Spending time outdoors is one of the most sought-after benefits of living in Southern California and one of the main reasons so many folks choose to call this area home. While our comfortable climate allows us to enjoy backyard barbecues and alfresco dinner parties throughout the year, there are some steps we have to take to ensure that our family and friends can enjoy the fantastic climate in comfort.

After all, the reason we can spend so much time outdoors here is that most days are warm or hot and the vast majority of days are sunny. This warm, sunny weather also means that we need to make sure our yards have lots of shade to help keep our guests cool and provide protection from the sun for our children and pets.

To make sure your patio, swimming pool area or other entertaining spaces are comfortable and usable throughout the year, here are 21 functional, stylish ways you can add shade to your outdoor living areas.

1. Plant trees.

Shade trees are an obvious choice and an eco-friendly, inexpensive way to add shade to outdoor living areas. You will, of course, need to select varieties that grow in a manner that will provide shade, but you can easily find plenty of options at your local nursery or by working with a landscape designer. Many shade trees are deciduous, but folks who live in Southern California can use their outdoor entertaining spaces through fall and winter as well, so you may want to opt for evergreens for year-round shade.

The issue with this option is that it will take many years for a young tree to grow large enough to provide a significant amount of shade. However, the end result is definitely worth the wait. Some homeowners even create full outdoor rooms under the canopy of a single shade tree, which creates a space that is functional, beautiful and integrated with nature.

Also keep in mind that strategically planted shade trees can lower the cost and use of energy when heating and cooling your home.

2. Add a gazebo.

Adding even a small gazebo to your backyard or front yard creates a covered seating area where you can read, relax or visit with friends. Installing a gazebo instantly adds an outdoor room that comes with its own shade and protection from the elements, so this is a great option for homeowners who have the space and budget for this home improvement project. As an added bonus, different areas around the gazebo will also be shaded as the sun moves through the sky, which can provide a protected space in which your children or dogs can play or relax outside.

3. Invest in patio umbrellas.

Umbrellas are one of the fastest ways you can add shade to your outdoor living areas, so if you have a social gathering that is just days – or hours — away and you need more shade, umbrellas may be your best option. Of course, to find the perfect umbrella, you may need to order it online or have it made, but you can purchase basic options in a variety of colors at garden centers, patio furniture stores and home improvement stores. You can even find patio umbrellas for sale at grocery stores just before and during the summer entertaining season.

You can opt for simple umbrellas with a pole you insert in the hole found in the middle of most patio tables or standalone options. For standalone options, you can choose conventional options that have a straight pole and provide shade in a circle around that pole, or you can choose off-set umbrellas, which allows you to place the base more out of the way and direct the shade to your outdoor entertaining areas. Off-set umbrellas are often more expensive, but this is not something that you want to go too cheap on; inexpensive umbrellas or bases often do not function as well as their better-made counterparts, and you may end up spending double when you have to replace them.

Because umbrellas shade limited areas at a time, this option is best when you have particular spots that need sun protection, such as a patio dining table.

4. Stash a pop-up canopy.

If you only need some extra shade very once in a while, it is likely not worth the expense to install a permanent shade structure. If this is the case, you can simply purchase one or more pop-up canopies to provide temporary shade anywhere you might need it. Benefits of this option include the ability to move your shade as needed and the ability to store your canopy out of sight when not in use. While you can certainly spend more on a higher-quality or more-stylish product, another benefit is that you can pick up these temporary canopies rather inexpensively almost anywhere.

This is another instant option that you can purchase, set up and use within an hour or so, so this is a great option to quickly add shade and sun protection to your yard. Because it is temporary and can be moved, this also might be a good option to use while you are waiting for the above-mentioned shade trees to mature.

5. Install a pavilion.

Pavilions are like canopies and are commonly called canopies, but we are using the terms separately here to differentiate between the temporary style of canopy mentioned above and the more permanent option we are talking about here. So, a pavilion usually has a fabric top and corner posts like a pop-up canopy, but there is nothing pop-up about these. Pavilions are more of a semi-permanent shade structure – not quite permanent, since you can usually move or remove them fairly easily, but they do require assembly and can be attached to a deck, patio or the ground for stability and long-term use.

