Outdoor Environments Blog

Even if you’re convinced that you have the best outdoor deck in town, it’s not going to last forever. The combination of weather conditions, high traffic and everyday wear and tear will take its toll eventually. But how do you know when it’s time up repair or even replace your deck? Here are some signs to look for, courtesy of Do It Yourself.

Screws and Nails

Loose nails or screws on a deck are hazards that should never be ignored. They can be stepped on or picked up by children, not to mention the possible dangers that can occur from a weakened deck foundation. A deck that shows signs of instability should be avoided at all costs.

Boards

If your deck is prone to high traffic, everyday wear and tear will eventually do a number on the deck’s boards. This may include splits that result from the pressure applied when people walk across the same area of the deck consistently. This type of deck damage should be address as soon as possible, to prevent structural damage during peak months.

Visible Spots and Discolorations

Stains are a common and expected occurrence when it comes to wood decks. But they can ruin the overall look of a deck in addition to causing structural damage if it permeates through the deck’s protective sealant. Minor stains can be removed with a simple water and mild detergent solution, but major stains will need to be professionally handled.

Dry Rot

Many people assume that dry rot only occurs to decks in certain climates and regions. However, if your deck is constantly exposed to moisture and has experienced shrinking boards, fungus, dark stains or a strange odor, dry rot is most likely the culprit.

To inquire about building a new deck in Overland Park or Kansas City, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706.

Image from Flickr

There are many serious considerations to ponder when implementing a new outdoor design at home, particularly during the planning phase. To get a better idea about what outdoor living should be, we’ve summarized the Five Pillars of Outdoor Living Design, courtesy of Residential Design + Build.

Build for the ages

An authentic outdoor living space will never adhere to the cookie-cutter layout that many neighborhoods and subdivisions have succumbed to in recent years. The mass construction of these areas is often done with sub-par materials that will not stand the test of time. The worst part is when those materials look just as mediocre as they are. Are the materials durable and long-lasting? Will the project look as relevant in the future as it does today?

Invent within the rules

Look to other long-standing projects to see what kinds of elements and features were incorporated. You’ll find that a lot of the same rules and concepts apply to almost every outdoor living space you study. Is the space consistent and proportioned? Is it inviting? Can you see evidence of quality and attention to detail?

Respect, complement nature

Now commonly referred to as sustainable design, a good outdoor living space does little to disrupt its surrounding landscape. Making an outdoor design blend in the natural landscape can benefit a project both financially and visually. Is the design environmentally responsible? Do the man-made elements and colors blend well with the existing landscape?

Detail for authenticity

Authenticity and consistency are both key in creating an outdoor oasis that works. Using premium materials for some features and below-standard materials for others will show an overall less than perfect job. Has every detail of the project been maximized?

Incorporate convenience

Outdoor spaces must easily facilitate the lifestyle of those who will be in that space often. Subsequently, these areas must be built for future expansion. Such elements may include LED lighting, water features, wireless networking, sound systems and more. Does the project fit in with the consumer’s lifestyle? Does it allow for future development?

Get started with your outdoor oasis by calling Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today. We specialize in decks, patios, gazebos, pergolas, shade arbors, porches, fireplaces/fire pits and more!

Image from Elle Decor’s Look Book

Hopefully you’ve been enjoying our blog posts. They’re chock full of outdoor living and design ideas for you to consider. Well, now it’s time to take all the advice we’ve been giving you. You’ve only got two weeks left to take advantage of our special offer. Haven’t you heard?

Save $500 on your new outdoor area*
and
Complimentary design!

(minimum purchase of $15,000)

Projects you could save on:

• Porch or outdoor room
• Custom designed deck
• Gazebo, pergola or shade arbor

All you have to do is click here to print our coupon and present it to us in person. Then we can discuss how we can help you achieve the outdoor oasis of your dreams. This special offer ends April 29^th, so please don’t waste another minute! Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706. We serve the Overland Park and Kansas City areas.

