Sunroom vs Screen Porch

Should I build a sunroom or a screen porch?

A sunroom and a screen porch are both outdoor living spaces, but they have different characteristics and uses.

A sunroom is a fully enclosed space that is designed to allow sunlight to enter, while also providing protection from the elements. Typically, sunrooms are made of glass or other transparent materials, and they are often heated and air-conditioned, allowing them to be used year-round. Sunrooms are typically considered an extension of the main living area of a home and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as entertaining, relaxation, or even as a home office.

A screen porch, on the other hand, is an outdoor space that is enclosed with screens to keep out insects and other pests while still allowing fresh air to circulate. Unlike a sunroom, a screen porch is not fully enclosed and does not have walls or windows. It is designed to provide a comfortable outdoor living space while still enjoying the breeze and the sounds of nature. Screen porches are typically used during the warmer months and are a great place to enjoy a meal, read a book, or just relax.

In summary, the main difference between a sunroom and a screen porch is that a sunroom is a fully enclosed indoor space, while a screen porch is an outdoor space that is partially enclosed with screens.

December 23, 2022February 26, 2023

Hardscape Pros

The Pros of Hardscaping

Hardscaping refers to the non-living elements of a landscape design, such as patios, walkways, walls, and other permanent fixtures. Unlike softscaping which involves living elements like plants, hardscaping involves materials such as stone, concrete, brick, and wood. While hardscaping may not be as visually striking as a beautiful garden, it plays an essential role in creating an outdoor living space that is functional, attractive, and long-lasting. Let’s explore the benefits of hardscaping.

Adds Value to Your Property

Hardscaping can increase the value of your property. By creating an outdoor living space with hardscaping features like a patio, outdoor kitchen, or fire pit, you are adding functional living space to your property. These features can make your home more appealing to potential buyers and increase its resale value.

Low Maintenance

Hardscaping features are low maintenance compared to softscaping. Softscaping elements like plants and flowers require regular watering, pruning, and fertilizing, whereas hardscaping features are durable and require little maintenance. Hardscaping features are designed to withstand the elements and can last for many years without needing repair or replacement.

Increases Usable Space

Hardscaping can increase the usable space of your property. By adding a patio or walkway, you are creating a functional space that can be used for outdoor entertaining, dining, or relaxation. Hardscaping features can also help define different areas of your yard, creating zones for specific activities.

Improves Drainage

Hardscaping features can improve drainage on your property. By adding permeable pavers or a retaining wall, you can prevent water from pooling in low areas of your yard, which can cause damage to your property or create a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Reduces Erosion

Hardscaping can also help reduce erosion on your property. By adding a retaining wall or other hardscaping features, you can prevent soil from washing away during heavy rains or storms. This can help protect your property and prevent soil erosion from damaging nearby waterways.

Increases Safety

Hardscaping features can increase safety on your property. By adding lighting to walkways or steps, you can improve visibility and prevent accidents. Hardscaping features like a retaining wall or fence can also provide a barrier to prevent people from accidentally falling or wandering into unsafe areas.

Enhances Curb Appeal

Hardscaping can enhance the curb appeal of your property. A well-designed hardscaping feature like a stone walkway or decorative retaining wall can make your property more visually appealing and create a welcoming entrance for visitors.

Hardscaping is an essential aspect of landscape design that offers numerous benefits. It can add value to your property, increase usable space, improve drainage, reduce erosion, increase safety, and enhance curb appeal. If you’re looking to improve your outdoor living space, consider incorporating hardscaping features into your design.

December 10, 2022February 25, 2023

Backyard Design: Think Vertical

How to think vertical when designing your backyard

Designing a backyard can be a fun and exciting process. To think vertically, you’ll need to consider ways to make use of the vertical space in your backyard. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Create vertical garden walls: One way to make use of vertical space is by creating garden walls. You can use trellises or wall-mounted planters to create a green wall that adds texture and color to your backyard.
Hang plants from the ceiling: Another way to add greenery to your backyard is by hanging plants from the ceiling. You can use baskets or macrame plant hangers to create a hanging garden.
Install a pergola or arbor: A pergola or arbor can add height and structure to your backyard while also providing shade. You can use climbing plants such as vines to grow up the structure and add even more greenery.
Use raised beds: Raised beds are another way to make use of vertical space in your backyard. You can build raised beds in different heights and sizes to create a layered effect that adds visual interest to your garden.
Add a water feature: A water feature such as a fountain or waterfall can add height and movement to your backyard. You can also use a water feature to create a focal point that draws the eye upwards.
Incorporate lighting: Outdoor lighting can also help you think vertically by illuminating trees, walls, and other vertical elements in your backyard. Use spotlights or string lights to highlight the vertical features in your garden.

By incorporating these tips into your backyard design, you can make the most of your vertical space and create a backyard that is both beautiful and functional.

November 25, 2022February 25, 2023

Should I Build an Outdoor Living Space?

Should You Build an Outdoor Living Space?

There are few things more enjoyable than spending time outdoors, especially when the weather is pleasant. An outdoor living space can provide you with an extension of your home, a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy nature. Here are some compelling reasons why building an outdoor living space could be a worthwhile investment.