Pavilions are more attractive and, generally, better made than canopies, since they are designed to withstand the elements on a long-term basis. They can be securely attached to the ground, a deck or a patio to provide daily protection from the sun and rain while you enjoy your outdoor living area.

If you want something with more style and sturdiness than a temporary canopy but your budget will not allow the construction of a permanent cover for your patio, a pavilion is kind of the perfect middle ground. The price range for pavilions can range from around $200 into the thousands, but you can get a decent pavilion that you can enjoy for years to come starting at about $600. If you are a bit handy around the house, you may be able to install it yourself. If you are not very handy, it is worth hiring a handyman or contractor to properly install it to get the best value out of this option.

While they will not last as long as a solid roof structure for a covered patio, a pavilion should provide you with an attractive shade structure for many years with proper installation and care.

6. Include marquees in your patio design.

A marquee is yet another type of canopy, but this one is a bit different. Marquees are generally used to provide protection from the elements as guests approach an entryway or as they make their way between structures. For example, if you have a covered porch attached to your home and a covered patio in your backyard, you might use a marquee to provide shade over the walkway connecting the porch to the patio. Keep in mind that a marquee does not have to be made out of canopy fabric. For example, you can create a natural, living marquee by growing vines over an arched trellis.

7. Hang patio curtains.

Patio curtains are an easy, quick, inexpensive way to increase the shade and weather protection in an outdoor living area that already has a solid roof, pergola, pavilion or other type of cover. Curtains can be opened and closed as the sun moves to maintain shady areas and air circulation. What this option is going to do for you is extend the amount of time you enjoy shade on your patio, since it will help block the sun from the side while your patio’s cover blocks it from above.

Keep in mind that you do not have to use actual patio curtains to achieve this look and function. You can also use tapestries for more bohemian feel, or even shower curtains or fabric, if that is what you have on hand.

8. Construct a permanent roof.

If you have an existing deck or patio that does not have a cover, you can always construct a permanent, solid roof to transform it into a covered patio. This is a more expensive option than those we have mentioned so far, but it is also a permanent solution that comes with the opportunity to significantly enhance the look and function of your patio.

This option will take longer to install, usually requires hiring a contractor and will most likely involve building permits, but if you have the time and the budget, this is your most elegant, attractive option for creating shade.

9. Add a balcony or second-story deck.

This option definitely takes longer to install, definitely involves building permits and, unless you are a contractor, it is going to require hiring one. This is also the most expensive option on this list. However, folks who have the time and money for this home improvement project have the opportunity to add shade to their main outdoor living area while also increasing their outdoor living space by adding a balcony or a second-story deck. If you do not have a second-story from which to access your deck, you can also provide access via stairs from the ground.

Having one outdoor living area on top of another provides lots of opportunities for entertaining, may increase the value of your home, and increases your access to functional, outdoor spaces any time of the day or night. For our purpose here, it also is a great way to cover your current outdoor living area to add shade and protection from the elements.

10. Install a pergola.

Pergolas are permanent, assembled and installed structures with an open roof system. They are rather versatile when it comes to complementing a variety of architectural styles and can significantly enhance the visual appeal of outdoor living areas. This makes them a popular choice that we are seeing more of all the time. Another reason they are so popular is that options are available for almost any budget, so this is one shade structure that most homeowners can afford. Plus, there are lots of pergola plans online and kits available at home improvement stores, which allows homeowners to take on this home improvement as a do-it-yourself project.

Alone, pergolas offer broken shade, but this can be supplemented and filled in by adding a fabric covering. The two most common options for this are fabric lengths that are permanently placed to cover the top of the pergola and fabric that is installed on a ring or bar system that allows you to cover or uncover the pergola as desired.

