This is a common problem amongst most people when they mow their lawns, cutting it too short. This can cause a lot of problems for your grass and might even lead into replacing the lawn. First watch the video and learn exactly when the lawn should be cut shorter and when it should be allowed to grow a little more.
Most people have the idea that by cutting the lawn very short, they will not have to do it as often. The problem with that theory is when the sun beats down on the grass it will easily burn and kill the grass. The easiest way to put it is like this, Through May to September keep the lawn at about 3 inches, once fall rolls in drop it down to about 2 inches and you will be able to enjoy a lush green lawn all year long.
How would you like to received free trees to add to your landscape? The real question is, who wouldn't? Before I jump into the details on how you can get your free trees lets first tough on the reasons why you should do it and how it should be done.
Keep in mind that these trees that are being given away at zero cost to you, need to serve a certain purpose and are not simply for their beauty. These shade trees need to be used in order for you to be able to reduce your electric bill. How can that be done? By placing them in spots where the sun tends to beat down on your home, or where your air conditioning unit is. With less heat entering your home there will be less need for the air conditioning, and by giving the air condition unit more shade you will pull in more cool air and that leads to less usage.
So how do you get your free shade trees? I went through the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, and they supplied me with 3 trees of my choice from an extensive list. They also included everything you need to get that tree to establish itself including steaks, food, and the proper soil. I had to take a quick online class and draw out the plan of where I intended to plant the trees. I received my trees within a month and that was it! The link below will help you get started on the process to receive your free shade trees through the LADWP, but if your not a part of that water district, we suggest that you call your utility provider and see what programs they are offering locally to you.
Wood decks are always a nice addition to the backyard patio, but usually this requires a lot of work and can turn into a big construction job. But to make things a little easier I came across these hardwood deck tiles that are specifically made for outdoor use. Instead of breaking out the current surface in your backyard, these tiles can actually be installed on top which saves you from tons of labor and cost.
The tiles come in two pieces which are the frame tray and the actual hardwood tile itself that is pictured here, and installation requires no screws, nails or toxic adhesives. To install... Simply sweep the surface clean and begin locking each tile in place. The polypropylene frame has an injected UV stabilizer that will ensure a long life span. But other than this product being easy to install, its also beautiful.
Just look at the difference the hardwood tiles would make once you install them over the old concrete deck. It adds a beautiful contrast to the area, and especially with this example being on a roof top it is the best choice for you to consider since it will not require the current hard surface to be demolished.
Posted by: The Backyard Getaway / Category:
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The ability to upgrade on a tight budget can be tough, but it is possible. Quick inexpensive fixes can be found at your local hardware store, and can make a big difference. Always keep in mind that rather than starting a new project, try to make what you have a little better and improve on it. The video below will get into more details on what you can do with only $200 bucks to work with.
Need some more ideas? Check out HGTV's website as it goes beyond the TV shows with tons of design ideas online.
Recently the Pacific Outdoor Living Design Center held pond seminars and gave away free koi to attendees. We were there to enjoy the festivities and also found out a little more about the next event. Check out the video for a quick recap, and details on the next event. We hope to see you at there!
Outdoor fireplaces are always a nice addition to your backyard living room. Not only do they add on to the beauty of the space but will warm you up on those chilly nights, and you wont have to run back inside for warmth.
To make it easier, outdoor fireplace kits have been created where you can order one online, have it sent to you, and install it yourself. The Fireplace pictured here comes as interlocking pieces that are strong enough to handle extreme weather, and is made of a strong, heat dissipating stone that avoids the problems associated with concrete and cement type mixes.
Both gas burning and log fireplace kits are available, but we suggest that if you are considering a gas unit to make sure you have a qualified installer handle this type of project for you.
Depending on your budget there is always something that will be able to fit it. from the different types of units I've seen, the price range varies depending on what your needs are. The fireplace pictured here is a wood burning unit that is 5 feet tall and made of sheet metal with a black finish which starts at $729.
Now if you want something that will give you more of a custom made and natural stone look, this fireplace is made up of a glass-fiber reinforced concrete and stands at almost 8 feet tall. The detail on this unit is a lot more noticeable and will be an amazing add to your outdoor living room. This fireplace kit will set you back $7,883 but is still substantially less than having it custom made.
If you need help with any installation or gas line connections, find your contractors through Service Magic so you know that they are qualified. Read more »
