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Tips to Redesign and Make Use of Your Backyard Space

backyard garden

When you step into your backyard, it should be a sanctuary for relaxation, entertainment, and play. If reality does not match up with expectations, then perhaps it’s time to create anew. When considering any redesign of backyard space, it is wise to think holistically and leave nothing out of the creative process. Adopting some, or all of the following redesign tips will likely enhance the enjoyment you get out of your own backyard.

Statuary, Yard Art, and Garden Decor
Throw open your back door, step outside, and survey your redesign challenge. Backyards should be a place where imagination dominates design. However limited the area, your backyard should reflect more than the surrounding architecture and landscape. It should take its aesthetic cues from your own personality. Art pieces let you add flair to your space without ever having to get your hands dirty.

Think Vertically
garden flowersInstalling multiple tiered planters and vertical gardens will help you maximize your ground space while providing an opportunity to cover your walls and fences with interesting colors and textures. All you need are planters you can stack or hang from vertical surfaces. Vertical gardens have the added benefit of producing fragrant flowers and sometimes edible goodies such as herbs, berries, and vegetables.

Outdoor Seating
Your outdoor seating should approach your indoor furniture in terms of comfort if you want visitors to stay for more than a brief chat. Modern patio furniture from places like Design Furnishings is comfortable and can survive the most violent rainstorms between uses. Laying down decent quality outdoor carpets or mats on your patio will provide a surface that lets you walk barefoot even on the hottest days. Using screens made from natural fabrics and materials such as bamboo will help you sell the natural experience.

Water Features
If your backyard feels chaotic or perhaps too dull, you may be able to change things by putting in a water feature that gurgles, or just encourages you to sit and think on things for a while. backyard pondYou may want to try a classic Koi pond or something far simpler like a store-bought garden fountain or a shallow, brick-lined reflecting pool that you create yourself. Even a small bird bath can be a good option if you don’t have a lot to spend on maintenance.

The atmosphere reflected by a home’s backyard design and landscape choices should be soothing to the senses and welcoming to visitors. While touring local neighborhoods, you can see examples of the very best in home architecture paired with careless use of backyard space. Sometimes a simple arrangement of shrubs and flowers, a well-planned garden, a creative patio or deck design can make all the difference. When carefully thought out, tiny backyard design changes can create a space with a higher aesthetic and functional appeal.

Does Your Porch Truly Reflect Your Lifestyle?

porch

In the past, the porch had quite a prominent place in every home. It was a place of gathering, family reunions, friendly neighbor visits and small talk. It was a sort of a summer living room, where homeowners and their guests could catch the refreshing breeze in the shade while the rest of the garden basked in buzzing sunlight. The porch brings memories of a creaking rocking chair and grandpa reading his daily papers. Don’t deny your children these memories when they grow up. A splendid porch should be the elemental to every suburban home.

Where to Start?

The porch should first and foremost be an extension of your house, and as such comfortable as any living room or study. A well-designed and functional porch on the other hand requires careful planning, and a lot of inspiration and creativity. For the beginning, in order for people to feel comfortable, the porch should be spacious. Which can be achieved in two ways, either you make it bigger, or you smartly outline and draw the arrangement of the furniture. You can find different ideas online that can inspire you and let you see what works for you. Whichever option you choose, remember that the porch is a relaxing and soothing space, which shouldn’t break your budget.

How Big is Enough?

back-porchIt goes without saying that the size of your porch will be determined by the thickness of your wallet. You should know that there are several types of porches, like rooftop integrated, wraparound porch, sunroom porch and front porch. Every type comes with its own set of pros and cons, and with a different price. The most common type, however, is the roof integrated, but be warned that this is also one of the most expensive, as it follows the roofline and requires more calculation and complex construction. If you’re looking for a more available option, there you have the front porch, which can be added any time later.

Decorating the Porch

The only rule in decorating your newly built porch is that there are no rules. Everything you do will be directed by your budget and creativity. The safest and the most effective way is to decorate it in a way that reflects your lifestyle and the home interior décor.  In a recent chat with reputed Sydney-based outdoor furniture retailers , I found out that another approach is to decorate the porch according to its purpose. If you want a nap spot, involve a daybed, a swing, a hammock or just a softly cushioned rocking chair with a wool blanket. It is often said that what makes a good porch is a good nap. The best strategy is to have several more chairs on reserve for guests.

