Archive for the ‘Yard’ Category

Improve your garden’s ambiance with these accessories

Need a water fountain in your patio area? Consider solar power and avoid high-voltage wiring
Garden water fountains have fully arrived in the solar age and are a picturesque addition to a garden, outdoor patio, or any landscaping design your heart desires. All solar technology is good for the environment, cost-effective to obtain and maintain, and safer around water, but not many solar-powered items offer the elegance and style of an outdoor water fountain. Although solar water fountains are economical, you still ought to set a budget, and then figure out how much space you need for the fountain, and the place to put the solar panel for the maximum sunlight. If your yard is large enough, and your pockets deep enough, you can create a backyard getaway filled with delightful water-bearing structures such as water fountains, waterfalls, and paved ponds. Solar-powered water fountains are available in the same wide range of styles, sizes, materials and colors as more conventional fountains, including the natural looks of copper, terracotta, slate, and stone to the more elegant fountains built of finely carved marble and polished, glazed ceramics. If you add solar-powered lighting with your backyard ensemble you can bask in the soothing sights and sounds even more after sundown, and because there is no high-voltage wiring involved you can feel more safe. Owners of homes are not the only folks who have the opportunity to relish the tranquil sounds and sights of a solar water fountain, as apartment dwellers can also install a smaller one on their balcony. You can rapidly add up the benefits of owning solar fountains and conclude that they are safer, more economical, and easier on the environment than electric fountains, plus they are easy to set up and, like all outdoor fountains, bring grace and charm to your surroundings.

Add an attractive accent to your backyard with a garden wind chime
Garden wind chimes are an excellent way to add a whimsical beauty to your exterior decor. There are so many different sounds and styles on the market that it pays to listen to them to find the one you like the best. Many folks especially love that these elegant musical instruments only produce joyful sound when combined with the natural element of wind. Each of the various materials used to make these chimes will give a different tone. Another important aspect of the sound that is created is the sizes of the various pieces and the artful manner in which the chimes are arranged. There is nothing that can beat the music made by one that has been hand made by a true artisan. The price you should expect to put up will depend on the size, the materials used and the workmanship that has gone into the piece. No matter what you pay the enjoyment you find is going to be priceless.

Longevity is a very significant issue in pond liner selection
These days when pond liners are mentioned, most people think of the various forms of plastic and rubber pond liners that have become prevalent recently. Before you start digging, you will need to consider the overall shape and dimensions of the pond, the type of material needed to make the liner, and the liner thickness.

The initial task when picking a pond liner should be to calculate the minimum size. When calculating the size of the liner, it is necessary to measure both the length and width of the pond, and then add twice the depth to both dimensions. You will also need to allow for a couple of feet of overlap around your pond. Acquiring a liner which is too large is more desirable than having one which is too small.

These liners are made from a variety of materials and are available in a number of different thicknesses, which are usually measured in mils (1 ml = 1/1000 of an inch). For smaller ponds, particularly if they are free form, a 30 ml liner is a good choice. In case your pond is bigger you may want to think about a more durable pond liner, constructed using 40 ml or 45 ml rubber, which will provide years of reliable service.

Pond liners can be constructed from a variety of materials. Probably the best material is an industrial grade rubber compound called EPDM (Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Monomer). This product comes in an assortment of thicknesses and functions nicely in just about any kind of pond. The biggest disadvantage of EPDM is its high price, however a lot of people feel the product is so stress-free to work with and so resilient that they do not mind the additional cost.

Another product which is frequently utilized for pond liners is HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) and will be a fine choice for folks putting in a new pond with only a modest budget. This is a man-made plastic liner which is sufficiently sturdy and offered in 20 – 40 ml thicknesses. It is less expensive than the rubber pond liner and typically stretchy enough to shape nicely into confined spaces.

PVC is one more product that can be used, however it has drawbacks when the purpose entails supporting something as heavy as water. Pond liners made from PVC are usually not as hard-wearing as either EPDM or HDPE liners, but they are usually less expensive. To put together a more solid pond, you can acquire a preformed liner in either fiberglass or hard plastic. Fiberglass pond liners will be more expensive, however they are undoubtedly much more durable.

