Category: garden

Unique inspiration for garden and patio features
Enhancing your garden and patio with unique features like deck privacy screen panels can create a distinctive and inviting outdoor space. Here is some unique inspiration for garden and patio features:

1. Water Features
- Naturalistic Ponds: Create a pond with natural shapes, incorporating rocks, water plants, and fish. Add a small waterfall or stream for movement and sound.
- Water Walls: Install a vertical water wall that cascades down into a basin. It can double as a decorative element and a soothing sound source.
2. Fire Elements
- Fire Pits: Build a custom fire pit using stone, metal, or concrete. Consider unique shapes like geometric designs or natural forms.
- Fire Tables: Integrate a fire feature into a dining or coffee table with a central gas or ethanol burner.
3. Lighting Innovations
- Solar Path Lights: Use solar-powered lights along pathways and garden beds to create a magical nighttime atmosphere.
- Fairy Light Canopies: Drape fairy lights across pergolas or trees to create a twinkling canopy.
4. Vertical Gardens
- Living Walls: Install a vertical garden with a variety of plants on a wall or fence. Use modular panels or DIY with pallets.
- Hanging Planters: Create a series of hanging planters with cascading flowers or herbs to save ground space and add greenery at different heights.
5. Seating Areas
- Sunken Seating: Design a sunken seating area with built-in benches and cushions. Surround it with plants or water features for a cozy nook.
- Swing Seats: Install swing seats or hanging chairs from sturdy pergolas or tree branches for a fun and relaxing seating option.
- Custom Metal Decorative Panels: Create privacy and a sense of being in an upscale space.
6. Pergolas and Arbors
- Wisteria-Covered Pergola: Build a pergola and plant wisteria to grow over it, creating a fragrant and shaded area.
- Metal Arbors: Use ornate metal arbors as entryways to different garden sections, providing both structure and beauty.
7. Unique Pathways
- Mosaic Paths: Create pathways using mosaic tiles or stones to form intricate patterns and designs.
- Stepping Stones: Use irregularly shaped stepping stones or large leaf-shaped stones to create whimsical paths.
8. Creative Planters
- Repurposed Items: Use old bathtubs, sinks, or barrels as unique planters. Paint and decorate them to match your garden’s theme.
- Stacked Planters: Create vertical planters by stacking different-sized pots or using tiered shelving.
9. Sculptures and Art
- Garden Sculptures: Place sculptures throughout your garden. Consider abstract forms, animals, or themed figures that complement your garden style.
- Art Installations: Install art pieces like wind chimes, kinetic sculptures, or large murals on garden walls.
10. Multi-Functional Spaces
- Outdoor Kitchen: Build an outdoor kitchen with a grill, sink, and prep area for alfresco dining and entertaining.
- Yoga or Meditation Zone: Create a serene corner with a platform for yoga or meditation, surrounded by plants and calming elements.
11. Wildlife-Friendly Features
- Bee Hotels: Install bee hotels to attract pollinators and support local ecosystems.
- Bird Baths and Feeders: Place bird baths and feeders around the garden to attract and support birdlife.
12. Interactive Elements
- Chalkboard Walls: Install a chalkboard wall for kids (and adults) to draw and write on.
- Sensory Gardens: Design areas with plants that engage all the senses—fragrant flowers, textured leaves, and edible plants.
Remember you don’t need to completely reinvent the wheel! Even a small update like a fence topper can make a big impact. The above unique inspiration for garden and patio features can enhance the beauty, functionality, and enjoyment of your outdoor space, creating a personalized retreat that reflects your style and interests. Thanks to Laser Cut Arts for consulting.
May 22, 2024
Everything You Need To Keep Your Garden Healthy And Neat

Do you love spending time in your garden but struggle to keep it looking tidy?

It takes a lot of work to keep a garden looking nice, and you must care for the yard around it. If you don’t, you’ll be inviting all types of bugs and critters into your garden that can destroy it.

So how can you keep your garden looking healthy and neat? With the right tools on hand, you can trim your garden and properly care for the plants. In this article, you’ll learn the essential tools you need to help keep your garden looking as it should.

Used with permission from Blackband Design

Riding Lawn Mower

A riding lawn mower is a key tool for any gardener who wants to keep their lawn looking healthy and neat. While a traditional push mower can be used to cut grass, it can be difficult to maneuver around obstacles, and the blades may only reach some of the ways to the edge of the lawn.

On the other hand, a riding lawn mower is designed to cut grass quickly and easily, with little effort on the part of the gardener. In addition, most riding lawnmowers have a variety of attachments that can be used for edging, trimming, and even mulching. Also, to help keep the sun from brimming down on you, consider getting a riding lawn mower canopy for protection.

Garden Rake

A rake is essential for anyone who wants to maintain a healthy and well-groomed garden. Rakes help to loosen compacted soil, remove debris and dead leaves, and aerate the soil to promote healthy plant growth.

