Tag Archives: beautiful

Pergola Shade Solutions for Hot Climates A pergola is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits

June 20, 2025   Shane

However, in hot climates, an uncovered pergola may not provide enough relief from the intense sun. Fortunately, there are several effective shade solutions that can enhance comfort while maintaining the pergola’s stylish design.

1. Retractable Canopies

Retractable canopies offer adjustable shade, allowing you to control sunlight exposure throughout the day. These can be made from durable, UV-resistant fabrics that block harmful rays while allowing airflow. Motorized options provide convenience with remote or smart-home control.

2. Shade Sails

Shade sails are a modern and versatile option, available in various colors and shapes. Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyester, they provide excellent UV protection while adding a contemporary look. They can be easily attached to pergola beams or nearby structures.

3. Climbing Plants & Vines

For a natural cooling effect, train climbing plants like wisteria, bougainvillea, or grapevines over the pergola. These plants create a living canopy that filters sunlight and lowers ambient temperatures. However, they require time to grow and regular maintenance.

4. Pergola Roof Panels

Solid or louvered roof panels can be installed to provide permanent shade. Polycarbonate panels are lightweight, durable, and block UV rays while allowing diffused light. Louvered systems allow adjustable ventilation, making them ideal for hot climates.

5. Outdoor Curtains & Drapes

Sheer or heavy-duty outdoor curtains add elegance while offering flexible shade. They can be drawn during peak sun hours and tied back when more light is desired. Choose weather-resistant fabrics to ensure longevity.

6. Bamboo or Reed Mats

For a rustic, eco-friendly solution, bamboo or reed mats can be laid across the pergola’s top. These materials provide natural shade and allow gentle breezes to pass through, keeping the area cool.

7. Pergola with a Built-In Pergola Shade Cloth

Shade cloths, typically made from woven polyethylene, are an affordable and effective way to reduce heat. They come in different densities (measured in UV-blocking percentages) and can be easily attached using hooks or grommets.

Choosing the Right Solution

When selecting a pergola shade solution, consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and aesthetic preference. Combining multiple methods—such as a retractable canopy with climbing vines—can maximize comfort and visual appeal.

By integrating these shade solutions, your pergola can become a cool, inviting retreat even in the hottest climates. Whether you prefer modern technology or natural elements, there’s an option to suit every need and style.

Would you like recommendations for specific materials or brands?

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A Handy Solution For Beautiful Hands

September 15, 2024   Matt

A Handy Solution For Beautiful Hands

Before getting rid of dust and grime in your house, make sure your hands don’t take a beating in the process. Give your hands the care and attention they deserve by following these tips:

• Lock in the Moisture: Applying moisturizer to damp skin immediately after a shower or bath allows skin to seal in the moisturizer. Choose a moisturizer that’s effective and safe for sensitive skin, and free of potentially irritating fragrances or dyes.

• Guard Against Harsh Chemicals: Exposure to chemicals and detergents in household cleaning products can take a toll on hands and dry out and irritate sensitive skin. Look for gloves that are designed to keep hands looking their best. “Playtex Living Gloves have multiple layers of neoprene to provide superior protection, versus ordinary latex gloves, from the harsh chemicals found in common household cleaning products,” says Joe Hourihan, a vice president of research and development at Playtex Products, Inc. Get into the habit of wearing gloves every time you clean.

• Fight Bacteria and Germs: Hourihan says Playtex Living Gloves have Ultra-Fresh® anti-microbial protection to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew. The gloves also provide excellent hot-water protection.

• Protect Your Manicure: Your hands are your ultimate accessory and you’ll want them to look good in any season. Wearing gloves whenever you’re cleaning will help your manicures last longer and keep your nails from becoming brittle.

• Take Your Hands to the Spa: Warm a cup of milk in the microwave for 30 seconds (or until warm but comfortable to the touch). Soak your hands for five minutes to strengthen nails and hydrate skin.

Take a page from the model’s beauty handbook and wear gloves to keep your hands looking young and feeling silky.

“My hands aren’t just important to me, they’re my business. So I make it my business to take care of them,” says Ellen Sirot, top NYC hand model, Ford Models. “Whenever I do anything that can damage my hands, such as housework, washing dishes or even gardening, I always wear my Playtex Living Gloves.”

In addition to keeping your hands soft, Playtex Products Inc. is proud to make a donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. on behalf of Playtex Living Gloves (www.NationalBreast Cancer.org).

Following a few simple tips may be all it takes to keep your hands beautiful.

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Creating a beautiful home is something all of us strive to do

March 18, 2024   Matt

Creating a beautiful home is something all of us strive to do

Trees, shrubs and bushes are all an essential part of the look of your landscaping. Not all greenery grows well in all climates so it’s wise to use the research tool on many of the landscape design software programs to choose which plants will thrive in your area. Once you’ve made that determination you are ready to get started.

Mapping out the area that you are actually working with is the best idea. You can do that to scale with the software and this will allow you the opportunity to then plan exactly where you want everything to be. If you are working on both a front and back yard space do one at a time. It’s easy to get carried away in the ease of the landscape design software but you want to ensure you create the most inviting environment in both spaces.

Decks and pools should be planned for before you set your mind on where greenery will go. The reason is that most shrubs and trees will fill out over time and if you plant them to close to a structure they may actually need to be removed. Young trees and plants should be placed in areas where they have room to spread, so first place the structure and then add any additional elements. Some of the best landscaping ideas involve creating a small garden in one area of the yard that is situated far from the pool or sitting area.

Some homeowners enjoy the vibrancy of flowers in their yards. Brightly colored blossoms can transform a dull space and make it inviting and warm. Many of the popular brands of landscape design software allow you to place flowers, including colors on your plans. This really affords the user the opportunity to visualize how certain colors will mesh with the other elements of the landscaping. You can even choose the flowers by name so you know what to look for when you go to the garden center in the spring.

If you’ve ever looked at a neighbor’s perfectly planned yard and wished you could do the same, you really can. Just purchase landscape design software and spend some time creating a beautiful outdoor space that you and your family can enjoy for years to come.

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