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.
From trending exterior house colors such as bold, saturated hues to the growing popularity of smooth siding texture, homeowners have been finding new ways to upgrade the value and appearance of their homes.
Continue ReadingThe process of buying a house can seem daunting, especially for first-time homeowners. Even if you’ve been through it before, navigating the many steps and stakeholders can be challenging. But knowing what to expect during a home inspection and how to approach repairs can make a big difference.
Protecting your siding from damage is crucial no matter the season or time of year. Warm weather presents several unique issues to your home’s exterior that can have a negative impact, especially without proper siding maintenance. LP® SmartSide® Trim & Siding provides the protection and peace of mind you need to keep your siding in great shape during warmer seasons with easy maintenance requirements.
The modern farmhouse trend is hard to miss. For many homeowners, TV renovation shows have put this style on their must-have design lists. With features including shiplap walls, board and batten style siding, exposed wood beams and other barn elements, modern farmhouses provide a cozy, clean twist on a historic aesthetic.