Max Hahne - Home Sweet Home

705-441-5800 max.hahne@evrealestate.com max-hahne.homesweethome.digital

courtesy of: Max Hahne

Dear Homeowners As April showers pave the way for May flowers, we're thrilled to present our April 2024 issue of Home Sweet Home, full of inspiration to help you make the most of this vibrant season. This month we asked an expert at the famous Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for tips and advice on planting and landscape design. Discover how to make your garden into a captivating oasis, blending functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic allure. For those who love to infuse creativity into their living spaces, check out this issue’s guide to DIY mosaic art. Spring is the perfect season to explore this timeless craft, allowing you to transform everyday items into stunning, personalized art pieces for your home and garden. Our April recipe section includes three versatile salad recipes that are perfect for a quick lunch at work, a delightful spring picnic, or a leisurely patio lunch with friends. Plus, if you’re ready to enjoy time on your deck or patio this spring, check out our article on outdoor furniture for simple maintenance tips.

We hope these ideas help inspire you to embrace the vitality of the season in your home this spring!

Warm wishes,

Max Hahne ENGEL & VÖLKERS

705-441-5800 max.hahne@evrealestate.com max-hahne.homesweethome.digital

Table of Contents

Inspired by Nature’s Palette Crafting Your Dream Landscape

Putting It All Together A Guide to DIY Mosaic Art for Your Home & Garden 10 Turn your outdoor space into a captivating oasis with planning and professional insights. Learn how to blend functionality with design so that your garden becomes an inviting extension of your home. Spring’s the perfect time to get inspired by the beauty of mosaic art. This intricate craft is an easy way to harness your creative side and transform everyday items into stunning pieces of art that can be displayed indoors and out.

Recipes

Easy Spring Salads to Enjoy Warm or Cold

Outdoor Furniture Revival Make the Most of Your Patio or Deck Furniture this Spring Expert tips for maintaining your patio or deck furniture, ensuring it's ready for every sunny day and serene night this spring and summer season.

Image courtesy of Paul G. Wiegman

April 2024

INSPIRED BY NATURE’S PALETTE

HOW TO DESIGN THE OUTDOOR LANDSCAPE OF YOUR DREAMS

Turning your home's outdoor space into a captivating and harmonious oasis often falls somewhere between a wish and a dream on your home improvement to- do list. There’s so much to consider, the idea of hiring a landscaping professional may have crossed your mind. Or perhaps you’re confident you can attack it weekend-warrior style. Whether you opt to roll up your sleeves for the hands-on work or bring in professionals for certain aspects of the project, the success of your home's landscape design hinges on meticulous pre-planning. To help you develop that exhaustive landscaping plan we’ve gathered up some quick tips, followed by some design insight from a landscape professional to get you headed in the right direction.

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Start by evaluating the space. Take measurements. Is it wide enough for flower beds on both sides of the walkway? Consider the contours. Do you have a steep incline that requires a retaining wall? In addition to the layout of the landscape, you’ll need to work around existing structures such as fencing, sheds, trees, and the dog run. To better visualize areas for gardens and flowerbeds, lay out a hose to represent the borders. You can also use spray paint to map out an outline. What is your goal for the space? Are you primarily interested in gardening, want huge flower beds, or desire a lawn where you can play croquet? Would you prefer a large patio for seating, a kitchen area, or a pool? Make your wish list and prioritize the importance of each item. CONSIDER THE PRIMARY USE FOR THE SPACE EVALUATE THE SIZE AND LAYOUT OF YOUR YARD

Next, visually map out the activity zones. Include the kids’ play structure, wood storage, the fire pit, flower beds, a pool or hot tub, gardens, seating, lighting, cooking areas, and pathways. Remember to consider access to the house as well as electricity and water. Sketch your design on paper, use CAD, or physically mark the space for accuracy. MAP OUT ACTIVITY ZONES AND FLOWER BEDS

CONSIDER MATERIAL SELECTIONS

With your area mapped out, think about your material selections. Visualize them in conjunction with the rest of your plan. For example, paths can be formed from gravel, brick, paver stones, cement, or bark chips — each of which presents a different look, texture, and color to the overall design of the yard. If you have a theme for your landscape, material selection will reflect that as well. For instance, a bamboo fence pairs with a Japanese garden theme while a criss-crossed wood fence is more fitting for a rustic motif.

