The Importance of Shade in Public Recreation Facilities

With parents and public officials recognizing the dangers of ultraviolet radiation and burn hazards on playgrounds, particularly during summer months, shade projects in recreation areas are finally receiving more attention and funding. Aside from issues of ultraviolet skin damage are concerns over playground equipment becoming dangerously hot during the summer. Most people who grew up in the 1970s remember scorching the backs of his or her legs at least once on a playground slide.

If your local park or playground decides to undertake a shade program, the first step is to document the shade that is already there and find ways to work with it. Sometimes pruning low-hanging branches can increase usable shady areas, as can moving equipment and seating into shaded areas. Scattered shade works well in areas where children are active and running around. In areas where children are sitting in one spot, or where they are playing in a confined area, more shade should be available. If your community is interested in adding natural shade instead of or along with artificial shade structures, you'll need to assess the soil and other factors like strong winds that will affect the selection of species of shade trees.

In most cases, a combination of natural shade and artificial shade structures works best. Types of shade structures include permanent pergolas and verandas, marquees and tents, awnings, shade sails, and portable shade structures. Shade scaffolding can be constructed of fiberglass, PVC, or steel. Shade cloth that is dark and closely woven will block or absorb UV radiation better than lighter, more loosely woven shade fabrics. Fabrics should state the level of UV protection they provide, and should provide the equivalent of a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or greater.

Most artificial shade structures are made from sheets of colored polyethylene attached to corrosion-resistant galvanized steel frames. They come in different colors to coordinate with existing playground structures and are designed to protect people on playgrounds from UV radiation and other weather elements. These structures are designed to stand up to not only high winds, but also local building codes.

Children usually receive 80% of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. Sun damage during childhood increases the risk of developing skin cancer in adulthood. Protection from UV radiation on playgrounds and parks can make significant headway in preventing future cases of skin cancer. In recent years, suppliers of shade structures have come to the forefront of recreational design as people realize the health benefits and increased comfort that come from adding shade to public spaces. And adding shade to existing playgrounds does not mean great expense and upheaval.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) feels so strongly about protecting children from UV radiation that it awards annual grants of $8,000 each for the purchase of shade structures for outdoor recreational areas. Applications for 2009 grants are due by April 10, 2009 at 5 p.m. Central Time. Recipients of the grants should be notified in June.

AAA State of Play offers playground shade made with steel and fabric roofs. By providing shade equipment such as balance beams made with metal will remain cool.

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Does Your Playground Need a Shade Area?

Children love to spend most of their time out there in the playground. May it be a summer afternoon or a freezing winter evening the kids cannot be stopped to hang around their favorite place. This is what brings into light the importance of shaded areas in the playground. It should be noted that exposure to sunlight for a prolonged period of time can be very harmful for the kids. It can burn the skin and cause sunburns. Heatstroke through complete dehydration is also one of the adverse effects of direct sunlight. While small playground can be easily covered through a shade or a cover on the top of the structure but the same is not quite possible for larger playgrounds.

Today, the market is flooded with manufacturers of shade materials which can be used for shading even the largest of playgrounds out there. There are other conventional methods of building shaded areas in the playground. Some of the shaded structures available in the market can be used for covering as much as 90% of the playground area. This makes the park area much more appealing and attractive for the kids and the parents as well.

There are several benefits of shaded areas in the playground. Not only it protects the kids from harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun but also provides a much pleasant and attractive look. The importance of shaded area is evident especially during the summer season. According to the experts it is very important to bring into usage artificial as well as natural shading structure for shading the playground. There are several types of shading structures available in the market including verandas, pergolas, tents, marquees, shade sails, awnings and other portable shading structures. Shade scaffoldings can be built through steel sheets, PVC or fiberglass. Clothes used for shading purpose should be dark and closely woven to bring along maximum benefits.

Today, most of the shading structures are made up of colored polyethylene along with corrosion resistant galvanized steel frames. Available in different colors and sizes such sheets can be used for shading different types of playgrounds. Such structures can stand and tolerate high winds and provide protection during rainy season. Although there are several forms of shading structure out there in the market bringing into usage natural materials for shading is recommended by the experts. The shaded places should also be safe enough for the kids during playtimes.

