The Best Pool Coping Materials

Posted on April 17, 2013 by admin

Having a pool out the back of your home especially during summer time is the best asset of your home. After a long hard days work jumping in to your own pool is just so refreshing. If you have not got a pool in your yard and your do definitely have the room why not make the decision and surprise the rest of your family by buying a pool.

There are many materials that come with a pool like the decking, coping and flooring. Coping is the most important part of the pool.

What Is Pool Coping You Ask?

Well pool coping is the trimming around the edges of your pool!  It is also known as the cap for the pool shell. There are many materials that can be used for pool coping but which one will be the best and suit your pools needs. This will all depend on if your pool is in ground or above ground.

Pool coping is an essential part of the pool, as it protects people when entering and exiting the pool. Coping also protects the overall structure of the pool.

There are many tasteful designs and shades of color pool coping can be designed in. but it is your choice.

Concrete Pool Coping

Poured concrete coping is the most popular choice most homeowners opt for. The beauty of using poured concrete is that the pool deck, shell and coping become one mass all combining together. There are no joints or edging which is great because edges in a pool area can be dangerous. Beside is a picture of what concrete coping will look like!

This type of method is great for the overall look of the pool coping because it may make the smaller section of the coping and deck seem a lot bigger than it truly is.

Poured concrete is a mixture of cement, sand and water. This mixture is placed into coping moulds that are in place around the pool area. There are many edging designs that are available to enhance and feature throughout your pool area.

Concrete is a sturdy material. It is durable but not flexible. The water over time can fade the fantastic colors of the concrete pool coping away. So you may need to use a sealer to make certain that this does not happen.

Natural Stone Pool coping

Natural stones like granite, limestone, fieldstone and slate are all used as pool coping. Natural stones are produced over millions of years by chemical breakdowns, erosion and mineral deposits. They would have to be the most durable, flexible and ever lasting material that is best for pool coping. The natural stone pavers are suited to be used on in ground pools because they are slip resistant and can be sealed for further protection.

Other materials that are suited for pool coping include;

  • Precast concrete
  • Aluminium for above ground pools
  • Plastic for above ground pools.
  • Flagstone Pavers
  • Clay Pavers
  • Tiles

Colors and Patterns to Blend with the Pool Area

Every material that can be used for pool coping is naturally or manually produced in some magnificent colors. Your pool coping can be colored in a vibrant or subtle color that’s purely up to you. But my advice is choosing a color that is cool because you do not want it to heat up and burn your feet as darker colors do. So think and choose carefully.

Pavers that are used for pool coping can be laid in so many patterns its un believable. You can make up your own patterns or stick to some basic patterns like herringbone and running bond.

Whatever your choice may be you’ll certainly find it with anyone of the above mentioned materials.

Each material has there own benefits and down falls. Everybody has different needs so when you decide on choosing the best material for your coping do extensive research so you will buy what is best for you.


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Taking Care Of Your Natural Pavers

Posted on April 10, 2013 by admin

Natural pavers are wonderful pieces of nature. Majority are made in the earth’s core by high heated temperatures which bind many small minutes of mineral together which makes them form a natural stone. They then sit and mature over millions of years and become more and more beautiful as the age gets older. You will notice that the older the pavers the more unique they become.

There are a lot of imitation materials that are being used today to mimic the look of natural stone pavers but ill say nothing beats the real thing. They may be cheaper in price but pure natural stone pavers will last longer and give a natural affect that you deserve.

Natural stones pavers come in an extensive range of various colors, textures, patterns and sizes. They all differ in density from soft to tough. Their textures can be smooth, glossy and relatively rough.

Most natural stone pavers can be applied anywhere around your homes. Driveways, walkways, garden paths, steps, patios, indoor flooring, sidewalks and pool surroundings are all common places where most people tend to select natural stone pavers for their preferred flooring.

The Many Unique Colors of Natural Stone Pavers

Below are 3 classic examples of just how unique the colors of natural stone pavers are. They can not me matched by any other man made product.

Bluestone pavers have been used around this pool. Look at the classic example of just how unique the colors really are. They are delightful and stunning. They enhance the overall look of this special area of the home.

 

This gorgeous coloring is natural stone called sandstone. Sandstone also offers many magical settings. It is made up of quartz, mica and silica. Take a good look at the fantastic colors that also can not be match by any other product.