Q. Homeowners are often that accounts for pools, sheds, walkways, seating, cooking, play areas, gardens, and other typical family usage? THE PROFESSIONAL DESIGN EDGE ON CREATING A MASTER PLAN: overwhelmed with where to begin when planning out zones for their yard. What suggestions do you have for creating a master plan

“The first step before planning your outdoor living space and garden is to have an accurate map that shows the existing features. This should include the house, garage, all existing structures, and plantings. It is also important to identify the access locations of water and electricity on your property. Before undertaking any excavation, contact the local utilities to ascertain the buried power or water lines. Use the map of your existing yard to determine how you move through the space and where you have room to build. Think about how often you plan to interact with the various zones and what you want close to the home and what can be further afield. Areas requiring frequent visits or extensive maintenance, such as kitchen gardens, plants that need a lot of care, or seating areas, should be placed closer to the home. Less-frequently visited spaces, such as fruit trees, meadow plantings, or shrubs, can be placed further away.”

Creating the overall design is the most comprehensive part of the project, so the details are important. That’s why many people simply hand the task over to landscaping professionals that are trained to see potential obstacles and who have a vision for the finished project. With this in mind, we picked the brain of Juliette Olshock, Sustainable Landcare Programming Coordinator at the famous Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The conservatory is a 15-acre campus of sustainable, botanical design that dates back to 1893. In addition to featuring more than a dozen rooms in a massive glass house and nearly two dozen distinct gardens, Phipps’ mission is to inspire and educate the public about gardening practices within their own yards. We asked Phipps about the professional perspective of landscape design to provide you the insider’s knowledge you might need during your planning process.

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ON INTEGRATING PLANTS WITHIN FUNCTIONAL SPACE:

Q. While our yards are an extension of our living space, they’re also a connection to nature. Therefore flowers, plants,

“Plants can be wonderful backdrops to a seating area, making the space feel cozy. They can delineate spaces making outdoor rooms with different focus or feelings. Thoughtful placement of plants and garden beds can direct you down a path with larger plants right up close, gradually giving way to an open meadow, or short, grass-like planting that welcomes you in. Pathways with curves can create a sense of mystery and draw you in to see what’s on the other side. Adding a few plants with very bright colors, like scarlet beebalm ( Monarda didyma ) or spotted beebalm ( Monarda punctata ), or different textures, such as rattlesnake master ( Eryngium yuccifolium ), can create a sense of playfulness and whimsy.” A.

shrubs, and trees are a major component of landscape design. How do professional garden designers like those at Phipps Conservatory go about integrating plants within the living zones?

April 2024

Q. As it relates to plants, can you provide homeowners some pointers on how to use height, texture, and colors to create specific moods or settings? For example, an English garden has a much different feel than an Asian garden. How do those elements factor into the design? ON LAYERING & PLANT SELECTION:

Phipps’ Associate Director of Exhibits, Jordyn Melino, utilizes color schemes to create moods in various rooms of the garden. Pairing burgundy or purple foliage plants with white, silvers, and pastels creates a sultry, sophisticated setting, while lime green foliage paired with hot colors creates an energizing setting. Add interest and dimension by creating a focal point with height to the garden, such as a specimen tree or a trellis with a climbing vine, but be sure that it is appropriate to the scale of your space and consider something that will have year-round interest.