Accessories and Embellishment

screened-porchThe extra stylish look of the porch is achieved by decorative wall hangings, while potted plants bring it close to the garden. Match the blankets and pillows to the rug, creating a serene and peaceful color effect. The key is to use as few metal objects as you can and to consider taking the pillows, blankets and even rolling the carpet up indoors, as they tend to absorb moisture if left unattended in rainy weather.

Eventually, you should try to envisage the porch as a sanctuary, a place where you can escape from the stress of your work or house chores. So, however much you invest in it, it will pay back tenfold, providing you with countless hours of pleasure and joy.

 

6 Creative Backyard Improvements for the Summer

Backyard improvements

Summer is almost here and it’s time to leave the house and start enjoying in your backyard. There are some improvements you can make in your backyard in order to prepare it for many interesting things to do during the summer. You will want to create a place where the whole family can gather and spend time together, or where you can organize a party for your friends. Be sure to check out the following tips and start preparing improvements for your backyard.

Prepare a hammock to rest in

Backyard is definitely the best place for resting during the hot summer days. Making a hammock is a great option for an improvement before the summer starts. It provides you with a great place to rest even while you are making other improvements in your backyard. A hammock is the ultimate symbol of relaxation and surely lives up to the name. You can easily make the hammock yourself and place it in a shaded part of your backyard.

Make your own outdoor theater

If you want to gather the whole family in the backyard or call up your friends and make a party, an interesting thing to do is to make an outdoor theater. The only thing you would actually need is the projector. Screen fabric is quite cheap but another idea is to simply pin white sheets to the trees or the wall. Prepare comfortable sitting chairs and get ready to play a movie for your family and friends. You can also make a drink cooler near the chairs in order to make your backyard a great place for watching a movie or a game.

DIY hammock

Create a gym in your backyard

During the summer there is no need for you to go to the gym, since you can make your own in the backyard. It is more enjoyable to stay at home and work out outside in the fresh air. You will save more time and feel better during the training. You can do some of the exercises that do not demand equipment and the only thing you may have to buy is a workout mat.

Make your backyard storage shed

You don’t want to spend much time in public transport or your car during the hot summer days. Riding a bike on a fresh air seems like a better option. You can make a storage shed for your bike and all of your bike accessories in your backyard. You will want to have easy access to your bike since you will use it quite a lot during the summer. The shed can be made out of wood and can be attached to the house or your garage.

Backyard barbeque

Increase lighting in your backyard

If you are going to spend more time in the backyard during the summer, be sure to increase lighting in it. You can add porch lights or rope lighting if you want your backyard look beautiful at night. You can install new lights wherever you want and they will always make your backyard look better. Solar-powered lights are a great option for this, since they do not require and underground wiring and digging in your backyard.

Build a backyard barbeque

Backyard barbeque is a great backyard improvement option for the summer and you can make it by yourself. You can build it in such a way that it completely fits in the backyard. It is up to you to choose whether you want a simple barbeque or a complex smoker. You can make a fire pit or install a gas grill. Whichever options you choose, you will enjoy the meals prepare in your backyard.

If you want to enjoy summer the way you never did before, try these things and create a family or party ambience in your backyard. Prepare all of your equipment and start working on these improvements in order to get a beautiful backyard where you will spend much of your free time during the summer.

 

Inspiring Ways to Add Privacy to Your Yard

privacy fence

As a hot summertime is coming, we should take a proper care of our yard. It’s the only place where we can enjoy total peace and flamboyant nature. Can you imagine how amazing the feeling is when you come home exhausted from work and take a nap in your comfy hammock settled in the shade in front of your house? Our yards are our personal kingdom, a secluded getaway that we treasure and save only for ourselves. But, what happens when someone disturbs such harmony?

Over the course of time, people have become overly interested in other people’s lives and habits. If you have ever spotted your neighbor peeking through your fence, don’t despair. That happens to all of us. While some people just gave up, the other ones are still looking for most effective ways to add privacy to their yard. If you would like to make your yard more peaceful and creative, here are some inspiring tips to tickle your fancy.

