Search results for "Difficulty" in Home Design Ideas

Design Statement:
My design challenge was to create and build a new ultra modern kitchen with a futuristic flare. This state of the art kitchen was to be equipped with an ample amount of usable storage and a better view of the outside while balancing design and function.
Some of the project goals were to include the following; a multi-level island with seating for four people, dramatic use of lighting, state of the art appliances, a generous view of the outside and last but not least, to create a kitchen space that looks like no other...”The WOW Factor”.
This challenging project was a completely new design and full renovation. The existing kitchen was outdated and in desperate need help. My new design required me to remove existing walls, cabinetry, flooring, plumbing, electric…a complete demolition. My job functions were to be the interior designer, GC, electrician and a laborer.
Construction and Design
The existing kitchen had one small window in it like many kitchens. The main difficulty was…how to create more windows while gaining more cabinet storage. As a designer, our clients require us to think out of the box and give them something that they may have never dreamed of. I did just that. I created two 8’ glass backsplashes (with no visible supports) on the corner of the house. This was not easy task, engineering of massive blind headers and lam beams were used to support the load of the new floating walls. A generous amount of 48” high wall cabinets flank the new walls and appear floating in air seamlessly above the glass backsplash.
Technology and Design
The dramatic use of the latest in LED lighting was used. From color changing accent lights, high powered multi-directional spot lights, decorative soffit lights, under cabinet and above cabinet LED tape lights…all to be controlled from wall panels or mobile devises. A built-in ipad also controls not only the lighting, but a climate controlled thermostat, house wide music streaming with individually controlled zones, alarm system, video surveillance system and door bell.
Materials and design
Large amounts of glass and gloss; glass backsplash, iridescent glass tiles, raised glass island counter top, Quartz counter top with iridescent glass chips infused in it. 24” x 24” high polished porcelain tile flooring to give the appearance of water or glass. The custom cabinets are high gloss lacquer with a metallic fleck. All doors and drawers are Blum soft-close. The result is an ultra sleek and highly sophisticated design.
Appliances and design
All appliances were chosen for the ultimate in sleekness. These appliances include: a 48” built-in custom paneled subzero refrigerator/freezer, a built-in Miele dishwasher that is so quiet that it shoots a red led light on the floor to let you know that its on., a 36” Miele induction cook top and a built-in 200 bottle wine cooler. Some other cool features are the led kitchen faucet that changes color based on the water temperature. A stainless and glass wall hood with led lights. All duct work was built into the stainless steel toe kicks and grooves were cut into it to release airflow.
Photography by Mark Oser

Design Statement:
My design challenge was to create and build a new ultra modern kitchen with a futuristic flare. This state of the art kitchen was to be equipped with an ample amount of usable storage and a better view of the outside while balancing design and function.
Some of the project goals were to include the following; a multi-level island with seating for four people, dramatic use of lighting, state of the art appliances, a generous view of the outside and last but not least, to create a kitchen space that looks like no other...”The WOW Factor”.
This challenging project was a completely new design and full renovation. The existing kitchen was outdated and in desperate need help. My new design required me to remove existing walls, cabinetry, flooring, plumbing, electric…a complete demolition. My job functions were to be the interior designer, GC, electrician and a laborer.
Construction and Design
The existing kitchen had one small window in it like many kitchens. The main difficulty was…how to create more windows while gaining more cabinet storage. As a designer, our clients require us to think out of the box and give them something that they may have never dreamed of. I did just that. I created two 8’ glass backsplashes (with no visible supports) on the corner of the house. This was not easy task, engineering of massive blind headers and lam beams were used to support the load of the new floating walls. A generous amount of 48” high wall cabinets flank the new walls and appear floating in air seamlessly above the glass backsplash.
Technology and Design
The dramatic use of the latest in LED lighting was used. From color changing accent lights, high powered multi-directional spot lights, decorative soffit lights, under cabinet and above cabinet LED tape lights…all to be controlled from wall panels or mobile devises. A built-in ipad also controls not only the lighting, but a climate controlled thermostat, house wide music streaming with individually controlled zones, alarm system, video surveillance system and door bell.
Materials and design
Large amounts of glass and gloss; glass backsplash, iridescent glass tiles, raised glass island counter top, Quartz counter top with iridescent glass chips infused in it. 24” x 24” high polished porcelain tile flooring to give the appearance of water or glass. The custom cabinets are high gloss lacquer with a metallic fleck. All doors and drawers are Blum soft-close. The result is an ultra sleek and highly sophisticated design.
Appliances and design
All appliances were chosen for the ultimate in sleekness. These appliances include: a 48” built-in custom paneled subzero refrigerator/freezer, a built-in Miele dishwasher that is so quiet that it shoots a red led light on the floor to let you know that its on., a 36” Miele induction cook top and a built-in 200 bottle wine cooler. Some other cool features are the led kitchen faucet that changes color based on the water temperature. A stainless and glass wall hood with led lights. All duct work was built into the stainless steel toe kicks and grooves were cut into it to release airflow.
Photography by Mark Oser
Find the right local pro for your project