Homeowners should also consider the intended use of their garden space — are you looking to create the tranquility that a Japanese garden evokes? Keep the plant palette limited, repeating the same 3-4 types of shrubs or groundcovers with a few specimen trees, and add an audible element, such as trickling water or a wind chime. Are you looking to mix charm and utility that an English cottage garden boasts? Along a main pathway, develop flower beds that are densely planted with fine-leaved plants in a layered effect, balancing cool and warm colors, but don’t forget to repeat clumps of the same flowers throughout the bed to provide a unified look. These gardens often feature edible plants, such as herbs, for an easy harvest right outside the kitchen door.

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ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES:

Creating a stunning landscape is an art that can be mastered with the right guidance and inspiration. From selecting the perfect plants to maximizing the space’s balance and symmetry, elevate your outdoor haven to match your vision of sophistication, comfort, function, and tranquility. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cozy courtyard, you can rely on these tips from the pros to cultivate a personalized landscape for entertaining, relaxing, playing, and enjoying the outdoor environment. “Homeowners can visit local nurseries or join regional gardening clubs to gain insights into the plants native to the area. Native plants are necessary to create a balanced ecosystem in our own backyards. Local wildlife, including birds, native bees, and butterflies, are dependent on the native plants of a region. Incorporating more native plants can significantly impact the wildlife that we see visiting. Native plants are adapted to the local conditions; when sited correctly (right plant, right place), they won’t need additional water or fertility like many non-native ornamental plants. They give us a sense of place by harmonizing with the region, connecting our gardens and homes to the local environment.” The Phipps mission is squarely centered around sustainability. What tips can you provide homeowners to create a balanced ecology in their own yards and what benefits make the effort worthwhile?

ON PLANTING LOCATION:

“Homeowners can review the most recent Plant Hardiness Zone map in order to select plants that will do well in their region. In addition to understanding the broader climate context, homeowners can make observations of their yards to determine which areas receive the most rainwater and sunlight and where there are shade or dry areas. We encourage gardeners to spend time in the yards at different times of day and in different conditions so they understand the unique characteristics of all areas.” What should homeowners consider in regards to regional location and also planting locations within the yard?

Photos by Paul G. Wiegman, courtesy of Phipps Conservatory.

SUPPLIES The supplies needed for mosaic art are very basic. Here’s a quick introduction to the tools and supplies used in mosaic art. Mosaic Base Your base is the surface to which you will mount your mosaic materials. It can be any sturdy surface. Common bases include wooden boards, terracotta pots, plain stepping stones, tabletops, and picture frames. Consider the intended location and purpose of your mosaic when choosing the base, as this will influence the materials and design for which you opt.

Putting It All Together A GUIDE TO DIY MOSAIC ART FOR YOUR HOME & GARDEN Mosaic art makes use of natural materials to create enduring visual art that can also be a functional part of your home’s decor. Mosaic projects can make great gifts, are fun for all ages, and are inexpensive to construct. Plus, all you need to bring this age-old technique to life is a few tools and a bit of practice. Once you get the hang of it, you might find yourself wanting to mosaic multiple surfac- es in your home. Here’s a guide to get you started.

A Brief History of the Mosaic

The earliest known works of mosaic art are credited to Mesopotamia, with examples dating back to 3rd millennium BCE. Since that time, the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and many other ancient cultures have used mosaics to tell stories and record history. Over the centuries, the craft has resulted in displays of nature, animals, religious figures, and even geometric designs. It can be found on nearly every surface, from floors to ceilings and on objects like furniture and vases.

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Tesserae The small pieces of material in mosaic designs are called tesserae, and an individual piece is called a tessera. Choose from materials around your home or source materials with your mosaic in mind. You can use a variety of hard options such as glass, stone, tiles, shells, or even recycled items like broken dishes. Keep in mind you’ll be breaking larger pieces into smaller pieces. Starting with thinner tesserae that trim easily with nippers lets you get a feel for the process before moving onto materials that require more robust tools like a tile saw. Another option is to buy round glass gems from a craft store or small rounded-edge tiles that don’t need to be cut at all. This is a great idea when working with children so you don’t have to worry about sharp edges or safety with cutting tools.

