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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Having a garden fountain as part of your home landscape or considered a focal point provides an ideal space to unwind and connect with nature. There's a sense of peace in the sound of water that comes from sitting by a serene pond or tier fountain, especially after a long day of work or navigating through city traffic like in Atlanta. Nonetheless, while water features like outdoor water fountains add beauty to the surroundings, they do require some maintenance to keep them in their best condition.

Ensure your garden fountain or water feature remains a tranquil retreat by making its maintenance an integral part of your routine. By following these garden fountain maintenance tips, you can ensure that your water feature consistently brings you joy and relaxation.

Garden Fountain Maintenance Tips

• Proper Water Level Maintenance: Be sure to keep the water level at the proper point for running smoothly. Typically, the pump needs to be fully submerged in water. If it gets too low it can make a difference in how well the pump will work. Maintaining proper water levels is especially important during the summer when Georgia weather can be hot and dry.
• Surface Protection with a Sealer: Protect the surface of the fountain with a sealer. Depending on the location of your pond and the type of fountain, you might need to do this every few years. However, it is worth it as this will increase its lifespan and help it look beautiful for years to come.
• Cleaning the Fountain Sides and pumps: Take time to clean the sides and fountain pumps with a non-abrasive cloth. This will keep it looking shiny and prevent the buildup of dirt, pollen, and dust.
• Fountain Cleaning: Clean the fountain for backyard according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some fountains require specific cleaning agents, so check your user’s manual before getting started
• Proper Pump Maintenance and Operation: Don’t turn off the pump and leave it sitting in the pond or water feature for extended periods of time. This will cause corrosion and encourage algae growth. Keeping the pump running actually helps extend its life as well as help keep the water clean.
• Cleaning with Water and Vinegar Solution: Depending on the type of pump used for the garden fountain, you may need to periodically detach it from the fountain and place it in a solution of water and vinegar (2 parts vinegar, 1 part water). This will help clean out the lines and allow it to run more efficiently.
• Periodic Draining and Refilling: Minimize the growth of algae in your fountain and pond by draining and refilling your outdoor fountain periodically. This will prevent water stagnation.
• Eco-Friendly Cleaning Agents for Pond Maintenance: Keep your scaled, furry, and feather friends in mind when cleaning your pond, and only use agents that are eco-friendly.
• Preventing Clogs and Debris Removal: Remove any twigs, plant fragments, etc. that can get sucked into the pump and clog it. Be sure to keep weeds and excessive plant growth away from the edges of your pond.This is it! If you notice any cracks, have them repaired sooner, not later. When cleaning the fountain, handle it with care so as to prevent any damage.

Fountain in backyard are a beautiful water feature of any landscape. If you will take just a few minutes from time to time to keep it clean, then it will be a place where you will find hours of pleasure for years to come.

If you have additional concerns or questions about your fountain or pond, be sure to contact the Outdoor Makeover and Construction team. We will be happy to assist you!

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The landscape layout of outdoor gardens has definitely evolved over the years. What used to be a few choice breeds of flowers in a flower bed has blossomed no pun intended) to include various styles of outdoor architecture, including hardscaping and outdoor construction. To help you in creating a modern garden, here are some great ways for an Atlanta homeowner to keep their garden as up to date as possible.

1. Update Your Lighting: Having the right lighting can do wonders for your outdoor living space. Long gone are the days where flood lights ruled the backyard landscape world. Many homeowners opt for strands of lights to have hanging throughout their backyard or front yard area which can create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere. However, adjustable lighting has become one of the more popular options for indoor and outdoor settings in the past ten years and helps create the perfect mood for all occasions. Whether it's a barbecue or an evening by the pool, your contractor should be able to provide you with the proper lighting for any event.
2. Water Feature: Water features have also gone through a glamorous makeover in the outdoor design world. It used to be the term "water feature" brought the image of an ornate fountain to mind. While fountains are still popular (and also an excellent choice of water feature), homeowners have more options available in today's age. Japanese water gardens and ponds bring a tranquil aesthetic to your outdoor landscape. A reflecting pool can even open up your outdoor space making it appear larger.
3. Incorporation of Stone: The incorporation of stone into landscape design is not new but finding innovative ways to incorporate the medium into your outdoor living area has definitely expanded. Stone can be the base for your patio, a garden walkway, or a fire pit, placing stone into your landscape can add a level of refinement that your neighbors and friends can enjoy. No matter what elements to landscape design that you wish to add to your outdoor living space, our Atlanta designers at Outdoor Makeover and Construction are skilled to help you with all of your landscape needs.

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