11. Install an arbor.

The terms arbor and pergola are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference. Whereas pergolas have an open roof structure supported by four or more posts, arbors are more like a combination of a trellis and a pergola. Arbors have an open roof structure that is similar to a pergola, but – unlike a pergola – they have trellis-like structures on either side, which allows vines to easily grow up and over the structure to provide shade. Some arbors are large enough to include bench seating on the sides, which provides a shady spot to read, enjoy your morning coffee or catch up with a friend.

12. Build a fence or wall.

Fences and walls do not offer protection from the sun while it is overhead, but they do provide shade earlier and later in the day when properly positioned. This makes them a good addition to a covered patio or canopy to offer a larger expanse of shade throughout the day.

13. Grow vines.

Vines can be planted to enhance the shade offered by pergolas, arbors, fences and walls and can even be grown between a fence and a pergola (or other structure) to provide a living marquee. This can be accomplished by training the vines along a trellis, arbor or twine strung between the two structures.

Growing vines on a fence that does not adequately block light, such as a chain-link fence or split-rail fence, is another easy way to increase shade, as well as privacy.

Evergreen vines that do not die back or need to be cut back in the winter are your best options if you are going for year-round shade.

Vines that can be trained to provide shade include grapes, chayote and other squash, bougainvillea and wisteria.

14. Hang plants.

Hanging plants are not going to provide enough shade on their own to really protect you from the sun; however, they are a great supplement to shade structures, such as patio roofs, pergolas, arbors, cabanas or pavilions. When added to these existing structures, hanging plants increase the amount of shade your outdoor living areas will have when the sun is not directly overhead.

Vining plants are going to be your best bet here, since they will provide more protection as their vines hang below the containers. Examples of vines that grow well in containers include bougainvillea, jasmine and ivy.

15. Hang shade sails.

Shade sails are an easy, attractive way to add shade to outdoor living areas. These large pieces of fabric are typically shaped like triangular sails and are stretched between posts or structures to cover patios and other outdoor areas. Depending on the color and style you choose, shade sails can look incredibly modern and sleek or a bit more rustic. This option is typically easy to install and can be purchased at home improvement stores or some garden centers, but you may have to order custom sails to make sure they properly fit your space.

16. Install do-it-yourself rolling shades.

Rolling shades can be used as window coverings inside or outside of your home. You can also purchase larger versions that can be easily attached to a patio roof or pergola to provide shade when the sun is not directly overhead. Bamboo rolling shades are the most common type seen in use on patios, but they can also be made of fabric. While you can hire a handyman for convenience, most folks who know how to use a drill can just take this on as a quick, do-it-yourself project.

17. Go upscale with a cabana.

Cabanas include a pretty wide range of shade shelters that can be anything from fabric to wood, since pretty much any type of structure that is next to a pool or on the beach and has an opening facing the water is generally considered a cabana. This means that this option could fall into more than one of the above-mentioned categories, but it is worth mentioning separately here, because they are often considered more upscale and they do differ a bit from other options.

For example, in order to call it a cabana rather than a pavilion, most people would say you would need to have patio curtains on at least three sides so that it can be closed off to make a room. Since cabanas are often used as changing rooms for swimming pools and beaches, it would be best to have curtains on all four sides. You could also add curtains to a covered patio with a stick-built roof that is near your pool to turn it into a cabana.

The combination of a solid roof and curtains makes cabanas a particularly good choice for adding shade to outdoor living areas.

18. Opt for awnings.

Awnings are simple, have been around forever and are a tried-and-true way to easily add shade to outdoor areas. They can be attached directly to your home and, in most cases, do not require posts. You can, of course, attach awning to posts if you plan on using them as a permanent structure, and some styles do have posts integrated into the design.

There are basically three types of awning from which to choose: solid metal awnings, fabric awnings that are stationary and fabric awnings that are retractable. Solid metal awnings, which are usually made from aluminum, are your sturdiest option and can hold up to rain, wind and sun for years.

Stationary, fabric awnings are second in line as far as sturdiness goes, but they are much more customizable to complement your space, since you can choose among different styles and a huge variety of colors.

Retractable awnings are your most versatile option and allow you to decide when you would like protection from the sun and rain and when you would like to have your outdoor living space uncovered. In the category of retractable awnings, you can choose between less expensive options that you open manually or models that are fully motorized.