Grout Once your tesserae is in place, you’ll add grout in between all pieces and along the outside edges. This will hold the project together. You can create thin or thick grout lines and choose from a variety of colors. You can also paint the grout after it dries. Sealant Not all projects require a sealant, but it will help protect your piece. For outdoor projects, add a few layers of polyurethane to protect against the elements and enhance waterproofing. Safety Supplies You’ll need gloves and safety glasses to wear while you work to avoid cuts and shards that may enter the eyes. Additional Tools You’ll also need a trowel or spatula for spreading grout, a sponge to wipe away excess grout, and tweezers to place small tesserae.

Where to Find Tesserae

Adhesive You’ll need an adhesive to adhere pieces to the base. This is most commonly a mortar made from cement. If you’re working on an outdoor project, be sure to use a water-resistant adhesive. Cutter For rough breaks, you can use a hammer. For more precision, use a tile nipper or glass cutter. For larger projects, thicker materials, or by preference, use a wet tile saw to make some or all of your cuts. Start by looking around your house for items you can use. That’s part of the artistic fun of the craft, after all. However, if you want to start with traditional colored tiles, hit up the craft store, hardware store, floorcovering store, or home improvement center. Walk the back aisles looking for discounted boxes and ask at the counter for broken or discontinued tiles. Also check online marketplaces within your community. Your local thrift shops are other options where you can find partial boxes of donated tiles for sale.

April 2024

THE MOSAIC PROCESS Start by working on a flat surface like a small table top, a framed wall hanging, or a stepping stone. In fact, these are perfect first projects for the entire family. Once you’ve mastered the technique, embellish planters, birdbaths, light poles, vases, and other curved surfaces. Regardless of the base you choose, the steps in the process are the same. 1. Create Your Design Let your imagination run wild as you brainstorm your design. Sketch it out on paper or use CAD to mock-up the colors and overall look. Whether you're envisioning a geometric pattern, a nature-inspired scene, or an abstract composition, planning allows you to see the end result before you begin. You can use your design as a reference to replicate onto the surface or actually transfer the design right onto the base using transfer paper. Alternatively, draw your design directly onto the surface where you will mount the tiles. Of course, if you’d rather skip the planning and allow the design to form organically as you work, go for it! Whatever method you use, keep the design simple in the beginning. A sunflower, daisy, or sun design is a good place to start. You can also go with geometric designs or landscapes of ocean, skies, or grass. Use your imagination and work with the colors of tesserae you have. 2. Prepare your Space Protect the work surface and surrounding area with plastic or sheets. Next, wipe down your base surface and the back of your tesserae. Gather all of your supplies so they are readily available.

3. Cut Tesserae and Do a Dry Fit Once your design is finalized, it's time to cut and arrange your chosen tiles or materials. Use tile nippers to shape pieces to fit your design, keeping safety in mind by wearing protective glasses. Experiment with different arrangements, playing with color, shape, and texture until you achieve the desired effect. Don't be afraid to mix and match materials to add depth and interest to your mosaic. This is the fun part, so experiment. Place pieces on the base as you work so you can see the design come together and make adjustments as needed. 4. Adhere the Tesserae You can either put a layer of adhesive directly onto the surface of the base or spread it on each piece of tesserae as you mount them. Either way, make sure each tessera is securely attached. Work in small sections to prevent the adhesive from drying before you have a chance to arrange your tiles. 5. Allow Dry Time Your adhesive will need to be well set before adding the grout. Allow your project to sit for at least 24 hours.