In addition, rakes can be used to level out uneven areas of the garden and create smooth, defined beds for planting. Whether you’re starting a new garden from scratch or simply trying to keep your existing garden looking its best, a rake is an invaluable tool. With its help, you can create a beautiful outdoor space that will be the envy of your neighbors.

Garden Fork

If you’ve ever tried to dig up a weed with your bare hands, you know it’s not easy. The roots of most plants are strong and can quickly tangle around your fingers.

However, a garden fork is a perfect tool to take on these tough roots. The long, sharp tines can penetrate the ground easily, and the wide head provides plenty of leverage to break through even the most tenacious roots.

In addition, a garden fork can be used to aerate the soil, which is essential for plant health. Loosening up the dirt allows air and water to reach the roots more easily. As a result, your plants will be better able to absorb the nutrients they need to stay healthy and thrive.

Used with permission from Tony Curry

Hand Pruners or Pruning Shears

If you want to keep your garden neat, you need to invest in a good pair of hand pruners or pruning shears. Pruning helps to encourage new growth and keep plants healthy.

It also helps to control the shape of plants and prevent them from becoming overgrown. Hand pruners are designed for small, delicate jobs, while pruning shears are better for larger tasks. When choosing a pair of hand pruners or pruning shears, look for a model that is comfortable to use with blades that are sharp and durable.

Wheelbarrow

A wheelbarrow is an essential piece of equipment for any gardener, providing a convenient way to transport soil, mulch, plants, and other materials around the garden. But a wheelbarrow can also be used for many other tasks, such as aerating the soil, collecting leaves, and even moving heavy pots.

In addition, a wheelbarrow can help to keep your garden looking neat by providing a place to store gardening tools and supplies. So if you’re looking for a versatile helper in the garden, a wheelbarrow is definitely worth considering.

Via Chestnut Grove Designs

Garden Hose

A garden hose is one of the most essential tools any gardener can have. Not only does it provide a convenient way to water plants, but it also helps to keep the garden tidy and free of debris.

A hose can be used to remove leaves and debris from plant beds, and it can also be used to wash garden tools and equipment. In addition, a hose can be used to water hanging baskets and other hard-to-reach areas. So, a good quality hose is an essential tool for any gardener who wants to keep their garden neat and healthy.

Long-Handled Shovels and Spades

A shovel can help you dig holes for planting, turn over the soil to aerate it, and remove weeds and other debris. Specifically, a long-handled shovel provides extra leverage, making digging in hard or compacted soil easier.

In addition, a long-handled shovel can help you avoid back strain by keeping your back straight while you dig. For those with limited mobility, a long-handled shovel can also be a useful gardening tool.

Final Thoughts

A well-tended garden is a thing of beauty. By getting these tools in this article, you can create and maintain a healthy, lush garden that will be the envy of your neighbors. With time and effort, you can have a beautiful garden that will last for years.

December 12, 2022
HOW CAN A GARDEN SCREEN IMPROVE MY OUTDOOR SPACE?

You may be familiar with garden screens, but have you given any thought to the ways in
which they could improve the space you have outside? Garden screens can provide a
solution for a variety of issues, including the need to increase the level of privacy in your
garden, the creation of distinct outside areas for dining, entertaining, playing, relaxing, and
working, and the addition of an enhancing decorative feature. Just in time for summer, here
are some garden screening ideas to get your creative juices flowing and get you thinking.

Photo by Susie Burleson on Unsplash

1. IT CAN INCREASE THE PRIVACY OF YOUR GARDEN

Gardening is a popular hobby in the United Kingdom (42 percent of people enjoy it), and
garden screening, as its name suggests, prevents you from being seen by passers-by while
also creating an enclosure and a private space for dining and relaxing. If you want to have
some privacy in your garden, you should think about the height of the garden privacy
screen, how opaque it is, and how to open it. The dimensions and appearance of our garden
screen panels can be modified to suit your needs. They are an alternative to conventional
fencing and can either be added to an existing fence to make it taller or used independently
as a decorative screen.

The designs we offer for decorative garden screens range from modern decorative garden
screens that really make a statement, like those showcased in our Geometric and
Interesting collections. Or, if you favor traditional outdoor screens that become an integral
part of your garden, such as those featured in our Cultural and Organic ranges.

2. CREATE OUTDOOR ROOMS IN YOUR GARDEN

If you are one of the fortunate 87 percent of Americans who has a garden, you should try to
spend as much time as you can there. Suppose you section your garden into separate areas.
In that case, you’ll have the ability to keep dining and entertaining areas distinct from areas
designated for play, workspaces, vegetable patches, and kitchen gardens. Even if you only
want to use your garden for some of the activities or if you have a small amount of space,
installing outdoor screens will help you make the most of your outdoor space.

