http://sterlinglbr.comCompany blogs, tips and how-toshttp://assets.newmediaretailer.com/10000/10665/thumb_logo.jpghttp://sterlinglbr.comen-USCopyright 2013, Sterling LumberWed, 19 Jun 2013 15:05:37 -0400Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:05:37 -0400http://www.newmediaretailer.comblog_141941371299700http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/14194/create-a-living-room-outdoorsThe backyard patio or deck has long been a favorite place for summer fun and cookouts, but more and more, people are discovering new ways to repurpose their outdoor space. An outdoor living room can expand the functional area of your home by taking advantage of your extra space outside.BlogsSat, 15 Jun 2013 08:35:00 -0400blog_139821370059200http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/13982/deck-building-mold-preventionOf course, homeowners bear the greatest burden for keeping new decks free from mold, but there are some things a builder can do: Gap the decking properly (minimum 1/8") for drainage. Pitch the deck properly away from the house for drainage (minimum 1/8" in 8').BlogsSat, 01 Jun 2013 00:00:00 -0400blog_134871368619200http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/13487/use-paving-stones-to-transform-your-outdoor-spaceIf you find yourself gazing out into your backyard thinking of something you can do to spruce things up, have you considered using paving stones? Installing them is not difficult, and depending on the size of your project, it can be completed in as quickly as one weekend.BlogsWed, 15 May 2013 08:00:00 -0400blog_131741367409600http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/13174/your-deck-do-over-or-makeoverIf your old deck is looking worn and shabby, you might be thinking it's time to demolish it and start over with a newly designed deck. While that's a perfectly reasonable approach, there are others ones that may better suit your need --and your budget.BlogsWed, 01 May 2013 08:00:00 -0400blog_129681365998400http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/12968/are-you-on-the-fence-about-fixing-your-wood-fenceNow that spring is once again upon us, it's a good time to take a walk around the property and see if Mother Nature has left any surprises. Take the time to inspect your fence for damage. It could be anything from loose, wobbly posts to broken or missing boards.BlogsMon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400blog_127941364817600http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/12794/bright-ideas-for-outdoor-lightingYou work hard on your house and landscaping, so there's no reason why the beauty of it all should be hidden when the sun goes down. Outdoor lighting can bring attention to a specific part of your home's exterior by literally putting it in the spotlight.BlogsMon, 01 Apr 2013 08:00:00 -0400blog_123861363348800http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/12386/spring-maintenance-what-to-look-for-after-the-snow-meltsA blanket of snow may be pretty to look at, but what is it covering up? The harsh winter weather takes a toll on the exterior of homes and yards, while much of the damage and debris is hidden until spring.BlogsFri, 15 Mar 2013 08:00:00 -0400blog_121711362142800http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/12171/environmental-benefits-of-building-with-woodDon't let anybody tell you wood is not a "green" building product. Wood circulates energy savings throughout its life. To start, wood-frame construction is easy to insulate to high standards when compared to alternative framing materials.BlogsFri, 01 Mar 2013 08:00:00 -0500blog_117141360933200http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/11714/whats-the-greenest-insulation-aroundEvidence suggests fiberglass, rock wool and slag wool insulation beat out cellulose insulation hands down. What's more, fiberglass, rock wool and slag wool insulation qualify for use in the Weatherization Assistance Program.BlogsFri, 15 Feb 2013 08:00:00 -0500blog_117131359738780http://sterlinglbr.com/blog/article/11713/winter-home-improvement-projectsIt's easy to feel cooped up inside after a few months of winter. The holiday buzz has died down, you've finally finished putting away all those seasonal decorations … so, now what? The winter months are a great time to embark upon an indoor home improvement project or two!BlogsFri, 01 Feb 2013 12:13:00 -0500