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PROJECT IDEAS Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner looking for a new hobby, mosaic art offers a unique way to transform ordinary surfaces into works of vibrant, personalized beauty. Picture Frames When working with children, a picture frame makes a fun first project. The surface is fairly small and the frame already exists so it’s easy to imagine the finished project. Allow children to place pre-cut pieces with a focus on color rather than creating an image. These unique frames make great gifts for the grandparents or teachers, and are also a welcome addition to your child’s bedroom decor. Tabletops Small side tables are fun to embellish with mosaic art. The creative options are endless so give some thought to your design. For example, a martini glass pairs well with a casual seating area while a pebbled or floral design works well in the garden. Choose a table with a metal edge for a built-in frame or cover an existing table across the top and down the edges. Mosaic art works with any shape of table from round to oval to rectangular or square. Coasters Select a small piece of round or square wood and use mosaic art to turn it into a bespoke drink coaster. Create a set with a similar color or design theme, but avoid trying to make them all match exactly. Mosaic coasters are another functional gift idea that also provide a bit of artistic interest and personalization. Mosaic art is an explorative process that allows you to breathe new life into everyday objects. Whether you're adorning your home with a mosaic mirror, creating a personalized trivet for the kitchen, or designing garden art, the possibilities are as limitless as your imagination. So, gather your materials, let your creativity flow, and discover the joy of bringing mosaic brilliance into your life.

6. Apply the Grout Using a trowel, apply grout onto the entire mosaic and spread it evenly, pressing it into all the spaces. Give the grout some time to set, around 15-20 minutes. Then wipe away excess grout from the surface of the tesserae with a sponge and warm water. Again allow the project to dry for 24 hours. 7. Add a Sealant If using a sealant for a heavily used or outdoor surface, apply a sealant to protect it against damage. You’ll likely want to add several layers. Apply thin coats and allow them to dry thoroughly between applications.

April 2024

Recipes

EASY SPRING SALADS These versatile salad recipes are perfect for any setting, whether it's a work lunch, a spring picnic, or a casual patio gathering with friends. Each dish can be enjoyed warm or cold. These simple yet delightful salads are easy to prepare and celebrate the taste of spring.

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WITH FRESH MINT AND LEMON VINAIGRETTE GREEN PEA, FETA, AND BARLEY SALAD

Instructions: 1. Cook the barley according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and let it cool. 2. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 12 minutes until bright green and tender. If using frozen peas, thaw them at room temperature. 3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled barley, peas, crumbled feta, chopped mint, and diced red onion. 4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to create the lemon vinaigrette. 5. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. 6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Ingredients:

1 cup pearl barley

2 cups fresh or frozen peas 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

z 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped z 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced z 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil z 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice z 1 teaspoon honey z Salt and pepper to taste

7. Serve immediately or refrigerate to let the flavors meld together. This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

April 2024

WARM SPRING VEGETABLE ORZO

WITH HERB PESTO

Ingredients:

z 1 cup orzo pasta z 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces z 1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed z 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved z 1/4 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought) z 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated z Salt and pepper to taste z Optional: lemon zest for garnish Instructions: 1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. 2. In a large skillet, bring water to a boil and blanch the asparagus and sugar snap peas for about 23 minutes until they are bright green and tendercrisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. 3. In the same skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the cherry tomatoes until they are soft and blistered. 4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, blanched asparagus, sugar snap peas, sautéed cherry tomatoes, and pesto. Toss until everything is well coated with the pesto. 5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. 6. Serve warm, garnished with lemon zest if desired.

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STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD

WITH TOASTED ALMONDS & BALSAMIC GLAZE

Ingredients:

z 4 cups fresh spinach leaves z 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced z 1/2 cup almonds, toasted and roughly chopped z 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled z 1/4 cup balsamic glaze z Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds until they are golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool. 2. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves and sliced strawberries. 3. Add the toasted almonds and crumbled goat cheese to the salad. 4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. 5. Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients. 6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

April 2024

OUTDOOR FURNITURE REVIVAL Make the Most of Your Patio or Deck Furniture This Spring As the air turns warmer, we will inevitably want to spend more time outdoors, and living spaces on our patio or deck become all the more important for daily use. Often, the comfort and functionality of our outdoor furniture determines how much use we actually get from our outdoor spaces. Whether you're unwrapping your patio furniture from its winter cocoon or simply brushing off the remnants of a mild season,

the transition into spring is the perfect time to rejuvenate your outdoor spaces. Proper maintenance not only enhances the beauty of your furniture but also extends its life, ensuring that you can continue to enjoy their use for seasons to come. From sun-soaked porches to poolside decks and balcony patios, the following steps will help you prepare your outdoor furniture for the vibrant days ahead.

