Who says you need to travel to get away? Look no further than your own backyard to offer a setting worthy of your staycation this summer. If your backyard could use some sprucing up before then, follow these six steps to make it worthy of all your free time this summer.
A well-manicured lawn will make or break your overall aesthetic. Lawncare can be finicky, but there are some simple tips to tackle it without a hitch.
The biggest mistake? Over-mowing. You may be tempted to cut your grass short for less frequent cuts, but over-mowing can actually stunt the health of your lawn due to overgrown clippings that can’t decompose quickly. A good rule of (green) thumb is to cut one third of the grass blade. Consistent watering is also key. The experts agree watering before 10 a.m. is best.
Take your landscaping up a notch by planting flowers that’ll create a welcoming, Zen-like atmosphere. Lavender is a summertime triple threat that adds a colorful pop, has a pleasant aroma and also repels pesky mosquitoes. Marigolds, hydrangeas and daisies are other summertime show-stoppers.
Gone are the days when a shed’s sole purpose was just storage. Homeowners are increasingly trending toward sheds that are both functional and eye-catching. Check out some ideas in LP’s gallery.
“Within the past few years, we’ve seen an increased interest in premium sheds that are considered a true extension of the home to create an interesting backyard focal point,” says Andrew Gutchess, Sales and Accounting at Pro-Shed, who builds and retails sheds made with LP products designed for durability and aesthetics. “Rather than just storage, homeowners are using sheds as dedicated activity spaces that they actually want to spend time in.”
Just because the sun is setting doesn’t mean it’s your cue to head indoors. Add functional outdoor lightning that’ll bring your aesthetic up a notch. For example, add tea candles in mason jars to string across your backyard for an ethereal touch. String bistro lights for a low-maintenance approach. Or, line your walkway with tiki torches for a tropical vibe.
Add a functional bench, outdoor swing or hammock for relaxing seating alternatives aside from the typical chairs around a table. Statement cushions can also step up your seating game.
The difference between a backyard and a backyard oasis is all in the details. Once you have the essentials down, incorporate the details that will bring it to the next level. For example, add a playful outdoor rug, placemats and planters.
Follow these six simple steps, and you’ll want to forgo the vacation and just take a short stroll outside for some much-needed summertime R&R.
Sheds and other outdoor building structures serve as practical ways to add storage or create additional living and working space. In recent years, sheds have become a trending focus for homeowners looking to maximize their space or level-up their exteriors. If you’re looking to purchase a shed and need some inspiration, LP® SmartSide® engineered wood siding styles can help you achieve a variety of goals for your outdoor structure. To spark some inspiration, we spoke with David Parraguirre, also known as The Mexican Carpenter, about his customized shed build.
Continue ReadingIt’s a new year—and perhaps also time for new siding! The start of a new year always brings resolutions and goals, and when it comes to your home it’s the perfect time for an exterior refresh. Whether your current exterior material is worn or you’re just looking to try new siding trends, updating your siding can transform your home with a longer-lasting, premium aesthetic.
As seasons change, you may find yourself wanting to add seasonal decor to your house. When considering mounting decorations or more functional assets such as lights to your home’s exterior, you may be wondering how to hang items on siding. While LP® SmartSide® Trim & Siding is engineered for longer-lasting durability, there are some key tips to keep in mind to protect your home’s exterior when hanging items on engineered wood siding.
While many homeowners focus their attention on interior holiday decor, giving your home’s exterior a festive upgrade will ensure it’s a showstopper the moment friends and family pull into the driveaway. We talked with lifestyle blogger Liz Marie Galvan to get her top outdoor holiday decorating tips.