Install a Fence

backyard fenceSetting the fence up is definitely the most traditional and effective way to enclose your yard. There is a really wide choice of fences, including their structure, shape and dimensions that all depend on your yard. However, you should definitely pay attention to the materials you are planning to use. Although white wood picket fence has been a dream of most house owners, you should think twice before setting it up. When installing such fences, you need to be ready for a huge commitment. You need to know how to maintain wood fence panels properly in order to make them look great. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time taking care of your fence, you should definitely choose one that is easy to maintain like powder-coated aluminum or vinyl.

Green up Your Yard with a Hedge

Some people consider walls and fences overly conservative and isolating. If they would make you feel confined in your own backyard, create privacy with beautiful hedgesmaybe installing a hedge is a perfect solution for you. Hedges have the same purpose as the most expensive fences or walls, adding both safety and aesthetical value to your yard. The choice of hedges is really wide and the most common division is into evergreen and deciduous ones. If you want to make your exterior more unique and creative, you could also combine several kinds of hedges with other plants and trees, which will add vivacity to your yard.

Opt for Delicate Lattice

If you feel that a traditional fence isolates you completely from your surroundings, you should look for alternative ideas. One of the most amazing ones is installing a delicate lattice, which has various purposes. It will seclude your yard perfectly and, since it doesn’t take up a lot of your yard, it can be installed everywhere.  Most importantly, lattice panels are easy to install and maintain. Setting them up, you will finally have an opportunity to grow your favorite flowering shrubs, climbing roses or tidy vines.

Personalize Your Favorite Nook

shade sailIf redecoration and reorganization of the entire yard is too complicated or expensive to you, you could also pick your favorite part of the yard and make it unique. Such a place should be provided with enough sunlight, shade and comfort. For example, you could look for shade sails online, as they are an amazing solution for both sunny and rainy days. You could install your favorite garden furniture, light fixtures and a comfy hammock under them and be sure that nothing could ruin your relaxation.

What we can conclude is that people who have a yard are really lucky. They are provided with an amazing opportunity to enjoy every spring or summer day in peace, isolated from the outdoor noise and views. That’s exactly why you need to add privacy to your yard. All you have to do is to be creative. You can play with various kinds of fencing, combine them and create a real heaven on earth. Following these tips, you will manage to create a safer yard and finally be able to completely relax.

Enjoy Your Outdoor Living Spaces All Year

Tips to make your outdoor living spaces more useful all year

No matter if you live on a coast or in the Upper Midwest, you can use your outdoor spaces to the fullest in any season by adding a few enhancements. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, it’s easy to add features like a seat wall and a fire ring for an outdoor gathering spot, or an outdoor kitchen to create the taste of summer all year. A few simple improvements can help you create a space that keeps you outside longer into the night, earlier in the spring and later into the cooler seasons.

firepit

1. Add a fire feature. Even in sunny Florida, it can get chilly at night. An outdoor fireplace, fire table, fire pit or chiminea will enhance any outdoor space. A 2013 membership survey by the American Society of Landscape Architects found that 97 percent of respondents saw moderate to high demand for fire pits and fireplaces.

2. Create a convenient outdoor cooking space. A dedicated space for the grill close to a door lets you barbecue in any season. A complete outdoor kitchen is even better.

3. Add retaining and seat walls. A variety of outdoor hardscape features can be created with pavers.  You can create a variety of features including stairs, retaining walls, freestanding walls, couches, tiered walls, planters, columns, multi-angled corners and curves.

4. Add lighting. A variety of lighting options for outdoor spaces exist, and it’s a good idea to include lighting design for safety and aesthetics in your landscaping plans, says O’Donahue. Low-voltage LED uplights along walls and structures and downlights along pathways and walkways are popular. “Lighting can be installed within retaining walls, under capstones and among paving stone pathways and patios,” says O’Donahue. Even a simple string of lights around a patio or deck railing adds a warm ambience to evenings and cool nights.

5. Install a paving stone patio. Interlocking concrete paving stones fit any outdoor landscape style, from classic to contemporary. Pavers are easy to install, come in many styles and colors and require little to no maintenance.