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STEP 1. RETRIEVE STORED FURNITURE

STEP 3. MAINTENANCE Regular inspection of your furniture can uncover potential problems before they escalate. In addition to any wear or damage caused by the elements, check for loose screws or bolts in metal or wooden Regardless of your climate or storage situation, use this initial assessment as your roadmap to understanding what maintenance your furniture will need. It's not just about cleaning and repairs; it's about ensuring that your outdoor space is safe, inviting, and primed for relaxation and entertainment. For those in milder climates, your furniture might have braved the elements year- round. Even without snow or ice, moisture, wind, and varying temperatures can take a toll. For furniture that's been outdoors, a seasonal inspection can reveal issues like sun damage, fading, or structural weaknesses brought on by constant exposure. furniture and tighten them as needed. Inspect fabric for tears or fraying, and wood furniture for splinters or cracks. For metal pieces, look for rust or weakened areas, especially at joints.

STEP 2: ASSESS FURNITURE FOR REPAIR & NEEDS Whether your furniture has been stored away or remained on standby in your backyard, a quick evaluation is crucial to assess any needs for repair or replacement. If you are retrieving your furniture from storage, do so with care. Check for any signs temperatures, and unwelcome critters. If you notice any water or evidence of pests in your storage area, make a plan to get the space or container sealed up now so you know you’ve got your storage area ready for the end of the season. The first step in welcoming the new season is to assess your furniture's winter haven. If you're in a snowy region, you likely stored your furniture to protect it from the harsh elements. When you first retrieve your furniture this spring, use this moment to do a quick yearly check to evaluate your storage space. Ideal storage solutions vary, from dry, ventilated basements to garages or custom- fitted, weatherproof covers and containers. These protect your furniture from moisture, freezing of damage or wear that might have occurred during the winter months. Look for mold, mildew, or rust, especially in hidden areas or crevices.

April 2024

MATERIALS MATTER

Outdoor furniture comes in a variety of rugged materials suited to outdoor use. For best results, match the cleaning supplies and your plan for repair to the material. For minor fabric tears, a needle and weather-resistant thread can work wonders. Outdoor fabric upholstery patches are also available for larger issues like holes in cushions or umbrellas. Wood furniture may require sanding to remove splinters or rough spots, followed by sealing or staining to restore its protection and appearance. Metal furniture with rust can often be treated by removing the rust with a wire brush, then applying a primer and paint designed for metal surfaces. However, if the structural integrity of the furniture is compromised, or if specialized repairs are beyond your comfort zone, consulting a professional is the best course of action. They can provide the expertise needed to ensure your furniture is not only beautiful but also safe for use. Here’s a breakdown of maintenance tips based on furniture materials:

Metal (Aluminum, Wrought Iron, Steel)

Remove any rust spots on metal furniture with a wire brush or sandpaper. Clean the surface with soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Apply a coat of automotive wax (for aluminum) or a metal-specific protective finish to prevent future rusting and enhance the furniture's appearance.

Outdoor Rugs

Vacuum the rug to remove dirt and debris. For synthetic rugs, hose down and use mild detergent for stains. For natural fiber rugs, use a gentle cleanser and scrub lightly. Rinse thoroughly and allow the rug to dry completely on both sides to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Fabrics (Cushions and Umbrellas)

Safety and Exposure Risks Begin by shaking off any loose debris. Use a soft brush and a mixture of mild soap and lukewarm water to gently scrub the fabric. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and air dry. For stubborn stains, consider a fabric-specific cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water. To prevent future stains and UV damage, apply a fabric protector after cleaning.

Plastic Furniture

Hose down to remove dust and debris. For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent and a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or brushes to prevent scratching the surface.