Enhance Your Home’s Value

An outdoor living space can increase your home’s value, making it a smart investment. An outdoor living space can be an attractive selling point for potential buyers if you ever decide to sell your home.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Outdoor living spaces allow you to enjoy nature without leaving the comfort of your home. Whether you want to read a book, enjoy a cup of coffee, or entertain guests, an outdoor living space can be a peaceful and relaxing place to do so.

Expand Your Living Area

An outdoor living space can effectively expand your living area, giving you more space to entertain guests or relax. This is especially beneficial if you have a small home and limited indoor space.

Customizable

Outdoor living spaces are highly customizable, allowing you to design a space that meets your specific needs and preferences. Whether you want a simple patio or a full outdoor kitchen, you can create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle.

Increase Your Health and Well-being

Spending time outside has been shown to have a positive effect on your health and well-being. Exposure to fresh air, natural light, and green spaces can reduce stress, improve your mood, and even boost your immune system.

Cost-Effective

Building an outdoor living space can be a cost-effective way to increase your living area. Compared to the cost of adding an indoor room or extension, an outdoor living space is typically more affordable.

As you can see, there are numerous reasons why building an outdoor living space can be a wise investment. From expanding your living area to enjoying the outdoors, an outdoor living space can provide a range of benefits for you and your family. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.

October 3, 2022February 25, 2023

Designing a Garden

Gardening is an incredibly rewarding hobby that allows you to connect with nature, exercise your creativity, and cultivate beauty in your own backyard. One of the most important aspects of gardening is garden design, as it sets the tone for the entire space and determines how well your plants will thrive. In this blog, we’ll explore the basics of garden design and provide tips for creating a beautiful and functional outdoor oasis.

Start with a Plan

Before you start digging, it’s important to have a plan in place. Consider the following factors when designing your garden:

Purpose: What do you want to use your garden for – relaxing, entertaining, growing vegetables, etc.?
Climate: What plants thrive in your region’s climate and soil?
Sun and Shade: How much sun does your garden get throughout the day?
Space: How much space do you have to work with, and what are the dimensions of the area?
Budget: How much money are you willing to spend on materials and plants?

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can create a rough sketch or use a garden design tool to create a more detailed plan.

Choose a Focal Point

Every garden needs a focal point – a feature that draws the eye and adds interest to the space. This could be a statue, water feature, or even a particularly beautiful plant. Your focal point should be positioned at the center of the garden or along a prominent axis.

Use Color and Texture to Create Contrast

One of the most important aspects of garden design is the use of color and texture. By using contrasting colors and textures, you can create a visually interesting and dynamic space. For example, you might plant bright red flowers next to deep green foliage, or use rough-hewn stone as a border for a bed of delicate flowers.

Use Hardscaping to Define Spaces

Hardscaping refers to the use of non-plant materials in garden design, such as rocks, gravel, and pavers. By using hardscaping to define different spaces within your garden, you can create a sense of order and structure. For example, you might use a gravel path to separate a vegetable garden from a seating area, or install a stone wall to create a sense of enclosure and privacy.

Consider the Seasons

A well-designed garden should be beautiful and functional year-round, not just in the summer months. When choosing plants, consider their bloom time and ensure that you have a variety of species that will bloom at different times throughout the year. You can also use evergreen plants to provide structure and interest during the winter months.

Don’t Forget About Maintenance

Finally, when designing your garden, it’s important to consider the amount of maintenance required to keep it looking its best. Choose plants that are appropriate for your skill level and the amount of time you have to devote to upkeep. You can also incorporate low-maintenance features such as mulch beds and automatic irrigation systems.

Garden design is an important aspect of creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space. By considering factors such as climate, space, and purpose, you can create a plan that works for your needs and budget. Remember to use color and texture to create contrast, incorporate hardscaping to define spaces, and choose plants that bloom at different times throughout the year. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a garden that is both stunning and easy to maintain.

September 15, 2022February 25, 2023

The Poconos: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Nestled in the heart of northeastern Pennsylvania lies the Pocono Mountains, a region renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. With its abundance of state parks, forests, lakes, and rivers, the Poconos are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests.

Hiking

One of the most popular outdoor activities in the Poconos is hiking. The region boasts over 260 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging ascents. The Appalachian Trail, a 2,190-mile long-distance hiking trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine, passes through the Poconos and offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Camping

For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, camping is a great option. The Poconos have several campgrounds that offer tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and cottages for those who prefer more comfortable accommodations. Many of the campgrounds are located near lakes and rivers, providing opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.

Fishing

Speaking of fishing, the Poconos are a fisherman’s paradise. The region has over 150 lakes and ponds, as well as several rivers and streams, that are stocked with a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and catfish. Anglers can fish from shore or rent a boat and explore the waterways.

Skiing and Snowboarding

When the snow falls, the Poconos transform into a winter wonderland. The region has several ski resorts that offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, such as tubing and snowshoeing. With over 185 slopes and trails, the Poconos are a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Water Sports

In the summer, the Poconos are a hub for water sports. The region’s numerous lakes and rivers provide opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and more. Many of the lakes also have public beaches where visitors can swim and soak up the sun.

Wildlife Watching

Finally, the Poconos are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, bald eagles, and white-tailed deer. Wildlife enthusiasts can go on guided tours or explore on their own to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.

The Pocono Mountains offer a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities that are sure to delight any nature lover. From hiking and camping to skiing and snowboarding, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. So, pack your bags and head to the Poconos for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.