Meek's Lumber & Hardware Blog

Are you looking for a paint that works both in a home and on a commercial basis?

Well, wonder no more! Wonder-Pro from PPG is a high-production, quality workhorse! It is manufactured as a commercial latex paint that PPG has formulated with the professional painter in mind. Whether you’re rolling, brushing or spraying, it is easy to apply and splatter-free.

For building contractors and property managers, it is essential to note that it is also high-hiding and quick-drying for fast touch-ups and recoats. If you see a lot of touch-ups in the future, we’d suggest going with a flat sheen.

When it comes to sheens, the lower the sheen, the less light will reflect off the surface. In addition, if you’re looking for a warmer look and you want to hide imperfections, a lower sheen is also for you. On the flipside, if you go with a higher sheen, the paint will be more durable and have a higher washability. We’d suggest choosing this if you’re painting a high-traffic area.

All that in mind, you might be wondering where in a space can you paint with it? It is best for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, trim, ceilings, kitchens and hallways.

With all of these applications, it’s no wonder they call it Wonder-Pro! To get some custom tinted quarts, one gallons and five gallons today, stop into your local store today. Browse color chips and check out options on the PPG Voice of Color machines or bring in something from home and we can color-match it for you too. Your perfect fresh-start for 2020 is just a coat or two away!

Simpson Strong-Tie has launched their new and improved Deck Planner Software. It aims to help deck builders and homeowners to design a deck in just a few minutes with ease!

The software is free and completely web-based. Just design your deck, print out your permit submittal pages and materials lists, and go. Check out the program in action in the video below.

Visit https://www.strongtie.com/deckplanner to learn more!

Above information c/o: https://www.strongtie.com/products/go/software/deckplanner

When it comes to redwood decking, you’re combining natural strong wood with unique beauty in each board. Whether you’re looking to keep the color as it is when new or looking for a softer color, you have options.

If you leave the deck unfinished, the Humboldt Redwood decking rich color will change into a soft grey patina that blends well with any outdoor décor. If you live somewhere humid, you’ll likely end up with a dark wood first that will be rinsed away by the rain and eventually lighten. On the flip side, if your deck is protected from the elements, your deck may stay dark. If you live somewhere that is particularly dry, your redwood may not darken and instead may turn a silvery tan color that lightens over time. Either way, if the rustic look is your style, this no-maintenance option is right up your alley. Just allow your deck to weather naturally.

If bold is more your style and you want to keep the original color, finishing your structure is the way to go. By adding a protective sealant, you can not
only extend the life of your deck, but also accentuate the natural wood’s characteristics. It’s important to note that unlike your composite and PVC decking, each board of redwood decking is unique. Each board will start out with its own look and depending on the elements and the layout of your outdoor living space, decking on the west end of your home will likely differ in look on the east.

If you want a colored deck that will still last the test of times, you can add layers of deck paint and stain options with countless color combinations.

When it comes to cleaning your deck, you can do so in just a few steps. On the day-to-day, you can use a hose to spray off surface debris as they build up. Should rinsing not move the gunk, you can take a stiff brush and scrub the area with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent.

Regardless of what route is right for you, you’ll want to refinish the wood every few years to keep your deck looking new day after day. To do so, you can either start with a power washer or with varnish or paint remover; both sides have their pros and cons.

Power washing, while quick and effective, can damage the fibers of the boards if you use the wrong setting. You want it to be strong enough to get off the sealant, but not so strong you cut it to the core.

Should you decide the varnish or remover process is the way to go, be sure to test a piece of new, clean board first. This will let you see if any discoloration occurs before you refinish the entire deck.

All-in-all, there are loads of videos on YouTube to help you decide what finish is right for you, as well as what the best upkeep and refinishing plan will work best. We’re here to help should you have any decking questions or check out www.getredwood.com today!

When it comes to finding the best decking for your home, you have a lot to consider. From material to color… from trim to railing… the possible combinations are endless.

If you visited the TimberTech booth at Expo, you would have seen how they not only mixed colors, but also offered something completely new: different widths!

The TimberTech Azek Vintage Collection is available in wide, standard and narrow widths, meaning you can mix and match the six shades in the collection to make whatever pattern you desire!

Deck with chairs, ceiling fans, and railing

AZEK Deck in Kona from Harvest Collection

TimberTech AZEK Deck and Railing featured together

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AZEK Deck on a raised patio looking towards the coast

919 N Larabee, Chicago IL, Roof deck photographed by Brett Bulthuis for Azek building products Chicago IL, Roof deck photographed by Brett Bulthuis for Azek building products

Azek roof deck Chicago

Maybe different widths aren’t in your plan. Fret not, there are three collections and 13 colors to choose from. Trust us, if PVC decking is what you’re looking for, TimberTech Azek has you covered.

As if that wasn’t fun enough, the PVC decking is 100% synthetic so it’s mold, mildew and moisture resistant, not to mention the coating protects it from UV damage, scratches and stains. With a 50 year  warranty, that’s about as low maintenance as you can get.

TimberTech Deck with lounge space and built-in bench seating

Backyard featuring deck, pergola, children playing and adults around a fire pit

william short photography;

Deck leading into backyard

July 2016, New Glasgow Nova Scotioa location shoot for CPG.

TimberTech Deck leading into a backyard with a firepit fire roaring

TimberTech Pro is a four-sided capped composite that has an authentic wood grain pattern paired with out-of-this world color palettes. Over three collections, you have 16
different color options! Pair a 30 year warranty with a durable surface that resists damage, spills and scratches and you’re in for a treat!

Maybe you’re looking for the same composite decking materials, but you’d like to pay a little less. Look no further than TimberTech EDGE, a three-sided capped composite. Backed by a 25-year warranty so you’ll be enjoying it for decades to come!

Between TimberTech EDGE, TimberTech Pro and TimberTech Azek, there is a color, style and price point that suits your budget and your yard. Stop in today to get started!

When it comes to your home, you always want to make a great first impression and you can’t go any bigger than the physical color of your home. The right shade and material is key to having that mixture of comfort and style.

Allura siding took a look at the trends for the year and noted nine exterior colors that are making the rounds.

Up first, is Desert Beige, a neutral tone which perfectly blends with bright trim and dark or light roof colors.

Next you have Moss Green, which has that earthy look, pairing well with more muted colors like cream and dark grey.

If you’re looking to jazz up your home, Soft Lemon is the perfect balance of bright and sophistication. You can brighten it with more neutral tones or tone it down with warmer colors.

Typically, black and white mesh together to make a standard gray color, but Stormy Gray is anything but average. The blue undertone provides the basis for the perfect coastal exterior and is best paired with white and charcoal detailing.

From modest to bam! When you want to make an impression, you can’t get much bolder and yet elegant than Smoky Red. Pair this strong color with white detailing around windows, panels, rails and more for a beautiful and classic exterior.

Coming in at number six on the list is Opal, a fresh color that is as tranquil as it comes. Light roofing and white detailing goes great with natural trees and landscaping.

We’d all like to look a bit younger, right? Bright yellow can provide that youthful atmosphere for your space and pairs great with white, gray or brown. Fun little pops of color can be fun too, but be sure to not go overboard so your home strikes joy for all to see.

Up at number eight is a two-toned earthy combination. Try out colors next to each other and switch out samples to see exactly what pairs best. We’d suggest going with a cool green and warm brown.

Rounding out the list is an old favorite making its return to the top. Cheer up the neighborhood with a Sky Blue exterior, white edging and a darker roof. This color is sure to wow your visitors!

Ready to renovate or replace your old siding and renew your home’s look? We’re here to help! Just stop in and ask one of our experts today!