Whatever brand of liner material you decide on, make certain that it is manufactured employing a ultraviolet (UV) stabilizer. This screens the liner from harmful UV emissions which will cause it to crumble in a relatively short time. Pond liner durability and maintenance depend on the kind of material selected, and that will dictate what type of supplies are needed to sustain a healthy pond.

The subject of garden accessories is very extensive and there can be a wide array of websites which cover a specific topic. Here are a few recommendations which will be of help. Do you require additional information about solar power garden lights? Easy Solar Power Garden Lights might be the place to begin looking. Need additional information about cedar garden furniture? If so, New Cedar Garden Furniture should be helpful. Or you might have questions about unique suncatchers and could find New Unique Sun Catchers to be of value. Plus Shop Yard Statues is an additional web site that provides suggestions on yard statues, a subject which might be of interest to you.

Machines for large yards

Which is the ideal snow thrower for you? It depends on the size of the job
When it’s that time of year to think about snow removal equipment you will find a lot of various options from shovels to powerful gas snow throwers. Snow throwers are a great alternative for anyone who is not accustomed the punishment on your back and heart that comes with shoveling heavy snow. There are three distinct types of snow throwers on the market,, two-stage gas, single stage gas and electric, and your choice depends on the size of the job and how heavy the snow can be. Electric models are usually the best choice for smaller jobs such as clearing your sidewalks or a short driveway. While electric snow throwers don’t have as much power as gas-powered machines, they are easier to store and maintain. The single-stage gas powered machines are great for moderate jobs and light snow that is around seven inches deep on a surface that is more flat. For really deep or wet snow you will probably require the added power that is only provided by a two-stage machine.

Snow blowers: what is important
Freshly fallen snow can be one of the world’s most exquisite visual displays, but eventually you are going to want to blow that beauty away. You can use a shovel on all that snow you need cleared in order that you can find your car, driveway, and backyard, or you can break down and buy a snow blower. Three hundred pounds of dense snow should be no trouble for a well-built snow blower, and remember that the amount of horsepower determines the efficacy of the blower. best snow blowers quickly remove a foot of dense snow, making the task not only quicker but also less tiring. Two stage gas snow blowers are by far the most powerful, collecting the snow and then discharging it over to the side of the yard. The electric single stage snow blowers are less expensive and have less power than the two-stage, and would be more suitable in regions which only get a modest amount of snow. One of the biggest issues you must consider whenever you are buying a snow blower will be the type of surface you will need to clear, whether it be smooth or uneven. After you consider the surfaces you will be working with, figure the dimensions of the areas needing to be cleared and the amount of snowfall you will have, and at that point you will know enough to make a choice.

Fences and gates

Using metal fencing for your garden
The two most popular materials used to build fences are metal and wood, and of the two metal is prized for its durability and strength, to say nothing of its decorative possibilities. If you choose to set up a metal fence around your backyard garden you will find a variety of sizes, styles and prices, from the less pricey aluminum fencing to the more expensive wrought iron types. The place for wood fencing in your backyard is normally around the perimeter of the yard and serves to provide privacy, but for a garden metal fencing is more appealing and will better fit in with many landscaping schemes. Depending on whether you desire your metal fences to flatter the look of your garden, or vice versa, you will encounter varieties of metal fencing that are simple and unadorned, or styles that are bold and vibrant and become the focus of your garden more than the actual garden itself. One practical function of garden fences is to deter pets and children from running around and causing damage to your vegetation, in which case you need to figure out how high the fence should be. The entrance to the garden involves special attention, and you will want to determine if a gate or arbor is right for you. Another option is to leave the entrance open which in turn produces a sense of openness in your garden, whereas a gate or arbor or both creates a sense of containment. An arbor is among the most gorgeous accents you can add to a garden, and if there are no pets or kids running around you can set one up without a gate for an enchanting open effect.