For more information visit All About Playgrounds | Houston playground. You can also request more information to find out how to build a safe backyard playground for your kids at Houston playground equipment

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How to Keep Your Driveway Safe With a Shade Structure

A shade structure is a necessary thing these days given the state of the weather and climatic conditions. The heat especially - it would be a very welcome thing to do as it would sort of reduce the direct impact of the heat on the building.

The driveway is a private road that enables vehicles to travel from a public road to the entrance of a building such as a house or an hotel. Thus is there any need for a shade structure on a driveway? This seems like a simple question really. But in all seriousness, it is not. This is because it is not exactly necessary that driveways have a form of shade structure.

However, in the planning of roads and homes, people tend to want to think of including a shade structure in the driveway. As far as I have seen, there is no driveway with a shade structure except in hotels and resorts. In all such cases, a driveway is of utmost importance. Why? Because the hotel management does not want their guests dripping water all over the hotel lobby particularly if they had to alight from their car in the rain before entering the hotel. So, in a sense, it can be said that the need for a shade structure on the driveway of any hotel is important and in the case of any other building, is dependent on the nature of the building that the driveway leads into.

So, how do you know what kind of shade structure to choose for a driveway if you need one?

It is all dependent on choice and what you intend to achieve with the driveway. Most people simply opt for the steel roof type as they are easy to maintain and do not require excessive maintenance costs. However, if you require something more aesthetic in nature, you might have to opt for the fabric canopy which is less durable than the steel type although it would still give the desired effect.

In summary, do home driveways need a shade structure? I would say no because there is really no need for it. Afterall, you would not be parking the car in the driveway. If however, the driveway is lined with trees which serve as some form of natural shade structures, it would be nice to leave the trees there unless they start constituting a nuisance. So, before putting up any form shade structure, look at all the options available and make your choice based on all the nformation you have.

For more information visit All About Playgrounds | backyard playgrounds. You can also request more information to find out how to build a safe backyard playgrounds for your kids at backyard adventures.

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What is a Shade Structure?

It is important these days to have a shade structure in our homes, offices, sorts stadiums and in outdoor events. This has been necessitated by the increased heat rate in the world at large. Shade structures were not so much in high demand in the last ten years as they are now.

In case you are wondering what a shade structure is, shade structures are simply overhead canopies and structures meant to protect you and your own from the harsh glare and heat of the sun. They in essence provide a shade where you can sit and still have fun outdoors regardless of the heat of the sun. Shade structures are a lot like homes only without the walls and just the roofing. They are built to create ventilation. So, all you might have in the typical, traditional shade structure are made up of four poles with a tent or a steel roof on top. These poles act as the beam supporting the roof.

There are two major categories of shade structures: The steel roofed shade structure and the Fabric canopy shade structure. They are both useful in their capacities with just some differences. Shade structures are a commonly found ting in almost everywhere now. Thus making it one of the hottest items required and in demand by people who want to build a playground for their kids, a parking lot for visitors and guests, schools and homes.

The first type which is the Steel roofed Shade structure is a common one among places abd people who build it with the long term in mind. This is mostly made of steel sheets and can be found on most community and neighborhood playgrounds and parks, in parking lots all across the globe, in football stadiums, horse racing centers and in office buildings and schools. The purpose of this structure is to ensure longevity. This simply means that it is more like a build-and-forget thing. Once built, it takes at least ten years before another one is required.

In an environment where the climate condition isn't turbulent, you are more likely to find that it can last up to three decades. This is mostly due to the tough nature of steel. The only downside to this is just the cost of building and putting it up. It is usually expensive and since it isn't flexible, you can't just pick any design you want. So, you tend to see that most steel roofed shade structures possess just a basic design.

The second type is the nylon-tension cable canopy. Essentially there are two types of the fabric canopy: the fabric stretched and the aforementioned. The nylon-tension cable company is the more popular and is what is used by people and organizations who have a both a low budget shade structure and aesthetic design in mind.

For more information visit All About Playgrounds | backyard playgrounds. You can also request more information to find out how to build a safe backyard playgrounds for your kids at backyard adventures

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Accessories For Patio Umbrellas

Patio umbrellas have become popular fixtures in outdoor areas such as decks, patios, pools, and cafés. They guard people from unnecessary exposure to sun and precipitation. Colorful canopies also add visual appeal to outdoor settings. As you shop for patio umbrellas, you also find a number of useful accessories that can enhance your enjoyment of your umbrella. Lights, bases, and covers serve widely different purposes, but they are some of the most useful accessories you will find.

