Outdoor Environments Blog

One unique way to add surprise and true customization to your deck is to add a spa or hot tub. With the right privacy elements in place, an outdoor spa on your deck can be the ultimate way to unwind after a long day. Why pay over $100 to visit a swanky spa when you can visit one in your backyard every single day for free? Below are some examples of spa decks designed and constructed by Outdoor Environments.

Hot tubs can be custom built into many different shapes and designs, depending on your existing deck.

Structural elements and landscaping features like fences and/or tall trees will help you to feel more comfortable and free in your secluded outdoor space.

To speak with us about building a spa or hot tub for your deck, call Outdoor Environments in Kansas at 913-897-2706.

You probably already know that a new or remodeled deck can add tons of value to your home. But did you also know that your return on investment will be heavily determined by the type of deck materials used? We stumbled upon this article that outlines the pros and cons of some of the most common deck building materials.

Pressure-treated (PT) wood

• Most common and least expensive material
• Requires annual sealing to prevent drying, twisting, cupping, splitting, slivering and warping
• Usually insect- and fungus-resistant for about 10 years
• Expensive fasteners are required for building since PT can eat through regular screws and nails

Cedar

• Boards used to last about 20 year, but now they’re only good for about 5-7 years
• Lack of natural oils makes it more prone to dry rot, mold and insects

Exotic hardwood

• One of the most expensive deck materials
• Very durable and long-lasting
• Can be harvested under less than ethical conditions from forests in South America
• Often labeled as sustainable when it may not be

To find out about the decking materials we use at Outdoor Environments, contact us today!

Image from How Stuff Works via cc

Who needs to go on an expensive vacation when you can have your very own backyard retreat 365 days a year? Luckily, outdoor structures like pergolas, gazebos and arbors can turn your backyard into an escape that you can enjoy whenever you want to. Here are some ideas that’ll get your juices flowing.

Pergolas, gazebos and arbors are perfect for any backyard because alone or combined, they’ll add:

• The perfect poolside relaxing area for you to rest before your next dip.
• An outdoor kitchen area that’s perfect for summer barbecues, parties and gatherings.
• A beautifully welcoming entrance to the backyard.
• The perfect structures for planting and growing vines, blooms and greenery that’ll wrap around you’re the columns on any pergola, gazebo or arbor.
• The best setting for extra private dining on a perfect summer day.

Be sure to visit Outdoor Environments on Facebook to see examples of our pergolas, gazebos and arbors.

Images from BHG

By now, you probably already know that a new or remodeled deck can earn you a huge return on your investment – sometimes as much as 80 percent!

The great thing about a deck is that it provides a wonderful space for parties and gatherings and it’s much more cost-effective than building an additional room onto your home. With a deck, your living space is still expanded; it’s just outside instead of inside.

The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to a new or remodeled deck. And the cost can vary greatly depending on what type of material is used. One thing homeowners should know is that it’s not always the wisest idea to penny pinch when it comes to deck materials. That’s because the cheaper the material is, the more maintenance and upkeep you’ll be responsible for. Wood is a popular material, but they need to be cared for regularly and usually require a new coat of staining every couple of years. If maintenance is not appealing to you, consider synthetic materials that require little maintenance over the life of the deck.

If you aren’t sure what type of deck is right for you, that’s what Outdoor Environments is here for. Call us today at 913-897-2706 to speak with us today!

Image from My Home Ideas via Southern Living

It’s no secret that people spend more time outside during the summer than at any other time of the year. That also means that outdoor accidents are much more common during the summer as well. Whether you’re embarking on your own DIY projects are just enjoying some fun in the sun, keep these safety tips in mind, courtesy of the Home Safety Council – especially if you have children.

• Keep children inside the house or well away from the area you are mowing.
• Before you mow, check the area for broken sticks, stones, toys and anything else that could shoot out from under the mower or damage the blade.
• Wear goggles and hearing protection.

• Never reach under the mower unless it is turned off and the blade has completely stopped turning.

• If you run out of gas, stop and let the engine cool down before you add more. Gasoline vapors can easily catch on fire.

• Read the labels of things you use for your lawn and garden. If you see the words “Caution,” “Warning,” “Danger,” “Poison,” or “Keep Out of Reach of Children,” these products can be dangerous for children. Store them in a place with a lock.

• When using a chain saw, make certain it is equipped with an anti-kickback chain that is well sharpened.

• Pick up all garden tools such as rakes, spades, forks, pruning clippers, files and metal plant stakes when not in use.

What other safety measures are you taking this summer? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below!

Image from How Stuff Works via cc

It’s no secret that outdoor living spaces are more commonly thought of as outdoor living rooms. They are designed and laid out much like the rooms inside the home. So it isn’t surprising that lighting plays a role. After all, a room isn’t complete without the right light, right?

With consumers looking for more ways to incorporate green and eco-friendly features, outdoor lighting provides sensible ways to do just that. LED lighting uses about 75 percent less energy than halogen bulbs while solar lighting uses no electricity whatsoever.