 

Limestone is famously known for its pastel colors. Limestone pavers offer many neutral tones which will help you blend them in with your outdoor color scheme.

Caring For These Outstanding Pavers

Well we all love the look of our newly paved pathway where ever it may be around our home. But are we thinking long term and ready to maintain them? Yes of course we are! Caring for natural pavers is a job that is done easily. All you need to keep in consideration is that they need a little attention every now and again. Make them part of your weekly chores. They do require a little maintenance. But you will only benefit from it.

Sweep over Them Weekly

This is the easiest job of them all, and so simple and quick. All that you need is a broom and yourself. Simply just sweep over the pavers to remove all dust, dirt and debris. If you do not do this is can result in staining the surface and dirt will affect the natural coloring of these unique pavers.

Wash Them down Every 2 Weeks

Mix up some warm soapy water and throw it over the area. Use your broom or scrubbing brush and sweep over the water. This will give the pavers a genuine wash over. This process will remove dirt, debris and dust that may lay on the surface. Do not use a scrubbing brush that has metal bristles as it will affect the natural texture of the pavers.

Chemical Cleaners for Hard Stains

Chemical cleaners are made available from your local natural stone paver’s retailer. Seek their advice on choosing the right solution for your flooring. Chemical cleaners are great for removing harsh stains like; grime, oil, petrol and tyre markers.

Sealers To Lock In The Colors and Protect The Unique Surface Textures!

Sealers are available in many different finishes like, glossy, high glossy, matt and smooth. You can seal your natural pavers at least once a year to ensure their colors last forever. However it is not necessarily recommended to seal them unless they are around the pool area because natural stone paver’s colors get better with age. They also need the space to breathe.

Looking after you natural stone pavers can be a job done easily take the time out and enjoy the natural beauties of your own natural stone pavers.

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Decorative Concrete Around Your Home

Posted on April 10, 2013 by admin

Is there a space around the outside of your home that annoys you because it’s dull and boring? It always has you thinking, what can I do to fix it up?

If there is a grass patch in your backyard that is lifeless any dying you must be thinking how I can fix this.

Well I’ve got the right solution for you. Get rid of it and add replace it with decorative concrete. It will definitely improve the look immensely.

Decorative concrete is available in many exciting colors, patterns and shapes. It can be applied to any part of your outdoors for example your driveway, patio or walkway.

Applying Decorative Concrete to Your Driveway

Decorative concrete will add that much needed beauty to the front of your home. Your driveway is the focal point of the front of your home. So a decorative concrete driveway will be visually pleasing to both you and on lookers that will pass by your place day by day. You will have the whole street wanting to know what material you have used on your driveway. When you tell them that its decorative concrete they’ll be rushing out to find a contractor that specialises in decorative concrete to have their driveway done.

Some other common places where you can apply decorative concrete to enhance the look of the surrounding areas are;

Walkways

Walkways are an important part of your home. They lead you to a destination of your home like the back yard, front yard and inside the home. What better flooring material could you use than decorative concrete for this special area?

Patios

A patio can be a place of relaxation. It can also be a place where you entertain your guest and family enjoying a nice meal. Decorative concrete that is applied to a patio’s floor will create beauty and attractiveness. Add some fancy furniture to this area and it will be complete and ready for you all to enjoy.

Pool Area

Your pool area is a place you and your family will spend most of your time throughout hot summer’s days. So you’ll want this area to be absolutely perfecto. Decorative concrete is the perfect solution for all your flooring needs around the pool. It is available in many lighter shaded colors. Light colors are important around pool areas because they will not heat up due to excessive sun light and UV rays, therefore they will not burn your feet upon entering or exiting the pool. Decorative concrete also meets certain laws which are required when using a flooring material around your pool.

Garden Area

Your garden area is the most peaceful area is the most peaceful area around your home. All the pretty flowers, trickling sounds of water and enjoyable wildlife are enough to make you want to stay out there forever.

Decorative concrete can be used as flooring throughout your garden area. It can also be used for curbing the gardens. It will only add beauty and enhance and compliment this exquisite area.

Decorative concrete can keep away any unwanted weeds and mosses that may grow throughout your garden. You see unlike pavers decorative concrete has not joints or cracks, it is a solid mass.


