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Nobody loves outdoor entertaining quite like South Africans — especially during December. Where the northern hemisphere festive season is a winter wonderland, we in the southern hemisphere are blessed with a hot, summery season of good times – swimming, braaiing and partying with friends and family.
And that’s why the year-end is ‘the perfect time to ensure outdoor areas are looking sleek and fresh for a new season of entertaining,’ says Carol Raas of Plascon Professional.
There are two different ways architects, designers and contractors can approach outdoor spaces. You can create an outdoor space that works as an extension of the indoor living space, where the flooring and finishes flow seamlessly between the two areas, or you can design an outdoor space that highlights new elements such as stone or wood.
Regardless of what design style you’ve gone with, the trick to a goodlooking outdoor area is prepping all materials to withstand the elements. Before you pick your paints, consider the outdoor surfaces that you will be treating. Will there be timber decking or tiled floors? Will there be a veranda or pergola covering the area? Will there be a pool nearby, or a bar? Once you have an idea of the kinds of materials and surfaces that will need painting or waterproofing, you can choose the right coatings for the job.
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Plascon has a wide range of products that are specifically designed for exterior use. Consider using Plascon Wall & All for a smooth, low sheen finish or Plascon Micatex for a fine textured matt finish. Ideal for metal surfaces is the Plascon Waterbased Velvaglo of high gloss Plascon Super Universal Enamel.
As many outdoor entertaining areas use wood for decking, verandas, seating and other features, contractors should also consider using advanced wood-coating technology like the Plascon WoodTect range to professionally seal and finish any wood substrate. It is completely odour- and formaldehyde-free, which is kind to the environment, easily builds layers, sands well, is fast-drying, and offers mar resistance.
Using Plascon coatings and finishes like these means you are ensuring your clients’ outdoor spaces are ready for the coming busy season and many more to follow. Whether the home you are working on has a big deck, a small courtyard, a pool house or a plant-draped pergola, it’s time to get those outdoor spaces ready for the warmer weather and festive-season entertaining.