Chain link fencing machine
Chain link fencing cannot be made by hand since it has to be put together by a chain link fencing machine that converts spools of wire into rolls of sturdy, inexpensive fencing. Homeowners, businesses, and government long ago discovered that chain link fences are an inexpensive method of providing property protection without hindering visual contact. Chain link fences are available in a full range of sizes, heights, widths , and styles, all of which is determined by the buyer’s security requirements and whether the protection is for commercial, residential, heavy industrial, or public applications. A chain link fencing around a residential property doesn’t need to be as tall as one around an industrial plant, nor does the wire need to be as thick. The way the fence is coated is also a key concern because the metal is subject to all weather conditions in the area, and it must be treated to inhibit peeling or rusting, and if it is color coated it needs to be properly treated so the color doesn’t fade. Color-coated chain link fences are popular among homeowners who need to spiff up up the exterior appearance of their yard, and commercial business owners who need to attract more customers to their facility. There are lots of public properties that need to be open to people during the daytime but locked up securely at night, such as parking lots, school yards, swimming pools, playgrounds, and tennis courts. Sometimes it isn’t enough to have high fencing around a property, as in the case of heavy industries which require maximum security, and so razor wire is mounted on the top of the fencing.

Installing an electric gate opener will increase both security and convenience
These days lots of folks have increased worries about security and are deciding to install electric gate openers. These automatic openers will work with a full variety of gates, from smaller walk-through gates to larger driveway entry gates. You will also need to consider the various kinds of mechanized openers including automatic optical sensors, farm gate openers and load sensors. It is a smart idea to research the various models of automatic gate openers and figure out which one will fit in with the type and size of gate that you have. If you are dealing with a gate that is not in good working order you will not be able to successfully install an automatic gate opener. While the cost of one will seem high at first, think about the how often you have needed to get out of the car to both open and close your gate. You will especially value the convenience automatic gate openers offer when you are in a rush or it is raining hard.

Any search for information regarding residential fencing is going to include numerous subjects. The links below will lead you to additional sites that may be of interest. Do you require additional information about aluminum fencing? If that’s the case, then Buy Aluminum Fencing will be the place to start looking.

Garden area upgrades

Year around growing with a green house kit
Many folks would enjoy the advantages of having a garden throughout the year but have the impression that putting up a greenhouse would take too much money and effort. Fortunately there are a nice array of kits on the market that enable you to put up your own greenhouse for a lot less money. They should allow you to create the perfect growing conditions even during a frigid winter. Think about fresh fruit and garden salads on your table during the whole year. They are made in a full selection of sizes and styles to match the look of your home and sustain your growing requirements. They are available in a full selection of designs from plain and basic to beautiful and stylish. Panels that fit inside the frames of the greenhouse kits are most often produced from sturdy see-through plastic, while the frames are manufactured from aluminum, steel or plastic. Pliable plastic doors either open to the side or roll up, and use strong zippers to hold the elements at bay.

Need extra warehouse space? Wood too pricey? Consider a pre-fab building
No matter if you run a business and need more storage space, or you’re a homeowner who wants to put a small workout room in the backyard, metal storage buildings are a terrific value. You need to develop a comprehensive strategy for how you are going to use the structure, how much space you might possibly need, and how much property it’s going to involve. You will likely find these kits on the Internet at a much better price and at a far greater selection than at local stores. Steel frames and sheeting will readily conduct heat, so you first ought to decide what type of insulation to put in to protect people and items from temperature fluctuations. Another critical consideration is whether or not you want interior columns in order to bring down the cost of the project, or a floor plan that’s open without interior columns. It is important that you be choosy in your selection process, take your time talking to all the dependable manufacturers, and make sure you receive all the accessories and paperwork you need with your kit.

Filters for ponds
Garden ponds create a sense of calm and serenity and can enhance the value of your property. There are four kinds of pond filters, external, intake, submersible and in-line, and every one of them has its advantages and drawbacks. You could save money on intake filters but those won’t keep the pond water clean and you need to give them a daily rinse. When you have a waterfall or water fountain along with a pond you should pick an in-line filter which functions under pressure and maintains clean water and an unclogged pump. You may need to wade into the middle of into the pond to use a submersible filter, and be careful when you clean them, but otherwise they are an effective filter for water quality. The largest and most in demand unit is the external filter, which can go weeks without cleaning, works terrific with waterfalls and fountains, and helps keep the water clean and the pump unclogged.

The subject of gardens and accessories is quite extensive and there can be many Internet sites which address a specific topic. Here are a few recommendations which should help. This is where you will find further details relating to a stone bird bath. If you have questions about vegetables, try Organic Vegetable Benefits. Or you might need to read more about electronic pest control. When that is the case, Pest Control Zap Away will be of value. Finally, advice concerning pond kits will be available at Pond Kits Showroom.