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Curbing Your Landscape with Concrete

Posted on March 29, 2013 by admin

Commercial curbing is seen just about on every road there is. If you have not yet noticed it next time you’re driving along a road look out to the gutter and you’ll see a concrete type of curbing. Commercial curbing is used to separate the roads from the grass areas. Curbing also helps storm water travel down in gutters flowing in the right direction. Commercial curbing beautifies the streets as well as protecting them. Curbing offers a neat and tidy outlook. Curbing is widely used all over the world today.

Can I Use Curbing Around My Home?

Yes indeed! Curbing can be used around your front and back landscape. You see curbing can help prevent dirt, soil, bark, rocks or any other material you have used in your landscape gardens from traveling onto several places like; your driveway, walkway, patio or sidewalk.

Concrete Curbing Around Your Landscape

Concrete is the best material that should be used for all your curbing needs. It’s durable, hardwearing and long lasting. Concrete curbing may be used to curb the edges of your landscape. It acts like a barrier between areas that pass before it like driveways and walkways and the landscape.

Having a barrier between your driveway and landscaped garden is important because you do not want debris traveling onto it. This can be dangerous! Leaves and dirt can be slippery so by using concrete curbing you are keeping the dirt and leaves where they should be.

One of the beauties and benefits of using concrete as your preferred curbing material is that you are able to choose just about any color you like. Whether it is red, pink, blue, and green, brown, white or black be sure that you will find the right color that will suit your existing color scheme.

How Is Curbing Made?

Concrete curbing is produced in molds. Once you have decided on the right place to put the curbing you should measure the area in length and width. This will give you the right idea on how much curbing you will need, as well as how many materials you will also need.

Once you have measured the areas where you are using curbing you can either choose to make your own concrete curbing by producing plastic molds with the shape you would like or you can visit your local retailer who will offer you curbing services.

If you do decide to design your own concrete curbing you can purchase the concrete mixture containing your desired color.

Concrete Curbing

Concrete curbing will not only prevent dirt, debris, rocks and weeds from entering your driveway or walkway curbing will add some much needed beauty to the finishing affects of your wonderfully landscaped gardens.

Concrete curbing is a decorative necessity that all landscaping should feature. If you are truly not happy with the overall affect of your landscape because you think and feel there is something missing add some concrete curbing around your gardens you’ll be fantastically amazed by the gorgeous affects and settings that concrete curbing provides.

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10 Simple Ways to Care For Your Landscape

Posted on March 22, 2013 by admin

Your landscape is an area that you should be proud of. It beautifies the front and back of your home. It creates a peaceful place with many dainty ornaments that will have you feeling calm and happy.

An important part of having a landscaped garden is the up keeping. You can hire a professional to help you with this (it can get quite costly) or why not do it yourself.

Here is 10 simple ways to care for your landscape;

  1. Flooring

All flooring that surrounds your landscaping should be cared for on a daily or weekly basis. Places like your driveway, walkway, garden path or patio should always be kept clear of any dangerous objects like; leaves which cause slippage and dirt will do the same. So give it a general sweep and wash using warm soapy water at least once a week.

3 main types of flooring that is used in landscaped areas are; concrete, natural stone pavers and brick pavers. They all have their own specially formulated cleaners and sealers which can be used to help care for these surfaces.

  1. Plants

Your landscaped gardens may have many plants in fact you will probably have this area surrounded by plants. 1 simple step that should be done daily is watering. This is easily done by using your hose. If you have a larger area you can seek information on installing a drip irrigation system. Another easy step to caring for plants is too chop them down every so often so they don’t get out of control ad take over the garden. Just use some gardening scissors and you’ll be done in no time.

  1. Trees

Trees are relatively large, and they are known to be hundreds of years old. Throughout the winter and autumn seasons they shred a lot of bark and leafs which doesn’t look very glamorous all over the yard. To keep your landscaped lawns looking fresh and vibrant just use a rake and sweep all the trees bark and leaf away.

  1. Dirt and Soil

Dirt and soil are used as bases for all flowers, and plants. Sometimes due to rainfall the dirt and soil will travel and be in places they shouldn’t be. Using a pair of gloves just sweep it up and place it where it should be. Also another important caring procedure is watering soil also needs a drink of water to help with the growing of the flowers and plants that are planted in the soil.