3. AN ATTRACTIVE AND LOW-MAINTENANCE ALTERNATIVE TO WOODEN FENCING

Wooden fencing has long been used as the standard method for enclosing gardens. Despite
this, they need regular maintenance because they are susceptible to damage from the
environment. Let’s say you’re looking for a way to surround your garden that won’t require
any upkeep over the long term. In such a scenario, our decorative garden screens represent
an appealing alternative. Our bespoke garden screening comes in a wide variety of colours,
patterns, and sizes, and it can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden borders. The
garden screens are designed for the weather in the UK and are made from high-quality steel with a premium plastic powder coating that shields them from the environment. They were designed and manufactured in the United Kingdom. Garden screening is a practical alternative to the conventional use of wooden fencing due to the ease with which it is installed. On our website, you’ll find information about the outdoor screen’s specifications as well as a method for stress-free do-it-yourself installation.

Photo by Julio Wolf on Unsplash

4. SOMEWHERE FOR YOUR PLANTS TO GROW

In many gardens, the trellis or pergola serves as the centrepiece of the space. Climbing
plants such as clematis and jasmine, as well as rambling roses that are fragrant and
colourful, have a place to grow, thanks to them. On trellises, you can cultivate wild
strawberries, raspberry canes, redcurrants, and blackcurrants if you’re more interested in
the functional side of gardening than the decorative side. Imagine that you are looking for
something that will last for many years; this is something that is especially important for
climbing plants and roses. In this scenario, garden screens provide an attractive alternative
that will continue to look nice even after many years have passed. Because garden screens
are custom-made to order, you have complete freedom in determining their dimensions,
colours, and patterns to ensure that they complement the plants you have planted.
We were able to take full advantage of our gardens thanks to the popularity of pergolas,
which resulted in just under 19 million Google searches in the past year. The sides and roofs
of your pergola can be formed using garden screens, which are the ideal product for this
application. If you use your space for work or entertainment, they will provide you with
shelter, shade, and privacy all at the same time. Garden screens can be tailored to your
specific needs. Different colours, designs and sizes mean that your pergola will be a bespoke
design unique to you.

Photo by Helen Ge on Unsplash

5. IT CAN KEEP THINGS HIDDEN

Many people have recycling bins and trash cans in their backyards, which are obligatory but frequently unsightly due to their location. Screens placed outside are an excellent option for providing an aesthetically pleasing enclosure for these. Choose an opaque screen with few cut-out areas if you want to keep the location of your trash cans a secret. The presence of air conditioning units, oil tanks, and LPG gas bottles is not uncommon in rural gardens that do not have access to mains gas.

Although these are required to have cooking and heating facilities in your house, they are typically located in an outdoor space. Because they are typically quite large, they have the potential to completely take over a garden and turn into an unattractive focal point. The use of garden screens will more effectively disguise them than the use of potted plants. Check to see that there is sufficient clearance between the screen and the gas bottle or tank you are using.

Photo by J. Balla Photography on Unsplash

6. ENCLOSING YOUR HOT TUB OR POOL AREA

Decorative Garden hot tubs are becoming an increasingly common sight in the UK. You want to be able to make the most of them, but at the same time, you don’t want to be watched by people walking by or interrogated by neighbours who are inquisitive about what you’re doing. You may get the desired level of privacy from garden screening, which can also assist you in creating an oasis of tranquilly in which to enjoy your bubbles. In a similar vein, let’s say that your home in the United Kingdom is one of the fortunate 250,000 that features an outdoor swimming pool. In this scenario, outdoor garden screening can be used to enclose your pool area and prevent it from being viewed by passers-by. Our garden screening comes in a variety of colour options, giving you the freedom to select the perfect shade of blue, green, or turquoise to complement the aesthetic of your pool area.Not only will installing luxury screens around your swimming pools and hot tubs make them seem better, but they will also provide you with more privacy. Screening in the garden maintains the separation between the water feature and the rest of the garden, so contributing to the protection of young children and animals that might unintentionally enter the pool area. To qualify as a safety feature, the spa tub or swimming pool space must be completely enclosed. Thanks to Luxury Screens for consulting.

August 30, 2022
Improving Home Improvement with a Contractor Directory

Whether you’ve done it before or not, finding a good contractor for any home improvement project is essential to making sure your project is off to the right start. You want to make sure that your project is done by someone you can trust with your time and money.

Photo by Collov Home Design on Unsplash

Finding someone with the expertise and licensing required to get the job done can be a difficult task. This is where a contractor directory can help. They can find the right contractor or specialist for your home improvement projects.

It doesn’t matter what kind of project you need to be done; a directory can help you find the right person for the job. A Pro Contractor Directory Website can give you options at the tips of your fingertips for every type of contractor and it makes it simple to find reputable people in your area.

How to Use a Contractor Directory?