Kimicata Brothers, INC http://www.kimicatabrothers.com
Project Entry: Johnson
2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner
Category: Hardscaping-Residential $30,000-$60,000
Award Level: Honorable Mention
Photo Description:
We were contacted by the Johnson’s to update their backyard fenced in pool area in the summer of 2012. Over the years the deck around the pool had deteriorated and the plants had become over grown and made walking around the deck difficult. The old concrete patio was small and only lit by bright 120 volt spot lights. What made this job difficult was the access to the backyard was limited to using a neighbor’s backyard for the project. We had to bring all debris out and materials in from a neighboring street, down the neighbor’s driveway, across the backyard, through an 8’ section that was in the far corner of the neighbor’s yard that corresponded to the entrance to Johnson’s backyard. They had a plan that they wanted to work from. Since access was a problem, we had to secure permission from the neighbor before we could consider bidding the job. After the neighbor’s permission was obtained we discussed materials for the drawing they had. It only included the hardscape and gazebo. Other difficulties included not damaging lighting and plumbing for the pool during excavation and construction. Also the ladders into the pool fit into cups screwed to the deck. These had to be replaced with precisely placed pipes mounted into the base for stability. Care had to be taken to make sure water would not drain from the deck into the pool. So we had to place channel drains between the patio area and pool deck area. A channel drain was placed between the exposed aggregate finished slab for the gazebo and the pool deck. This allowed for proper sloping of the hardscape to provide the drains to move rain away from the pool. We used polymeric sand in the paver joints to prevent breakdown of the installation and avoid wind and water moving sand into the pool. The slab for the gazebo was an exposed aggregate finish that measured 12’ 6” x 16’ 6”. The pagoda style roof for the gazebo and screening make it attractive and functional as a bug free area to entertain in. We discussed adding low voltage lighting, 120 volt plugs and drip irrigation early on so we could place conduits during the construction. After the hardscape installation we installed the low voltage lighting. We installed a transformer with a timer and an optional dusk to dawn photocell. The Johnsons did not like the old 120 volt spot light to light the back, they wanted something softer. We installed 20 path lights to illuminate the hardscape and 3 wall wash lights to add evening depth to the yard. We installed the plantings and Hunter drip irrigation system in the spring of 2013. It was easy to convince them that the drip system was the proper way to irrigate the area. There would be no spray to blow onto patio furniture or into the gazebo. Also drip irrigation uses less water so they are economical to operate. This gave them a low maintenance yard, a nice finished look and something blooming throughout the growing season. The Johnsons have been very happy with the look and the functionality of the pool deck, patio, lights, irrigation and gazebo.