  1. Mulching

Every plant, flower and tree that is in your landscape needs mulching. Mulch is like a plants food that assists the flowers with there growth. You can purchases many different types of mulches from your local plant retailer. There is also water saving mulches you can purchase. Always read the labels for instructions on how much mulch you should be giving your plants, trees and flowers.

  1. Lawn Care

This is my favourite part of caring for your landscape and I think every one that does it will agree with me? Mowing the grass on a gorgeous summer’s day is the best way to spend an afternoon. It is so simple there are many wonderful machines to help you with this process all you have to do is push them.

Also give your lawns water every so often, maybe later in the afternoon. Mulches can also be used on your lawns to help make them look lovely and green

  1. Watering

Water is the landscapes main source of life. It makes the trees, flowers and plants grow. But lately in many states water has become the most sacred source and we have been given watering restrictions. To abide by these rules we are given certain times of the day and week when we can water our landscape. So do your thing and abide by these rules. Your landscaping doesn’t need constant watering once or twice a week is fine.

  1. Flowers

Flowers are the prettiest things that are seen in landscaping. They give landscaping beauty and a colourful outlook. All flowers need is a little bit of water and mulch every now and again and make sure you plant them in their recommended positions. For example; plant them in the shade, sun or half and half.

  1. Storm damage

Harsh weather can be a terror to the landscape gardens. It can cause flowers to dye and disappear, soil to shift in all directions and braches off trees can be thrown around all over the place. The best thing to do after a storm is access the area and start by slowly mending it to the way it was.

  1. Sealing Pavers and Concrete

This is the easiest part after the installation of either pavers or concrete to your landscaping. You may want further protection on these materials so your can choose to coat them for a longer lasting protective coating.

There are many types of pavers available today. As well as many types of sealers available. Speak to your local pavers retailer as to which is the best product for you.

Concrete also offers many different types of sealers so it is recommended that you do the same.

Sealing should be done at least once or twice a year depending on the wear and tear of the area.

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Paving a Driveway

Posted on March 13, 2013 by admin

Introduction to Driveways

A driveway is situated at the entrance or rear of your home. It may lead to a garage or walkway to your home it all depends on how you home has been designed. A driveway is a place where you park your vehicle day in and day out.

A driveway can also be designed to blend with walkways, sidewalks and courtyards that will all lead you to a specific destination like the indoors of your home, pool area or back yard.

Purpose of a Driveway

A driveway acts like a pathway for your car as it enters your garage or car port. Their main purpose is to protect and guide vehicular traffic in the right direction which leads to a parking destination. Without a driveway you wouldn’t be able to have lovely landscaped gardens out front of your home. There would be all the families vehicles parked out front all over the lawn. A driveway is a must f or all residential homes, commercial builds, public places and car parks etc.

Pavers on Driveways

There are 3 main categories of pavers;

  1. Concrete
  2. Natural Stone
  3. Brick

Concrete Pavers: these pavers are man made and produced in large quantities in factories all over the world. Their main ingredient is cement.

Natural Stone:  these pavers are quarried all over the world. Some include; limestone, sandstone, marble, travertine, cantera stone, bluestone and flagstone. Formed naturally within the earths crust.

Brick Pavers: brick pavers consist of sand, clay and cement. They are then fired together at high temperatures to bind them together.

All 3 types of pavers are suitable for driveway applications. It’s your choice as we all have different designs and ideas.

THE BENEFITS OF USING PAVERS FOR DRIVEWAYS

Pavers are the one and only choice for all driveways. They offer many great benefits such as;

  1. Durability
  2. Flexibility
  3. Strength
  4. Versatility
  5. Low maintenance
  6. Hard wearing and long lasting.

Other Types of Materials That Can Be Used On Driveways

  1. Asphalt Paving
  2. Concrete Slabs
  3. Rubber Pavers  
  4. Grass and Turf Pavers

Points To Consider Before Paving a Driveway

A professionally installed paved driveway can last a lifetime if it’s taken care of. The same will also apply if you yourself have installed it with perfection. There are many main points to consider.

  1. Investigate the lying area, looking for underlying pipes and cables.
  2. Set out a boundary line so you do not end up in your neighbour’s yard.
  3. Measure carefully and outline the specified area using spray paint.
  4. Consider the slope age between house and garage if needed.
  5. Decide on the best pavers for the application.

