Tag Archives: Outdoor Environments

Safe Railings for Safer Decks

Deck railings are a necessary feature that not only keeps your outdoor living area safe, it adds beauty and style. But once a deck is installed, many homeowners forgo the railing. Instead, railings seem more popular with consumers who have already invested in decks and are looking for ways to add value to it.

Since it’s Deck Safety Month, we want you to know that railings keep everyone on your deck foundation safe by preventing slips, falls and other dangerous mishaps. Outdoor furniture, grills and other equipment are also kept in place with a railing. Best of all, consumers on a tighter budget can usually expect railings to cost significantly less than their initial deck construction.

In particular, composite railings are gaining more popularity because they are so strong and typically don’t require additional metal reinforcements. Using multi-layer technology, many composite decks are so thick and stiff that they can meet building code with no other materials for reinforcement. Composite decks and railings are extremely durable but still offer the convenience of low-maintenance.

For decks and railings in the Kansas City area, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today!

Information from LVRJ

Deck and railing shown are by Outdoor Environments

National Deck Safety Month

May is the month officially recognized as National Deck Safety Month. So over the next few weeks, we’ll be providing you with various ways ensure that your deck is as safe and hazard-free as possible. One of the premier sources for deck building information is the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA). Below are three main pieces of advice they offer when it comes to choosing a contractor to build and/or remodel your deck.

  1. Ask for referrals. A trustworthy contractor will always have a list of satisfied customers that are willing to share their experiences.
  2. Request to see a portfolio. By seeing examples of our past work as well as samples of our decking materials, you’ll get a pretty good picture of what we do and how we work.
  3. Inquire about our credentials. From licensing to insurance coverage and professional references, we can prove that we deserve your deck project!

If you’re in Kansas City or Overland Park and need a deck constructed or remodeled, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today!

Information from NADRA

Image from Creative Commons

Here’s Why You Need an Outdoor Oasis

Let’s cut right to the chase: You need a deck. Or a patio. Why?

First of all, you deserve it. A deck, when designed correctly, is a peaceful oasis in which you can forget about all the stressful things that come with life. You work hard and you deserve to treat yourself.

Secondly, if you would like to sell your home (like millions of other Americans) a beautiful deck can be exactly what you need to finally seal the deal.

Let’s elaborate.

Since the economy hasn’t fully recovered quite yet, having a place to relax and get your mind off things is crucial to your mental health. That’s why having a backyard oasis complete with elements like a deck or patio, swimming pool, flower garden, spa and lots of greenery can serve as your very own personal retreat at home after a long day’s or week’s work. If you want privacy and sanctuary at home, these are all great ways to give yourself peace of mind.

Another sign of the shaky economy times is the abundance of homes for sale, but very few of them are actually selling. Too often, homeowners make the mistake of focusing on their home’s interior when they’re in the process of trying to sell their property. They fail to realize that investing in decks, patios, outdoor kitchens and an overall well-designed backyard can make or break a home sale.

This is especially true for those who live in neighborhoods or subdivisions where similar floor plans are pervade the immediate area. If two homes with the same floor plan go up for sale, the one with the outdoor living space will automatically get more points with potential buyers. And ultimately, it will sell faster. An outdoor space that’s put together creatively will gain the edge because they’re unique and they stand out among other homes on the selling block.

Are you convinced? If so, give Outdoor Environments a call for all your outdoor design needs at 913-897-2706 today!

Information adapted from The Statesman

Deck pictured is by Outdoor Environments

Do You Need a Deck Upgrade?

The peak season for your deck will be in full force in just a few weeks, if it’s not already. Why not make some deck upgrades that’ll get it ready for the peak season?

  1. First and foremost, your deck should be prepped, cleaned, washed, repaired and/or stained if necessary. Many times, just refreshing a deck is enough to make it look brand new again.
  2. Just because your deck takes up a lot of yard space doesn’t mean your gardening dreams are out the window. Use large containers and planters to grow flowers and even vegetables right on your deck!
  3. Need a major deck change? How about adding a gazebo, pergola or shade arbor?
  4. Gates and railings can be multipurpose. Not only can you sit planters and bird feeders on top of some gates and railings, but many of them also come with decorative and architectural features that make your deck even more beautiful.

For all your deck remodeling and upgrading needs in Kansas City and Overland Park, contact Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706.

Information and image from BHG

Is It Time for a New Deck?

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

Understanding the 5 Pillars of Outdoor Design

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

Only Two Weeks Left to Save Big!

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:

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 29th, 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

Making the Most of Your Porch

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

Tips for Outdoor Entertaining

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

Designing and Customizing a Deck

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:

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