u2014 ALE: Wayne Rain Garden
Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association
u2014 ALE: Wayne Rain Garden
Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com
2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence winner
Category: Residential Up to $15,000
Award Level: Gold
Project Description:
Our company was contracted by the client to provide a creative solution to an ongoing drainage problem. Their property is located within 30 feet of a local stream that collects storm water from the surrounding area. The nearby stream and high water table caused the lawn area at the side of their home to flood and to remain waterlogged for a few days after each storm. The client not only had difficulty growing plants in the existing conditions, but also had a problem with mosquitoes due to standing water.
Our goal was to design a self-contained, naturalistic rain garden that slowed storm water runoff, allowed for percolation, and promoted infiltration while permitting excess clean water to enter the nearby stream with diminished force. As designed, the rain garden allows the earth to slowly and more naturally
absorb excess storm water while filtering out toxins such as excess nitrogen and phosphorous which are frequently found in the landscape, therefore reducing the contaminants entering the stream.
A percolation test was conducted with criteria of absorbing a one-inch rainstorm within four hours without overflow. The one-inch storm calculation included an existing downspout from the home, which would be piped into the rain garden to reduce roof runoff. The first test failed due to a deep layer of high clay-content soil. Excavation continued until a layer of sandy loam was reached, the percolation test was repeated, and a successful test result was achieved. Next, the entire rain garden basin was excavated to the sandy loam layer and the soil amended with compost and sand to create a highly porous planting media.
Geotextile fabric was placed to help reduce migration of the surface stone into the soil and allow for minimal maintenance. Gravel, river stone and small boulders were carefully placed to achieve the look of a natural streambed.
A palette of mostly native plants with a few non-invasive ornamentals were chosen for their ability to survive in extreme conditions ranging from floods to drought and were placed according to their specific preferences.
Wetland plants were chosen for the lowest portion of the rain garden as that area remains saturated for longer periods of time, with a Chionanthus virginicus as a focal point surrounded by irises and ferns at the lowest depth.
Plants tolerant of drier conditions were chosen for the upper edges of the garden. The beautiful colors of Monarda, Ligularia, Eupatorium, Solidago, Chelone, and Rudbeckia were scattered within the upper edge, while movement and softness were incorporated by use of the graceful Nassella that lines the border. Finally, winter interest was provided with a backdrop of Cornus sericea.
As built, this small rain garden creates tremendous impact by decreasing the amount of storm water runoff not only on our client's property, but also in the neighboring stream. It serves as a means of slowing the water and providing an area for infiltration back into the earth. The plants provide a habitat for birds, butterflies, and insects, working in harmony with nature and providing beautiful visual interest year-round.
Photo Credit:
Lisa C. Falls

All closet-cases welcome! You’re obsessed with trying to keep organized. You put so much thought into the design of your closet and now want the perfect finishing touch that does every bit of justice to the contents inside. Whether you prefer a slide, swing, or even a bi-fold, these closet doors offer yet another opportunity to infuse your personal flair into your space.

Kimicata Brothers, INC http://www.kimicatabrothers.com
Project Entry: Johnson
2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner
Category: Hardscaping-Residential $30,000-$60,000
Award Level: Honorable Mention
Photo Description:
We were contacted by the Johnson’s to update their backyard fenced in pool area in the summer of 2012. Over the years the deck around the pool had deteriorated and the plants had become over grown and made walking around the deck difficult. The old concrete patio was small and only lit by bright 120 volt spot lights. What made this job difficult was the access to the backyard was limited to using a neighbor’s backyard for the project. We had to bring all debris out and materials in from a neighboring street, down the neighbor’s driveway, across the backyard, through an 8’ section that was in the far corner of the neighbor’s yard that corresponded to the entrance to Johnson’s backyard. They had a plan that they wanted to work from. Since access was a problem, we had to secure permission from the neighbor before we could consider bidding the job. After the neighbor’s permission was obtained we discussed materials for the drawing they had. It only included the hardscape and gazebo. Other difficulties included not damaging lighting and plumbing for the pool during excavation and construction. Also the ladders into the pool fit into cups screwed to the deck. These had to be replaced with precisely placed pipes mounted into the base for stability. Care had to be taken to make sure water would not drain from the deck into the pool. So we had to place channel drains between the patio area and pool deck area. A channel drain was placed between the exposed aggregate finished slab for the gazebo and the pool deck. This allowed for proper sloping of the hardscape to provide the drains to move rain away from the pool. We used polymeric sand in the paver joints to prevent breakdown of the installation and avoid wind and water moving sand into the pool. The slab for the gazebo was an exposed aggregate finish that measured 12’ 6” x 16’ 6”. The pagoda style roof for the gazebo and screening make it attractive and functional as a bug free area to entertain in. We discussed adding low voltage lighting, 120 volt plugs and drip irrigation early on so we could place conduits during the construction. After the hardscape installation we installed the low voltage lighting. We installed a transformer with a timer and an optional dusk to dawn photocell. The Johnsons did not like the old 120 volt spot light to light the back, they wanted something softer. We installed 20 path lights to illuminate the hardscape and 3 wall wash lights to add evening depth to the yard. We installed the plantings and Hunter drip irrigation system in the spring of 2013. It was easy to convince them that the drip system was the proper way to irrigate the area. There would be no spray to blow onto patio furniture or into the gazebo. Also drip irrigation uses less water so they are economical to operate. This gave them a low maintenance yard, a nice finished look and something blooming throughout the growing season. The Johnsons have been very happy with the look and the functionality of the pool deck, patio, lights, irrigation and gazebo.