6. Select year-round outdoor furniture. Look for outdoor furniture that’s durable and doesn’t need storage or annual maintenance other than cleaning.  Due to durability and ease of maintenance, many homeowners and businesses choose recycled furniture over traditional wood and wrought iron outdoor furniture, which needs to be stored in the winter.

outdoor living spaces

7.  Shelter’s not just for shade. Take shelter from the elements with a variety of pergolas, awnings and other coverings for patios and decks that not only provide shade but also help protect from wind and inclement weather.

8. Turn on the heat. A variety of portable outdoor gas or electric patio heaters and lamps adds warmth and light to outdoor spaces. “Freestanding heaters, lamps and tabletop fire bowls and pots are very popular,” says Johnson.

Why a wood deck is one of the best investments a homeowner can make

Want remodeling ROI?

Why a wood deck is one of the best investments a homeowner can make

wood deck

As the seasons turn, more homeowners look for projects that not only make their homes more livable, but also offer great return on investment. With demand high across the country for outdoor spaces that bring the comforts of the indoors outside, there’s no surprise that decks are one of the top remodeling projects for 2014.

In fact, a residential wood deck addition has a recouped cost of 87.4 percent, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2014 Cost vs. Value Report, the second highest ROI midrange project only behind an entry door replacement. That means adding a deck to your property will increase your livable space so you can enjoy the outdoors more, and you can rest easy knowing you’re boosting the value of your home investment.

If you think you’d like to add a wood deck to your home, you might wonder about the different material options. “Although composite and PVC decking have gained popularity in recent years, pressure-treated wood decking still carries the lion’s share of the market because it’s inexpensive, easy to work with and can be found at any lumberyard,” says Chris Fox, product manager at Universal Forest Products, a leading supplier of lumber and decking materials.

Today’s pressure-treated lumber comes with advancements that weren’t available to homeowners just a few years ago. For example, with more homeowners seeking eco-friendly building materials, wood suppliers are exploring environmentally preferred treatment methods. For example, ProWood’s micronized copper azole (MCA) treated lumber decking is eco-friendly, cost effective and easy to install.

MCA is a method for treating the wood (typically pine) using an EPA-registered waterborne wood preservative system to protect against termite attack and rot. MCA-treated lumber provides a light, natural look, unlike other pressurized wood treatments that result in the greenish hue with which most people are familiar.

You can leave MCA treated lumber in its natural state for a more organic appearance in your outdoor spaces, or you can choose ProWood Dura Color decking that is color-infused with pigment driven deep into the wood fibers. This process creates beautiful treated wood grain that will stand up to the elements for many years, with no need for staining.

“People like the natural look of redwood and cedar, but they don’t want the drawbacks that come with them, such as the high price and the fact that they quickly fade to gray,” says Fox. “ProWood Dura Color lumber not only looks like natural cedar or redwood, but the color lasts much longer and is backed by a two-year color assurance warranty”

When researching treated wood materials for outdoor home improvement projects, such as a deck addition, Fox suggests discussing the project with the local lumber dealer and to be sure to understand and check the end tag for:

1. The description of use (above ground or ground contact)
2. Warranty statement
3. The quality standards it meets
4. Third-party quality inspection (which assures product has passed retention and penetration tests).

Research proves a wood deck is a sound investment, and now with new eco-friendly decking materials, homeowners have more options than ever when it comes to improving their home’s exterior spaces.

Ready to add a deck addition to your home?  Contact us for a free estimate!

Top outdoor living trends for 2014

deck with fire pitFrom genteel porches in the East to sleek, seaside balconies in the West, the popularity of outdoor living spaces is poised for significant growth from coast to coast with industry analysts predicting it will be a $5.7 billion market by 2016. Reinforcing these projections, 63 percent of architects cite an outdoor living space as the most popular “special function room” in housing construction, according to the American Institute of Architects. What’s more, the-Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association reports that homebuilders list decks among the top three features most requested with new home buys.