Teak and Other Hardwoods

Deck and Patio Surfaces

Teak naturally weathers to a silver-gray hue. To maintain its original color, clean the wood with a soft brush and mild soapy water. Rinse thoroughly. Once dry, apply a teak sealer to protect it from the elements. For other hardwoods, use a cleaner and preservative suitable for the specific type of wood.

Consider power washing your deck or patio to remove grime, mildew, and weather stains. Use a fan tip on your power washer and keep it at the recommended distance to avoid damaging wood or paver surfaces. For wooden decks, follow up with a sealant to protect the wood from moisture and UV damage.

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Living in a beach climate means contending with salt air and sand, which can accelerate wear and corrosion on outdoor furniture and spaces. Here are some tailored tips to combat these unique challenges: SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEACH CLIMATES ☑ Rinse Regularly: Salt can corrode metal and fade fabrics quickly. Rinse your outdoor furniture frequently with fresh water to remove salt residue. ☑ Protective Coatings: Apply protective sealants to metal and wooden furniture. For metals, use products specifically designed to resist salt corrosion. For wood, a marine-grade varnish works well to repel salt and moisture. ☑ Choose Appropriate Materials: Opt for materials known for their durability in coastal environments. Teak, stainless steel, powder-coated aluminum, and polyresin wicker are more resistant to salt and humidity. ☑ Fabric Care: Choose outdoor fabrics designed for marine environments. These fabrics are typically treated to resist sun fading, mildew, and salt degradation. Store cushions when not in use to extend their lifespan. ☑ Regular Inspections: Salt air can lead to quicker degradation. Regularly inspect your furniture for signs of rust or damage and address them promptly.

☑ Underfoot Care: For decks and

patios, a thorough rinse with fresh water can help minimize salt buildup. Consider a sealant that provides a barrier against salt penetration for wood surfaces.

April 2024

OUTDOOR DECOR TRENDS FOR 2024 As you breathe new life into your outdoor furniture, embracing the latest design and decor trends can further enhance your patio or deck's appeal. Here are three on- trend ideas to consider for infusing style and modern flair into your outdoor living spaces: 1. Sustainable Chic: Eco-friendly materials aren't just good for the planet; they're also a top trend in outdoor furniture design. Consider furniture made from recycled plastics, reclaimed wood, or sustainable sources. These pieces not only withstand the elements but also offer a conversation-starting aesthetic that's both stylish and responsible. 2. Bold Colors: Color and pattern are in, especially for outdoor spaces. Vibrant hues in outdoor cushions, rugs, and umbrellas allow you to mix and match patterns or choose a bold color palette that creates an outdoor space as lively and inviting as any indoor room. 3. Nature-Inspired Elegance: Embrace the beauty of your local environment by incorporating floral and fauna motifs into your outdoor design. Whether it's through patterned cushions, carved wooden accents, or decorative planters, integrating elements inspired by your local landscape can create a harmonious and serene outdoor setting. By integrating these design and decor trends with the maintenance and care tips provided, you'll ensure your outdoor space is not only functional and durable but also a reflection of contemporary style and comfort. Here's to a season of sunshine, relaxation, and impeccable outdoor living!

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Is Now The Right Time To Sell?

To Request a Free Housing Market Report: Call me at 705-441-5800 or Email max.hahne@evrealestate.com .

This is all 100% free with no obligation. After you submit the online questionnaire, you will receive my free report with information that will help you determine your home's value. I recommend printing it out and taking a drive to see the homes I've identified as comparable to yours. See how your home measures up. This will help you get an even more accurate idea of what your home is worth. An appraiser would charge hundreds for this service, but I will provide one at no cost. If you would like my free, professional opinion on the value of your home, I'd be glad to help. We can talk on the phone, or we can meet in person. I look forward to helping you!

Max Hahne ENGEL & VÖLKERS

705-441-5800 max.hahne@evrealestate.com max-hahne.homesweethome.digital

What's your next move? My recent book outlines the principles behind my own success and how I help others succeed in a quickly changing market. Learn strategies, secrets, tips, and much more from an industry insider!

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