How To Build An Outdoor Water Feature
Adding a outdoor water fountain can be an easy one day project. Some of the items needed for this project are: a large decorative pot, a small plantainer, poly planter bowl, spray paint, pavers, decorative river rock, stepping stones, and fountain pump. You may been to paint the planter bowl to match the rim of your pot.
Here’s a quick run down of the steps to create an outdoor water fountain. Be sure to watch the video for more detail.
1. Dig a hole that the plantainer will fit in.
2. Add the pump with tubing attached to the bottom of the plantainer
3. Stack pavers around the pump at the bottom of the plantainer
4. Feed the tube through the Read More…
Installing a Paver Patio
Installing a paver patio looks harder than it really is. Although this project will require using a saw to cut the stone. If you don’t feel comfortable cutting stone, you will be better off hiring someone to complete this project for you. Depending on your skill level and the amount of help you have, this project can take a weekend to a couple of weeks to complete. There are many different types of paver patios you can install. There’s brick pavers, cut stone, or natural stone.
I’ve attached a great video that goes into great detail of how to install a paver patio. A quick summary of the video.
1. Mark the area where you will be placing the pavers
2. Prepare the foundation. See the second video for instructions on how to prepare the foundation. Make sure you’re following local building codes.
3. Lay the pavers. Make sure the pavers are Read More…
How To Plant A Tree
If you’re thinking about planting a tree to provide shade or decoration to your yard, here’s a great video to show you the how to give your tree a great start and keep your tree looking good for years to come. Now it’s time to choose the location for the tree. If you already have the tree, make sure to read the requirements for the type of tree you’re planting. Different trees require different commitment. If it requires full sun, make sure it will receive sun the majority of the day. You also need to consider size, climate, overhead wiring, etc. You want to make sure you have enough room for a mature tree. If you haven’t chosen the tree yet, find one that fits the requirements of the location you have chosen. Once you’ve decided on the location for the tree, call 811 to talk to your local utility company to have them make sure you don’t run into any gas or water lines. Also check the local zoning laws to make sure there are no restrictions where you can plant your trees. Depending on where you live, usually the best time to plant a tree is during the Fall or Spring. The video below contains much more information on planting your tree. Leave your comments below.
7 Tips For Growing Tomatoes
Here’s a great video with 7 tips on growing great tomatoes. Nothing beats the taste of a fresh, home grown tomato. If you have problems growing your tomato plants, here are 7 great tips that will help you get the most out of your tomato plants.
1. Plant them in full sun. You need a good 6-8 hours of light each day. Tomatoes love warm weather.
2. Plant the tomatoes in a good soil. Adding good compost improves the drainage and helps them grow better.
3. Give them plenty of space. Tomato plants need atleast 2-3 feet to grow properly. Anything less than that can limit their growth.
4. Stake or cage your tomato plants. This helps Read More…
How To Build An Outoor Concrete Block Fire Pit
Installing a fire pit adds ambiance to your back yard. They’re great for entertaining and relaxing by an open fire. No longer will you need to be camping to roast marshmellow’s and make smores. Before you start building be sure to check the local ordinance guidelines for having open flames. If they are permitted you can continue. The concrete block fire pit in this video is easy to install. First find a location that is away from anything flammable. Do not build a pit on a deck. It’s best to build it on a rock patio or something non-flammable. Follow the instructions in the video to lay the brick for the fire pit. This project should take 1-2 days depending on your skill level. Leave your comments and feedback below:
How To Cut And Trim Flagstone
Cutting flagstone is not as difficult as it may seem. There are a couple different types of cuts. The first one is for bigger flagstone up to 3 to 4 inches thick – a snap / break and the second is trimming a fair amount from the edge of the flagstone. Watch his demonstrations to see how to do each break. You don’t need to go rent a rock cutter to do this cutting, you can use a regular hammer to cut and trim the flagstone. Take a look at his video and then leave any comments or questions below.
How To Build A Pergola In Your Backyard
If you’re wanting to add decoration and shade to your back yard, adding a Pergola above your patio or deck is a great way to provide both. Below is a great video that tells you how to build one above your deck. First you will need to add the posts which should already be there from building the deck. From there he describes how to saw the ends of the pergola to create the decoration and add a nice flow. Once they’re cut, sand and stain or paint them depending on the what matches your house and backyard the best. After the boards are cut, you’ll want to lay the main beam then add the cross pieces. Secure each one with a screw into the main beam. Mark on the beam where you’ll be laying the rest of the cross pieces to ensure that you have the same width in between each piece. Once each of the cross pieces are in place, add 2×4′s above the rafters to add more stability to the pergola. This will keep it from falling apart in a storm. We hope this helps with your do it yourself project. Leave your comments below.
Ideas For Gardening In Small Spaces
Do you have a small yard you’d like to add more life to? Maybe you live in a condo and have no yard at all? Here’s a great video with ideas on brightening up the outside of your home. These ideas will even work for larger yards. One way to decorate your yard is by using containers. Containers are ideal for condo’s and townhomes, but also work with any size area Most plants that will grow in the ground will also grow in containers. Everything from herbs, shrubs, flowers, small trees, to vegetables. There are many different shapes, textures, and sizes of containers to choose from. Adding different colors and sizes will help add to the decor.
If you have a little larger yard you can add a raised bed. These allow you to add your own compost which can help you chose the right kind of dirt that will help your plants thrive. Another benefit of a raised bed is it’s easier to maintain it since you don’t have to blend over as far to keep the weeds out, etc.
Add more color. Adding bright colors can make your yard look bigger than it is. Plant flowers that grow vertically. There are many different types of vines you can choose from. Window boxes work great for spicing up your home. They look great from the inside and outside of your home.
What other creative ways can you think of to decorate your yard?
How To Build An Outdoor Kitchen
Below is a great video on how to create an outdoor kitchen for your backyard. Adding a kitchen area around your BBQ not only adds more life to your backyard area, it also makes it easier and more enjoyable to have gatherings. Grilling becomes much easier with the added space for preparation and fixing your meals. Take a look at the video below for more instruction. Tools required are measuring tape, square, hammer, chisel, level, safety glasses, dead blow hammer, and work gloves. Once you’ve picked the location for your outdoor kitchen area, measure the area and determine the size you are wanting. Draw up a plan to determine the exact measurements so that you’re assured your BBQ grill will fit in the space. Visit www.allanblock.com to view their guides on determining how many blocks you will need to complete your project and what types of blocks you will need. Follow the Read More…
How To Install A Flagstone Patio
Installing a flagstone patio in your yard can add more value and appeal to your house. Below is a video with a quick rundown of what it takes to install the patio. Depending on your skill level and the amount of people working, this project could take anywhere from 1 day to a few weeks.
1. Decide on the location for the patio
2. Determine the shape and size you your patio will be
3. Select the stones you’ll use for the patio
4. Excavate the area
5. Prep the base with a 3-4″ layer of compacted gravel
6. Cover with a layer of sand to allow drainage
7. Begin placing the flagstone starting around the perimeter and working inwards
8. Use a rubber mallet to secure the flagstone in place. Use a measuring level to make sure the flagstone is Read More…