Sometimes getting the proper lighting is difficult. It's an especially difficult challenge if your outdoor space is small. You can't decide whether to take up valuable ground or table space. If you've faced such a predicament, check out lights that are specially designed to fit around the poles of patio umbrellas. Two semi-circular pieces snap together to form a circle around the pole. Batteries provide the power that runs the long-lasting LED lights. Some models even come with rechargeable batteries, so you don't have to worry about always running out for extra packages of batteries. Such a model can provide light for six hours after you have charged it fully.

When the sun begins to set, turn on the device to light up your outdoor dining table. If you charge the batteries fully before the party begins, the light should last for all or most of the evening.

Not all patio umbrellas require bases. Sometimes they come with attached bases. At other times, you must purchase the pieces separately. Often, you find purely functional bases. They keep patio umbrellas standing upright and weight them down to prevent the wind from carrying away your purchase. And they do the job well. But what about their looks?

You can now select bases with a decorative element to their design, too. Metal bases may incorporate fluting or other shaping. Fiberstone bases are made from a synthetic material, but they look like colored stone. Contrasting colors, shapes, designs, and other decorative markings further increase their attractiveness.

Covers aren't so exciting visually, but they fulfill an important role. Patio umbrellas last longer if you clean and store them whenever you aren't using them. Of course, sometimes you have no garage, shed, or indoor storage area. In this case, an umbrella cover is the best option.

Do not cover patio umbrellas when they are dirty or wet. Instead, allow them to air dry after cleaning. A good cover will fit your umbrella properly and cover most of its length when the canopy is folded down. Check that all closures on the cover work well.

Lights, bases, and covers are good accessories to own because they are all useful. Lights allow you to enjoy your patio table longer into the evening. Bases keep patio umbrellas straight and in place. Many bases also offer a decorative benefit. Covers, on the other hand, don't usually look fancy, but they fulfill an important role. They keep patio umbrellas clean and in good shape. In turn, you can enjoy your umbrella for a longer time.

Rachelle Dawson is a freelance writer who enjoys outdoor getaways. She writes about choosing patio umbrellas and arranging outdoor furniture.

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Top 7 Problems With DIY Shade Sail Projects

A shade sail supported by posts is essentially a small construction project . Holes need to be measured and dug, posts sourced and concreted in. Several site visits are also needed to secure accurate measurements throughout the project. All of this work can be costly if using a 3rd party installer. There are a few points to consider if you are measuring and installing yourself.

1. DIY pitfalls to avoid: Before buying a shade sail, measure the shade area first and identify possible fixing points. We many calls from customers who have bought a DIY shade sail, get home only to find it will not match up with available fixing points!
2. Properly tensioned sails have curved or concave edges and the depth of the curve is about 10% in from the outer of the sail. Remember when measuring this curvature and the use of fixings means that the sail covers a smaller area.
3. Sails on a level plane can hold water. Consider the slope of the material to shed water. The most common solution is to have opposite corners at significantly different heights.
4. If not pulled taut and twisted sails can become unstable in wind. It must be tensioned properly to have some curvature and be twisted into a hypar shape.
5. Avoid poor quality weave canvas which can hang limp and absorb water.
6. Sails manufactured with single line or poor chain stitching as this can come undone when under tension or stress. Too many seams in the sail can split under tension.
7. Corner rings not made of galvanized steel can rust and discolor surrounding material.

Once the overall dimensions are finalized, the sail cloth area and the number of fixing devices needed to pull the sail into tension can be costed.

If you are thinking of installing a shade sail we have a host of useful DIY installation tips on our website. http://www.mulders.com.au

Not all sails are the same. We at Mulders use high grade heavy duty shade mesh offering up to 95% UV protection. Interlock seamed with twin lock stitching, all sail shade edges are hemmed with heavy duty UV stabilized webbing. All corners on sails larger than 25m2 are reinforced.

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Installing an Aluminium Awning

Many awning companies sell do-it-yourself awning kits. If you use the tips you learn here along with the instructions provided with your kit it should be a fairly easy project.

You will start by placing the gutter and hanger on a few saw horses. Place a tape measure on the gutter and make a pencil mark at every foot. Do the same with the hanger. These marks will be used later to keep the panels running square.

