More than ever before, homeowners are doing DIY landscaping projects. With the help of Pinterest, YouTube videos, or home and garden television channels, homeowners think they can easily tackle these projects. However, that doesn’t mean everyone suddenly knows what it takes to create a landscaped yard that boosts curb appeal.

Avoiding DIY Landscaping Mistakes

If you are eager to change the look of your landscape design, there are many routes you may choose to take. By keeping these tips in mind, you can prevent your yard from ending up in the Pinterest landscaping fails hall-of-shame.

Failing to Plan

If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail. When designing a landscape, it is vital that you have a plan for what you want the end result to be. Use some graphing paper and draw a basic outline of what you envision. Then, stick with that design plan as much as possible.

Pruning and Hedging

Shrubs need to be pruned periodically. If not, they can be an eyesore, and can even make your home more attractive to thieves. Be sure to keep hedges trimmed and neat. If you are not sure when to prune shrubbery, talk to one of our Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces specialists.

Excessive Ornamentation

Yard statuary can be a beautiful way to add depth and interest to a part of your yard. However, when looking at a landscape design with a large collection of decorations, it can actually look worse than having nothing at all. When you implement lawn art, be sure it showcases your landscape and doesn’t look cheap or cluttered. The last thing you want from your yard is a reputation for being tacky!

Scalping the Grass

Sure, a neatly mowed yard looks great, but be sure that you are not cutting the grass too short. Each variety of grass is different and requires specific lawn maintenance. In most cases, keeping the grass around 2 inches tall is a good height. Cutting your grass shorter than 2 inches means you need to cut it more often and it can be unhealthy for the grass.

Eyesores

Septic tanks, utility boxes, trash cans, and other items in the landscape can be eyesores. Don’t ignore them hope others will too! Consider adding in a hedge, fence, or other decorative elements. This will hide these eyesores while still keeping them accessible.

Using the Wrong Plants

Do your homework and only add plants that will succeed in your yard. Not every plant is going to work with your soil conditions. Also, consider the amount of sunlight your yard gets or the space where you wish to plant it. Selecting plants that work for your lawn will help it look better and have greater curb appeal. In addition, when buying plants, never buy single plants. Consider buying several that you can group together. Additionally, you will want to space them throughout your landscape, creating appealing patterns.

Make your landscape design the talk of the neighborhood – because it’s gorgeous, not garish! Avoiding common DIY mistakes and oversights can save you time and money. Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces will help you create a beautiful landscape while boosting the curb appeal of your home. Contact us today!

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When you start dreaming about a new landscape design, chances are you gave a great deal of consideration to the features you wanted to see. Those aspects might include the seating area, whether or not to have a fire feature, and of course, some type of ‘flooring’ to pull it all together. But when it comes to that ‘flooring” it can be tough to decide whether to opt for pavers or stone. Each of these options – pavers or stone- are both beautiful and known for their longevity. So, you might be asking if one material is better than the other?

Pavers or Stone? That is the Question

Pavers:

• Pros: Typically made from concrete and of a rectangular or square shape, pavers come in a wide range of colors. This means you can create a custom look utilizing a variety of shades. They can be easily customized to suit your specific design needs and can be installed in virtually any pattern. In terms of maintenance and longevity, they can withstand extreme heat as well significant cold. They do require being cleaned off with a pressure sprayer from periodically. In addition, should they be damaged, they can be replaced simply by removing the damaged section and placing in new ones.
• Cons: Pavers – especially concrete ones- can often be more pricey than other types as it requires more grading and backfilling. They can also crack, though this is rare, due to settling or shifting of the soil.

Stones:

• Pros: Perhaps the favorite feature of stone landscaping is that it is natural, thus adding a unique and timeless look to any structure in which it is used. They are strong and will retain the natural variations of color and texture. Better yet, they do not require any serious maintenance work, other than occasionally sweeping. In the event one is damaged, they can be replaced, though it can a bit more to find a replacement stone.
• Cons: Keep in mind that because it is natural, your stone flooring will change in color. In addition, some stones are more inclined to retain heat, so would not be recommended for use around a pool. For the budget conscious, stones can also be a larger investment – but with an equally high ROI- than pavers. Both options are a great way to add more dimension to your outdoor makeover or new landscape design. It really just comes down to what you wish to invest in and the overall look you want to achieve for your yard. If you are uncertain as to whether to choose pavers or stone, talk to one of the Outdoor Makeover & Construction team members. We will be happy to help you make a decision that meets all your needs.