Enhancing the look of a lawn

Commercial mowers are best for cutting large areas
When shopping for lawn mowers the two main models are those that you ride on and others that you walk behind. Commercial models will usually provide increased durability and power in order to manage the grueling conditions they are likely to see. You should find walk behind mowers at a much better price than riding models, with such varieties as electric, cordless, gas-powered and push reel. When used for commercial purposes it is important to have equipment that is durable, reliable and able to provide you the highest possible productivity. It is normally necessary to have a number of different types of mowers available in order to meet your needs. Commercial walk behind mowers are usually your best choice if you are doing residential jobs, especially if there are lawns with lots of obstacles present. Commercial accounts that have large areas of flat lawn without obstacles will usually be better served by a riding model. No matter what type of machine you are using it is important to wear adequate safety gear including eye and ear protection.

Zero turn mowers
If you’ve ever had bits of grass sticking to the sweat on your face from pushing a lawn mower on a hot afternoon, you will appreciate a zero turn riding lawn mower. Cutting your grass close to your house or to structures and large objects in the yard used to be difficult with those cumbersome standard riding mowers, but with zero turn mowers you can enjoy such great flexibility of movement that precision cutting is no problem. With the capability of making 360 degree turns thanks to its revolutionary front wheel steering, zero turn mowers can manage sharp corners with ease and head in any direction with speed. The job that might have taken several hours with a push mower takes less than an hour with a zero turn mower, and with its maneuverability and power it will feel as if you are zipping around in an all terrain vehicle. Those old standard riding mowers look clunky and obsolete next to the strong, sleek looks of a zero turn mower, and the precision cuts of zero-turn mowers are “cutting edge” indeed. The two most critical considerations when shopping for zero turn mowers are how durable the frame is, and in what condition the motor is, which should not be a problem with new mowers but needs to be checked out if you decide on a used one. There are both residential and commercial models of zero turn mowers, and if your are going to strictly use one in your own yard, forget about the commercial models because you don’t require that much power. The first step to take before you get started shopping for your mower is to set up a budget, but be prepared to spend the whole budget if it means getting the highest quality mower you can.

The category of lawns is very extensive and there will be a wide variety of websites which cover a particular topic. Here are a couple of recommendations that should help. If, for example, you have an interest in lawn care tips, then Five Lawn Care Tips has a lot of valuable advice. This next link will also take you to a site relating to lawn mower decks.

Create a magnificent lawn

Sod lawn care
Segment of rooted grass, also known as sod, are normally used by landscaping professionals to make new lawns. A sod lawn develops rapidly because it only needs about two weeks for the roots to take hold in the ground, but this also a more expensive method. Sod can quickly dry out if you do not install it fast enough, so be sure you know exactly what you need to do during each phase before you even start. Once you get all the sections of sod in place be sure to water it two or three times a day but avoid over-watering it or the roots can drown. Fertilizing the sod can be tricky because you can easily cause root damage, so be careful to add the proper amount of potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients. It will take a couple of weeks for the new turf to become fully rooted and during that time you have to keep pets and people from trodding on it. On-going lawn maintenance will call for you to begin mowing it after two weeks and be sure to fertilize it monthly.

Riding lawn mowers
Large lawns are usually a real pain to mow with a traditional push mower but with a riding lawnmower the chore can seem like a drive in the country on Sunday. Using one won’t place any strain on your back like a push mower will and the chore is over in a fraction of the time. Riding mowers are highly recommended for folks with health issues such as back or leg pain but you must be certain the seat is comfortable. If your yard is big with a pronounced slope you’ll need a riding mower with lots of horsepower to handle the uneven terrain. Riding mowers are not the same as lawn tractors because of the placement of the cutting deck, which allows riding mowers greater maneuverability. The size of the lawn and the state of your budget are the two essential things that will govern buying decision. You need do one of two things with the grass clippings: accumulate them in a bag as you mow or let the clippings stay on the ground as organic mulch.

You will be able to find a wide variety of additional sites that deal with lawns and accessories topics. Do you require more information about riding lawn mowers for sale? Then Shop Riding Lawn Mowers will be the place to begin looking.