Next you should install the hanger on your home using 1 1/2" hex head screws. On the top side of the hanger, next to the home, run a bead of silicone. You will later install flashing over this and seal again, this is just added insurance against leaks.

Preparing the gutter is the next step. Start by coming in 18" from each end of the gutter and place a mark for your end brackets. You will need to do a little math to evenly space the rest of your brackets. Attach each bracket to the gutter with one self tapping screw placed near an inside corner. This makes it easier to go back and drill the holes to insert the nuts and bolts.

Before you attach the posts to the post brackets it is best to cut them down to size. This step again involves a little math. Place the gutter as close to it's permanent location as you can. Measure out from the home and eyeball it square. This is as exact as you need to be at this time. Using your level and some wood blocks as shims level the gutter on the saw horses. Most of the time one end of the gutter will be closer to the ground than the other. Start at that end and go to the hanger. Measure the distance to the ground. You are going to want at least a half inch per foot of slope to your awning. If your hanger is 9' off the ground and the projection of your awning is 12' your first post should be 8' 6". This will give your awning a 6" slope. Measure from the ground to the gutter where your first post will be. Go to the second post and measure, the difference in measurements will be added to the 8' 6" when you cut your second post. Do this until all of the posts are cut to the correct length.

When the posts are cut they can be attached to the post brackets on the gutter. You can do this the same way as the brackets to gutter. Hold the posts in place with a self tapping screw while you drill holes and insert the bolts.

That is the end of the ground work, it is time to get the ladders. You will need a panel and two ladders set up at one end of the awning. Two people will carry the panel up the ladders and attach it to the hanger. The person on the outside ladder will just be holding the panel. When the panel is attached to the hanger that person hands one end of the gutter up to the person holding the panel. He will then work his way down the gutter lifting it into the air. When the gutter is standing up the panel can be attached. One person is still holding the gutter up by the post at the opposite end.

The person on the gutter ladder will now move the ladder to the opposite end of the awning, climb up and hold the gutter. The hanger person will move his ladder and attach his end of the second panel. The gutter person will do the same and the awning will now stand by itself.

Depending on the length of the awning you will need at least one panel in the center to keep the gutter in line. Longer awnings will need several single panels. You can now start at either end and lock several panels together. Making sure they stay on the foot marks attach each end with one screw only. When you have about 5 panels up make sure the awning is square. The gutter can be shifted back a forth until the ends of all of the panels are straight. You can now insert the second screw into each one and finish installing the panels.

At some point you will need to anchor the awning. If it is a breezy day you may want to do this when half the panels are in place. On a calm day you can install all of the panels and then anchor it. Awnings can be anchored to concrete or into the dirt. A safety stake, or ground anchor is used when mounting into the dirt. Concrete should also be used around the ground anchor.

When the panels are installed and the awning anchored it is time to custom fit the side fascias. The side fascias will normally be several inches longer than necessary so that the ends can both be custom cut at a miter. You should try to make the fascia fit tight at the back of the gutter and flush with the home.

By now you should have used up all of your parts except the flashing and a handful of screws. The flashing goes on top of the awning and gets sealed to the home. You should use plenty of screws and attach the flashing to the home first. You will then insert a screw through the flashing into the top of each panel lock. Silicone should be used to seal the flashing to the home.

Please visit http://www.shadebuilder.com for additional awning installation information. This page shows an aluminum awning being installed.
Awning Installation

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Keeping Cool With Patio Umbrellas and Other Summer-Ready Tricks

Summer weather on average lasts about 3 months, but even after the temperature goes down you can still get sunburned. And during the height of summer, everyone is at risk for things like hyperthermia and dehydration. But don't let that scare you into hiding indoors in the air conditioning for the rest of summer. By using patio umbrellas, some trusty gadgets and your own head, you can stay safe while having a good time.

Patio umbrellas keep the sun at bay

In summer, more than a cooler or a barbecue, the most important piece of furniture you can have in your backyard, by the pool or on your deck are patio umbrellas. The reasons are obvious: patio umbrellas protect you from UV radiation by blocking out the sun rays. Too much exposure can one day lead to melanoma, a leading type of cancer. Also, the shade provided will keep the area under the umbrella notably cooler than surrounding areas. That means your own body temperature will be lower than if you were out in the sun.