It may seem complicated at first but once you’ve discovered what it is you need done, all you have to do is determine what kind of contractor you need. Next, search by your location. This will give you a list of contractors in your area. Then all you have to do is pick one. Simple!

Photo by Spacejoy on Unsplash

Why Hire a Contractor

You wouldn’t take your car to anyone but a licensed mechanic, so why should your household projects be any different. Homeowners spend hundreds of thousands of dollars when they purchase their homes. It’s an investment and as such, you shouldn’t let just anyone work on it.

There are lots of licensing and permits that are required for certain home improvement jobs. If you don’t have the proper permits in place, you could be in a world of legal trouble. Steep fines and time wasted on just the tip of the iceberg. It’s important to know what documents you need.

You might find that the renovation you started can’t be completed. Worse yet, any renovations or additions you made to your home before getting a permit may not be counted to your home’s overall value and you might not be able to use your renovations to increase the market value of your home.

A contractor removes these obstacles for you so you don’t have to worry! Check out this website for additional reasons why you should hire a general contractor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/reasons-to-hire-general-contractor/

Photo by Durian Bullet on Unsplash

What kinds of projects would you need a contractor for?

Renovations, home improvements, and repairs are all things a professional contractor can help you with. Whether it’s adding a room to your home, redoing your kitchen, or repairing your old dishwasher, a contractor can ensure that it’s done correctly the first time.

There are lots of different kinds of contractors so it’s important to choose one that is a good match for your project. Take a look at the different types of contractors to help you find one with the right skillset.

Electricians

            These are the guys you want to call with anything that involves an electrical socket. Maybe you are adding outdoor lighting to illuminate your driveway or garden beds and need someone to help you install it? Or maybe you recently bought a new house and there’s a problem with the circuit breaker and need someone to fix it.

Whatever the case may be, you’ll want to find someone who can do the work safely and efficiently. By looking at a Contractor Directory, you can find someone who can do this kind of work well.

Photo by todd kent on Unsplash

Plumbers

            A contractor directory can help you find a plumber who can lay the pipes for the bathroom of your dreams. They can help you renovate the bathroom that’s already there or add the plumbing to a new home or addition.

            A plumber can also fix leaks from sinks and showers, fix toilets that don’t flush, and tubs that won’t drain. They’re not just for home improvement projects! They can be used for life’s everyday mishaps.

Painters

            Picking out the perfect shade for your new nursery or office is an exciting experience. Paint color can create memories or put a personal spin on any room. By hiring a painter, you can put your personal touch on just one room or your entire home! If you want to brighten your life, call a painter!

Landscapers

            Landscaping is a great way to add value to your home and improve your living space but it must be done right. Without proper thought or expertise, you could be adding plants to areas that won’t let them thrive. For example, if you place a rose bush in a shaded area, it won’t bloom since it requires heavy sunlight. Then all that work and money will be for nothing!

            Landscapers don’t just make flower suggestions though. They can help you add water features, create walking paths with pavers, trim your flower gardens, and help you take care of your lawn!

Window Replacers

            A lot of people don’t think about replacing their windows until they need them replaced. New windows can help regulate your home’s temperature. If the windows are older and worn, warm air can escape from your house and make it harder to heat up.

            Since windows are important for regulating our household insulation, it’s important to find someone who knows what they are doing. A bad window installation by someone without experience will only cost you more in the end. A contractor directory will let you find people who have the experience you need.

Carpenters

            If it’s time to replace that linoleum flooring with hardwood, look no further than a carpenter. A carpenter can help lay down the perfect hardwood flooring in your living room, dining room, or bedroom. They can also give your kitchen new life by creating cabinets that fit your home or style.

Architects

            Architects are the building masters. Maybe you just bought a piece of land and want to build your own custom house. Unless you’ve been to school for it, you probably won’t get too far. By contacting an architect, they can assist you in creating the perfect house just for you.

For more types of contractors, click here.

June 7, 2022
How To Prep Up Your Garden For The Next Season

Spring is the garden season, and homeowners expect to be busier during the warmer months of the year. There is more work to do, from spring cleaning and decluttering your living space, to setting up your backyard for the colorful blooms. But it doesn’t mean you should sit idle during the colder days. Consider fall as a prep time to get your garden ready for a great start next spring. A little work during this season can make the greens and blooms healthier in the upcoming spring and summer. Here are some tips to get started with the preparations.

Weed thoroughly

Used with permission of Blackband Design

It is easy to overlook tiny weeds in your garden, but they are the worst thing to have around. Pull every single weed you can see around. If you fail to clear them out, they will go to seed. It means you will probably end up with hundreds of pesky weeds in the next season. Weeds are undesirable because they shelter insects and harbor plant diseases over the winter. It is vital to get rid of them before hanging up your gardening tools.

