Category Archives: Tips

If you’re an avid fan of do-it-yourself projects, small updates around the yard are no sweat for you. In keeping up with our Deck Safety Month theme, now is a good time to remember that your entire back yard should be a safe place to hang out – not just the deck. These simple projects might help:

1. Power wash the patio, porch or deck to remove any and all outdoor debris that has collected over the past few seasons.
2. Decks and railings can certainly benefit from a coat of paint or water-seal.
3. Trim overgrown plants and grass around the patio.
4. Chips or cracks in your driveway’s concrete can be easily filled or patched.
5. Apply an anti-skid coating to any exterior steps.

Outdoor Environments is a certified remodeling company in the Kansas City area. For major projects – or even small ones that you can’t handle on your own – contact us today!

Royalty-free image by Olger Fallas Painting on Flickr

The North American Deck and Railing Association officially recognize May as Deck Safety Month. It’s the best time of the year to have your deck inspected to ensure that it is a safe structure for the upcoming season.

Multi-level deck by Outdoor Environments

NADRA suggests that the following deck features should constitute a full and complete deck safety check:

• Wood that shows signs of splitting or decaying – The section where the deck attaches to the house is known as the ledger board and is a common source of deck failure. Support posts, joists, damp areas and holes should also be checked.
• Flashing  – This metal or plastic guard is supposed to keep moisture and debris from collecting in between the house and the deck’s ledger board.
• Loose or corroded fasteners – This includes screws, anchors and nails that may be protruding or completely removed. Those that are rusted should also be replaced since they can eat away at the surrounding wood.
• Railings and banisters – These features should be sturdy enough as not to move or sway when pushed. Rails should be close enough in proximity so that children and pets cannot easily slip through.
• Stairs – Handrails should be firmly in place. Also, items like toys, plants and decor that can cause accidental falls should not be placed on the stairs.
• Cleaning and maintenance – Wet leaves and debris can promote the growth of mildew, so the deck should be cleaned regularly as needed. This can even be done with a waterproof coating.
• Grills, fire pits, chimneys, heaters and candles – These items should be placed far from anything that’s flammable. All manufacturers instructions should be followed for safe use.
• Lighting and electrical – Fixtures should be operable, clean and located where they do not cause a tripping hazard. Childproof and waterproof features are always recommended.
• Outdoor furniture and storage – Furnishings should never be placed near the edge of the deck. Storage boxes should have childproof latches for safe keeping.
• Surrounding trees – Hanging branches and tree limbs should be trimmed to prevent them from falling onto the deck and near grilling areas.

Would your Kansas City deck pass an inspection? If not, let Outdoor Environments make your deck a safer and happier place to hang out. Call us at 913-897-2706 to discuss your deck needs.

Find out how you can save $500 on your next outdoor project!

Depending on the make up of your outdoor foundation, it will need to be cared for in a very specific manner. But how? The best way to know is to check with your contractor or the manufacturer of the product that was installed. But here are some general care and maintenance tips as featured in the May 2012 issue of Triangle Home Improvement:

Composite Wood Hardscapes

• Should be washed annually.

Concrete Hardscapes

• Sealant should be applied about six months after the foundation is laid, then every 2-3 years after that to avoid discoloration and staining.

Flagstone Hardscapes

• Does not require sealing.
• Stones should be monitored regularly since they can move, adjust and settle.

Natural Wood Hardscapes

• Be sure to have an inspection performed at least annually.
• Boards should not be rotting, splinting and screws should not be loose.
• Cleaning should consist of power washing and application of a good sealant to help prevent discoloration.

Paver Hardscapes

• No stains, sealants or paint are necessary.

Don’t forget that Outdoor Environments is offering $500 off select outdoor projects. Call us in Overland Park, KS at 913-897-2706 for details! Offer ends April 30!

Outdoor living spaces are becoming a green trend for homeowners. Whether you’re surrounded by a garden or deck, these spaces can add to the quality of your life and even keep you in touch with nature. These outdoor rooms can be created according your own tastes and lifestyles. In designing your outdoor living space, take into consideration how you will use it.

Are you a gardener? You might want to create a cottage garden with lots of flowers, a sitting bench and a tree or two for shade.

Are you an entertainer? Then your outdoor room should probably have a built-in bar, a grilling area and plenty of counter space. Fireplaces and fire pits also offer a good spot to gather around.

