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February 2, 2010

Garden Arbors are Great

Filed under: Annapolis Garden Arbors & Pergolas, Atlanta Garden Arbors & Pergolas, Austin Arbors & Pergolas, Dallas Arbors & Pergolas, Landscaping/Outdoor, Services, arbors & pergolas — Tags: , , , , — Mike @ 1:59 pm

garden_arbors

There are several things to consider when thinking about an arbor as part of your backyard décor. You must think of the function and use. You must also consider the type of arbor you are going to install, what you will use for plant material and the installation process. Garden arbors can be a fantastic addition to any landscape.

Function of an Arbor
Most garden arbors are structures used in gardens or social areas outdoors. However, on some occasions arbors are used indoors as well. There are two main functions of an arbor. These functions include; shade and display of greenery or plants. When planting along an arbor it is best to choose plants that will grow up along the sides of the archway and even over the top. This will allow for plenty of shade and a stunning backdrop for your garden setting.
What are the Uses of an Arbor?
Arbors are used as focal points in a garden. They can be made of many materials including; wood, vinyl, metal and even plastic. Arbors can also be used for specific events like parties or weddings. During these occasions they serve the role of featuring the guests or bride and groom during the ceremony. Draping plants or fabrics around the arbor will give it a grand look during an event and it will make a beautiful statement. You may even consider an arbor with a bench or seating area so that guests can relax underneath the shade of the flowers and plants on top. Arbors are versatile and can be used for ever day use in a garden or as decoration at an event or party.
Types of Arbors
There are many types of arbors including; wood, vinyl, metal and hard plastic. Typically wood and metal arbors are treated so that they do not rot or rust. Wood and metal can also be painted to match any style. If you are looking for a low maintenance arbor option you may consider vinyl or hard plastic. Both of these options come in different styles and finishes and can be customized to fit your personal style and taste.
Decorating an Arbor
Arbors are designed to allow plants and flowers to grow upwards onto them. Plants such as ivy and those with vines are ideal for use with a garden arbor. Another option for decorating an arbor is using fruit such as grapes. This fruit will grow up the sides and onto the top of the arbor making harvesting the grapes easy. Adding flowering plants, vines or fruit to your arbor will make it a focal point of your garden or landscape. Choose plants with an impact that will grow nicely up the sides of the arbor.
Installing the Arbor
Most arbors can be installed fairly easily. Some stores offer kits that can be put together simply with tools such as a drill, hammer and screwdrivers. Other projects are more difficult and will need an expert’s touch. Custom arbors can be incorporated into any landscape design.

Arbors function as beautiful focal points to any garden landscape. They have many uses including providing shade and a center piece for a get together or reception. There are also many types of arbors including; vinyl, wood, metal and even hard plastic. Decorating all types of arbors comes down to personal choice. You may choose vines, ivy or fruit to decorate your arbor. Be sure to consult with a professional before installing your arbor. While some projects are relatively simple, others require more design and installation expertise. Find an arbor that will provide years of beauty in your garden oasis.

8 Types of Atlanta Retaining Walls

Filed under: Atlanta Retaining Walls, Retaining Walls, Services, retaining wall block, retaining walls in atlanta — Tags: , , , , , — Mike @ 1:47 pm

atlanta_retaining_walls

Retaining walls in Atlanta are made from various materials including; masonry, stone, brick, concrete, vinyl and steel. There are several different types of retaining walls that can be installed. Gravity walls, cantilever retaining walls, sheet piling retaining walls, counterfort retaining walls, concrete retaining walls, block retaining walls, rock retaining walls and cinder block retaining walls are all types of walls that are used to hold soil, plants and create interest in a garden or landscape. When looking to install or replace a retaining wall in Atlanta it is important to understand the many types of retaining wall options.