Amend the soil

Gardening off-season gives you the time to test your soil and take the requisite action to amend it. You can buy a test kit to find the pH of the soil and decide if you need to adjust it next year. It is also the correct time to treat the soil with some compost so that it can break down and mix in over the winter. You will end up with nutrient-dense soil for a thriving yield in the growing season.

Divide and transplant

Used with permission of Blackband Design

You can take advantage of the cool and wet weather during the fall and divide and transplant perennials. If you want to create new beds from scratch, a garden auger drill bit can help to clear the rocks easily and quickly. Divide perennials through late October so that they have enough time to establish roots before the first frost. Avoid cutting the roots while dividing the plant if you want more resilient ones.

Protect tender plants

When colder months are around the corner, tender plants require extra protection to survive. Water them deeply before the ground freezes. Provide insulation by adding a thick layer of mulch around their roots. You can create a greenhouse effect with warmer air by wrapping tender plants with burlap or plastic. It will keep them safe from wind, snow, and low temperatures.

Seed the lawn

Used with permission of Blackband Design

Apart from prepping the garden for healthier plants next season, you must also seed the lawn. Check it for sparse and damaged areas that have appeared over the summer months. Patch these areas with fresh seed early in fall so that you have new grass before winter dormancy sets in. Just a little extra care with watering and manure can make the place lush green.

Make sure that your garden is clean during fall because fallen leaves can give shelter to pests. Clear them away often and stay regular with gardening even during downtime. Thanks to all the companies linked above.

August 5, 2021
Synthetic Turf and the Reasons to Install It

Synthetic Turf

Have you ever heard about synthetic turf or thought about the importance of it? If your answer is yes to these questions, then this is what you should read and what will make you gain knowledge on this time-saving and productive ‘miracle-advancement’!

Synthetic turf (often called 3G turf or astroturf or artificial grass), a surface of synthetic fibers made to look like natural grass, seems like the perfect solution for replacing thirsty lawns with something that plays natural yet is totally (un)dead and therefore requires no water, no maintenance, and no sweat.

Even though this sounds fantastic and at the same time hilarious the story of artificial turf is not as simple as it seems, and most of it has to do with the “no sweat” part of it. We get so much more from beautiful lawns rather than a splash of color. For those of us who want the all-year-round perfect grass, artificial turf may seem to be the answer.

Photo by Ronnie George on Unsplash

Digging Into History!

It’s impossible to imagine an American home without a lawn, one of the most important parts of any outdoor living area and the first impression for your guests. Digging into history, the perfect lawn became a potent symbol of the American dream in post-WWII America. Back then a lawn expressed the national ideal that could have been reached for every American with hardness and devotion.

On the contrary, lawns had another effect and meaning in Europe’s history such as they largely expressed values of elitism and power. For example, some medieval castle dwellers needed to replace their tall grass with lawns to see approaching enemies. And finally, wealthy people with leisure time had a passion to adjust nature into neatly trimmed surfaces for sporting endeavors like golf, tennis, and lawn bowling.

Nowadays, natural lawns have become not as contemporary and actual as they were in the past. Artificial turf-made lawns have come to light to replace the natural ones with more effective and less time-consuming innovations. So, now let’s understand the advantages of synthetic turf!

Photo by Luke Tanis on Unsplash

The Advantages of Synthetic Turf

For the majority of homeowners deciding between installing artificial grass or natural grass, the lawn is a struggle. Synthetic turf offers some benefits that the natural ones lack and the reasons to give your preference to synthetic turf rather than to nature are plentiful.

So, here we have short-listed the pros of installing synthetic turf.

First of all, synthetic turf is beneficial for the environment; it doesn’t need harmful chemicals, fertilizers, fungicides, and pesticides. Other than that, carbon emissions from gas-powered tools like lawnmowers, decreased pollutants, and emissions are absent as synthetic turfs don’t need them to survive. Besides, synthetic lawns accommodate a variety of fun-like activities, such as spending time on the field, running on it without damaging the ground!

Artificial lawn installation costs are cheaper than natural turf installation. Meanwhile, at first, it seems expensive, it’s an investment that improves your home-round area for a couple of years! As only for the fact, the synthetic turf you buy lasts for 20+ years and makes sure your outdoor environment looks fresh, clean, and pretty. It offers a consistent appearance due to its long-lasting materials and perfectly remains the same no matter what the weather looks like outside.

Finally, switching to synthetic turf helps individuals significantly save on water bills. As it is known, maintaining natural grass requires huge amounts of money and owners often need years to recover the installation and maintenance costs.

Photo by Sieuwert Otterloo on Unsplash

Now That You Know Everything, It’s Time to Install!

Given these advantages, you should be consistent with your reasonable choice! So hurry up to order your synthetic turf at Synthetic Turf Wholesale and make your environment astoundingly unique! It is free of harsh emissions, requires low maintenance, saves your finances and time, and is the perfect fit for your environment. Thanks to Synthetic Turf Northwest for consulting.

