Putting Your Snow Blower Away for the Season

What a winter we’ve been experiencing! When you’re finally ready to put your snow blower away for a well-deserved rest, make sure it is properly prepared. While they are durable machines, a few simple steps can prevent major breakdowns at the worst possible time and extend the life of your investment. Toro® advises the following:

Start with the engine and drive system.

• Drain any remaining fuel from the system. Store or dispose of the fuel properly. If you are going to store the fuel for an extended period of time, add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel container to ensure that it will be usable in the future. Start the engine and let it run until the engine stops - removing all fuel from the system. Repeat until needed until it will not start.

• Safety first. Remove plug wire from spark plug so that it doesn't accidentally start while conducting maintenance. Remove spark plug and insert one teaspoon of oil to lubricate the cylinder so that it doesn't rust. Turn the engine slowly with the starting rope to coat the cylinder. Apply a copper anti-seize lubricant to the spark plug threads to make future removal easy. Replace the spark plug and wait until next season to replace the old one as a new spark plug will be fouled by the oil in the cylinder by next season. Now is a good time to purchase a spare spark plug if you don't have one, they are inexpensive and it's a good idea to have a spare on hand. When choosing a replacement, purchase one that is pre-gapped for your engine (your owners manual should indicate the correct gap).

• Change the oil. Drain the old oil and discard appropriately. Generally, a 10W-30 or 5W-30 regular motor oil or a 10W-30 synthetic oil can also be used to ensure easy starting in cold weather. Check your manual for what weight the manufacturer recommends. If you have a two-stage snow blower, top off auger gearbox according to the manufacturers recommendations. Check belts for proper tightness.

Finish with the auger and controls.

• Inspect for any loose or damaged bolts or parts. Repair or replace as needed.

Storage

• Apply silicone grease on all exposed, bare metal parts and nuts and bolts to prevent rusting.

• Consult your owner's manual to determine other routine maintenance that should be performed.

• Never store your snow blower in the house or basement, choose a dry area such as your garage or a covered area outside.

Don't wait for that first snow to fly next winter. By taking a few preventive maintenance tips when the weather is warmer, your snow blower will be ready to tackle next year's snow with ease.

Source: toro.com

Decorating a Small Outdoor Space

The large wrap-around porches from yesteryear are not commonly found in homes today. And not everyone has a yard or budget that can accommodate a large porch, deck or patio. Small outdoor spaces, such as a 4’x6’ porch or 10’x10’ deck can be inviting and comfortable living areas.

What can you do make a "little room" appear more spacious?

• First, use the space for only one purpose. A small living area, inside or outside, cannot be used for as many activities as a larger one. Choose your priority and plan for that alone. Keep traffic flow in mind.

• Keep it simple. Reduce the number of elements (furniture, lighting, accessories) in the space. Furniture should be space efficient and low, but does not have to be small. One large accessory has more impact that several small ones, which can look cluttered. Don't be afraid of blank space.

• Have a strong, uncomplicated focal point. Maybe it's a magnificent view, a stunning wooden bench, or a bamboo water feature.

• Unify the space with a theme. For example, use material (all wicker), shapes (many circles) or color (shades of white).

• Since floor space is limited, remember to use vertical surfaces. Train a vine over a trellis, install a small waterspout on a wall, or twist a cloud of tiny paper lanterns up a vintage pole lamp.

Here are a couple of quick ideas for small areas:

• Hang a mosquito net with a built-in circular frame from the ceiling of a balcony or porch. Drape the sides of the net over the railings. Inside, place a wicker chaise lounge, a small wicker side table and one large, lush tropical plant. A great place to sip a piña colada!

• Insert two large coat hooks in an outside brick wall. Buy two inexpensive folding wooden chairs and a small wooden side table. Arrange 3 tall potted plants against one wall of the space. Hang the chairs on the hooks when not in use.

Plan well and use your imagination and you'll enjoy your little room in a big way

Source: ehow.com

Vinyl fencing is durable and strongly resists the elements. It is specifically designed to be nearly maintenance free and painting is not recommended. If you decide to paint, your fence will require more attention, including a fresh painting every few years if the paint cracks, peels or fades. Also, please be aware of the following:

• Painting the fence may void your warranty.
• Wear safety goggles or glasses if you use a paint sprayer.
• Painting a vinyl fence can damage the surface of the vinyl.