1. Gravity Walls
Gravity walls use their weight to withstand the pressure of the soil or plant matter behind them. Typically these retaining walls are built to an average height of three to four feet. They are often made of stones that are dry stacked. The gravity is able to hold back the soil due to the construction of the wall.
2. Cantilever Retaining Walls
This type of Atlanta retaining wall is tied to footings allowing it to be one of the taller types of retaining walls. Cantilever retaining walls are uniform in thickness and can hold back a large amount of soil. These retaining walls are structured in the form of an inverted “T.” The footer of a cantilever wall must be wide enough to prevent the retaining wall from tipping. These retaining walls are not meant for “self-building” purposes as they are difficult to design and build properly.
3. Sheet Piling Retaining Walls
Areas with tight spaces and soft soil are the best places to utilize sheet piling retaining walls. Steel, vinyl or wood planks are used to make this type of retaining wall. One-third of the wall is above ground and the other portion is below ground. A rod or tie back is used to anchor the retaining wall in place.
4. Counterfort Retaining Walls
A fourth type of Atlanta retaining wall is the counterfort retaining wall. These walls’ construction is similar to a cantilever retaining wall. One difference between the two is the added benefit of triangular walls. The top of the retaining wall and the footer are joined by the triangular walls. All three are reinforced by steel. The triangular walls add to the stability and durability of the counterfort retaining wall.
5. Concrete Retaining Walls
The most common type of retaining walls used for outdoor and garden landscapes is concrete retaining walls. They also offer the best support for slopes that are vertically slanted. This type of wall offers more strength because they are higher built with heavier soil underneath them. Concrete retaining walls are ideal for many different climates including Atlanta because of the building materials used.
6. Block Retaining Walls
Block retaining walls are the best type of Atlanta retaining wall to use for enclosing an area in an outdoor space. There are two types of block retaining walls. These two types are; modular and segmented retaining walls. Both types are made of interlocking concrete units. The interlocking units hold back the soil similar to gravity walls.
7. Rock Retaining Walls
For leveling flowers in a garden or bed a rock retaining wall is the best option. It is important to make sure that the rocks used in the construction of this type of wall flows with the esthetics of the garden. The spaces that are between the rocks once they are stacked are filled with soil. Another option is to allow plants to grow in the spaces. This will improve the strength of the wall. This is a very attractive retaining wall option in Atlanta.
8. Cinder Block Retaining Walls
Cinder block retaining walls are also an option for gardens. The blocks are stacked and reinforced by steel bars that are embedded in a concrete foundation. The cinder blocks are stacked with mortar in between for strength. Once the wall is complete, a façade of stone or brick may be added for esthetic reasons.

These are a number of the options when choosing Atlanta retaining walls. They include; gravity walls, cantilever, sheet piling, counterfort, concrete, block, rock and cinder block retaining walls. Each type is different in the kinds of materials that are used and what its intended purpose will be. The best Atlanta retaining wall will be the one that not only fits the needs of your landscape but fits into your budget.

February 1, 2010

Get Your Money’s Worth When Hiring a Pavestone Patio Contractor in Dallas

Filed under: Dallas Pavestone, Pathways & Walkways, Pavestone, Retaining Walls, dallas paver, dallas paver stone, pavestone in dallas — Tags: , , , , — Mike @ 4:14 pm

dallas_paver_stone

Hiring a pavestone patio contractor in Dallas will ensure your new patio will be level, usable, attractive and add value to your home. Pavestone in Dallas is a hardscape feature whether used for patios, pathways, walkways or retaining walls. Proper installation will ensure the new installation will remain attractive for years to come.

Installing Dallas pavestone is not an easy do-it-yourself project. The stones are not simply placed on a level part of the ground and called a “patio”. Doing that will result in an uneven surface within a few months as the ground is saturated with rain or affected by drought or cold.

Proper installation of paving stone requires significant preparation of the base on which the stones will be laid. A good pavestone contractor or installer will create a minimum 4 inches of road base and add one inch of masonry sand. The total excavation for Dallas paving stone (prior to placing any stones) is a minimum 7-8 inches.

When you consider excavating the dirt and replacing it with base material and sand you would see what a huge project this can be. For an 1,100 square patio you would be removing over 20 cubic yards of dirt which would be 3 or more dump truck loads. If you are removing an old concrete patio to replace it with new pavers, clearly this is not an easy weekend project. Many homeowners start pavestone projects without an understanding of the potential difficulty or requirements of the project.

The average homeowner has the skills necessary to cut the stone to shape and to design a simple patio made of Dallas paving stone. If you need steps added, slopes considered or edging that will hold the paved installation securely in place without shifting, chances are you should be hiring a pavestone patio contractor in Dallas.