June 18, 2021
The ultimate garage organization checklist

Yuck. The garage. Not a very fun one to organize is it? Unfortunately it’s one of those chores that must be done, and being that it’s a long weekend you might have more time to get it done. Being that the American Home Buyer expects a garage in the single family home, it is easy to find a lot of organizing resources. I found this amazing plan to tackle your garage in BHG, and added my own ideas to it. Here is BHG’s plan for organizing your storage in the garage.

Create Task Kits. Create kits for various outdoors projects by filling 5- and 10-gallon plastic buckets with all the tools, products, and accessories you need to complete specific tasks such as car-washing, weeding, bicycle repair, and more.

Addition from me: My husband swears by this tactic and uses one of those 5-gallon bucket organizers that you can put over the bucket

Stash Sporting Gear. Fill tall kitchen trash cans with large and odd-shaped sporting gear. Drill holes in the bottom of bins if drainage is important. Stabilize containers by securing to a wall with short bungee cords.

Addition from me: Yes! get everything off the floor that you can. It makes it easier to clean the floors and stops the hazard of your garage door hitting something thus saving you from garage door opener repair. Instead of trash cans, also consider laundry baskets so you don’t have to dig down too deep to find smaller items that might have sunk to the bottom.

Organize the Trunk. Clean out your vehicle’s trunk. Toss every item that is expired or damaged. Place all trunk gear in a canvas bin or box. Make sure the container doesn’t slip by adding rubber or hook-and-loop tape to the bottom.

Addition from me: Make sure you have an emergency roadside kit in your trunk!

Tidy Up the Tools. Hang hand tools on a wall near your workbench from hooks on pegboard, magnetic board, or a wall-mount strip system. Label each tool’s spot. Put extra tools in a tool box or clear plastic boxes and store on floor underneath workbench.

Addition from me: Make sure often used tools are easiest to reach, and specialty items can be stored higher up

I’ve rounded up a bunch of images that I hope you find inspiring and help you rally the motivation to organize the garage. Once you’re done, you can take a look at garage storage guides to help you get your garage organized as can be.

The chalkboard cabinet and drawer fronts is a great idea. You could always paint yours with chalkboard paint.

A magnetic kitchen knife strip works great for holding drill bits too

Use magnetic spice containers to hold small hardware in the garage

This space has to be the prettiest garage I’ve ever seen

In the garage, bins and hooks and boxes are our friends

A rolling cart with most used cleaning supplies and tools is a great idea!
images above via BHG

Take a cue from Julia Child’s kitchen and do the same for your tools!
via Martha Stewart

To summarize, we almost all have a garage. Just check out Mississauga Real Estate to confirm. That being said, organizing it doesn’t have to be a miserable chore. The peace of mind and ease it will bring to your life makes it all worth it! Thanks to American Home Buyer, ssbhg.ca, and Canadian Doors for consulting!

October 23, 2020
How to: Transform a Boring Yard Into a True Garden Oasis

via Blackband Design

Imagine how wonderful it is to have a garden where you can spend hours enjoying the beautiful nature and sunshine. But simply having a yard is not enough. You also need to make an effort to transform your yard into a more pleasant space where you would like to spend your outdoor time. Most interior lovers focus on decorating and styling their homes while paying minimal attention to the design of their garden. However, you should take at least a little time to tidy up your yard, otherwise, you will hardly have an ideal place to enjoy and relax outdoors. Here you will learn how:

Make a concept

Start with the essentials; learn about what flowers and plants will generally thrive on your type of soil. Think of ways you can organize and plant them. Decide where the flowers, plant beds, and your lawn are going to be. Think about investing in the garden and grass endings. It will protect your grass and plants, and you can check here for more info. Be creative, and think about what will look innovative and beautiful in your yard. Make sure to also invest in a weed killer to further tidy up the yard. This way, you will surely have an amazing garden.

via Blackband Design

Create paths

In addition to the flowers, it would be nice to make a path that will pass through those flower alleys. It doesn’t have to be complicated. That path could lead to a small corner that is completely isolated and hidden among the plants. For example, set up a wooden bench or a nice chair at the end of the path, and you will have all the privacy of this world that only you will be able to enjoy.

Combine fruits and flowers

Berries are used for food, but at the same time, they can be used for decoration in flower beds. Strawberries, blackberries or blueberries are great for this purpose. You can have a garden that is beautiful to look at, relaxing to spend time in, and perfect for growing berries for your healthy breakfasts or snacks.

via Blackband Design

Find inspiration

Make a patio that draws inspiration from Spanish architecture. Think about paved plateaus, colors, fountains, raised flower beds… You will probably need the help of an expert or a friend for this, but it is worth it. Google various architecture solutions and it will help you create the garden of your dreams. Landscaping and planting flowers is a creative job where, step by step, you create your oasis for relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you choose Boho, Japanese or classic style, a yard that you have arranged yourself will always be your favorite place.