“Decks and porches are now considered true extensions of a home’s living space,” says Adam Zambanini, vice president of marketing for Trex Company, the world’s largest manufacturer of high-performance wood-alternative decking and railing. “People are showing increased interest in maximizing the function, comfort and personalization of their outdoor spaces and are realizing that it’s far more economical to expand their living space outside than to enlarge or renovate their home’s interior.”

As planning and preparation for the 2014 outdoor living season begins, the experts at Trex offer a glimpse into the national trends that will be emerging outside homes across America in 2014.

Size matters

The biggest trend in decks right now is the increase in square footage. Gone are the days of the 20-by-10-foot rectangle with just enough room for a grill and some patio furniture. Today’s decks are expanding both horizontally and vertically. Demand for decks with multiple tiers is increasing, as are requests to finish the space below an elevated deck.

Thinking outside the box

When it comes to deck designs, today’s homeowners also are thinking way outside the box and customizing nearly every aspect of their outdoor living spaces. Remodelers trex elevated deckand architects report increased interest in pergolas and walls to define different functional areas and create privacy, as well as integrated features like built-in benches, planter boxes and storage. Similarly, consumer interest in accessories such as deck lighting, ornamental post caps and decorative balusters also is on the rise.

“We are seeing a lot more mixing of materials,” reports Zambanini. “Contractors and consumers alike are creating highly customized deck designs combining two or more decking shades and also mixing materials such as composite railings in white with contrasting black aluminum balusters. Our product offering allows for more than 1,200 different design combinations so there truly is something for every taste and lifestyle.”

High-performance, low maintenance

In addition to design aesthetics, homeowners across the country are increasingly concerned with performance. Specifically, they want materials that allow them to spend more time enjoying their outdoor living space rather than maintaining it. This motivation has contributed to the continued innovation and popularity of composite decking and railing. Unlike wood or even traditional composites, high-performance wood alternatives like Trex Transcend resist fading, staining, scratching and mold – and won’t rot, warp, crack or splinter. Upkeep is hassle-free and requires no sanding, staining or painting. Food and drink spills wash off easily with just soap and water.

Sustainability

trex patioComposite decking also responds to another growing trend among U.S. homeowners – interest in sustainable, eco-friendly building materials.

“High-performance decking provides the look and feel of real wood, but without the environmental impact, making it an ideal choice for today’s eco-conscious consumers,” notes Zambanini.

The entire high-performance Trex decking portfolio is manufactured from more than 95 percent recycled content, including reclaimed wood and sawdust, as well as plastic from many common household items. The company salvages and keeps more than 400 million pounds of plastic and wood scrap out of landfills each year.

To see examples of these and other top outdoor living trends, visit the Trex Inspiration Gallery. Image Source: Trex.com.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you transform your outdoor living space!

How Can You Help Your Concrete Withstand the Elements?

stamped concreteRain, tree roots, weeds, ice and even foot traffic can wear down your outdoor concrete surfaces; from patios to driveways to walkways. Nature, the elements and people can all do some serious damage to your concrete work over time, but there are ways to avoid the dangers these things present. You can’t completely avoid the wearing down of concrete or the development of cracks that work together to create an eyesore, but there are some tricks you can use to support and protect your concrete at various stages.

Protecting Stamped Concrete

Concrete’s inherent strength, versatility and endurance can help your patio or walkway last for decades if it has been installed and maintained properly. Stamped concrete can take more of a beating than standard concrete can, especially when you add in a color hardener to the surface, which adds a bit of color and also makes it stronger. Adding a protective sealer to your concrete can keep out dirt, chemicals, oil and grease stains, making the surface easier for cleaning and preventing fading from the harmful rays of the sun. You’ll still need to do some regular maintenance on your stamped concrete though. This entails sweeping or washing the concrete so dirt doesn’t have time to build up. You can even pressure wash exterior surfaces or use a mild detergent to scrub off debris when necessary. However, don’t use deicing salts, especially during the first year of installation.

You can spruce up the shine of your concrete if it dulls by coating it again with sealer. If you have a lot of wear patterns in your interior concrete surface from people and pets, apply polish or floor wax for an added layer of protection.