Don’t forget to add patio furniture with lots of colorful cushions.  And outdoor lighting should also be a part of the plan.

Whatever you do, just keep in mind that outdoor living spaces are not a one-size-fits all approach. Your space should be customized and specific. To see examples of our work in the Kansas City area, visit our Facebook photo gallery.

Save $500 on your next outdoor project!

The Midwest is known for unpredictable weather patterns, particularly over the past year or so. Traditional cold periods have reached record high temperatures, a trend that’s expected to continue.

For homeowners who live in these parts, it can be frustrating to deal with outdoor living areas. Daily weather patterns make it difficult to know when and how you can enjoy your outdoor oasis. And this can be particularly troubling for anyone planning for a custom built or remodeled outdoor space.

But there is some hope, according to The National Association of Home Builders. Their Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components sheds some light on various home features and how long you can expect them to last.

So, how long should a custom wood deck last?

Because they are subject to a wide range of conditions in different climates, the life expectancy of wooden decks can vary significantly. Under ideal conditions, they have a life expectancy of about 20 years.

One sure way to make sure that your Kansas City deck is up to par is by trusting a qualified and experienced Certified Remodeler, which is available right here at Outdoor Environments!

Information from This Old House

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

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?

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

Outdoor Environments is proud to belong to both the National Association of the Remodeling Industry’s Kansas City Chapter and the Home Builder’s Association of Greater Kansas City. Our membership, along with a long list of industry awards and recognition, prove that we are a reliable and trustworthy contractor to do business with.

But when searching for a contractor to remodel your home, you may come across some red flags. These warning signs should be enough to show you that something is wrong. According to NARI, watch out for the following bad moves.

1. You can’t verify the name, address, telephone number or credentials of the remodeler.
2. The salesperson tries to pressure you into signing a contract.
3. The company or salesperson says your home will be used for advertising purposes so you will be given a “special, low rate.”
4. The builder/remodeler tells you a special price is available only if you sign the contract “today.”
5. No references are furnished.
6. Information you receive from the contractor is out-of-date or no longer valid.
7. You are unable to verify the license or insurance information.
8. You are asked to pay for the entire job in advance, or to pay in cash to a salesperson instead of by check or money order to the company itself.
9. The company cannot be found in the telephone book, is not listed with the local Better Business Bureau, or with a local trade association, such as NARI.
10. The contractor does not offer, inform or extend notice of your right to cancel the contract within three days. Notification in writing of your Right of Recision is required by law. This grace period allows you to change your mind and declare the contract null and void without penalty (if the agreement was solicited at some place other than the contractor’s place of business or appropriate trade premises-in your home, for instance.)
11. You are given vague or reluctant answers.
12. The contractor exhibits poor communication skills or descriptive powers.
13. The contractor is not accessible.
14. Your questions are not answered to your satisfaction.
15. The contractor is impatient and does not listen.
16. Only the work is addressed, instead of your needs as the homeowner.
17. There is no way to see previous projects, either through a presentation book, an online presentation or via the company’s Web presence.

Image by Alistair Berg on GettyImages.com

A room addition or extension at home might sound like a good idea, but what exactly would you use the extra space for? Luckily, there are tons of ideas out there.

1. Home office – Working from home has become a way of life for many. But not having a dedicated space for office needs can make working from home more of a hassle than it needs to be. By adding a home office, you’ll guarantee a quiet, isolated space to get your job done.
2. Children’s playroom – Few things are more frustrating than having to clean up after your kids. From toy firetrucks to Barbie dolls, a playroom makes it easy to keep the kids in one safe area without them making a mess all over the house.
3. Hobby or craft room – No matter what your hobby might be, you deserve a space to enjoy it. Scrapbooking, sewing, painting and woodworking are all good examples of hobbies that should have their own room.
4. Wine cellar – Wine collecting has become a pretty common hobby. And many homeowners choose not to store their precious bottles in the kitchen. So why not build a special room for them?
5. Reading room – Book worms usually require a distant cozy and quiet spot to catch up on their latest read.
6. Game or media room – These days, technology seems to have taken over the entire house. It might help to cut down on the chaos by limiting use of laptops, video games and tablets to a media room.
7. Workout room – If you plan to stick with your New Year’s resolution, a room just for exercising would be a good way to encourage yourself to keep up the good work!

What do you need an extra room for? Contact Outdoor Environments in Kansas City today to find out if your home can accommodate a new space!

Image from ProjectNursery.com