Don't be afraid to accessorize

It would be impossible to name all of the many products manufactured for keeping people cool in the summertime, but in the end it's all a matter of taste. Try one or a few different things to see what works best for you. Paired with patio umbrellas and a good pair of sunglasses, you can be cool and comfy in no time. Here are a few options of popular gizmos.

Micro beads is one innovation that's been heralded by both athletes and pet owners, but they are great for anyone staying outdoors for any length of time. This patented technology also operates using the evaporation system of cooling. The beads are formulated out of a special plastic gel-like material and these are in turn stuffed inside a synthetic fabric that is sewn into all manner of clothes, including bandannas and headbands, as well as whole harnesses for dogs. Soak the entire thing in cold water and the micro beads will stay cold much longer than fabric alone. After it begins to dry, the wearer gets benefitted by a second wave of coolness once the evaporation takes place.

Misters offer a refreshing burst of cool water and come in a plethora of sizes and designs, from small handheld fans to larger installed units. There are even trailer sized misters used for commercial purposes. The purpose of misters is to cool off your body temperature by periodically spraying yourself with cool water and allowing the water to evaporate. The way in which they operate is either manually by you flipping some sort of switch or automatically, continuously or at intervals. The water source can either be contained directly in the unit or come from an internal water source.

Use your noggin

In addition to all the many things you can buy, there's no substitute for good old common sense. Drink twice as much water as you think you need. In hot, and especially in humid weather, people can sweat up to three full liters each hour. In addition, wear loose, light colored clothing. Natural fibers like cotton also breathe better than synthetic polyester and nylon.

Tonya Kerniva is an experienced research and free lance writing professional. She writes actively about Patio Umbrellas and Outdoor Patio Umbrellas.

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Outdoor Patio Shading and High-Tech Manufacturing in Fabrics

Householders like to enjoy the sunlight while relaxing outside their houses in periods of comfortable climates. Lounging in strong sunshine is not pleasant, but fortunately there is a flourishing supply for homeowner shading selections. For outdoor sun shades there are a few choices for outdoor patio shades. These are awnings, sail shades, umbrellas and canopies namely.

To block the intense rays of the sun, each exterior shade choice depends on a fabric drawn over an structure. Shade-sail fabrics are stretched by an aluminum or plastic framework whereas umbrella textiles are kept open by a center pole. The fundamental fabric of shades used to be canvas. Canvas is a uncomplicated, but heavy duty, plain-woven cloth. Canvas is usually composed of linen or cotton. Cotton is cultivated from the cotton plant, whereas linen is harvested from flax plant. It is typically composed into things like boat sails, knapsacks, tents, because the weave of canvas is so hardy.

Canvas is seldom the fabric of modern outdoor shades, despite this. This is because canvas is incapable of resisting persistent mildew and fungus. Also not enough to stop microorganisms from growing on canvas is simple treatment with a sealing agent. The effect is that shades are now typically composed of totally synthetic materials. The light blocking qualities of canvas are worse than that of contemporary synthetic textiles, which is even more importantly. This is because fabrication methods have generated shading for outdoor locales that are better able to stop the sun.

How does one textile block the sun better than another? All woven strands always contain intervening gaps which allow passage of solar radiation, such that all fabrics permit some light through. To combat this problem, the technological strategy has been to reduce the diameter of the interstitial gaps. The decrease in transmission of light accordingly comes with the decrease in intervening voids. To reduce them further, high-tech methods are needed as the gaps are already very tiny. To decrease the intervening holes, two methods are used. The first depends upon chemical modification of a textile. After weaving, to pack these voids, the fabric is treated with surfacing of a polmeric chemical. However, this process is expensive, and reduces the elasticity of the textile. Thermoplastic substances also do not adhere firmly, and have a brief permanence as a laminate.

Promoted by companies, weaving the fabric under high tension is the other technological breaththrough. The high tension pulls apart the textile. The intervening gaps shrink when the fabric is relaxed. The gaps are condensed by further heat and application of moisture. The drawback to these treatments is a reduction in tensile capability of the fabric. It is better than the coating method, nonetheless.

Such developments have allowed the production of shading of the exterior that stop solar radiation better but without the excess bulk, or thermoplastic coating.

Discover where Outdoor Shades experts go for information.

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How to Install Your DIY Blinds

Alright folks, so we are at the point where you have purchased your blinds and are ready to install them. I am assuming that you have bought pre-measured blinds otherwise we have some problems. Installing blinds yourself is a smart route to take. Most blinds are quite simple to install, however hiring someone to do it for you may save some headaches but not some money! So follow the introductory guide below to help give you some pointers on where to start with your installation.