When I bought my house in May 2014, there was one thing I really didn’t like about it – the 1950s bathroom complete with pink tile and mismatched gaudy fixtures was absolutely hideous. I knew redoing the bathroom would be a big, expensive project, so I vowed to just live with it while I fixed up parts of the house that were easier to update, such as putting a fresh coat of paint on the walls and updating the curtains (which I still haven’t done, by the way). Well my first winter in the new house turned out to be a bad one, and in February 2015, I noticed water stains on the walls and ceiling of the second bedroom that only got worse and worse each day. The water damage quickly spread to other rooms, and when contractors came to the house to access and fix the damage, they discovered moisture behind the pink tiled walls of my bathroom. And so started the bathroom remodel.
Start to finish, this project took close to six months, due to going back and forth with insurance and difficulty finding a contractor I liked. I lived without a shower for at least four of those months, showering at the gym where I worked or in a pop-up tent in my backyard once it was warm enough out. My friend Eric and I demoed the bathroom and for the remodel, I picked out all of the design components and had a local contractor, Fred Haas do the work. I kept the original layout – as my bathroom was small to begin with and it was both impractical and expensive to start moving things around – but just about everything else about the bathroom is new, except for maybe the window and door. New tub, sink, and toilet, new tile floor and shower surround, new walls and ceiling, fresh paint, new fixtures and mirror, updated lighting, and a better ventilation system were all added.
Tub – Sterling Vikrell
Toilet – Kohler Wellworth® two-piece round-front dual-flush toilet
Sink – Kohler Veer™ 21" pedestal bathroom sink
Fixtures – Kohler Alteo® line
Tile floor and shower surround – American Olean Laurel Heights ceramic tile in Summit Gray
Lighting – I don't remember... will have to see if I can find it
Ventilation system – NuTone
Mirror – Ikea
Paint – Behr
Shower Curtain – eBay
Here are photos of my project from start to finish. As you can see, I probably still need a thing or two (a toilet paper holder, mini storage shelf, and some art wouldn’t hurt, nor would replacing the door or painting it white), but overall I’m really happy with how my new bathroom came out. I LOVE it, which is the exact opposite of how I felt about the original bathroom.
Photos © Kari Post

When I bought my house in May 2014, there was one thing I really didn’t like about it – the 1950s bathroom complete with pink tile and mismatched gaudy fixtures was absolutely hideous. I knew redoing the bathroom would be a big, expensive project, so I vowed to just live with it while I fixed up parts of the house that were easier to update, such as putting a fresh coat of paint on the walls and updating the curtains (which I still haven’t done, by the way). Well my first winter in the new house turned out to be a bad one, and in February 2015, I noticed water stains on the walls and ceiling of the second bedroom that only got worse and worse each day. The water damage quickly spread to other rooms, and when contractors came to the house to access and fix the damage, they discovered moisture behind the pink tiled walls of my bathroom. And so started the bathroom remodel.
Start to finish, this project took close to six months, due to going back and forth with insurance and difficulty finding a contractor I liked. I lived without a shower for at least four of those months, showering at the gym where I worked or in a pop-up tent in my backyard once it was warm enough out. My friend Eric and I demoed the bathroom and for the remodel, I picked out all of the design components and had a local contractor, Fred Haas do the work. I kept the original layout – as my bathroom was small to begin with and it was both impractical and expensive to start moving things around – but just about everything else about the bathroom is new, except for maybe the window and door. New tub, sink, and toilet, new tile floor and shower surround, new walls and ceiling, fresh paint, new fixtures and mirror, updated lighting, and a better ventilation system were all added.
Tub – Sterling Vikrell
Toilet – Kohler Wellworth® two-piece round-front dual-flush toilet
Sink – Kohler Veer™ 21" pedestal bathroom sink
Fixtures – Kohler Alteo® line
Tile floor and shower surround – American Olean Laurel Heights ceramic tile in Summit Gray
Lighting – I don't remember... will have to see if I can find it
Ventilation system – NuTone
Mirror – Ikea
Paint – Behr
Shower Curtain – eBay
Here are photos of my project from start to finish. As you can see, I probably still need a thing or two (a toilet paper holder, mini storage shelf, and some art wouldn’t hurt, nor would replacing the door or painting it white), but overall I’m really happy with how my new bathroom came out. I LOVE it, which is the exact opposite of how I felt about the original bathroom.
Photos © Kari Post

Beautiful custom runner to match the unique measurements of this staircase.
Small wooden curved staircase photo in Minneapolis with wooden risers
Small wooden curved staircase photo in Minneapolis with wooden risers