Add a water element

Wouldn’t it be nice to have your own pond full of water lilies? Not everyone will have enough space for this, but if you have room for this in your garden, be sure to incorporate it. Because there is no place where you will more enjoy hot summer nights, like near water and flowers. Ponds and water elements will always make the garden look amazing. Instead of a pond, you can also make a fountain.

Make your own campfire spot

In urban areas, when landscaping, owners often crave an open-air fireplace, in the end compensating with a barbecue. Make a true luxury location. Create an outdoor fireplace made of natural stones. Place furniture around and decorate the space with plants. You don’t have to travel to exotic locations to feel like you are in heaven. Make your own oasis, bringing together the fire and water element, all combined on your comfortable and intimate patio.

According to JVK & Sons, having a nice deck that overlooks a camp fire can help you create a nice and comfortable space. Imagine sitting on the open deck, with a nice glass of wine, some delicious appetizers and see your kinds roast marshmallows on the camp fire. This will also help you incrementally increase the market valuation of your home. Having the right furniture on your new deck will help in the beautification process.

via Blackband Design

You can always recycle

If you are not ready to invest a lot in the garden, you can recycle and make furniture from wooden pallets, garden stools from car tires, and pots from old newspapers. Be creative and find DIY projects you will enjoy.

Think about lighting

The lighting in the garden can make the space feel magical. You can create the illusion of a starry sky with lamps above the garden table. You can also light up your entire yard, or make it feel more intimate with strategic lighting placements. Think about how you want your space to look during hot summer evenings. Quality, attractive landscape lighting serves to highlight the best parts of your garden, not to mention enhance the visibility, functionality, and security of your yard. Thanks to Gearwear for consulting!

May 8, 2020
How Can I Improve My Outdoor Space?
People tend to forget outdoor space when it comes to designing a home. This is understandable because we always prioritize our indoor. However, you shouldn’t have an excuse for not taking good care of your outside outlook. Outdoor space deserves all your attention.

Many individuals have successfully decorated their outdoor space despite their busy routines. So, why not you? Carrying out this project can sometimes seem impossible. Probably because of your small space, tight budget, lack of ideas, or time. It’s true these factors affect the possibilities of having a decorated outdoor space. Still, they shouldn’t stop you from doing it.

Simply look for something that suits what you have. There are plenty of choices out there. Look for ideas from various sources such as Baytown home Remodeling. Researching can be tiring, and that’s why we are here for you. This article will highlight different ways of how you can improve your outdoor space.

via McAlpine
- Giving it a proper setting
Unlike indoors, outdoor space is open with nothing on it. Your home will appear abandoned if you let its outside remain empty. Something must be done to make it more appealing, with a welcoming look. Try adjusting the setting and apply an arrangement that will speak out your sense of style. Plain outdoor space suggests negligence, and your neighbors might think negatively of your inside. Give your space a friendly appearance.
- Enhance secrecy in your home
Are you fed up with having to do your stuff inside because of our lookers who are always peeping in your home? It’s not fair for outsiders to know everything happening in your compound. Being private can work if you want to improve your space. Fencing is the best way of enhancing your privacy, and it suits both modern and old-fashioned homes. You can fence using polished wood walls or flowers, just make sure you safeguard your privacy.

via McAlpine
- Good maintenance of your yard
Maintaining the yard is difficult, primarily if you don’t utilize it often. It’s only during family gatherings when you’ll notice your lawn is in bad shape. Try to maintain your yard regardless of your laziness. Frequent cleanups will help you keep it in good condition without using a lot of energy. Hire a professional worker to help you out with maintenance if it’s impossible for you. Try to keep it in perfect condition. Don’t forget people judge your home by how the courtyard looks. You wouldn’t want your neighbors to think your house is as unkempt as your garden.
- Brighten up your outdoor space
Adding lights in your space should be in your to-do list. Although the impact is noticeable at night, it is recommendable. Look for colorful candles and places in your space. Alternatively, have lantern lamps to bring out the brightness in a unique way. Lighting does more than adding beauty in your space. It offers security to your compound. Night thieves will be kicked off by the bright light. Try this, and you’ll be surprised at the incredible results.
- Add electronics outside
Transferring technology outside your home might sound ridiculous, but it’s not as bad as you think. If security is in check in your neighborhood, incorporating electronics is worth trying. Freelancing indoors is getting annoying. Try something more fun by working while outside. Do this by connecting Wi-Fi outside your home and set the password to avoid paying the internet for outsiders. Make it lively by installing wireless speakers for music.