Choosing the right pavers for a driveway can be difficult due to the wide array of shapes, patterns, colors, textures etc that there is available today. Therefore, careful consideration is always needed.

The Essentials

  • After excavation a ground base is added to the soil. One of the most popular materials used is crushed limestone. Crushed limestone is the perfect base material because it compacts together very well.
  •  Try spraying a herbicide before the installation this will prevent weeds from growing in between the joints.
  • If you’re not confident enough to conduct the installation hire a contractor. Research around and get plenty of quotes
  • Proper maintenance will keep your driveway shinning on!

Hopefully this article has demonstrated some of the reasons why Pavers are such a common choice when it comes to driveways!

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Make A Statement With Stamped Concrete

Posted on March 8, 2013 by admin

Stamped Concrete was designed in the 1950’s. Rubber mats were introduced and used to stamp the surface of concrete when it was set at the plastic stage. Over time many new techniques have been invented.

Stamped Concrete was designed to imitate the look of bricks pavers, stone, flagstone, sandstone, and all other types of pavers. It is classed as the most cost effective building material still being used widely today.

Decorative concrete is also popular amongst homeowners, designers, architects and contractors today. It is the same as stamped concrete, the only difference being the methods of achieving patterns and shapes on the surface of the concrete.

Stamped concrete is one of the most popular flooring materials being used all around residential homes. Its cost effectiveness, colors and patterns make it a world wide success. Use it anywhere around your home and you will be extremely satisfied.

Why Use Stamped Concrete?

Stamped concrete is made available in many colors and patterns that can be designed to compliment the architecture of your home. The initial installation should be carried out by a professional; this will ensure the job is done perfect.

The maintenance is low and all that is required is sealing every 1 to 2 years to make certain the colors are not damaged by the affects of harsh weather conditions such as; UV rays, heavy rain fall and snow/ice.

Stamped concrete offers long term appeal that will be complimented by many who pass by. Its many characteristics (e.g., colors, patterns and smooth textures) will enhance and add beauty to your home. Stamped concrete can also add value to your property.

Where to Use It?

Choosing the right materials can be a tough choice for the specified area. Pool areas need to be non slip, driveways need to be heavy duty and flexible, walkways need to be able to with stand foot traffic and patios also need to be heavy duty.

Stamped concrete can be applied to all types of applications such as;

  • Driveways
  • Patios
  • Courtyards
  • Walkways
  • Sidewalks
  • Pool decks
  • Steps

Whether it’s a small area or large area stamped concrete will make a statement and benefit you the homeowner.

Driveways

Stamped concrete on your driveway will not only attract attention it will offer you many benefits. Durability is the main attribute stamped concrete offers which is highly needed for a driveway. Strength and long lasting effects are also offered when using stamped concrete.

Pool Surroundings

Your pool area needs to be safe for you and your guests to relax and enjoy the surrounds. Stamped concrete is water resistant it can also be sealed to ensure further protection from slippages which may occur upon entering the pool.

Walkways

Most people enjoy walking along paths that curve and straighten up; it’s relaxing and helps you wind down after a hard days work. Stamped concrete will definitely make a statement on a walkway. You’ll enjoy the smooth textures and soulful colors it offers.

Stamped concrete is hard wearing and able to with stand heavy foot traffic. So it is the perfect choice for a walkway.

Colors and Patterns

The colors and patterns of stamped concrete normally imitate versions of tiles, stones, pavers and bricks. The coloring of it also imitates them.

There are many colors and patterns to choose from, you can even combine several designs.

Make stamped concrete your number one choice, you wont be disappointed with the superb aesthetic and functional results!

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Landscaping With Stone

Posted on March 1, 2013 by admin

Landscaping is an art. Combining wonderful land, thoughtful designs and natures own beauties and you will receive an area that is peaceful, creative and one with sweet serenity. You and your family can sit back and enjoy the peaceful sounds of your landscaped area. Humming birds, pretty flowers, water fountains and the trees leaves all add to the beauty and elegance of your landscaping gardens.

Stone is one of the most popular choices for all landscaping applications. Stone is a natural material, which is produced by nature’s forces over millions of years. It is then quarried and formed into various shapes and sizes. It is also used most commonly amongst the building and landscaping trades.