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If you are new to the world of landscaping, then it can be overwhelming to keep up with the assorted lingo used in the nursery or when talking to other landscaping enthusiast. Whether it be terms regarding types of irrigation, to those referring to types of plants, there is certainly a lot to learn about the world of landscaping. However, two of the most common terms are hardscaping and softscaping. These two main elements of landscape design are significantly different, yet your yard needs to include both in order to create a landscape that is functional as well as inviting. So, you might wonder, “What exactly do these terms mean and how can they affect my lawn?”  Glad you asked. Hardscaping, as the term implies, are items such as concrete, brick, stone, rocks and structural elements such as retaining walls, patio, water features and other architecture. It should also be noted that hardscaping works great in regions where drought is an issue, as hardscaping elements require little, if any watering. Softscaping are those more natural aspects like the soil, plants, shrubs, trees, turf and even the color schemes. Typically, hardscaping components are those features that stay the same for years while softscaping elements are more fluid and changing as they mature. To create a yard that is inviting and yet still meets your family’s needs, it is important to have a balance of hardscaping and softscaping.

Balancing Hardscaping and Softscaping For an eye-catching landscape, having a perfect balance of softscaping and hardscaping features is a must. But, if you are new to the landscaping world that can seem challenging. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you begin thinking about a landscape makeover.

When introducing tall hardscape elements such as a gazebo, outdoor fireplace or high wall, incorporate similarly sized trees, shrubbery or other organic elements to offset it. This allows the eye to flow naturally from feature to feature without being blocked or overwhelmed.

Don’t forget the greenery! Hardscape elements such as pavers, driveways, pillars and other built in items can be softened in appearance by introducing planters on steps, along a retaining wall or on pillars. This greenery gives the illusion that your hardscape items and softscape features are not independent of each other, making the space more natural and inviting.

Include focus points such as fire pits, a water feature, outdoor seating, and even retaining walls are a great way to draw the eye along the property and cause one to be curious as to what else might be “hidden” along a pathway.

Keep things in proportion. If you have a small patio, then don’t dwarf it with large shrubs or trees. Conversely, if you have a large driveway or outdoor space, select softscape elements that compliment it size and style. If all the talk of softscaping and hardscaping leaves you overwhelmed, don’t panic! Contact Outdoor Makeover & Construction and have one of our landscaping professionals determine what elements will be best for your landscape. We look forward to hearing from you.

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If you look at your lawn and feel like it is getting smaller each year, and not because there is more plant life or other decorative elements, then there is a good chance that erosion and poor drainage is playing a part. When a lawn is on a slope, or perhaps nothing has been done to retain the soil in the yard, then time and weather can cause your lawn to wash away – sometimes without you even realizing it! Erosion is not just the result of heavy rain. It can also be due to wind, or by having loose “unsecured” soil. Over time, these elements can cause a lawn to “shrink” thus affecting the overall landscape and property value. But you don’t have to watch your lawn wash away. There are a variety of actions that can be taken to ensure that your yard doesn’t loose ground. Even better, the Outdoor Makeover & Construction team can incorporate the measures in a way that adds new life and style to your existing lawn.

Ways to Minimize Erosion and Draining

Depending on the severity of the draining and erosion, there are various approaches that can be taken. Some are relatively simple and can e implemented quickly, while others will require a bit more work However, doing something to prevent erosion is better than doing nothing at all. Any or all of the following might be implemented – depending on the severity of the problem.

1. Adding compost or mulch around the base of existing tree or shrubs.
2. Planting ground covers and shrubs that thrive in tough conditions.
3. Doing a soil fertility or pH test to determine if the erosion can be prevented by making the soil healthier.
4. Adding compost into the soil to improve its health.
5. Sodding or seeding the soil, then adding a layer of topsoil and a new layer of straw.
6. Redirecting, and perhaps, capturing the run off using soil amendments, rain barrels, rain gardens, terraces of dry wells.
7. Building a retaining wall. This can be built from either, stone, concrete or even wood and be a wide range of heights. Our team will build a retaining wall that compliments the rest of your landscape so that it is not only functional but eye catching, too. Depending on the severity of the erosion, other types of walls that might be installed include cantilever walls, piling walls, anchored walls or gravity walls.
8. If your property is near a stream, lake or other body of water, sometimes the easiest solution is to install a draining ditch for run off. The ditch can be lined with rocks or gravel, and will be placed where it is as unobtrusive as possible.