Although awnings are not cheap, they do provide a relatively inexpensive option for covering a large area without having to install an entire structure.

19. Plant tall plants and bushes.

They might not grow up to be big, beautiful shade trees, but tall plants and bushes can increase privacy and provide shade throughout the day to make your outdoor living areas more enjoyable. And, if you choose something as attractive as the rose bushes in the photo above, they can also significantly increase the visual appeal of your outdoor living areas.

You can plant tall plants or bushes as a border near your patio or deck or you can plant them in containers that can be arranged on or near your entertaining spaces. If you plant them in containers on wheeled plant stands, it is easy and convenient to move them around to keep the area shaded as the sun moves through the sky throughout the day.

20. Create a tropical paradise with a palapa.

A palapa is similar to a pavilion or other covered patio options, but it is best to list it separately because there is a rather distinct difference. The main difference between a palapa and other shade structures is that a palapa typically has wooden posts and always has a thatched roof. So, if you are going for a tropical look in your backyard, this might the shade structure for you.

If you are not familiar with thatched roofs, they provide great protection from the sun and rain. After all, they are primarily used in areas that receive a lot of both. You can learn how to build your own palapa online, order a kit to assemble, or hire a contractor experienced in building these tropical, open-air huts.

21. Get creative.

You can create shade with just about anything that blocks the sun and can be hung up or strung up in some way. For example, you can create your own DIY canopy with bamboo, fabric and some rope, or you can string up a row of parasols to create a unique marquee over a walkway. Another option is to throw a sheet over a rope tied between two trees or posts to make a tent-like structure where your children can play outside but out of the sun. Alternatively, you can create covered outdoor living areas or play areas by setting up a teepee, yurt or tent.

Additional Resources

• How to Expand Your Living Space with a Sunroom
• How to Create a Backyard Spa Getaway

The post 21 Ways to Add Shade to Your Outdoor Living Areas appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Unfortunately, as many of us know, those fond memories of playing outside are replaced with work, family and social obligations, and a full schedule as we get older. Our time outdoors diminishes and, if we are able to fit regular exercise into our days, it is usually in crowded, indoor gyms surrounded by strangers.

Of course, there are some homeowners with enough extra space to include a private gym – or at least a treadmill – in their homes for getting physical activity at home. Having an at-home gym is a great option for saving time and making it easier to fit exercise into your schedule. But there is nothing quite like getting outside in the fresh air and sunshine to make your fitness routine more enjoyable, elevate your mood, and improve your overall health and wellness.

Benefits of Backyard Gyms

Southern Californians enjoy good weather throughout the year, and we have lots of local options for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, skiing, surfing, and rock climbing, that are easily accessible from San Diego County, Orange County, and the surrounding areas. We also have plenty of parks with walking trails, and some even have outdoor gym equipment for public use.

This means that it is not the weather or a lack of access to fun outdoor activities that is keeping us from getting outside and staying active. The problem lies in finding spare time in our busy schedules and finding the motivation to change our clothes and head back out into the world when we are finally home from work or have a chance to sleep in on the weekend.

Having a few pieces of gym equipment – or a full gym – at home can help with this quite a bit. If you happen to have a spare bedroom or space in your garage, an indoor, at-home gym is a great option that can help you fit more exercise into your weekly routine. If you do not have free space inside your home, or if you prefer to get the added benefits of being outdoors, a backyard gym can be even better.

Here are 10 benefits of having an outdoor gym:

1. Workout while watching the kids, cooking dinner, or taking a conference call
2. Save money on gym memberships
3. Fit in short workouts on busy days
4. Save space inside for a game room or art studio
5. Enjoy fresh air and sunshine while you exercise
6. Experience the mood-boosting benefits of being outdoors
7. Look at beautiful landscaping or a relaxing outdoor living area while exercising
8. Wear whatever you want when you workout
9. Stay active as a family more easily
10. Incorporate daily movement into your life more easily

Some homeowners with specific interests and enough space can include a soccer field, climbing wall, tennis court, volleyball court, or basketball court in their landscape design. However, most folks do not have that kind of space and need a more compact option for physical activity at home. This is why a backyard gym that you can set up in a smaller area, such as part of your patio or in a gazebo, is a more feasible choice for most homeowners.