Stone Features

Stone pavers can be used on a variety of outdoor applications. They are especially ideal for use throughout your landscaped area as;

  • Curbing
  • Edging
  • Water Features
  • Garden paving
  • Mosaic type features
  • Bird Baths

Curbing and Edging

Curbing made of stone can be used along the boundary of the landscaped garden. It is most effective when the stone is in irregular pieces placed in a random order. Edging is similar to curbing; the same effect applies. Both edging and curbing can be very functional and create a surreal setting throughout your landscaped garden.

Water Features

Water features made out of stone are highly decorative. The trickling sounds of soothing water will be enough to turn you’re landscape into a harmonized area. Water features such as; water falls, ponds and fountains, can all be made of elegant natural stone, which will last a lifetime.

Mosaics

Mosaic features can be made by you, using crushed stone and a board. Then placing the stones in random order, making sure you glue them to the board. You can then hang this mosaic in your landscaped area. You can also purchase one from your nearest landscape centre.

Bird Baths

Bird baths which are made out of stone are wonderfully hand crafted. You can sit back and enjoy while watching thousands of natures own birds dropping in and cooling down in your natural stone bird bath.

Stone Paving throughout the Landscape

Stone paving is widely used in household back yards quite commonly. Stone pavers offer a durability that others find hard to match. Their long lasting qualities and many benefits make them a perfect choice for all landscaping flooring.

Landscape patios are a perfect spacious section of your landscape where you and your family can come together and enjoy the outdoor. Stone pavers are the perfect flooring on the patio. They offer many benefits for your patio such as;

  • Easily maintained.
  • Will not be scratched by patio furniture.
  • Marks and food stains are easily rinsed free.
  • They can be sealed for further protection
  • Are available in a wide array of colors, shapes and sizes.
  • They offer enticing laying patterns which are easily installed.

Other places stone pavers can be used throughout landscaping are; walkways, courtyards, garden paths, sidewalks, entrance to the area and pool areas.

Stone Colors

Your landscape is generally green in color with sparkles of unique colored flowers and flashes of earthy tones. Stone pavers are found in many fascinating colors that will blend and compliment the whole landscaped area.

Some popular colors include;

  • Blue
  • Green
  • Brown
  • Beige
  • Red
  • Orange
  • Rustic
  • Sandy

Now that you have a few tips on using natural stone in your landscaped areas, go ahead and enjoy its timeless beauty!

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Knowing Your Brick Pavers

Posted on February 19, 2013 by admin

Your home doesn’t speak but it tells a lot of who you are and what your tastes are, as do the patios, driveway and walkways that lead to your home and to the outdoors. They create ones first impression of your home and your lifestyle. So, they should be thoroughly planned and designed just as you would do for the interior of your home.

The most important decision to be made is; what type of pavers should I use for all my outdoor flooring applications? In this article we discuss the use of Brick pavers. Adding a brick paved walkway, patio, pathway or driveway to your home can be a great investment and is sure to add value and a sense of style to your property.

Understanding the many types of pavers is very important. They all have many differences and require special attention, such as;

  1. Installation Process
  2. Laying Patterns
  3. Textures
  4. Base materials

Antique Brick Pavers

Antique brick pavers offer a rustic and ‘old world’ appearance. They require careful installation which is suggested to be carried out by a professional. This is due to their delicacy and soft texture. They offer many benefits and are cost effective because they are being made in imitation forms out of 50 year old machines.

Antique pavers are suited to several applications like; driveways, patios, walkways, entrances and courtyards. They require little maintenance and there are specific types of cleaners that are available to assist you with their maintenance.

Brick Pavers

Brick pavers are made of 3 primary elements known as clay, water and fire. The firing process is conducted to bind the pavers together. Shale and silica are also formed in brick pavers. Genuine brick pavers will offer you a touch of class and elegance.

Their installation is simple and can be carried out by yourself or a skilled professional. Maintenance is not a problem, every so often wash them down with a high pressured hose and use a specific cleaner to remove harsh stains.

Brick pavers come in a variety of magical colors for you to choose from. Earthy tones are the most commonly used and make up most of the color range, such as;

  • Red
  • Rusty
  • Orange
  • Brown
  • Beige
  • Clay
  • Sandy
  • Pale yellow

One of the beauties of brick pavers is that they can be made to match the ones used on your home if needed, how wonderful!

