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5 Amazing Uses for the Sunroom

 The Relaxing Nook

Curling up with a good book has never been so enjoyable - complete with outdoor views.

  The Dedicated Hobby Area

Whether you have a grand piano or not, a sunroom could be just what you need to really dive into whatever your favorite past time may be.

 The Quiet Play Room

A sunroom that acts as a playroom is the best of both worlds. Kids have a safe, separate area to play that's also fix for adults.

  The Formal Gathering Space

Spring time is ideal for gathering friends for tea and chatter... and a sunroom is the perfect spot for that!

  The Casual Entertaining Area

Sunrooms don't have to be super formal. They're a great space for entertaining large groups without the hassle of having too many people side the main rooms of your home.

 Images from Houzz.com

Families Opt for Luxurious Backyard Havens

Do you think that home remodeling and add-ons have taken a dive since the economy fell into a slump a few years ago?According to a recent Chicago Tribune article, that’s not entirely true. In fact, outdoor remodeling has become a must for many homes across the U.S.

Homeowners have been drawn to many outdoor features:

  • Natural stone hardscapes
  • Gourmet grilling kitchens
  • Major electrical upgrades

Family travel has taken a dip while outdoor entertaining and family time have become more enticing among American households. And what better way to enjoy time with each other than with a custom built or remodeled deck, patio, porch or another outdoor living space?

If you haven’t entertained the thought of sprucing up outside, it’s about time to give it some serious thought. Outdoor Environments is currently offering $500 off select outdoor projects… call us in Overland Park, KS at 913-897-2706 for details!

Winter Hardscape Woes

A harsh winter tends to do a number on your outdoor living space. Landscapes and hardscapes suffer from ice and below freezing temperatures. But how can you bring it all back just in time for spring? In most cases, you’ll need the assistance of a professional contractor or landscaper.

Pavers – Repair issues can usually be solved by replacing individual paving stones. Solution: If chipping or unever wear and tear are the issue, a landscaper might need to reseal the pavers or reset the foundation.

Concrete – These solid surfaces are prone to cracking after freezing and thawing all winter long. Solution: A professional contractor can repair damaged sidewalks, patios and driveways.

Regular maintenance – Pressure washing your hardscape surfaces at least once each year is one of the best things you can do to keep it looking good aesthetically. This also rids the foundation of dirt, grease, oil, rust, paint and other blemishes.

Information from Dallas Metro Home Improvement

5 Simple Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing Decking Material

Considering a new or remodeled deck for this summer? It’s time to start weighing the pros and cons of various decking materials. The material you choose will determine how your deck is enjoyed, cleaned and maintained. Hardwood vs. manmade. Fiberglass vs. vinyl. There’s so many options to choose from! And they all have their benefits and disadvantages, depending on your specific needs and requirements. Here are some questions you should consider:

  1. Will the deck be used by children and/or pets?
  2. Do you hope to use your deck year-round, or just during the warmer months?
  3. Is the deck best suited in the shade or in the sun?
  4. Does it matter to you if the materials are recycled, sustainable or eco-friendly?
  5. How much maintenance and upkeep are you willing to put in to keep the deck safe and looking fresh?

Even though these are good questions to ask, they don’t even scratch the surface of what all needs to be considered. What other questions do you think are important when deciding to have a deck built or remodeled?

Image from Outdoor Environment’s Facebook Photo Gallery

 

Looking for a Certified Remodeler in Kansas City?

There are far too many shady contractors out there. That’s exactly why it’s so imperative that you find a remodeling professional that has the experience and qualifications needed to get the job done. You’ll find exactly that at Outdoor Environments because our very own Dick DeVuyst recently obtained a new designation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).


Now a Certified Remodeler (CR), Dick holds one of the most sought-out certifications in the remodeling industry. In order to achieve such a title, one must have a minimum of five years continuous service in the remodeling industry and must study for several months before completing an intensive half-day exam.
As a Certified Remodeler, Dick has proven long-term commitment to both his industry and his profession. Custom decks, screen porches, and outdoor kitchens are just a fraction of what Dick can do. To learn more about Dick and the services he provides at Outdoor Environments, visit his website today! You can even come see what we’re all about at the Johnson County Home & Garden Show!

Image by Jamie Grill on GettyImages.com

We’ll Be at the Johnson County Home & Garden Show

It’s that time of year again! The Johnson County Home & Garden Show is an event that showcases a variety of home and garden products and services available throughout the JoCo area. So of course, Outdoor Environments will be there to show off our outdoor living capabilities. Will you be there?

Trade shows are the perfect opportunity for consumers to up close and personal how to transform their homes. Ever thought about adding or remodeling a patio, deck, porch or another outdoor space? Come see us in March at the Johnson County Home & Garden Show!

  • Dates: March 2nd from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m., March 3rd from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and March 4th from 10 a.m until 6 p.m.
  • Location: Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66211
  • Tickets: $10 for adults, children 12 and under are free

Visit the home show’s official website for additional details.

3 Ways to Enjoy Your Outdoor Space This Winter

There are two types of people in this world: those who hibernate during the winter and those who go out and enjoy it. If you fall into the latter group, then this blog post is for you. There are plenty of ways to enjoy your outdoor space during this time of year. There’s no use in having an amazing deck, patio or yard if you can’t enjoy it 365 days a year! Here’s how you can get the most out of your outdoor living space this winter.

  1. Investing in good outdoor lighting. The evenings get darker much earlier in the wintertime. From lanterns to sconces, good lighting makes it easier to enjoy your porch, deck, patio and your entire yard. It’s also a good safety feature to prevent slips and falls when it’s dark.
  2. Decorate. Just like you take time to make your home interiors look beautiful, the same concept goes for outside. Many items like rugs, furniture, cushions, table cloths, candles and blankets are made for outdoor use.
  3. Get a heater. Even though winter is still in full swing, you’re sure to start finding deals on outdoor heaters as retailers begin to bring in their spring collections. You can also opt for a custom built fireplace or fire pit.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy the outdoors during the winter?

 

Experts Dish on Wood Deck Care

Homes already equipped with a wood deck must take the proper care and precautions to keep that deck safe and clean. As spring approaches, it’s a good idea to inspect your deck and see what repairs, if any, need to be addressed. Here’s some sound advice from the February 2012 issue of Exterior Contractor:

If you are interested in deck building, remodeling or repair in the Kansas City area, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706.

Image by Alex Hibbert on GettyImages.com

Private Deck and Patio Ideas

Have you started thinking about your outdoor living plans for the spring yet? By planning now, you can ensure that the features you want can and will be ready to enjoy by the time the warm weather finally sets in for good. Private decks and patios have always been a hot topic on this blog… but what are some more creative ways to block off your outdoor space from the general public and nosy neighbors?

  • Add a pergola – It helps to create a cozy outdoor space with shade and tons of visual interest.
  • Use your home – If there’s a section of your home that protrudes, that might be the perfect opportunity to hide your deck or patio from plain view.
  • Columns – You can have the best of both worlds with the right columns in place. They close off your outdoor space, but you still get to enjoy the elements.
  • Take advantage of height – If space permits, an upper level deck is a creative way to get the outdoor space you want without having it open to everyone at the ground level.

Check out some examples from our very own portfolio of projects around the Kansas City area:

To learn more about our outdoor design services around Kansas City, Overland Park and beyond, call us at 913-897-2706.