When you ask for bids, be certain the contractors are making quotes on the same pavestone and that you specify the base and any other materials you think are necessary. There are many shapes and colors of pavestone available. Every local market has variations in pricing which is to be expected. When requesting bids to hire a pavestone contractor in Dallas it is wise to specify the exact stone and products you require and also ask the contractors for recommendations of alternate products if the bids received are higher than you expected.

Atlanta Deck Design: Unique Styles for a Unique Location

Filed under: Atlanta Decks, Covered Decks, Decks, atlanta covered decks, atlanta deck, atlanta deck design, covered decks in atlanta, decks in atlanta — Tags: , , , — Mike @ 3:11 pm

atlanta_decks

The loveliest Atlanta deck design I’ve seen was one that extended from the second floor living room of a contemporary home built at the top of a small steep hill.  The deck is twelve by fourteen feet and approximately fifteen feet above the hilltop. The beauty is in the view from this deck in Atlanta as the hill is heavily wooded from top to bottom.  

Sitting on the raised deck is like sitting in the treetops.  The view of nature and privacy provided by the simple deck is calming and peaceful while the deck is high enough to catch any errant breeze even on the hottest summer day.  A retractable awning is not noticeable unless it is extended.   The addition of the awning provides a covered deck in Atlanta that can double as a sleeping porch if desired.  Accessible only from the home this elevated deck provides a safe outdoor area twenty-four hours a day.

Covered decks in Atlanta are common.  In a location where winter is short and mild while summer days may be searing sunlight punctuated with quick, drenching showers, a covered deck is the most useful outdoor living space.

Outdoor activities are a big part of the Atlanta lifestyle.  Neighborhood patio parties, cookouts and pool parties are common in many subdivisions and it’s a rare day when you drive through an area of homes and don’t see someone sitting on their deck outdoors.

The rolling hills found on the north side of the city are perfect for the addition of decks rather than poured patios.  Built-in benches on Atlanta decks are a common standard feature of many home builders in the area.  Decks built of composite materials rather than wood have gained popularity in recent years for their resistance to weather damage.

High end home builders often add decks in Atlanta that are part of a larger outdoor living plan.   The deck becomes the open living area outdoors and provides direct access to a sun room or screened porch.  Covered decks in Atlanta may incorporate a stylish pergola or provide an awning covering a portion of the deck that is used for the hot tub so commonly found in area homes.

The latest requirement for covered decks in Atlanta is the addition of an outdoor kitchen.  No longer is a simple gas grill enough for homeowners who love to entertain.   Instead they often add built in grills, refrigerators and even pizza ovens for outdoor parties.

Few homes built in the southern states do not include some form of deck or patio.  The use of decks in Atlanta is a feature home buyers have come to expect.  Atlanta deck designs that are stylish and well constructed add significant value to the ho

Annapolis Patio Ideas Provide a Stylized and Controlled Approach to Outdoor Living

Filed under: Annapolis Patio, Patio Covers, Patio Installation, annapolis patio covers, annapolis patios, patios in annapolis — Tags: , , , — Mike @ 3:00 pm

annapolis_patios

In Annapolis, patio ideas are most often highly structural.  Landscaping is considered an art and patios are carefully thought out designs which are implemented exactly as planned.

Patios in Annapolis are often hardscape designs rather than simply poured concrete slabs.  The use of stone and pavers provides the ability to craft an exact shape for the structure and are often designed to include trees and ornamental shrubs that are already in place.

The patios are shaped by the hardscape in designs that are rectangular, square or round but are often complex plans that include multiple shapes or several circles used to form the architectural feature as a whole. 

 The careful placement of pavers provides the backdrop for the plantings that complete the visual canvas of a well designed Annapolis patio.  Soil must often be amended to support roots of plants in a healthy way and foundation plantings most often strictly follow the lines of the hardscape.  Here and there, the uniform foundation plants are highlighted by small garden areas of specimen plants such as annual flowering varieties.

The patios may be traditional outdoor areas adjacent to the back of the home or may be hardscape around an inground pool with walkways leading from the home.  Curved lines are the most popular choice for many patios in Annapolis.  Although the curve might appear freeform, closer inspection reveals the shapes are always carefully controlled and planned as part of the over all hardscape.  In gardening, freeform indicates a shape that conforms to nature.  Patios in Annapolis most often are meant to look freeform but without the changing form we associate with nature.