How to Set Up a Backyard Gym

To help you get started on setting up your own at-home gym in your backyard, here is a step-by-step guide that includes outdoor gym ideas, things to consider, and which choices to make first.

Step 1: Decide If Your Backyard Gym Will Be Portable or Permanent

Do you want larger gym equipment that is difficult to move, such as a treadmill, weight bench, weight machine, rowing machine, or an elliptical trainer for your at-home gym? Or do your favorite workouts need more portable equipment options, such as yoga mats, blocks, a step platform, a folding Pilates machine, or resistance bands?

Determining whether you want permanent, stationary gym equipment or portable equipment that can be stored when not in use is an important first decision that will inform all of the other decisions you make about your outdoor gym.

If your ideal workout includes yoga, Pilates, step aerobics, or tai chi, you need an open space with an appropriate ground cover. This space can be used for other things when you are not working out, so you will not necessarily need a dedicated space just for exercise. These types of physical activities can take place right on a synthetic grass lawn or in an open part of your outdoor living area.

However, if you are more interested in a permanent workout space with heavier equipment, you will need a dedicated space that you do not need to use for other purposes when you are not working out.

Step 2: Choose a Spot for Your Backyard Gym

The next step is to choose a location for your gym. If you are planning on using portable equipment, choose a space that is easy to clear and transform into a workout area. Ideally, you will have a dedicated space that allows you to work out any time without having to move furniture or flowerpots to set up your yoga mat or Pilates machine. For this type of space, you will likely want to be near an electrical outlet, but this may not be necessary, since you can simply play music or workout videos on a device.

For a portable gym, the most important considerations are convenience, safety, and privacy. Your workout space needs to be easy to access and conveniently located to help ensure you actually use it. It needs to be free of tripping hazards and offer protection from the elements. It also needs to provide enough privacy to make you feel comfortable working out there.

If you are going with a permanent, dedicated gym, choosing a location might be a bit more involved. You can always build a structure, such as a covered patio, just to house your gym, or you can work with a space that you already have. Ideally, your space will already offer protection from the elements, electrical outlets for powered equipment, and a smooth surface free of tripping hazards. It needs to be convenient enough for you to easily access it when you have time to fit in a workout, needs to be free of safety concerns, and needs to provide enough privacy for you to be comfortable working up a sweat in close proximity to neighbors.

Step 3: Decide if Your Backyard Gym Will Be Covered or Uncovered

If the spot you chose for your gym is not already covered, you now need to decide whether or not you will cover it. This partly depends on the type of equipment you will be including. For example, a covered space is often the best option since it will help protect your equipment and expands the options for equipment you can include, particularly if you plan on including equipment that requires electricity. Covered areas offer more privacy, protect you from the sun while working out, and allow you to work out even when the weather is not cooperating. Covered patios, gazebos, or other structures also make it more likely that you can leave your equipment set up and ready to go.

If your patio has a pergola, this will provide some protection from the sun while you are working out, but it will not provide enough cover for your equipment to avoid rain, rust, and dirt. If the space is not covered at all, a shade sail or canopy is an affordable option that can be used temporarily or installed permanently to help protect you and your equipment.

Uncovered areas can also work out quite well; however, you will likely want to invest in covers for your equipment to protect them from the sun and rain and to keep them clean between workouts. If you are more interested in partaking in yoga on the grass or using a Pilates machine that easily folds and stows away when not in use, you may not need a cover for your workout area at all.

Step 4: Choose a Ground Cover

For the safety and comfort of exercisers, indoor gym floors are often covered by cushiony mats that are slip resistant. When creating an outdoor gym where the floor may become wet from rain or your irrigation system, it is even more important to have a non-slip surface. Therefore, if you plan to install your gym on a patio, paving stones are your best choice. Pavers offer a solid, level, slip-resistant surface for safer exercising, while also beautifying your backyard and increasing the value of your home.