I suggest opening the box and placing all the little pieces such as brackets, screws and valance clips in front of you and at arms length to ensure maximum smoothness!

The tools for blinds installation are:

• A tape measure
• A pencil
• A screwdriver
• A drill
• A level

Fist of all, the type of blind you have purchased has been made to be mounted on the inside or outside of your window. The instructions below are for inner mounted blinds only. With the help of your level, hold up your blinds inside the window casing, and make sure its level. Mark the window casing with your pencil where the blinds are placed. As well as a little past the edge of the blind,(about 1/8 inch). The pencil marks are the guides for your brackets.

Secondly, you now need to drill holes over each marking which are called your pilot holes. Then screw in the left and right brackets into your pilot holes. The screws are normally provided with your installation kit, although depending on the type of material you are screwing into, different screws may be required. Once the pilot holes are drilled, drill in your brackets. Note: You can rub some bar soap onto your screws so they will go in more easily. Also, depending on the size of your blinds, you may need to install a support brackets in the middle of the blinds (this will be specified in the instructions received with your blinds). The blinds will usually exceed a legth of 72 inches in order to require a support bracket. Installing this support is an important step. Over time and with daily usage, the blinds may sag in the middle or wear down the structure of the outer brackets and break. So learn your lesson now, install the support bracket! To make it easier, align the head rail within the brackets, since this will help you place the support bracket in its proper place and screw it in.

Afterwards, the valance clips are the last item to install. Space them apart evenly along the head rail. Do not place them over the blind slats or cords. Clip the head rail in place by snapping close the brackets, and finally place the valance into the valance clips.

And you are done! Give yourself a pat on the back and go have a drink!

Mini blinds are a great way to decorate and personalize your home. For more tips on maintaining and designing with your window coverings please visit http://www.yourblindsspot.com.

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"Do it Yourself" Retractable Awning and Screen Installations

The urge to create something new and eye-catching on the blank slate of a home is powerful. As is the urge to save some money and maximize one's efforts. Whether it's a change to landscaping, a roof garden, or a casual seating area for customers, retractable awnings or drop screens are an ideal project for do-it-yourselfers because they make a very dramatic difference with relatively little effort.

The Planning Stage

A major part of installing a retractable awning is finding the perfect place to install it. Retractable awnings are much easier to install than fixed awnings or canopies because they are only mounted on a wall - no need to dig post holes or put in a foundation or grounding - so they can be installed over existing pavements, patios, decks, hot tubs, and gazebos, as well as doors and windows. Retractable awnings are suited to any location where sun, glare, UV rays, or light rain protection is required.

A drop screen usually enhances an existing structural feature, such as a door or window, or as panels to enclose a porch, lanai, or gazebo. A drop screen requires a sturdy beam to mount to and possibly a door frame or post to fix the side guides to. After finding the location, simply measure the width of the area from side to side on the interior of the frame (for an inside mount) and add for the width of the side guides if mounted outside the window frame. Then measure the height of the screen, going from the inside (or bottom) of the top frame to the bottom of the threshold for the height; for an outside mount, add the size of the headerbox and bottom rail to the height measurement.

Finding an ideal retractable awning location has a few other factors to consider.

• How much shade coverage is required.
• What the width of the awning should be, based on the shade area. Add at least 12 inches to maximize coverage for sun and rain protection.
• How far out the awning extends (the projection), based on the shade area. There is a natural slope to an awning, so the actual shade is several inches shorter than the full projection.
• How high to mount the awning. Because of the awning's slope, the front of the awning is lower than the mounting position; this difference is the drop. The recommended drop is 3 inches per foot of projection. So, if the awning has a 12-foot projection, the drop is about 36 inches. To get a 7-foot clearance under the front bar, the awning has to be mounted at least 10 feet high.

Scout out a mounting place that is free of obstructions (no lights, gutters, wiring, or ornamentation) and has adequate clearance around any doors or windows. For screens, make sure that any doors swing away from the screen. For retractable awnings, make sure the awning can extend its full projection without running into a tree, patio, roofline, or fence.

