5 Things to Consider Before Getting a Water Features

Water Features are beautiful additions to any outdoor living space they bring tranquility, add class and increase the overall aesthetic of your outdoor living space. Here are 5 things to consider when you are planning to add a water feature to your outdoor living space. 

1. Type of Water Feature:

There are plenty of different water features that you can add to your outdoor living space: waterfalls, fountains, artificial creeks, water/fire features and much more. Water Features can be tailored made to fit any theme or style of your backyard so that it perfectly compliments the rest of your outdoor living space. 

2. Design:

It is vital that your water feature suits the aesthetics of the rest of your outdoor living space because you want to maintain the aesthetic and feeling of your outdoor living space without making the water feature look out of place. So it is imperative that you think carefully about your existing features and how the water feature you would like to add will look alongside the rest of your existing features.

3. Safety:

Safety is imperative so if you have young or elderly family members it is very important that you have safety in mind when deciding what water feature you’d like in your outdoor living space. If you have small children maybe a large climbable water feature maybe wouldn’t be the best investment. Or if you have elderly people it is important you consider the placement of your water feature as some tend to splash water which can produce a slippery surface. Essentially you shouldn’t just tailor your water feature to the aesthetic of your backyard but also tailor it to the people whom are going to be enjoying it.

4. Longevity:

Durability is an important thing to consider when deciding on your water feature. It is important that your water feature is high quality because you want to make sure it lasts a long time so you can enjoy it for years to come. Which is why it is not only important to make sure your water feature is made of durable material but it is properly maintained. Be sure to talk with your contractor about the proper maintenance steps needed to maintain your water feature so that you can enjoy it for years to come. 

5. Budget:

Make sure you have a firm budget plan for the water feature project so that there is no misunderstanding with your contractor and so that your contractor can present you the best options for you that fall within your budget because you want open dialog with your contractor that way you are not only happy with your water feature but your wallet stays happy because it is nice and full

Do not hesitate to fill out our FREE Estimate form so we can help you come up with a plan for your water feature but also make it a reality.

10 Things You Must Know About Landscaping!

Layout a Plan

Create a plan. There are a lot of things that go into remodeling your landscape so having a plan laid out will allow you nothing is overlooked and keep things organized.

Budget

Budget out what you are willing to spend and then plan your landscaping project according to your budget because you do not want to end up spending unnecessarily and exceeding your budget. Hiring a landscaping professional will help create and keep your landscaping budget so that project stays within budget. 

Understand the Soil Type

An important thing to know is the type of soil in your yard. Understanding the nature of the soil in your yard allows you to plan your landscape project in a way that best compliments the soil making your landscape more sustainable and easier to manage. Understand the nature of the soil and plan your landscaping in a way that best complements the soil. If you lack the knowledge, you might want to seek professional advice.

Understand the Design

Design is the major component to landscaping that will dictate the overall look and feel of your yard. Understanding the dimensions of your yard is vital so you can optimally design your landscape. Figure out the theme you would like your landscape to have so you can figure out which patterns, colors and style are perfect for you and your space.

Softscape

Softscape is the horticultural element of landscaping, which includes flowers, plants, shrubs, trees, etc. Softscape is meant to complement the overall landscape and design of the backyard. There are various design themes when it comes to softscaping including ones that are sustainable, drought tolerant, luxurious, etc. 

Hardscape

Hardscape is the hard landscape element of landscaping, which includes driveways, paved areas, retaining walls, stairs, walkways and any other additions to the landscape that are made of  wood, stones or concrete. Hardscaping, essentially, structures and establishing the general layout of the yard. Hardscaping fundamentally alters the foundation of the yard meaning that the hardscaping needs to be done before the softscaping can be done. 

Appropriate Texture

It is essential to keep in mind the texture you want your landscape to have. The way you achieve having the perfect texture to you is by having the right combination of soft and hard landscaping coupled with the correct color tones.

Choosing the right color combination

Having the right color palette is one of the most important aspects of landscaping. The color palette is vital to accentuate and compliment the other aspects of the landscape like the softscape and hardscape aspect of the landscape design.

Maintenance plan

Maintaining your yard is a given so having a maintenance plan will give you a leg up when the time does come. Keeping a maintenance plan in place will allow you to better care and track the health of your plants. We highly recommend you consult a landscape professional about the maintenance that your yard will require so you can have a detailed idea of what needs to get done. Different plants require different levels and different kinds of maintenance. 

Why you may want to Invest in a Patio over a Deck

There are a multitude of different options when it comes to making ones outdoor space more functional but by far the most popular options are either a patio or a deck. Without a doubt, both patios and decks are wonderful choices if you are looking to create more space in your home for entertaining guests or simply relaxing with the family. Many professionals, however, recommend patios over deck to their clients. Find out why they recommend patios over decks. 