If you are installing a permanent backyard gym in an area that does not currently have a patio or ground cover, you could also consider rubber playground surfaces, such as mats or mulch, that provide a nice cushion under and around exercise equipment.

A wood deck is also an option if you are setting up a space to use for Qigong, yoga, or tai chi. For this type of workout, or others that use equipment that can be stored when not in use, you can also use your lawn. However, if you have a natural grass lawn, there are a few things you will need to consider before making this your workout area.

Natural grass often has clumps, small holes, or other tripping hazards that can prove troublesome when trying to use the area for exercising. After rain or watering your yard, mud can also be an issue with a conventional lawn, and the soil beneath natural grass can be filled with bacteria, particularly if you have pets that relieve themselves in your backyard.

Artificial grass makes a much better ground cover option for a grassy workout area and provides a level, stable surface to reduce the risk of tripping. With a synthetic turf lawn, you also do not have to worry about mud, and pet restroom areas can be easily hosed off and more thoroughly cleaned with Urine Zero. Additionally, if you happen to leave your equipment out between workouts, you do not have to worry about killing a section of your grass or your workout gear getting wet from your sprinklers, since artificial turf requires no irrigation.

Step 5: Create Privacy for your Backyard Gym

Some folks may not be that concerned about privacy and may not need to make any changes to add more privacy to their workout area. However, if you have nosy neighbors or are a bit shy about exercising in public, you might want to consider some options to increase privacy. For example, you might consider adding reed fencing, installing a trellis, hanging some hanging planters, or installing a privacy screen.

If the issue is neighbors being able to see your backyard gym from upstairs windows, installing a shade sail is a good way to block their view while also providing protection from the sun.

Step 6: Choose the Equipment for Your Backyard Gym

This is where your outdoor gym ideas can really come to fruition.

There are lots of options when it comes to choosing equipment for your outdoor gym, including equipment that is specifically made for outdoor workouts – like the fitness equipment you see at parks that have open-air, community gym areas.

Looking much like a playground for adults, these well-made, permanent pieces can be installed in your backyard for both you and your kids to enjoy. For example, stationary exercise bars, pull-up bars, balance beams, or climbing domes can be used as workout equipment by the adults in your family and as playground equipment by the children.

As an added benefit, children who see adults staying active on the same equipment they use to play will be encouraged to stay more physically active in their youth and as they grow up.

If you plan on using an uncovered space and want permanent workout gear, you may also want to look into step climbers, exercise bikes, or ski machines that are specifically designed to be installed outdoors and to withstand the elements.

If you are using a covered area with electrical outlets nearby, you can even use your current treadmill or elliptical machine that you have inside your home. If the area is protected from the elements and theft is not an issue, you can permanently place your equipment on your porch or patio so that it will be ready to use whenever you have a chance to get in a quick workout.

Alternatively, if you are using an uncovered area or have a small backyard, you might find that using portable options that can be stored when not in use might be a better option for you. This might include free weights, folding exercise machines, yoga mats, or resistance bands.

Using smaller, portable equipment options also can give you more opportunities to switch up your exercise routine and stave off boredom. For example, you can make some of your own equipment or use items you may already have around the house to expand your exercise options, such as tires, ropes, sandbags, buckets, or plastic cones.

In this case, you simply need a shed, outdoor closet, or deck box to store your equipment and keep your yard and patio looking tidy when you are not using it as a backyard gym.

Step 7: Ensure Proper Lighting

Lighting probably was not on your list of outdoor gym ideas, but if you plan on working out early in the morning or late at night, it will be an essential addition to your workout area. You might even need supplemental lighting in the middle of the day if your workout area is located in a particularly shady area.

Your outdoor lighting might include path lights leading to your gym, task lighting providing light to safely use equipment, or overhead lighting to illuminate the whole area.