Avoiding Damage

Cracks in your concrete often occur from tree roots, soil movement and the freeze/thaw cycles inherent in the seasons, says Better Homes and Gardens. There are a few things you can do to minimize or prevent cracking, which should be done at the time the concrete is laid. The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association says proper curing is an important step in making sure your concrete surface is resistant to cracks. This involves the application of a liquid membrane curing compound. Sound subgrade and formwork, finishing, joints and sufficient concrete cover can also go a long way toward extending the smooth life of your concrete.

Repairing Cracks

If you do experience hairline cracks in your concrete, fill them in with a concrete crack filler and let it cure overnight, advises HGTV. Filling in larger cracks will require mixing a large batch of concrete and pouring it into the damaged area. Better Homes and Gardens says you’ll need to use dry concrete mix and water for smaller cracks and standard concrete mix with gravel for larger areas.

Finding the right water-to-cement ratio, ensuring the subgrade is sound, deciding on proper places for control joints and knowing the right cure times are all jobs best left to a professional. Hiring a pro to tackle the job at the time of installation will ensure your concrete’s best chances of survival in the long term. You can do your part by performing regular maintenance each year.

This article was provided by Matt Jefferies, construction firm owner and all-around handyman. If you’re looking for solid and long lasting concrete, Matt recommends Houston Concrete.

10 Ways to Improve Your Outdoor Living Space

gazebos

More and more people are utilizing their outdoor living spaces in interesting and fun ways.  We hope you enjoy this list!  Did we miss anything?

Make Your Backyard Beautiful

Backyard landscapingAs summertime approaches, you’re going to want to spend some quality time outside. If you’re lucky enough to live in a good location, you can go to the beach or maybe a neighborhood pool, but often your backyard is the place you’re going to catch the most sunshine and fresh air. In this case, it pays to transform your backyard into the place everyone wants to spend time. This is certainly possible, whether you’re on a budget or have an unlimited amount to spend on your backyard upgrades. Keeping your financial constraints in mind, you can upgrade your landscape, backyard fixtures, furniture, lighting, and a variety of amenities in order to have the best backyard this summer has ever seen.

Landscaping

One easy way to improve the quality of your backyard is to make sure your landscaping is up to snuff. If your grass is dying or non-existent, consider laying sod or sowing some grass seeds. Add flowers for a great smell and inexpensive splash of color. Make sure you keep any landscaping well groomed, as an unkempt lawn can quickly devalue your backyard. If your schedule doesn’t allow for consistent maintenance, consider hiring a gardener or at least installing an automated sprinkler system.

Building Structures

While you’re spending time in your backyard to get some sun, sometimes you need to escape into home improvement project new patiothe shade. While a tree or umbrella can serve this purpose, if you want a more permanent shaded area it’s certainly possible. If you’re on a budget, consider designing and building your own structure, a task which can be fairly simple with some limited construction experience. Structures can also provide great storage space, a play area for your children, and even an outdoor studio for working in the sun.

Furnishing the Backyard

Furniture is of the utmost importance when you’re planning to relax in your backyard. Before making any furniture purchases, consider your primary uses for the backyard, as well as any space constraints you might have. Do you use your backyard primarily for lounging, or are you planning to throw dinner parties? Let the function shape your furniture choices, purchasing whatever is needed to best enjoy your backyard time. Keep in mind that purchasing the cheapest furniture, if you are on a budget, is not always the best idea as the quality often isn’t too great. Instead, purchase middle of the line furniture which will last for several seasons. Taking care to bring your furniture into a sheltered area in inclement weather can greatly improve the life of your furniture.

Adding Amenities

Again, take some time to think about what your backyard is most used for. If it’s primarily a play area for children, consider adding a cheap above-ground pool or investing in a jungle gym, whether you buy one or make it yourself. If cooking is your passion, plenty of DIY projects are available to expand your cooking capabilities. While you might already have a grill, consider making a pizza oven, smoker, or a bar from which to serve drinks.

No matter your financial constraints, it’s easy to get your backyard in tip-top condition for upcoming summer festivities. Take into account your budget and upgrade your furniture, fixtures, and even cooking amenities as needed for the best use of your backyard area.

This article was written by Andre Hickson, a landscaping contractor, father, and home renovator. For more landscaping tips and ways to improve your home, Andre suggests consulting professionals, like the Dorchester Awning Company

 

 

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