1. Patios are more budget friendly

Patio’s on average cost about $15 for every square foot, while a basic deck using only treated wood will cost on average $30 for every square foot. If however you decide you’d like to use cedar, or mahogany any other high end wood as the basis for you deck the price is about triple the price of the basic deck. 

2. Patios are easier to maintain

Patios are much easier to maintain. Sealing your pavers or deck is vital to protect your investment because both are susceptible to the elements meaning they both require regular maintenance. The difference between pavers and decks is their maintenance schedule, decks need to be resealed every year, while patios need to be resealed every 3 years.  

3. Patios last longer

Pavers are more durable than decks because patios are made from pavers, while decks are made from wood or composites. Pavers are more resistant to the elements unlike wood which is much more susceptible to temperature extremes. Furthermore, patios have an average lifespan of 25 years meaning you will definitely enjoy your patio for a long time with minimal maintenance 

Whether you are in the market for a patio, a deck or are still debating between the two speak to one of our professionals about your project get your dream outdoor entertainment space fill out our FREE Estimate to get started!

Why You Should Hire A Professional To Install Interlocking Pavers

Interlocking Pavers are a great choice regardless if you’re building a new driveway or you’re remodeling your sidewalk or patio. They are highly sought after by homeowners who are looking to upgrade the aesthetics to their home or increase the property value of their home because interlocking pavers are highly flexible, durable and aesthetically pleasing. 

Interlocking Pavers can be a beautiful addition to your home, however, if not properly installed the pavers can cause a lot of issues in that will manifest in the future. Costing you money and time.

The best way to avoid these headaches would be to hire a contractor.

The installation process of interlocking pavers is very similar to putting together a puzzle. Installing interlocking pavers is very different from installing tile, tile requires a non-flexible surface and mortar while the pavers require a lot more work to complete the process correctly, it is not as simple as putting some paving stones on the dirt and walking away. The installation process is tedious and intricate but it is well worth it because pavers are far more durable, flexible, and aesthetically appealing than concrete.

Some of the major advantages of pavers are low maintenance, durable, highly versatile, environmentally friendly, weather resistant. Pavers are also easily repaired or replaced.

Interlocking Pavers are a wonderful addition to any home, however, the process is time-consuming and can be intricate, meaning if you want to ensure that the pavers are installed correctly and properly the first time it may behoove you to hire a contractor. To speak to one of our professionals about your project fill out our FREE Estimate. 

5 TIPS for Watering YOUR Plants like an Expert

Watering Plants is not as easy as people may think. To properly Water Plants requires nuance. Your yard can be taken to the next level by following a few of our tips. 

1. Every Plant needs a different amount of Water

Depending on what kind of plant it is - whether the plant is a tree, shrub, or flower bush - the plant will require different amounts of water in order to thrive. How much water a plant needs usually is directly proportional to the size of their roots. A small annual plant is going to require less water than a 42-year-old Oak Tree. Make sure you do your homework on how much water your plants need.

2. Water your Plants on a Consistent Schedule 

Making sure you water your plants on a consistent schedule is a great way to make sure that your plants prosper. You can water your plants manually at the same time every day but the easiest way is to set up your sprinkler system to water the plants at a specific time. Keep in mind that during the hotter months, you might want to water your plants in the early morning before the suns comes up, because the morning sun can cause the water to evaporate too quickly, causing plants to wilt and die because of a lack of water. 

3. Water your Plants at the Right Time of Day

The seasons should dictate your watering schedule. For example, if you water your plants in the middle of the day during the summer, the water may evaporate too quickly, leaving your plants susceptible to drying out and dying. Your best bet is to water your plants in the early morning before the sun rises. Depending on where you live, what kind of plant you have and the time of year are things to consider when setting up your watering schedule. 

4. Water your Plants using Drip Irrigation

Drip Irrigation is the most efficient way to water your plants, thus you’re not only saving money on your water bill but you’re also saving the earth’s water. Drip Irrigation uses hoses with punctured holes along the hose. The hose is then laid throughout your garden where it will deliver water straight to the root of the plants, hence you are using water more efficiently and wisely. 

5. As Plants Mature you need to their Adjust Water Amount

As plants mature, their watering needs will change over time. As the plant matures and gets bigger so will their roots thus the plant will need more water as it gets older. Hence, as your plants mature you will need to spend more time watering your plants or you will need to adjust the water levels of your sprinkler system. Be sure to be aware of your plants health and needs as they mature.