Image from Free Digital Photos

Did you know that your front porch is the only impression most people will get of you and your home? From neighbors to people simply driving or walking by, your front porch says a lot about you… whether you like it or not. To outsiders, your porch is a preview to what’s inside. So if it’s cluttered, pristine clean, bare or nicely decorated, your porch is setting the (good or bad) tone for what people think.

1. Survey how the space is currently being used. Is it just a transitional area from outside to inside? Or is it an actual living space?
2. Consider changing up the entry door with a fresh coat of high-gloss paint. A color that pops but also contrasts the color of the house will create the most impact.
3. Update your hardware. An ornamental door knocker or chrome door knobs will quickly renew the space.
4. Hang a piece of beautiful art on at least one wall of the porch area if the space is closed in.
5. Don’t forget the furniture! Loveseats, sofas, ottomans and coffee tables will make for a very cozy porch space no matter what season it is. Wicker furniture with colorful pillows and cushions work very well for porches and other outdoor rooms.
6. Finish off the porch look with an amazing outdoor rug.

Do you need your porch or outdoor room remodeled? Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706. We’re located in the Overland Park/Kansas City area.

Image from HGTV

Color Talk

Go for color. Use bright color like melon, fuschia and lemon-yellow to pop against the green. The inclination to use green botanical prints in a garden setting is a natural one, but they will disappear when surrounded by shrubs and plantings.

Trash Talk

Don’t forget to place an attractive trash can nearby to prevent trash from piling up on the table. And make sure it starts out empty!

Sun Salutations

If your party is a daytime event, be sure to provide shade. You remember that we install gazebos, pergolas and shade arbors, don’t you? There’s nothing worse than watching your guests turn lobster-red before dessert.

Bug It

If you’re not averse to chemicals, spray your terrace or patio with insecticide before the party. For a green approach, plant marigolds around the patio, which are a natural bug deterrent. But for a more permanent approach, consider a screened porch or seasonal room.

Light a Fire

Invest in a fire pit and you won’t be able to make your guests go indoors. The mesmerizing effect of the fire works as well outdoors as in and can save your party from a chilly night.

Information and image from My Home Ideas

It’s important to know that when it comes to deck design and layout, the conventional rectangle shape is a thing of the past. Residential Design + Build reports that decks are not a “one size fits all” deal.

According to research,

… “homeowners can take up to two years from the time they think about their deck until the time they actually pull the trigger on a project. Consumers will do everything from Internet research, buying books about design, and visiting showrooms.

Deck design can begin with a simple rectangle, and by cutting back each corner at a 45-degree angle the deck begins to take on character. Add other shapes, spaces, color and levels and it becomes completely unrecognizable as what decks once were. The important step today, though, is making all these variables work together.”

It’s all about customization and making the deck work for the homeowner and their specific needs. Surprisingly, some consumers don’t want a barbecue area or an outdoor kitchen on their deck at all.

Experts say that those considering a deck should consider three main components:

1. How it looks
2. How it functions
3. How much it costs

Also, homeowners seem to be very interested in adding other features to their decks. These features include:

• Lighting for stairs, post cap lights and low-wattage lighting
• Accenting decks with pergolas or gazebos to add shading
• Strategic placement of railings to avoid blocked views but still adhere to building codes

Outdoor Environments builds and remodels decks in the Overland Park and Kansas City areas. Call us at 913-897-2706 to discuss your deck options today!

Image from RDB

Trendy outdoor furniture pieces are the key to bringing your deck or patio to life. No matter what your budget, style or preference, there’s an outdoor furniture option out there for you. Have you considered these types?

If you want traditional:

Wicker – There are typically two types of wicker outdoor furniture: regular and all-weather. Regular wicker can only be used in covered outdoor areas. All-weather wicker, on the other hand, will not get damaged when exposed to mild weather conditions.

