Expert Advice for your Lawn & Garden TV Host of Today's Homeowner^® and home expert for The Weather Channel

Maintenance Free Outdoors

Concrete and Masonry, Decks and Patios, Exterior Published 10/11/2006 by Danny Lipford

With the weather warming up homeowners are ready for weekends spent outdoors, but you don’t want to end up constantly maintaining your new decks, patios, and walkways. There are a number of things Danny shared in the Satellite Media Tour including many tips and solutions for homeowners as well as the latest news on materials and products now available to help you make your outdoor projects not only easier and quicker to do, but virtually maintenance free as well.

Crane Board Solid Core Siding

At the top of the list for maintenance free pleasure is Crane Board Solid Core Siding. With each panel made of three 6″ planks it provides the same look as the popular wood siding but without all the effort and maintenance.

• 18″ panels are more than 2 times as wide as cedar, fiber cement, and vinyl siding
• Covers more area for 50% fewer seams.
• Interlocking edges keep seams tight and flat
• 4 times the insulating power of ordinary siding - saves valuable energy dollars
• 17% better air infiltration protection than siding with standard backer board
• 300% more impact resistance than vinyl siding
• Eliminates up to 31% more noise than vinyl siding
• Can withstand winds up to 130mph.
• Never needs painting!

TimberTech Engineered Decking Systems

Offers hassle-free decking and elaborate designs with the TimberTech Tongue-and-Groove Planks and the new Ornamental Railing System. Both are designed to provide the look of wood while being easier to install and maintain.

• Consistent color quality to minimize variations
• Additives to guard against harmful UV weathering to ensure minimal fading
• Water flows freely off surface
• No sanding, sealing, painting or restaining ever required
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant for non-slip walking surfaces
• No knots, splinters, or curves
• 11% more coverage than traditional lumber
• 10-year limited warranty
• Won’t rot, warp or suffer insect damage
• Ornamental railing kit available in 6′ and 8′ kits
• Railing System accessories available

Quikrete Walk Maker Building Forms

A cost-effective and time-efficient landscaping option to enhance the appearance of a home is with Quikrete concrete products. Easily and inexpensively boosting the look of your outdoor areas with Quikrete Walk Maker Building Forms. The reusable plastic molds are designed to form concrete into the look of brick, block or stone walkways, borders and patios.

• Customize your borders with imprints
• Add color for an authentic look
• Dries between 20 minutes to 1 hour
• Save time with multiple building forms
• 3 easy steps- mixing and placement, fill mold, removing and finishing
• Average price: 80# cm (2.75 bag)
  • 1 bag = 1 for 2′x2′
  • 4 square
  • $2.75/ 4= 0.69 square
• Form Retail: $15-$20