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Deck and Fence Maintenance Before Winter: What to Inspect, Repair, and Protect

Deck and Fence Maintenance Before Winter: What to Inspect, Repair, and Protect

Decks and fences spend the entire year exposed to the elements. Summer sun, heavy rain, changing temperatures, and everyday wear can all take a toll on wood, fasteners, finishes, and structural components. Before winter brings colder temperatures, snow, and ice, fall is a great time to inspect these outdoor structures and take care of necessary maintenance. Whether you're a homeowner getting your property ready for winter or a contractor helping customers complete seasonal repairs, a little attention now can help prevent minor problems from becoming bigger projects later. Start With a Thorough Inspection Before reaching for your tools, take a...

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September Home Improvement Projects: Tools to Help You Finish Before Winter

September Home Improvement Projects: Tools to Help You Finish Before Winter

September is a great time to tackle home improvement projects before colder temperatures arrive. With comfortable fall weather and winter still a few months away, homeowners can use this time to complete exterior repairs, freshen up outdoor spaces, and take care of maintenance that could become more difficult once the weather turns. For DIYers and contractors alike, having access to the right tools can make these seasonal projects more manageable and efficient. Here are a few projects to consider adding to your September to-do list. 1. Refresh Your Deck or Patio After a summer of use, decks and patios may...

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Sloan's Jr. Builders August 2026 - Tea Cup Bird Feeders

Sloan's Jr. Builders August 2026 - Tea Cup Bird Feeders

This past Saturday, we had the opportunity to host another Jr. Builders event here at Sloan Center.  This month, Jr. Builders spent the afternoon assembling and decorating tea cup bird feeders. Each builder started with a tea cup and saucer and ended up with a beautiful feeder that is sure to make any bird's day! These tea cups and saucers were generously donated to us by Kristi Butcher at Re-find Estate Sales in Knoxville, TN. Learn more about Re-find estate sales here: https://re-findestatesales.com/.  It is always a great day when we get to spend time with our Jr. Builders at...

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Understanding Exterior Wood Stains and Sealers: Choosing the Right Finish

Understanding Exterior Wood Stains and Sealers: Choosing the Right Finish

Wood decks, fences, pergolas, siding, and outdoor furniture add warmth and character to any property, but they also face constant exposure to sunlight, rain, humidity, and changing temperatures. Without proper protection, wood can fade, crack, warp, or absorb moisture that leads to premature deterioration. Choosing the right exterior wood stain or sealer helps preserve both the appearance and durability of your outdoor projects. Understanding the different types of finishes available makes it easier to select the best product for your specific application. Why Protect Exterior Wood? Unlike indoor wood surfaces, exterior wood is exposed to the elements every day. Ultraviolet...

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Sloan's Jr. Builders July 2026 - Rock Photo Holders

Sloan's Jr. Builders July 2026 - Rock Photo Holders

Our latest Jr. Builders Workshop was another big success! This past weekend, we welcomed a great group of young builders who put their creativity to work making their very own rock photo holders. Each participant started with a simple rock and transformed it into a one-of-a-kind keepsake. After painting and decorating their rocks, they added a wire photo holder, creating the perfect place to display a favorite picture, artwork, or special note. No two projects were alike, and it was so much fun seeing each child's personality shine through their designs. These workshops are about more than just crafts. They're...

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