Encompassing a range of baluster rails, newel posts and complementary decorative accessories, Outwater's new, maintenance free Cast Stone Balustrade System is manufactured utilizing a unique process that combines a mixture of resins with crushed limestone and impregnated fade resistant textured colors to create balustrades that look and feel just like authentic limestone balusters at less than half of their cost and weight.
Intended for indoor or outdoor applications, which can be assembled by laypeople using traditional carpentry tools without the need for masonry, Outwater's Cast Stone Balustrade System meets the 4-inch sphere code when properly set up, and can be placed on sized dimensional lumber without the need for steel supports.
Moreover, unlike lesser quality balustrade systems, which use regular screws to attach their components, also taking into account that the screws' imminent corrosion renders them as an unsafe means by which to attach baluster rails, Outwater's Cast Stone Balustrade System employs a unique incorporated pipe system, connector pins and spacers to increase the Balustrade System's stability while allowing for a more secure and professional installation with barely perceptible seams.
Offered in 34-in. and 48-in. overall heights with a nominal 7-in rail width, baluster rails are sold by the foot up to 16-ft. long to accommodate most any installation.
100% mold resistant, non-porous and unaffected by the harshest elements, Outwater's Cast Stone Balustrade System does not require priming, painting or even occasional touch ups, further enhancing its appeal.
Product Features:
• Create balustrades that look and feel just like authentic stone balusters at less than half of their cost and weight
• Intended for indoor or outdoor use
• Can be installed by laypeople using traditional carpentry tools without the need for masonry
• Meets the 4-inch sphere code when properly set up, and can be placed on sized dimensional lumber without the need for steel supports
• Employs a unique incorporated pipe system, connector pins and spacers to increase stability while allowing for a more secure and professional installation
• Offered in 34-in. and 48-in. overall heights with a nominal 7-in rail width, baluster rails are sold by the foot up to 16-ft. long
• 100% mold resistant, non-porous and unaffected by the harshest elements. Does not require priming, painting or even occasional touch ups
Contact:
Architectural Products by Outwater
Sales & Product Information (USA & Canada):
1-800-631-8375 / 1-201-498-8750
Fax (USA & Canada): 1-800-888-3315 / 1-201-498-8751
Sales & Product Information (Outside of the USA & Canada):
1-201-498-8750
Fax (Outside of the USA & Canada): 1-201-498-8751
Email: info@outwaterplastics.com
Web: www.outwater.com
Visit us!
East Coast:
24 River Road
Bogota, NJ 07603
1-201-498-8750
West Coast:
4720 West Van Buren
Phoenix, AZ 85043
1-602-447-0936
About Architectural Products by Outwater:
It really is easy to shop with us!
Relied upon by more than 1,000,000 builders, renovators, architects designers, woodworkers, cabinet and furniture manufacturers, OEM's and retail consumers since 1972, Architectural Products by Outwater is an international manufacturer and distributor of more than 65,000 innovative and traditional Decorative Building Products that you possibly never knew existed or for which you simply could not find a reliable source. This is where Outwater truly shines!
“Now you can design, buy, build and dream like the Pros…”
Outwater’s products are, to say the least, very competitively priced and include interior and exterior architectural mouldings and millwork; columns and capitals; LED lighting and lighting accessories; balustrading; faux stone panels; faux wood beams; genuine stone tiles; decorative wood carvings; wrought iron components; stamped steel and polymer ceiling panels and backsplashes; wainscoting; wall coverings; fireplace surrounds and mantels; plastic "glass" block; period and contemporary hardware; home organization systems; kitchen and bath accessories; kitchen and bath cabinetry; bath vanities; furniture & cabinet components; knobs & pulls; casters; laminates; brass tubing & fittings; surfacing materials… and so much more!
In addition, with warehouse and distribution facilities in New Jersey and Arizona totaling over 300,000 square feet, Outwater facilitates purchases with reduced lead times and shipping costs, enabling us to fulfill and ship over 98% of our orders from stock within one to two business days!
At a time when many companies appear to have rapidly transitioned away from personalized customer service, having replaced their knowledgeable and immensely valuable human sales representatives with inanimate online marketing channels, which can be helpful to you if you were to know exactly what you might need and were not to encounter difficulties in placing your order, here at Outwater, we still believe that human interaction with a live, well versed, non-commissioned sales representative will undoubtedly better serve your needs in the long run. Even though you can always shop with us at www.outwater.com, you can also always deal directly with our extremely well versed and friendly sales and customer service representatives for their unparalleled support and assistance, most of whom have worked at Outwater for more than 15 years.
Whether you have been one of our loyal customers over the years or this is your first time in doing business with us, we would like to thank you for your expressed interest in our company and the products that we carry.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions at 1-800-631-8375 or visit us online at www.outwater.com
We look forward to serving you in the near future.

