So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Arctic Pine Garden Furniture

By John Duff


One of the most popular woods used in making garden furniture is Arctic Pine. Manufactured from FSC Certified, 80-100 year old Arctic Pine, this is dense and long lasting. The cool climate of the Arctic north of Sweden ensures that the Pine grows very slowly and, as a result, it is very dense, "wood tough" and comprises a high content of natural protective substances. This makes it ideal for use in garden furniture, such as swing seats and Duo conversation seats.

Most Arctic pine which is used for Garden Furniture is certified by the FSC as being from well managed plantations. The Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) is a global organization of companies and other stakeholders that have worked assiduously to draw up principles to protect forests worldwide. These ensure that forests are protected financially, socially and, more importantly, environmentally. This ensures biodiversity and protects the forest from destruction. By taking careful consideration of the rights of the forestry workers and the indigenous populations, people are protected by the FSC too. The more FSC products are sold, then the more members FSC will gain and, ultimately, the more forests can be protected.

There are several stages of production for Arctic Pine: Step 1 - Wood is treated with a protective layer of biocides which protects the wood from fungal attack and which prepares it for the next step. Step 2 - A glaze, combining a pigment, a binder and a further substance that protects against fungal attack is applied. This glaze is completely water-based. Step 3 - A top coat that contains more fungicides is then used to protect the surface. It also provides UV protection. The top coat is also water-based which is better for the environment.

Wood is a natural product that is affected by environmental conditions. To ensure your furniture serves you well for many years, please follow this advice: 1) Clean your furniture often using a mild detergent to prevent fungi or other harmful substances from staining the wood. 2) In strong sunlight, resin may seep from the wood. If this happens, gently cut away the resin using a razor blade. The easiest way to remove any remaining resin is with acetone or a similar product. Then treat the furniture again with water based wood protection in a shade matching that of the furniture. 3) The easiest way to remove minor marks is with a damp sponge. 4) Store the furniture in a cool dry place over winter. Use a good quality weathercover if it to be left outside. 5) When you get out the furniture at the start of the season, treat it with water based wood protection as needed and tighten any loose screws.

A good quality piece of garden furniture such as a swing seat or conversation seat made from Arctic Pine will be expected to last between 10 and 15 years, and to remain durable and look good throughout. It is certainly worth looking at Arctic Pine as an investment to enhance your garden.




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