If you are concerned about draining or erosion issues in your yard, now is the time to act. Contact the Outdoor Makeover & Construction team today. We will assess your yard and determine what the best approach is for your scenario.  

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If you have a pool in your backyard, then you know all about the many benefits a pool offers to the family. From its entertainment value to the ease of exercise, having a pool in the backyard is great. However, just because one has a pool, does not mean that the landscaping is done. In fact, if your swimming pool was built with little regard for how its installation would affect the landscape, then your yard can look unbalanced or even unwelcoming. If this sounds familiar, then it is time for some poolside landscaping! Poolside landscaping doesn’t have to be a challenge or takeover an entire backyard. But, there are a number of ways to take a basic backyard swimming pool and turn it into a true oasis. As landscapers who understand how to fully enhance any lawn, the Outdoor Makeover & Construction team has created many poolside landscape designs that turn a status quo pool area into the ideal spot for rest, relaxation and recreation.

Poolside Landscaping Ideas

1. Add in a gazebo or pergola and some comfortable seating. Sure, sitting in the sun might be great if you are wanting to tan, but having a shaded space to recline by the pool makes for a great place to just relax and unwind.
2. Do you have kids? Then elements such as soft grass, kid-friendly plants and smooth stones, pavers or walkways to the deck will help protect them from hurting their feet.
3. Add stone paths to connect other areas of your landscape. Incorporate plants or shrubbery along the paths to give the illusion of meandering paths at a resort.
4. Don’t forget the lighting! There’s something special about swimming after the sun goes down. Be sure to show off your poolside landscape with a variety of light features. From spotlights to twinkling white lights, to a fire pit in a poolside patio area, incorporating lighting makes your pool more versatile.
5. Extend the concrete around the pool with decorative pavers and a patio. This is especially nice if your pool is close to the backdoor of the home.
6. Find out what type of trees will look great around your pool – without leaving behind a leafy mess- and have some planted.
7. Instead of pavers or stone, extend a back deck or porch right up to the poolside.
8. Add more water features. Consider having a nearby fountain or pondless waterfall near your pool as they add height and depth to your poolside landscape.
9. Install some large container gardens to add a splash of color. Go a step further and use colorful containers that work with your landscape or home design.
10. Add a river rock garden. Whether it frames the entire pool or just a portion, a river rock garden adds interest. Even better, choose a few plants that require minimal upkeep, and you won’t have to add time in your schedule for gardening chores.

Do you want to take your poolside landscape to the next level? If so, then contact the Outdoor Makeover & Construction team today to get started. We would love to design a poolside landscape that is fun, functional and perhaps even a bit of a fantasy, to make your poolside activities better than ever! Give us a call today.

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It comes with the territory – having a home, especially in Georgia, means part of the landscape includes an air conditioning unit. And, rarely is that AC unit an attractive aspect of the landscape. Furthermore, many homes also have an above ground tank for gas heating. This means as a homeowner, you now have 2 unsightly elements in your landscape that you cannot just move to a new location. However, if you find yourself dealing with one of these eyesores – or perhaps some other item that is less than attractive-then don’t despair. There are landscaping tips and tricks that can be done to keep those elements functional but not necessarily front and center.

5 Ways to Use Landscaping to Hide Unsightly Yard Elements

The two most common items homeowners want to hide via landscaping are the air conditioning unit and, if applicable, the gas tank. Each of these may be needed, but that doesn’t mean they are pretty. Here are some ideas for disguising them, while still allowing them to be functional and accessible.

Use a Screen, Trellis, Section of Fencing or Lattice

Simply set up one of these items, being sure to allow for maintenance people to still access the unit, and then you can dress it up with easy-to-maintain vines, climbing roses, or other ornamentation. This is perfect for either the AC unit or the gas tank.