Garden and yard accessories

Angel garden statues can make your yard shine
There is no finer way to enhance the appearance of your garden or yard than with angel garden statues, those divinely inspired figures of tranquility and peace. Anybody can recognize the inspirational nobility of an angel statue, not only the people who find religious meaning in them but any admirer of their eternal beauty. These beautiful figures will help produce a haven of peace and tranquility around your home, particularly when combined with gently flowing water fountains and aromatic flowers. Prices for these gorgeous statues also differ a great deal, with ivory, marble, or bronze statues costing more, while granite, polyresins, ceramic, and porcelain cost much less. Polyresin garden statues are widely considered a great economical option since they are easily given a faux finish to appear like more expensive material such as ivory and marble. There are many other best-selling garden figures, such as gnomes, cherubs, gargoyles, and fairies, but only angel garden statues can inspire a sense of optimism and divinity. These uplifting statues are made in different poses, such as standing angels with open wings, or kneeling angels with praying hands, all of which will convey spiritual attitudes of joy, or reverence. While angel statues will certainly fit in with any traditionally themed exterior design plans, you can also find statues designed to fit in with the sleek modernistic styles that are also very popular.

Copper weathervanes: old-fashioned Americana
A weathervane with the rooster on the top is an American icon, one that serves a more ornamental than practical purpose nowadays. Copper weathervanes are available in many styles and designs that are guaranteed to give the outside or inside of your residence an appealing touch. Weathervanes fashioned from unfinished copper will age with a naturalistic patina, while other weather vanes are treated to endure hard weather and never show aging. Whether it is in the front yard, on your roof, on the patio table or a pole in the garden, with the proper hardware pieces you can mount a weather vane almost anywhere you want. The size of the weather vane is largely determined by where you place it, as a weather vane on a rooftop needs to be considerably bigger than one you set up on your patio table, for example. Among the favorite locations for a weathervane is mounted to a pole in the garden mounted to a pole the way they did it in the old days. Rooftop weathervanes are also popular with business owners who want to bring attention to their establishment with a touch of class.

Enrich your backyard by installing a fountain
A water fountain in your garden brings style and elegance to your exterior decor, and the soft sound of running water imparts a sense of calm and natural harmony to your life. Outdoor water fountains are desirable additions to any home, whether you live in a busy suburb or out in the country, and will help relieve the tension of any modern day lifestyle. A smaller yard is appropriate for lots of the smaller outdoor water fountains, and especially popular are fountains which also serve as birdbaths to draw in wildlife into your backyard nirvana. Smaller yards need some careful landscape design to fit in a water fountain, but with bigger yards you get more room to operate with and more space to fill, but also demands careful planning. There can be numerous variables when it comes to the purchase of an outdoor water fountain, such as the wide variety of styles, sizes, and prices. When you have enough space, a larger fountain or a simulated waterfall will do wonders for your backyard, as the sound of water gushing down is both inviting and soothing. The crowning backyard landscaping designs involve not only water-bearing structures like water fountains and waterfalls, but light systems to illuminate your gorgeous scene even at nighttime. For a backyard lighting system that is environmentally friendly, you can choose solar powered lights which are a lot safer since you won’t need any high-voltage wiring around water, an obvious hazard.

The subject of gardens is very extensive and there is a wide variety of sites which cover a specific topic. Here are a couple of links which should be of assistance. If, for instance, you need information about garden statuary fountains, then Buy Garden Statuary Fountains will have a lot of usable tips. A similar source of support will be Greens Garden Furniture which has suggestions pertaining to lawn furniture. You will also find other articles relating to outdoor candle lanterns at Natural Outdoor Candle Lanterns. The last gardens website will be New Gazebo Kits which has information on gazebo kits. You undoubtedly will discover this website to be very instructive.

Gas and electric powered yard tools

Backpack leaf blowers
Jobs are far simpler and safer to accomplish when you use all the proper tools. There are lots and lots of people who cannot imagine working on their yard without a backpack leaf blower. These machines are much easier to operate than single arm models and can prevent strain and injuries to your shoulders and arms. As an added safety measure these models are designed with the gas tank in the bottom and the air vent directly in the middle to prevent obstruction. They tend to be lightweight and easy to handle, making them the smart choice for people with back troubles. You will discover that each model and brand offers its own special features so it is usually a good idea to shop and compare. One of the easiest ways to compare both features and prices is to run an online search on the models that most interest you. You can also read Internet reviews to get a better understanding of how these blowers function out in the real world.