Patios in Annapolis often include an area for shelter from wind and rain common to the locale.  Patio covers may be provided as a pergola structure or may be of weather resistant canvas as a retractable awning.  When the patio includes a hot tub it is not unusual to find a small open structure built around the hot tub with canvas walls that can be unfurled to allow use of the hot tub in inclement weather.

For homeowners in Annapolis, patio ideas are often complex hardscape plans that add both value and usability when constructed on their property and become an extension of the living space of their home.

Improve Your Outdoor Living by Adding a Custom Arbor or Pergola in Dallas

Filed under: Dallas Arbors & Pergolas, arbors & pergolas, dallas garden arbor, dallas pergolas, garden arbor in dallas, pergola dallas, pergola in dallas — Tags: , , , , , , — Mike @ 2:45 pm

pergola_dallas

Adding a custom arbor or pergola in Dallas is fast becoming a tradition. Gardening in this part of Texas is a challenge as the soil is often referred to as “black gumbo”. Amending the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches is often recommended to those who long to establish thriving flowers and vines in the Texas soil and that makes gardening a serious effort. The work necessary to prepare a garden bed for planting is worth it if you turn that space into a feature of your property by adding a pergola or arbor.

Dallas pergolas are often seen gracing front entrances or covering the patios behind homes in the suburbs. Pergolas are open designs built with substantial wood frames that are often left unfinished to age over time or may be painted white to blend with the home. Dallas pergolas may be structural designs in themselves or may be graced with climbing and flowering vines.

The Dallas garden arbor is another landscape feature that has a practical use as well as providing structure in the garden. The winter winds that drive in from the Arctic often flatten plants in gardens of the area. Using a garden arbor in Dallas can keep tender climbing plants from breaking but also can provide a shield when placed around ornamental plants to reduce wind damage caused when branches are bent beyond the breaking point.

In Dallas pergolas may be used as separate structures in a sheltered area of the property. Some may have canvas coverings that can be extended to provide protection from the rain while others are surrounded and covered with wisteria vines and lovely drooping flower clusters. These provide an excellent place to read, relax, reflect or meditate while enjoying the butterflies and other wildlife visiting the flowers around you.

Sturdy wood arbors with a gate attached are often used to highlight the entry to a well kept garden. In town, a Dallas garden arbor may provide a stylish entry from the street or sidewalk to the home’s front walkway and may be built as part of the fencing of a yard or as a standalone structure.

Located in the garden itself, the arbors may include benches for seating where the visitor can view the flowers surrounding him or listen to the splashing of a water garden. Small ponds offer an opportunity to add a pergola in Dallas and lead the eye to the pond and to the garden bench beneath the structure.

Outdoor living is a big focus of the Texas lifestyle. Adding a custom arbor or pergola in Dallas is part of the garden plan of many homeowners.

Which Type of Dallas Patio Cover is Right for You?

Filed under: Covered Decks, Dallas Patio, Patio Covers, Patio Installation, dallas patio covers, dallas patios, patios in dallas — Tags: , , , , — Mike @ 7:46 am

Patios_in_Dallas

Which Type of Dallas Patio Cover is Right for You?

There are many options to choose from when deciding on the type of Dallas patio cover that will work best for you. Some of these options include; natural wood, aluminum, acrylic, synthetic wood and fabric. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages so it is important to become familiar with all of the options before making your decision.

Choosing Wood

Natural wood can be a great choice. It provides you with the beauty and elegance of nature without any synthetic materials being used. A wood patio cover will blend into the surrounding and create a nice transition between your indoor living space and the outdoors. There are many options for stains and even paint colors as well. While this may not be a choice for everyone, natural wood may be the right material if you are looking for sophistication and beauty that incorporate natural elements. One disadvantage of natural wood is that it will need to be maintained and treated for termite and weather resistance. If you choose to paint your Dallas patio cover you will need to repaint from time to time as well. If you decide to use natural wood for your patio cover, be sure to find wood that is of high quality that is durable.