The photos on this page are of a Sandstone Kitchen floor at a house in the High Green suburb of Sheffield. The Sandstone tiles looked grubby and needed some love and attention. Our client was getting fed up trying to keep the stone clean, particularly around the kitchen area where cleaning didn’t seem to make much. You can see how dirty it had become on the before picture below, this is stark contrast to the middle of the of the kitchen where the portable kitchen island normally sits.
I went to the property to get a better look at the problem floor and carried out a small test clean to see which products and methods would have the best impact. The patch came up really clean without much difficulty, so I was confident on being able to restore its appearance.
It was clear to me the original protective sealer had worn off and dirt had become ingrained in the pores of the stone where it was proving difficult to remove. My client was very encouraged by the test clean initial result and agreed to go ahead with the quote. We arranged a suitable time to carry out the work on a day when the family would be out of the way.
I started by taping up the area to make sure the skirting and woodwork were protected from splashing. Once done a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Pro-Clean was sprayed onto Sandstone tile and grout. It was left to dwell for approximately ten minutes to help break down all the grime and dirt and was then worked into the stone using a rotary floor machine fitted with a stiff bristled brush.
This method totally transformed the dull sandstone, the stunning sandstone colours started to leap out and I could see the stone was well on its way to being transformed. The floor was then rinsed several times with water and the now soiled cleaning solution carefully removed with an industrial wet vacuum.
With the floor clean I inspected all the tiles and repeated the process until I was happy the floor was total clean. I should mention It’s not always this easy to clean a stone floor and quite often I find myself having to utilise all sorts of products and methods before I’m totally satisfied it’s as clean as it could possibly be.
With the cleaning done I left the floor to dry out overnight aided with heaters and air blowers.
I returned to seal the floor the next day checking first that the stone was dry with a damp meter. Leaving the blowers on overnight had helped and the readings I took from the floor confirmed it was now ready for sealing.
Earlier I had discussed the different types of sealer available with my clients and they had chosen to have the floor sealed with Tile Doctor Seal & Go. This works really well on Sandstone, enhancing its appearance, improving colour and of course adding protection to the stone to prevent grime and dirt stuck in the pores of the stone. Several coats were applied until I could see if was fully sealed and the right level of finish had been achieved. Sealing a floor can take some time as you need to allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
Once done the floor looked meticulously clean and the new sealer had added a lovely subtle sheen to the stone. My client was very please with the transformation and left the following feedback.
‘Very professional approach, friendly, and offered great advice throughout the job. Very pleased with the finish Cheers Matt we will see you again’
One of the problems we find with many homeowners is that for cleaning they use strong bleach-based cleaning product on their sealed tiles, and this actually strips off the sealer leaving the stone vulnerable to ingrained dirt. As a result, Tile Doctor has developed Tile Doctor Neutral Tile Cleaner, it is pH neutral and gentle enough for everyday use without affecting the sealer.
Matthew Lovett
South Yorkshire Tile Doctor

Because the double doors were the showpiece of the courtyard entry, the homeowners chose a different latch and lock for their side yard gate. They chose the Nero Contemporary Lever Latch and Square Modern Style Deadbolt in black.
This photo shows the interior of the gate, latching against a fence panel.
Photos by 360 Yardware