via McAlpine
- Put entertainment features
It’s not fair to always think about your welfare. Have your kids in mind. Adding entertainment features like playhouse will excite your children. After all, you are not comfortable with how they stick on television and games the whole day. You can make family gatherings more interesting by having a fire pit. It will be a pleasant experience for both you and your guests.
- Get rid of unnecessary things
Almost every home uses their yard to keep unimportant things. Whether it’s a dirty gardening tool, broken house equipment, old tires, and many other unpleasant items. Removing all these from your outdoor space will make a huge difference. More space will be created, and your place will look neat. This is the cheapest method, and it consumes less energy. Even lazy bones will be done within a few minutes, so there is absolutely no reason for you to allow stuff piling up in your compound.
- Include coverage in your outdoor space
Weather changes can ruin your outdoor style anytime. Having excellent coverage is a smart move. Get a pergola in your space or surround your patio with walls. There is no need to use complicated structures. Keep it simple and natural.
- Making your seating unique
Outdoor chairs are too common to have in a classic home. Change the game in your hood by having floor pillows in your outside place. Make it more pretty by blending shouting colors like green, orange, or yellow. However, don’t try this option if you can’t keep up with the frequent washing of the cushion. This can only work for people who won’t mind cleaning them frequently.

via McAlpine
- Swing up your outdoor space
Hammock or swinging bed is suitable for parents who love swings but are ashamed to directly use it. Reading a novel while swinging is enjoyable. Also, you can comfortably take a nap outside in your swinging bed without any discomfort.
- Potted plants
If you love nature, but gardening isn’t in you, a potted plant is the right choice. It requires less of your attention and takes a small space. Set aside a section and turn it into a plant corner. The magic it’ll do for your outdoor space will be amazing.
- The Bottom Line
Outdoor space shouldn’t be assumed when decorating your home. Give it the attention it deserves. The idea you choose for your space much depends on your style, space, and budget. It would be absurd to choose something just because it worked out with someone else. Take your time and use the best method of improving your outdoor space. Continuous effort and dedication is a must to pull it through. So, decide now and make your outdoor space adorable! Thanks to Baytown Patio Covers for consulting!
May 6, 2020
The most gorgeous backyard pools
If your house has a pool, or you own a pool, then chances are you might be in need of hiring pool services San Clemente area has. And if you are, then it is important that you should be cautious when it comes to hiring pool service companies that will be catering to your needs. It is crucial that you hire only the best so that you are not going to be wasting your money on crappy services.

Photo by Dimitri Houtteman on Unsplash

Things to Consider When Hiring Pool Services San Clemente
- Possibility of Skipped Pool Cleaning
If your pool service provider has a lot of pools to tend to, then there is a high chance that they might be skipping your pool. This is especially true if the pool service company that you have hired is not a good one. Because they have committed to a lot of clients, they might be skipping an account just so they can make up for the lost time. This is also true when the pool service company that you hired is growing because their number of clients is increasing but they only have few employees at hand thereby making it hard for them to accommodate everyone.

Furthermore, if indeed you have encountered skipped pool cleaning, it is also important to stress to not assume that your pool service provider deliberately skipped your pool. Always give your pool service company the benefit of the doubt. But, if it seems that your weekly pool cleaning schedule may have been continuously skipped or overlooked, then you should consider investing in a pool cover reel or pool enclosure as a one-time solution for all.

You should know that pool services that are of good repute should always have tickets that they can leave on your door or any designated area. The tickets should indicate the details of the time that they were there, the chemicals that they used when they cleaned your pool, the condition of your pool and the services that they have provided.
- Compare national against local pool service providers
Photo by Maximilien T’Scharner on Unsplash

One major drawback when it comes to large national pool service companies is that they have high turnover rates. This means that a lot of these pool companies are hiring inexperienced employees and they only provide minimal training. Competent pool technicians are chemists, engineers, plumbers and know how to maintain a swimming pool heater. It should not be limited to one qualification only because there might be repairs needed upon cleaning.

If the rates of your monthly pool services are relatively when you compare it with other pool cleaning service providers, then this can mean that they are paying their employees with low rates as well. If this is the case, then it might result in unqualified employees thereby ending up with unsatisfactory services. Building a relationship is going to take time, so it is important that when you are considering to hire a pool service company, you should only consider companies that already have the experience, the professional qualifications and are also willing to do your pool servicing needs for a long period of time.
- Overcharges for pool chemicals
It is quite bewildering to know that there are pool service companies that are charging their clients with high flat rates and at the same time charging them with additional chemicals on their monthly bills. The common practice for these pool service companies are charging their clients with one flat rate and this is already regardless of the amount of the chemicals that were used for your pool.

Although service charges may increase especially when it is related to seasonal changes or gas price changes, you should still be paying for one flat rate which is what you have agreed with the pool service company beforehand. What this means is that you should not be paying more for acid and chlorine. But when special chemicals are being used, then it is a standard procedure that your pool service company is going to charge you for this.
January 22, 2020