aluminium Rail is only £30.60 (+ vat) & the Fusion Acrylic Infill Panel is only £48.08 (+ vat).

Apply for a Trade account  and get a discount at JAS TIMBER
Trade account application form.

If you wish to apply for a trade credit account, please download the application form online (under FAQ), complete and return to us at the following address:

JAS Timber
Walpole Street Sawmills
Lower Audley
Blackburn, Lancashire
United Kingdom
BB1 1DB

About JAS Timber

JAS Timber is a small family-run independant timber-merchant based in the North-West. Established in 1977 we have grown to supply Joiners, Builders, Businesses, Local Authorities, Schools and DIY enthusiasts.

We supply timber and heavy-side items in Lancashire and the Northwest and can provide same-day or next-day delivery on many of our products. In our joinery workshop, we are able to manufacture items such as staircases, windows, door casings, gates, kitchens and furniture, in softwood, hardwood and oak. We are also able to machine timber and sheet materials to your specific requirements.

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You can even decorate these walls with the help of decorative concrete. Sometimes, the decorative concrete can also be used to add charm to the other areas of the swimming pools where concrete has been used. These methods are not very complicated and you can do it yourself as well.

However, if you don’t want to get into so much of hassles, there is another very simple way through which you can make your outdoor swimming pools more attractive. This is by cleaning the pool and adding some color to the concrete. This can be achieved by the epoxy concrete floor paint or the acid stain.

Now, what method you should choose depends solely on your choice. Again, if you are looking to resurface the concrete pool deck completely, you have to color it and stamp it. Of course, you can repave it with the concrete paving slabs that can be decorative as well.

Now, if you are thinking that the process of stamping the concrete is very long and complicated one, you will be mistaken. However, in case you are going to resurface, that may take a long time and involve a lot of effort. This is why it is important to consider this option in such circumstances.

After all, rebuilding the swimming pools is a time consuming task indeed. Naturally, people think twice before going for this. However, if you have decided to go for it, you can easily consider the option of upgrading it with decorative concrete. For, using this will not take a lot of time anyway. However, before doing that, you need to make sure that you have discussed this issue with the contractor. After all, it needs to be a specialist to understand what exactly your swimming pool demands to be more attractive.

So, you can easily get a number of different ideas that can be very effective indeed. Remember, the swimming pool design can be a lengthy and complicated process. Sometimes, that may result in considerable expenses as well. However, you need to remember here that once it is done, the project will greatly increase the value of your house. At the same time, it can improve the aesthetics of your house by creating the ambience that you have been looking for.

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