Encompassing a range of baluster rails, newel posts and complementary decorative accessories, Outwater's new, maintenance free Cast Stone Balustrade System is manufactured utilizing a unique process that combines a mixture of resins with crushed limestone and impregnated fade resistant textured colors to create balustrades that look and feel just like authentic limestone balusters at less than half of their cost and weight.
Intended for indoor or outdoor applications, which can be assembled by laypeople using traditional carpentry tools without the need for masonry, Outwater's Cast Stone Balustrade System meets the 4-inch sphere code when properly set up, and can be placed on sized dimensional lumber without the need for steel supports.
Moreover, unlike lesser quality balustrade systems, which use regular screws to attach their components, also taking into account that the screws' imminent corrosion renders them as an unsafe means by which to attach baluster rails, Outwater's Cast Stone Balustrade System employs a unique incorporated pipe system, connector pins and spacers to increase the Balustrade System's stability while allowing for a more secure and professional installation with barely perceptible seams.
Offered in 34-in. and 48-in. overall heights with a nominal 7-in rail width, baluster rails are sold by the foot up to 16-ft. long to accommodate most any installation.
100% mold resistant, non-porous and unaffected by the harshest elements, Outwater's Cast Stone Balustrade System does not require priming, painting or even occasional touch ups, further enhancing its appeal.
Product Features:
• Create balustrades that look and feel just like authentic stone balusters at less than half of their cost and weight
• Intended for indoor or outdoor use
• Can be installed by laypeople using traditional carpentry tools without the need for masonry
• Meets the 4-inch sphere code when properly set up, and can be placed on sized dimensional lumber without the need for steel supports
• Employs a unique incorporated pipe system, connector pins and spacers to increase stability while allowing for a more secure and professional installation
• Offered in 34-in. and 48-in. overall heights with a nominal 7-in rail width, baluster rails are sold by the foot up to 16-ft. long
• 100% mold resistant, non-porous and unaffected by the harshest elements. Does not require priming, painting or even occasional touch ups
Contact:
Architectural Products by Outwater
Sales & Product Information (USA & Canada):
1-800-631-8375 / 1-201-498-8750
Fax (USA & Canada): 1-800-888-3315 / 1-201-498-8751
Sales & Product Information (Outside of the USA & Canada):
1-201-498-8750
Fax (Outside of the USA & Canada): 1-201-498-8751
Email: info@outwaterplastics.com
Web: www.outwater.com
Visit us!
East Coast:
24 River Road
Bogota, NJ 07603
1-201-498-8750
West Coast:
4720 West Van Buren
Phoenix, AZ 85043
1-602-447-0936
About Architectural Products by Outwater:
It really is easy to shop with us!
Relied upon by more than 1,000,000 builders, renovators, architects designers, woodworkers, cabinet and furniture manufacturers, OEM's and retail consumers since 1972, Architectural Products by Outwater is an international manufacturer and distributor of more than 65,000 innovative and traditional Decorative Building Products that you possibly never knew existed or for which you simply could not find a reliable source. This is where Outwater truly shines!
“Now you can design, buy, build and dream like the Pros…”
Outwater’s products are, to say the least, very competitively priced and include interior and exterior architectural mouldings and millwork; columns and capitals; LED lighting and lighting accessories; balustrading; faux stone panels; faux wood beams; genuine stone tiles; decorative wood carvings; wrought iron components; stamped steel and polymer ceiling panels and backsplashes; wainscoting; wall coverings; fireplace surrounds and mantels; plastic "glass" block; period and contemporary hardware; home organization systems; kitchen and bath accessories; kitchen and bath cabinetry; bath vanities; furniture & cabinet components; knobs & pulls; casters; laminates; brass tubing & fittings; surfacing materials… and so much more!
In addition, with warehouse and distribution facilities in New Jersey and Arizona totaling over 300,000 square feet, Outwater facilitates purchases with reduced lead times and shipping costs, enabling us to fulfill and ship over 98% of our orders from stock within one to two business days!
At a time when many companies appear to have rapidly transitioned away from personalized customer service, having replaced their knowledgeable and immensely valuable human sales representatives with inanimate online marketing channels, which can be helpful to you if you were to know exactly what you might need and were not to encounter difficulties in placing your order, here at Outwater, we still believe that human interaction with a live, well versed, non-commissioned sales representative will undoubtedly better serve your needs in the long run. Even though you can always shop with us at www.outwater.com, you can also always deal directly with our extremely well versed and friendly sales and customer service representatives for their unparalleled support and assistance, most of whom have worked at Outwater for more than 15 years.
Whether you have been one of our loyal customers over the years or this is your first time in doing business with us, we would like to thank you for your expressed interest in our company and the products that we carry.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions at 1-800-631-8375 or visit us online at www.outwater.com
We look forward to serving you in the near future.