Truck stuck? A gas powered winch might come in handy
There are a full range of adventures and projects where the power of a gas powered winch could come in handy. Since these machines are portable and compact they can be utilized in the more remote areas. Whenever a heavy duty tool is required, and you are far from a reliable source of power or the reach of a vehicle, this is the device you have to have. There are various applications where utilizing a vehicle mounted winch isn’t possible, such as out on the boat or in the woods. You can be sure to get one that meets your needs from the wide selection on the market. When arriving at your decision it pays to consider the type of power you will need in just about any circumstance. Try to remember that you will need to have added power if you plan on hauling something that does not have wheels, or pull something up a hill. In those areas that can’t be reached by a vehicle, a gas powered winch is a major upgrade over the hand powered units.

Garden upgrade articles

Garden sheds are the way to manage your tools and materials
Where are you storing all of those necessary backyard accessories? If they are cluttering up your garage or basement, then the time has come to think about a garden shed. Garden sheds will give you the space needed to organize all your tools, making it easier to find them when you are doing yard work. Some homeowners even choose a shed that coordinates with the exterior of the house.

Probably the initial thing you should determine is the correct size for your new shed and considering what equipment it has to accommodate. When using it to stow your lawnmower, be sure you select a storage shed which will have a lot of remaining floor space after you add in all the accessories, tools, and materials you need to store. It is usually preferable to acquire a storage shed which is a little larger than you require for your current garden supplies and tools, because you know you will acquire extra items as time goes by. You don’t want to have to buy a new shed only because you upgraded to a larger lawnmower. If planning to employ your shed for other purposes, you will need to look for a style which allows for independent sections. As an example, your children must have their own distinct area, away from work equipment which might be risky to be near during play time.

When calculating the appropriate headroom of your garden shed, you must decide whether or not you will use it as a work space. You must have a higher ceiling so that it is comfortable to stand up for long periods of time in case it is utilized as a workspace. There are some storage sheds that have an additional loft, which offers you added storage without wasting any floor space. Garden sheds are for sale in several different materials including metal, vinyl and wood. Sheds made of wood tend to be higher priced, but also more attractive, while metal sheds are extremely tough and available in a range of colors. Vinyl sheds will likely be the cheapest alternative and will need virtually no upkeep.

Outdoor thermometers
One of the most valuable tools at your service for keeping tabs on weather fluctuations is the digital outdoor thermometer. Usually people attach these to a window or door and even small digital devices are easy to read compared to conventional thermometers. When you need one of these devices to match your outside decor you can find them on the market in a full range of colors. Battery operated thermometers are very inexpensive and if you want a model that also reads the relative humidity it won’t cost a lot more. One the top selling models can be installed on the outside of your window with the face turned in so that it can be read from inside your home. When you are shopping for a thermometer to use outside make sure you get one that’s weather-proofed or water-resistant. Battery powered units are initially cheaper than solar-powered models, but batteries eventually run out of life and don’t work as well in very cold weather.

Wind chimes
If you are shopping for an inexpensive way to create a relaxing atmosphere around the house take wind chimes into consideration. Made out of wood, metal, stained glass or enamel plate, wind chimes have been around since the Chinese first employed them for religious ceremonies centuries ago. Chimes designed for the outdoors make more sound, especially those built out of metal tubes, but they are also a lovely addition inside the house. One of the most popular outdoor set of chimes is bamboo, which features a distinct tone that produces a highly calming effect even if a breeze barely whispers. Sun catcher wind chimes are made of stained glass and look as fantastic as they sound as they dance in the light and create sweet music. For folks with a hankerin’ for a more rustic look there are chimes built out of old silverware which combine country charm with a great sound. Gently ringing garden bell chimes are also popular both outdoors or indoors, as the soothing bell tones sound great anywhere you put them. Metal chimes have always been the most popular outdoor wind chimes because metal is more weather resistant than wood and less fragile than the ones made of stained glass.

If you can’t find the information you are looking for from the articles above, perhaps the following websites might be more appropriate. For instance, if you have an interest in organic gardening, then Better Organic Gardening has a lot of helpful advice. Need further information about trellis screens? If so, Trellis Screens might provide the information you need. One last garden upgrades site is New Pond Pumps which is about pond pumps. You certainly will discover this site to be highly instructive.