THE ADVANTAGES OF USING BRICK PAVERS

Some of the advantages that brick pavers have to offer are;

  1. Their appearance gets better with age.
  2. There are many laying patterns to choose from.
  3. You can create your own laying pattern interlocked or not.
  4. They can be custom made to the shapes you require.
  5. Do not need to be applied to mortar it’s your choice.
  6. No two bricks are alike in color or texture.
  7. Antique brick pavers offer a soft look that can’t de duplicated.

Durability and Strength

These are 2 of the main attributes pavers should have. There are special standards that brick pavers need to meet. They have to be able to withstand both foot and vehicular traffic.

Most brick pavers meet this standard so it is important you question this topic before purchasing brick pavers. See, house and wall brick are different to the brick pavers used for flooring.

If you install brick pavers that don’t meet these special requirements it may result in damages.

Efflorescence and Stains

Brick pavers are resistant to most types of stains. Some harsh stains like petrol and oil should be removed straight away with special brick pavers cleaner.

Efflorescence may occur and disappear over lengths of time. Efflorescence is a white powdery substance that is seen on the surface of the pavers. To avoid efflorescence do not use calcium chloride de-icers.

To ensure that you get the best out of your Brick Pavers it is recommended that you become an expert and well informed on the topic, ask questions and do a little research. Brick pavers are not one of the most commonly used pavers for no reason!

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General Maintenance of Your Landscaped Gardens

Posted on February 14, 2013 by admin

Your beautifully landscaped gardens are your pride and joy. On a gorgeous Sunday morning you spend it in your gardens maintaining its magical settings. Pretty flowers, gorgeous garden paths are enough to make you want to spend the whole day outdoors. Does this sound like you?

Some people pay thousands of dollars to have their gardens wonderfully landscaped with accessories, plants, features, flowers and even paved areas where you can sit back and enjoy this peaceful serenity.

The first couple of weeks are exciting because you enjoy maintaining this peaceful area. As weeks go by it becomes a chore and a hassel so you either hire a professional or leave it as is.

Here we will go through some simple steps that will help you get back into maintaining your landscaped gardens.

Keep the Flowers Looking Pretty

Most flowers enjoy a good drink. So you should water them on a daily basis. If your town has water restrictions in place then put a bucket in your shower and use this water or use the washing machine water, there are other alternatives to help you watering the flowers.

Some types of flowers also need to be trimmed back. So using garden scissors just trim off the areas where you think it’s needed. Also remove all dead flowers and leaves this will deliberately make a difference. 2 or 3 simple steps a week will help you maintain your pretty flowers.

Grass and Lawns

Grass tends to grow with the blink of an eye. All you need is a lawn mower and edge trimmers to keep your lawns look perfect. Lawns generally need to be mowed at least once a month if not twice a month, especially if it rains in between.

If you’re in a state where the temperature is high your grass will also need some watering. Preferably in the late afternoon using a hose spray the water over the grass not soaking it. Just give it enough so you’re able to see little drops on the grasses surface.

Paved Areas

Paved areas around your landscaping also require simple maintenance, whether it is a driveway, walkway, garden path or patio. Depending on the type of pavers, there are special types of cleaners and sealers available for you to use to maintain them.

Sealers offer a protection coating that will stop stains from penetrating through to the actual pavers. Sealing should be applied at least once a year.

General maintenance that should be done to ensure your pavers last a lifetime is;

  1. Brush over them with a broom once a week. This will remove dust, dirt, grime and unwanted leaves that may affect the surface of your paved area.
  2. Wash over them with a high pressured hose. This will remove harsh food, oil and grime stains.
  3. Check them regularly for any damages that may result in an accident.

Landscape Ornaments

Ornaments are an important part of landscaping. They add to the finishing touches of the garden. They also enhance and compliment the beautiful landscaping surround them.

Some popular ornaments feature throughout landscaping are;

  • Water Features
  • Pots and Urns
  • Garden Gnomes
  • Bird Baths
  • Tables and Chairs
  • Sun Lounges

They all require no maintenance except a general check over to make certain they are working to their best abilities.

Following these simple maintenance procedures on a regular basis can ensure that your Landscape will be the talk of the street!

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