If you want sophistication:

Wrought iron – Though it is very heavy and difficult to move around, wrought iron outdoor furniture is ideal for windy areas. Adding bright cushions is a necessity since the finish typically only comes in black, green or white.

If you like the natural look:

Wood – The best quality wood patio furniture is made from center-cut heartwood lumber with consistent wood grain. It should also have zinc-plated or stainless steel screws that can be tightened in case they ever loosen.

If you want convenience:

Resin – Just another name for plastic, resin outdoor furniture is cheap, durable, easy to maintain and move around. Resin furniture is very light weight, so it’s not recommended for windy climates. One other drawback is that all resin furniture virtually looks alike.

If you want durability:

Metal – One of the most popular materials for outdoor furniture, metal is extremely strong while achieving many different looks and styles.

Do you need help creating your outdoor living area? Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today.

Information from BHG

Area shown is by Outdoor Environments

Some people just don’t realize the endless possibilities that are likely when you think outside the box. Adding a structure with plenty of visual interest is not only something that your guests can enjoy, but it’s also an investment that you can be proud of. Whether you choose a gazebo, pergola or shade arbor, there are many benefits to adding one of these to your outdoor space:

• We all know that first impressions mean everything. And what do guests see before they even set foot inside your front door? They see whatever is (or isn’t) outside. Your garden, landscape and outdoor structures are your home’s front line. A magnificent structure will wow guests as soon as they arrive!
• While going to a beautiful local park to relax, unwind and take in nature’s beauty is a great idea, you won’t have to go far if you have an outdoor structure in your own backyard. They provide a sense of calm and peace to the exterior of your home. All you have to do is step out of your back door!
• If you have a house full of kids, pets and/or visitors, it can be difficult to find a quiet place to talk or even a spot to have a moment for yourself. An outdoor structure is a fine solution to both of these problems.
• Are you planning on hosting any barbecues or outdoor entertaining this spring and summer? If so, an outdoor structure is the perfect outdoor accessory for guests to enjoy on the perfect sunny day. With ample seating and some pretty decorations, gazebos, pergolas and shade arbors can provide enough shade for hot summer days to still be enjoyable.

Don’t forget that we’re offering a great deal from now until April 29^th. Take advantage and call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706.

Pergola and shade arbor shown are by Outdoor Environments

We hope you have enjoyed reading all about outdoor living trends and ideas on this blog. And now that spring is finally in full swing, there’s no excuse for you to get your backyard projects started. We’ve even got a little incentive for you!

Save $500 on your new outdoor area*

and

Complimentary design!

(minimum purchase of $15,000)

Click here to print coupon and present to Outdoor Environments. This offer is only good through April 29, 2011, so what are you waiting for? Make your backyard dreams come true!

Screened porches

Four season rooms

Backyard escapes

Outdoor kitchens

Outdoor living rooms

We also do decks, patios, gazebos, pergolas, fire pits, fireplaces, and more! As you can see, there are plenty of creative ways to bring your outdoor space to life. Don’t you deserve an amazing backyard retreat? Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 for more information about this special. And don’t forget to visit our Facebook photo gallery to see tons of examples of our work. We look forward to hearing from you!

Shade arbor and outdoor space shown is by Outdoor Environments

A pergola is the fine line between an arbor and a gazebo. Just as any other outdoor structure, pergolas are spaces that can be creatively decorated just like the inside of your home.

A pergola that is strong enough to hold a swing (and the weight that comes with it) from its upper beams should definitely have one. Swings provide the opportunity to decorate a pergola with floral pillows and beautiful fabrics.

If you’re going for a more humble look, a small pergola can be just as stylish as a larger one. Particularly with a smaller yard space, a simple, clean pergola is a charming and unobtrusive addition.

Patios and decks are great, of course, but adding a pergola to an already beautiful outdoor space is the perfect way to take it up a notch. Patios and decks provide the perfect foundation for a pergola.

Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 for more information about planning a pergola for your home’s outdoor space.

Outdoor area and pergola shown are by Outdoor Environments