| Wood paneling, linoleum flooring, wallpaper, and | | | | of the fact that stainless steel appliances look |
| faux finishes are enough to make any designer or | | | | really nice, do you know why they are a "must |
| homebuyer cringe. With the rise of contemporary | | | | have"? Stainless steel increases the corrosion |
| and modern home designs, interior designers are | | | | resistance of substances. Many people think |
| urging home owners to update their homes with | | | | stainless steel is impervious to corrosion, however |
| stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, | | | | it is not. It is recommended that the item be |
| glass black splashes and other high-end finishes for | | | | cleaned regularly with water and mild soap to |
| their own personal enjoyment, or if they ever | | | | prevent corrosion or the buildup of stains. |
| plan to sell their home. Since this is the summer | | | | Speaking of water and corrosion, what |
| season, they are also focusing on decor that is | | | | considerations should you take into account if you |
| suitable for outdoor use as well. | | | | live by the ocean? Exposed metal is always a |
| Popular HGTV shows like Property Virgins, The | | | | concern around saltwater environments because |
| Outdoor Room, and Designed to Sell subscribe to | | | | of corrosion. If you live on the beach, it is always |
| the theory that the nicer it looks, the more likely | | | | a good idea to get powder-coated or otherwise |
| people are to enjoy it or buy it. These shows | | | | painted metal. The paint acts as a protective |
| make some home owners want to redesign their | | | | barrier to make sure that your furniture will last |
| home life inside and out with more modern and | | | | years corrosion-free. |
| up-to-date finishes. However, many ambitious | | | | There are a lot of outdoor furniture |
| homeowners attempt these do-it-yourself | | | | manufacturers out there, but with so many |
| projects without using the proper tools, products, | | | | options, which one do you choose? Well, I did my |
| or guidance. | | | | research, and one of my favorites is Harbour |
| When redecorating your outdoor space many | | | | Outdoor. Harbour Outdoor's collection of |
| designers tell consumers to consider buying | | | | contemporary outdoor furniture includes |
| products that use teak wood. However, do you | | | | everything from dining settings to sun lounges |
| know why? Teak wood is a hardwood with high | | | | that suit every type of environment. This |
| natural oil content. It is ideal for outdoor use | | | | company is based out of Australia, one of the |
| because it is extremely resistant to harsh | | | | Mecca's for outdoor living, so they certainly know |
| elements. Maintenance is minimal. The wood can | | | | their stuff. From Sunbrella fabric to |
| be left outdoors year-round, however, the rate of | | | | powder-coated aluminum frames to teak accents, |
| weathering depends on the climate. | | | | this company has set out to be a trendsetter in |
| Sun damage is a common problem for decorators | | | | outdoor furniture. |
| and designers working with outdoor furniture. No | | | | Sustainability is on everyone's mind these days, |
| one wants to see that beautiful, vibrant crimson | | | | and Harbour Outdoor is no exception. They use |
| pillow fade to an orange tinged eyesore by | | | | only plantation-based reclaimed teak, never old |
| summer's end. Luckily, there is special fabric | | | | growth. Their HPCL material is EO rated at zero |
| designed exclusively for outdoor use. Some of | | | | emissions, completely non-toxic and biologically |
| the best UV-resistant outdoor fabric is | | | | harmless. The Batyline mesh they use on their |
| manufactured by Sunbrella. In business for over | | | | chairs is EO rated Zero Emissions and 100% |
| 45 years, Sunbrella fabrics have withstood the | | | | recyclable. They also use Raucord weave, which is |
| test of time and come out on top. They are | | | | made of polyethylene and can be recycled |
| guaranteed to last years in the sun without fading, | | | | completely residue-free; even when burned no |
| so make sure that your outdoor accessories are | | | | toxic substances are generated. With this in mind, |
| made with Sunbrella or a similarly UV-resistant | | | | consumers will not be afraid to enjoy their |
| fabric. | | | | outdoor oasis all while knowing that they are |
| Stainless steel products are another "must have" | | | | keeping the Earth safe. |
| in order to create a contemporary look. Outside | | | | |