Composite Decking, Decluttering, Cleaning and Firepits – April 14, 2024

We're talking about rebuilding our backyard deck. It's old. It's rotting. It'll be expensive no matter what but I'm definitely leaning toward composite so that I don't have to replace it again.

I started with Trex which is widely viewed as an excellent option but then discovered the latest in composite decking that is "Mineral-Based". Looks interesting. More importantly, it improves upon the key benefits of original composite wood by lasting longer and doesn't change shape whatsoever.

The rule of three is so simple yet so effective. It's little things like this applied where it makes sense that can cheaply, quickly and easily elevate any interior space.

This article does an excellent job explaining what it is, why it's effective and how to apply it to your home.

For many homeowners, a lack of stuff isn't a problem. It's the opposite. It's too much stuff. I can relate. Which is why "declutter" is such a popular topic when it comes to home decor and design.

For many (me included), one simple way to improve interior spaces is to get rid of stuff we don't need... the clutter. I'm not proposing everyone become minimalists. That's an extreme and while it works for some, it's not for everyone. I have no plans to go minimalist. However, I do have plans to work on decluttering as our kids get older.

I like this "Take Away 10" approach to decluttering. It's simple, fast and effective.

While on the topic of decluttering, here's another more comprehensive approach with a grizzly name. This is for anyone who wants to tackle decluttering in a more extreme way in every aspect of your life and home.

I'm checklist fan. I find them useful but not all checklists are created equal. There are no shortage of "spring cleaning" checklists online but most are badly organized.

This checklist is the best one I found. I like it because it's organized in two ways. The first way is it sets out a general cleaning list for each room. It then gets more specific room-by-room.

While it lacks a specific schedule, I don't mind that. I'm not big on schedules. I simply like a thorough plan of attack which this list provides.

Firepits can certainly look cool but when it comes to choosing one, I want heat. Where I live (Vancouver, BC) it can get cool at night even in Summer so heat is key.

As you'd suspect, not all firepits are equally effective at giving off heat. Fuel type and design makes a difference. This article does a great job setting out which type and design is best for maximum heat.