Installation in a Few Easy Steps

The general installation process for both traditional retractable awnings and drop screens is pretty simple: attach the correct number of mounting brackets using the appropriate fixing and insert the torsion (square) bar. The simplicity of installing awnings is what makes them ideal for do-it-yourself weekend projects. The exact installation steps, naturally, vary depending on the awning being installed (so always read the manufacturer's specific instructions!), but these are the general processes.

For a drop screen:

1. Assemble the screen itself, putting together the roller (called the headerbox), similar to an old-fashioned shade.
2. Install the mounting brackets at the top and around the door frame or the beam of the gazebo or porch.
3. Snap in the headerbox, making sure that the bottom rail of the screen is toward the inside of the room.
4. If there are vertical side guides, measure and cut them according to the height of the opening, and then screw them in place and snap them in position with the headerbox. If there are guide wires, screw the bottom brackets into place, and attach the wires to the cassette. Be sure everything is level and plumb.

One important note for drop screens: not every manufacturer has a do-it-yourself style, so make sure you don't need a contractor before ordering the screen.

A retractable awning installation is slightly more complicated than a screen installation, so follow the manufacturer's instructions:

1. Locate the bricks, rafters, studs, or joists to which to mount the awning.
2. Install a pressure-treated board at the install location if mounting onto siding. It is extremely important that the awning be mounted on a flat, level surface, which isn't always possible with siding, shingles, and brick.
3. Install the mounting brackets, with the end brackets about three inches inside the edge of the awning and the other brackets evenly spaced between them. The number of mounting brackets depends on the width and projection of the specific retractable awning.
4. Install and attach the optional hood about 1 inch above awning location.
5. Lift the retractable awning, and insert it in the mounting brackets.
6. Tighten the retaining bolts.

Here are a few helpful tips for installations:

• Always attach retractable awning mounting brackets to a load-bearing part of the building, like a stud, joist, rafter, brick, or beam, depending on the mounting option.
• Use a chalk line and level. It's just easier than trying to eyeball whether the awning or screen is even.
• Because of the weight of the awning and to keep everything properly positioned, have two people working on the retractable awning installation.
• Read the instructions in the kit or on the company's website. When in doubt, call the manufacturer's customer service line.

In a decent afternoon of work, you can have a lovely retractable awning or drop screen installed over a patio, garden, eating area, walkway - wherever you want to make a pleasing, comfortably shaded haven.

Budget Retractable Awnings sells quality / long lasting window awnings and patio covers for a reasonable price. http://www.budget-awnings.com

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Cheap Blind Options

When you think about having to decorate an entire house, packed full of window after window, cheap blinds become a real lifesaver. Imagine you are paying, say $100 per window blind for a house with 10 windows. Do them all at once and, all of a sudden, you have a bill for a thousand dollars. Not cheap, even for the best of us.

So, when you're shopping for blinds, it really does pay to not just have an eye out for quality, but to have an eye out for price as well. Take a very close look at the brands you like, then go further afield and take a look at all the discount sales you can find, or all the stock clearances you can find. If you are prepared to be patient, look carefully and, maybe, compromise just a little, you can really find a bargain that can save you hundreds of dollars.

One of the best ways to make a saving, but still get some good looking blinds is to go for some 'faux' wooden blinds. These look just like real wooden blinds (well, almost - certainly close enough to fool the average observer). They're usually made of a kind of vinyl, which cuts down on the cost of manufacture, and also has the benefit of providing a longer lasting, more durable blinds that is more resistant to stains and damage, and also easier to clean. Another benefit is that faux blinds can also be much easier to clean than their wooden counterparts, which means that they look good for longer, and thus save you from the expense of having to replace them for several more years.

Another option, of course, is to save money by making your own blinds. You can do this by picking up the material you need cheaply at a hardware or materials store, and treating it like a DIY project. This way you not only get to save money, but you get to sit back and enjoy a great feeling of satisfaction every time you look at, or open or close your new window blinds. Most types of blinds are suitable for DIY manufacture, depending on your level of skills. One of the best kinds of blind to build yourself is a roller blinds - these are particularly good because they are so simple - at their most basic they are just a roller, and a piece of material fixed together. On balance, if you are good with home improvement projects, I would definitely recommend DIY blinds as the best way to add cheap blinds to your home.

Nicholas Jensen is a real bargain hunter and loves to seek out cheap blinds for his windows. He is a particular fan of the versatility of faux blinds.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicholas_Jensen