Woodwerd
Inspiration for a large contemporary open concept family room remodel in Austin with gray walls
Inspiration for a large contemporary open concept family room remodel in Austin with gray walls

The ground floor volumes wrapped in an elongated hand-fired brick, emphasizing the horizontality of the architecture that lays solidly on the land.
(Photography by: Matthew Millman)

Ideally suited for use on balconies, porches and decking, Outwater has augmented its offering of contractor's grade balusters, baluster rails, newel and porch posts with the introduction of new motifs to accommodate a range of decorative applications.
Comprising lightweight, durable, high-density polyurethane and non-corrosive structural materials, Outwater's Balustrade System is easy to install using traditional woodworking tools and is internally fortified with large diameter, high strength steel or PVC pipes (varies by model) for enhanced structural integrity as well as to meet stringent building codes.
Furthermore, unlike wood balusters, which require fastidious maintenance in order to avoid possible rotting or splitting, consequently diminishing their strength, Outwater's Balustrade System comes factory primed and is impervious to adverse weather conditions, ensuring its uncompromising dimensional stability and steadfast, enduring safety.
Also, in contrast to cement balustrading, which is unwieldy and necessitates laborious installation by masons, not to mention, being highly susceptible to breaking, crumbling and cracking, Outwater's Balustrade System weighs just a portion of cement balustrading, thus significantly reducing its comparative shipping cost.
Offered in approximate heights from 28-in. to 40-in. with 5-in. to 12-in. rail widths, installations can be further customized with the addition of corner and center newel posts, a variety of post tops, accent moldings and ball ornaments.
Product Features:
• Offered with numerous complementary Balusters, Baluster Rails, Newel and Porch Posts from which to choose
• Easy to install without the need of a mason
• Internally fortified with large diameter, high strength steel or PVC pipes for enhanced structural integrity to meet stringent building codes
• Comes factory primed and is impervious to adverse weather conditions
• Weighs just a portion of cement balustrading, thus significantly reducing its comparative shipping cost
• Offered in approximate heights from 28-in. to 40-in. with 5-in. to 12-in. rail widths
• Complementary accessories allow for further customization as desired
Contact:
Architectural Products by Outwater
Sales & Product Information (USA & Canada):
1-800-631-8375 / 1-201-498-8750
Fax (USA & Canada): 1-800-888-3315 / 1-201-498-8751
Sales & Product Information (Outside of the USA & Canada):
1-201-498-8750
Fax (Outside of the USA & Canada): 1-201-498-8751
Email: info@outwaterplastics.com
Web: www.outwater.com
Visit us!
East Coast:
24 River Road
Bogota, NJ 07603
1-201-498-8750
West Coast:
4720 West Van Buren
Phoenix, AZ 85043
1-602-447-0936
About Architectural Products by Outwater:
It really is easy to shop with us!
Relied upon by more than 1,000,000 builders, renovators, architects designers, woodworkers, cabinet and furniture manufacturers, OEM's and retail consumers since 1972, Architectural Products by Outwater is an international manufacturer and distributor of more than 65,000 innovative and traditional Decorative Building Products that you possibly never knew existed or for which you simply could not find a reliable source. This is where Outwater truly shines!
“Now you can design, buy, build and dream like the Pros…”
Outwater’s products are, to say the least, very competitively priced and include interior and exterior architectural mouldings and millwork; columns and capitals; LED lighting and lighting accessories; balustrading; faux stone panels; faux wood beams; genuine stone tiles; decorative wood carvings; wrought iron components; stamped steel and polymer ceiling panels and backsplashes; wainscoting; wall coverings; fireplace surrounds and mantels; plastic "glass" block; period and contemporary hardware; home organization systems; kitchen and bath accessories; kitchen and bath cabinetry; bath vanities; furniture & cabinet components; knobs & pulls; casters; laminates; brass tubing & fittings; surfacing materials… and so much more!
In addition, with warehouse and distribution facilities in New Jersey and Arizona totaling over 300,000 square feet, Outwater facilitates purchases with reduced lead times and shipping costs, enabling us to fulfill and ship over 98% of our orders from stock within one to two business days!
At a time when many companies appear to have rapidly transitioned away from personalized customer service, having replaced their knowledgeable and immensely valuable human sales representatives with inanimate online marketing channels, which can be helpful to you if you were to know exactly what you might need and were not to encounter difficulties in placing your order, here at Outwater, we still believe that human interaction with a live, well versed, non-commissioned sales representative will undoubtedly better serve your needs in the long run. Even though you can always shop with us at www.outwater.com, you can also always deal directly with our extremely well versed and friendly sales and customer service representatives for their unparalleled support and assistance, most of whom have worked at Outwater for more than 15 years.
Whether you have been one of our loyal customers over the years or this is your first time in doing business with us, we would like to thank you for your expressed interest in our company and the products that we carry.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions at 1-800-631-8375 or visit us online at www.outwater.com
We look forward to serving you in the near future.
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