Aluminum and Acrylic

If you are looking for an option that is maintenance free consider aluminum or acrylic for your patio cover in Dallas. They are strong and will withstand the environment. Aluminum and acrylic do not need to be treated for weather or insect infestation and because they come prefabricated they will not need to be repainted or stained to maintain their beauty. A drawback to these materials is that they are hard to match to the surroundings. When choosing an aluminum or acrylic patio cover look for one that is sturdy and will last for years to come.

What about Synthetic Wood?

Another option for your Dallas Patio cover is synthetic wood. This option is typically made of acrylic or a material similar to acrylic. They are designed to look like real wood and come in many different stain colors to suit any taste or design preference. Synthetic wood is easy to maintain and can provide a seamless effect of outdoor living. Most homeowners find cost to be a disadvantage to using synthetic wood. Generally this type of patio cover material will need to be enhanced with real wood beams to add strength and durability to the product. This fact can bring up the cost of using this material. If you are looking for a Dallas patio cover material that simulates the look of real wood and is easy to maintain consider synthetic wood.

Fabric

You may want to consider fabric as another option for your Dallas patio cover material. There are many different styles, textures and designs that are available when choosing a fabric patio cover. These types of covers come in many different styles and the options for the material that the cover will be made of is great as well. Fabric has the advantage of being customized to suit any décor. A down side to fabric patio covers is the maintenance and durability. While most fabric patio covers come treated for the elements they are not as durable as other solid materials. If you are considering a fabric patio, look for one that is strong and will stand the test of time.

Dallas patio covers come in many different materials. You may choose natural wood for its beauty, aluminum or acrylic for its easy maintenance, synthetic wood for the realism or fabric for its versatility. Do your research to find a Dallas patio cover that fits your taste, style and budget.

Material Options for Dallas Retaining Walls

Filed under: Dallas Retaining Walls, Retaining Walls, retaining wall block, retaining walls in dallas — Tags: , , , , — Mike @ 7:36 am

retaining_walls_dallas

If you are considering a retaining wall for your property in Dallas then it is important to understand what materials options you will have for your retaining wall project. Five ideas for Dallas retaining wall materials include; pre-cast concrete stone, concrete masonry block, segmented concrete blocks, keystone blocks and manufactured blocks. Each type of material is unique in its appearance and features.

Pre-Cast Concrete Stone

This is one of the best materials to use for a retaining wall. It is a great option because no mortar is needed during the building process. Each piece of concrete stone simply interlocks into place. Once all of the pieces are stacked together it will create a solid wall. A pre-cast concrete stone is ideal for building walls that are curved as well due to the fact that they can be found in a tapered form as well. This is a type of material that produces a strong and stable result and an attractive retaining wall.

Concrete Masonry Block

Concrete masonry block is one of the most common types of material that is used to build a retaining wall structure. These blocks are strong and provide stable support for the wall. Once the retaining wall is installed it will require very little maintenance. It is ideal for areas where there is heavy rainfall and precipitation. Concrete masonry block comes in many different styles that range from a standard block to a very elaborate design. Because of the availability of choices this is an option that will suit many different tastes.

Segmented Concrete Blocks

Segmented concrete blocks are ideal for a Dallas retaining wall project. This type of block is very easy to install because it is especially light weight. Like pre-cast concrete stones this type of material does not need mortar. Once the concrete blocks are put together they use their own weight for support.  This is another option that comes in many sizes, shapes and colors. There are many options to choose from when considering this type of material. Segmented concrete blocks are strong and easy to use when installing a Dallas retaining wall.

Keystone Block

This is another option for retaining walls. Keystone blocks are ideal because they are light weight and designed for projects such as building retaining walls. These blocks interlock using a pin that is placed into the center of the block. They can be used for larger projects and are very strong once they are stacked. There are many options for wall style from curved to zig-zag and circular. The options available for keystone blocks are numbered. This is a reliable option for a Dallas retaining wall.

Manufactured Block

An option that is unconventional is the manufactured block. Often these are made with a glass or concrete façade. This is an option for a Dallas retaining wall that is different and will offer a unique look to a retaining wall project. Manufactured block comes in many different colors and styles. A surprising option is block that resembles wood or even stone.  Whether you are looking for a contemporary look or an old world look manufactured block is an option that will offer function while being esthetically pleasing.

Choosing the material for your Dallas retaining wall project can be difficult. With these five options in mind you have an idea of what types of stones and blocks to look for when making your decision.

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