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Deck or Patio
Deck vs. Patio: Which is Right for You? Carefully planned and installed, a deck or patio can increase the value and enjoyment of your home by expanding your outdoor living space. The trick is to decide which one, and which construction materials, will fit in best with your current surroundings while meeting your goals for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. When deciding between a deck or patio, here are some considerations to keep in mind: Capacity –If you'll be entertaining lots of people, or if you need to hold something heavy like a hot tub, a patio makes a sturdier choice. While decks can be reinforced to hold extra weight, this can take away from their looks. Terrain –If you have a sloping yard, you may want to go with a deck. Though the ground can be built up to provide a level patio surface, this can cost extra. Weather –How much sun, rain and snow does the site get? Too much sun can make deck surfaces painful to walk on in bare feet, while rain and snow runoff can be problematic on patio surfaces. Once you've decided on a deck or patio, you'll need to choose an appropriate construction material: Decks –Synthetic decks made from recycled plastic are appealing due to their minimal maintenance requirements. Plus, they're less susceptible to insect damage, warping and splintering. Wooden decks, on the other hand, are less expensive and provide a more natural look. However, they do require periodic maintenance. Patios –Pavers are a durable, low-maintenance choice for patio construction and come in a wide variety of styles and colors. Or, if you'd rather go with concrete, you'll be happy to know that the days of the dull, gray concrete slab are behind us. You might be surprised by the color and pattern choices available in concrete patios. Remember, the last thing you want in your yard is unused dead space. Think ahead and thoroughly research your options for a deck or patio that you can enjoy for many years to come. ...read more
By Landscape Solutions September 01, 2010
Water feature
Make a Splash with a Water Feature Every property can benefit from the addition of a water feature. Not only do they make great conversation pieces, but they can help to create a more tranquil setting in your landscape when you need a place to unwind. Depending on the mood you're after, there are plenty of choices. Consider the following: PondsWith numerous possibilities for adding plants and wildlife, ponds add a whole new level of interest to the landscape. These versatile water features can be simple or spectacular and come in all shapes and sizes. Keep in mind that if plants or wildlife are to be added, you'll need to consider the type of habitat they require. FountainsSituated in a pond or self-contained, fountains can provide a simple spray of water or a complex pattern of dancing streams. You can choose from all sorts of designs, including tiered fountains, cascading fountains incorporating statuary, garden wall fountains and even simple pebble fountains. WaterfallsMoving water is pleasing to both the eye and the ear, and a waterfall can make your property much more conducive to relaxation. Preformed waterfalls are available, or customized versions can be constructed using liner fabric, rocks, concrete and a pump. No matter how big or small your property or your budget, there's a water feature option to suit every taste. Remember…even something as basic as a birdbath can bring added appeal to your landscape! ...read more
By Landscape Solutions September 01, 2010
Lawn Renovation
6/25/10 Resurrecting a Lifeless Lawn At this point in the growing season, you may notice thinning turf or bare spots in your lawn and wonder what could be causing the trouble. There are plenty of possible reasons for problems like these, including: Compacted soil Excessive thatch Insect or disease damage Hot, dry weather The good news is that your turf can be brought back to life again. Aside from sticking to proper mowing, fertilizing and watering practices, the following steps can make a world of difference. AerationCompacted soil and excessive thatch can starve turf roots of the air, water and nutrients they need to grow deep and strong. Aeration can help. With this process, a machine known as a core aerator punches through your turf and pulls out plugs of soil and thatch, which are left behind to dissolve during rainfall or sprinkling. As the plugs dissolve, decomposition of the thatch layer is promoted. Plus, the holes created during aeration make it easier for air, water and nutrients to reach the roots. Overseeding (with Aeration)This is a great way to thicken up thin turf areas, and involves broadcasting seed evenly over any spots that need to be filled in. Keep in mind that seeding always works better when there's good seed-to-soil contact. By having your lawn aerated prior to overseeding, the seed will have some soil to lodge in and germination rates will be improved. Slice SeedingThis is the most efficient way to seed your lawn. A slice seeder (or slit seeder) makes vertical slits in the soil and deposits grass seed directly into the ground, all in one pass. This encourages high germination rates and thicker growth. Late summer and fall are great times for renovation practices like these, since temperatures are milder and more conducive to new growth. In addition, new grass doesn't have as much weed competition once the growing season starts winding down. If your lawn looks like it's struggling this summer, the above procedures can all help to get it back on track again! ...read more
By Landscape Solutions September 01, 2010
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