Also Read: How to Use Your Outside Entertainment Area in a better way?

Landscape Around AC Unit

Whether you opt for lattice boards, stained deck boards, or upgrading pallets, landscaping around ac unit is one of the easiest ways to turn the ugly box into a work of art. You can design the box to be 5-sided so you can lift it up and access the AC unit, or put a hinged door on it to make access easy. Whatever you decide, you have now hidden that ugly metal unit.

Large Moveable Pottery

Go to a garden store, or talk to an Outdoor Makeover & Construction team member, about getting large decorative pots and then plant bright-colored flowers or elegant grasses in them to obscure the view. This is especially helpful if you do a lot of summer entertaining and want to hide them during peak outside entertainment times. Even better, depending on what you plant, you can always change the plants each year for a totally different look! If you want coverage year-round consider the next idea.

Create a Windbreak with Shrubbery

There are many types of shrubbery that are perfect for hiding your AC unit or tank year-round. As an added bonus, they will protect your air conditioner unit from severe weather. Just be sure you leave a couple of feet between the width of the plants and the AC unit and that it is accessible on at least one side. Plants that lend themselves well to this are boxwoods, cypress, cedar, and spruce.

Have a Gravel Garden

Want low or no maintenance? Consider a gravel garden. Both the tank and AC unit are typically set up on bricks, so simply spread gravel around them. Finish off the space with edging stones for a tailored finish. You can add a splash of color with a garden within the rocked area. Great choices would be plants that require little water, paired with some decorative rocks, or even a quirky pondless fountain. Your gas tank or AC unit doesn’t have to be the ugly part of otherwise beautiful landscaping. In no time at all, you can make it into an acceptable part of the landscape. Talk to the Outdoor Makeover & Construction team to learn how we can help.

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If you looked back over your fun for the year, and realized that many home entertainment opportunities were either avoided or had room for improvement due to a landscape that needed work, then now is the time to start thinking about and planning your perfect outdoor space. It might be that you simply need to re-structure things or may be time to start from scratch how to create the perfect outdoor entertainment area for your kids and family.

Designing the Perfect Outdoor Space

But, just because you know the current arrangement for your yard isn’t working, it doesn’t mean that you know what type of outdoor space is needed. To help you start planning here are some fun ideas:

• Sit a Spell: There’s nothing like having a quiet spot in the shade where you can sit back and relax with a book or visit with friends after a long day at work. Place some comfortable chairs, perhaps some soft lighting, and a table or stool beneath the trees and make time to just unwind.
• Indoors Out: From kitchens to living rooms, many people are opting move the indoors outside with custom entertainment areas. Make it special by adding an herb garden or fragrant flowers/greenery to add to the atmosphere.
• Add a Splash of Color: From painted furniture and a boardwalk–style path to butterfly-attracting flowers, rock gardens and healthy ornamental trees and shrubs, there is nothing like enhancing the outdoors with more fun and color.
• Privacy is a Must:  Your backyard should be an oasis, designed for your comfort. Don’t forget to set up areas where you can block out the world around you. Consider using a retaining wall, natural hedge, a decorative wall, or even something fun like a privacy screen made from old doors.
• Sounds of Nature: Have a small fishpond added to your yard. It not only will benefit the environment but will provide hours of enjoyment as you watch the fish, as well as the frogs, birds and other animals that will want to spend time in your yard.
• Be Creative: Don’t forget elements such as an assortment of lighting styles, a shaded garden swing, pergolas, or even a daybed where you can sit back and read a book, play a game or simply bask in the beauty of nature.
• Enjoy the Warmth: A fire pit is the perfect addition to any yard, but is especially perfect for those times when you want to entertain. Just pull up a few chairs, grab some roasting wires and you are ready for s’mores, hotdogs, and other campfire-like fun. While the warm rays of summer sun have now passed, it doesn’t mean that the time for outdoor pleasure should be forgotten. In fact, now is the time to start thinking about what type of outdoor makeovers will result in the space perfect for entertaining next year. After all, trying to do a yard renovation project when you want to be enjoying your yard is no fun! Now is the time to start planning your space...and the Outdoor Makeover team is happy to help you chose a design and personality. Don’t put off creating that perfect outdoor area, give us a call today!

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