LED and solar lights can be used strategically to show off the design and architectural elements that truly make an outdoor space unique. Lights can border walkway paths, driveways, gardens and flower beds.

The trick, though, is to not overdo it. No one wants their outdoor space lit up like a football field. A dim glow is all that’s needed – much like the natural and unobtrusive natural light provided by the moon.

To find out how Outdoor Environments can incorporate the right lighting for your outdoor space, call us at 913-897-2706 today!

Information from The Globe and Mail

Exterior space designed by Outdoor Environments

Adding value to the home is a priority for many Americans, particularly during difficult economic times like we’ve been experiencing. So it’s quite exciting to learn that, according to a recent article, adding a new deck (or remodeling your existing one) can earn up to 73 percent of your initial investment. So if you’re ready to add big bucks to the value of your home, take heed to these deck building and remodeling tips.

For a newly constructed deck:

1. Experts say that consumers have fallen in love with composite decking because splits, splinters, cracks and mold are either rare or non-existent.
2. Railings are always recommended as an added safety feature, but they also add a unique visual appeal to the deck with architectural details.
3. Bigger is better when it comes to decks. They’re a great extension of the home’s interior, particularly multi-level decks. They allow for maximum space for entertaining and general enjoyment.
4. Decorating your deck can and should be just as fun decorating inside your home. Don’t be afraid to play around with colors, furniture, textures and décor.

For a remodeled deck:

1. We’re in the midst of summer, but it’s not too late to check your deck for safety hazards. Damaged boards, loose fasteners and shaky railings can all be extremely dangerous.
2. Consider adding a fresh coat of deck stain. Not only does this refresh your deck’s appearance, but stains are also great at repelling water, which can lead to rotting.
3. Bedazzle your deck by adding new elements like railings or other architectural/decorative elements.

Visit our Facebook page to see examples of our deck installations and remodels.

Image from My Home Ideas via Sunset

Over the past few weeks, we’ve provided you with tons of ideas related to porch and sunroom design. Since there are so many possibilities, we’re adding more tips and tricks to the list. These ideas are ideal for maximum summertime enjoyment, but don’t forget that these same concepts can be implemented to enjoy your outdoor room year-round!

1. Plenty of seating for everyone. Wicker and wooden benches make for a traditional room design.
2. Take it a step further by installing seating equipped with storage space. Many wicker and wooden benches have flip seating that allows for storing pillows, reading materials and other items used frequently in your outdoor room.
3. We can’t say enough about color. Cushions, pillows, area rugs and sheer curtains are great ways to implement the shades of summer.
4. Potted plants, flowers and blooms make it easy to bring the outside in.
5. Since outdoor rooms are the perfect divide between inside and out, ceiling fans are great for keeping cool for less the cold blast of central air.
6. For snack time, have a table or station set up to prepare cold drinks and appetizers. This will minimize trips to and from the indoor kitchen.

Outdoor Environments wants to know: What other tips do you have for maximum outdoor room enjoyment? Share your thoughts with us below!

Information and image from BHG

It can become painfully obvious during the summer season that your backyard lacks the privacy you want and need. You might live near a noisy main road or maybe your neighbor’s second story has a clear view that looks right down on your yard. During this time of year, it’s important to have a private space to relax with family and friends without worrying who else may be watching.

Luckily, Outdoor Environments can provide you with a number of solutions to privatize your outdoor living area. One of the most unique solutions is to construct a customized pergola. By building this type of enclosure around your deck, patio or outdoor kitchen, “you can re-create the intimate feeling of eating or entertaining indoors, while still enjoying beautiful weather.” And if pergolas aren’t your style, gazebos can add a different touch while still maximizing the level of privacy.

If you’re looking for ideas to make your outdoor space more private, be sure to visit Outdoor Environment’s Facebook fan page. We’ve posted hundreds of photos so that you can see examples of exactly what we do.

Information from TOH

Pergola shown is by Outdoor Environments

If you haven’t spruced up your deck yet for the summer season, or even if you don’t have one – it’s not too late! Outdoor Environments is here to provide you with a plethora of tips and ideas to get your deck in order for the remainder of the season. Whether you’ve got a deck or not, here are some ideas to keep in mind.

For existing decks:

• Make sure it’s still in good condition. Issues like damaged boards, loose fasteners and protruding nails may seem minor, but they can be very dangerous when ignored. Click here for our previous articles related to deck safety.
• Consider a fresh coat of deck stain that’ll not only add life and color to your deck, but it’ll repel water, moisture damage, mildew and fading in high-traffic areas.
• Add or swap out railings and/or decorative posts. These architectural details can work wonders for a deck and your entire outdoor living motif.

For new deck construction:

• Top choices for materials include treated lumber (economical and usually comes with a good warranty against rot and decay) and treated wood (stands up against severe weather conditions).
• For durable and eco-friendly decking materials, composite or PVC decking are other popular options. They look like authentic wood, but require much less maintenance. These materials don’t split, splinter, crack or mold.

For all your deck building and remodeling needs, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706.

Information from LVRJ

Image from Pinterest