Step 8: Consider Your Other Outdoor Gym Ideas

Now that you have your basic gym setup, it is time to consider your other ideas. Do you have some extra space you could use for a gym feature you were hoping to include? This might be a walking track, a climbing wall, or a basketball hoop. Anything that encourages physical activity, gets you outside, and is in line with your interests should be considered here. 

The post Backyard Gym Ideas: Outdoor Home Gym Guide appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Considering outdoor fireplace design elements is similar to considering fireplace ideas for an indoor sitting room, living room, family room, or dining room. For example, in interior design, looking at the paint colors, room design, and overall color scheme will help you determine the best style and materials for the fireplace mantel, firebox, and fireplace surround. Inside, you will likely have a built-in fireplace, but for outdoor living room ideas, you could have either a built-in or freestanding fire feature. You can choose a floor-to-ceiling design, a corner fireplace, or anything that works well with the space.

A beautiful fireplace paired with eye-catching armchairs, coffee table, and maybe even a chandelier creates a welcoming, cozy space for entertaining or enjoying time with your family, partner, or just a good book.

If you are more interested in an open space for outdoor dinner parties, fireplaces incorporated into the overall design of outdoor kitchens can offer this.

Let’s take a look at some design ideas to see which might be the best choice for your backyard.

Classic outdoor fireplace designs

As we look at types of custom fireplaces, traditional fireplace designs are really the place to start. These designs, which will include stone, stacked stone, brick, and pavers, are well suited for most architectural styles, which makes them among the most popular choices for a patio kitchen remodel or outdoor living space makeover.

Rustic outdoor fireplace designs

If your home’s architecture or your home décor leans towards more rustic features and materials, a rustic patio fireplace is likely the right choice for you. This might mean enjoying a roaring fire in a red brick fireplace, or roasting marshmallows in a stone fireplace that matches the stone wall bordering your outdoor living area.

Modern outdoor fireplace designs

Modern fireplace ideas are often best suited for homeowners who prefer minimalist designs and clean lines. A white fireplace or concrete fireplace might be the right choice here, particularly if your home’s architecture is markedly modern or contemporary. While a limestone fireplace or marble fireplace certainly falls under classic design as well, these materials also have a place in modern and contemporary fireplace design.

Southwestern outdoor fireplace designs

Southwestern fireplace ideas are often where Southern California homeowners are going to find the right fit for Spanish, Spanish Colonial, and Spanish Revival architecture. For example, for folks who have a Spanish, Southwestern, or Mediterranean-style home, a tile fireplace with a wood mantel might be the perfect choice. Homes with these architectural styles also lend themselves well to outdoor fireplace design using paving stones, natural stone, clay, or concrete.

To help the creation of your next backyard fireplace, we have put together a number of ideas to inspire you. Use the filters below to help you find that perfect outdoor fireplace.

Instructions: Select the filters below to browse through different features and styles. To view the full image, click on the image itself.

This stone traditional fireplace with built in wood boxes will keep your patio warm.

Source: Angelus

Enjoy movies around the fire with a fireplace under a canopy.

Source: Belgard

Entertain guests around a freestanding stone outdoor fireplace.

Source: Belgard

Stay sheltered and toasty next to a stone cut fireplace.

Source: Belgard

Timeworn pavers accent the red brick fireplace for a classic look.

Source: Belgard

Brick with cut stone can make any outdoor area look elegant.

Source: Belgard

The matching stone pavers create a clean consistent look for this fireplace.

Source: Belgard

Simple with a mediterranean design create a relaxing area for any home.

Source: ZFREEDMAN Landscape Architecture, Inc

Water features balance the heat from the fireplace in this design.

Source: Belgard

The varying sizes in stone come together for a cozy fireplace.

Source: Belgard

The wood and clean modern fireplace create a unique style.

Source: Belgard

Stainless steel works well surrounded by stone.

Source: Belgard

Simple and modern stone fireplace for warmth in the fresh air.

Source: Belgard

Make the fireplace the focal point of your outdoor living space.

Source: Belgard

A timeless stacked stone design will catch anyone's attention.

Source: Belgard

Stacked stone fireplace circled with stone walls for a secluded relaxation area.

Source: Belgard

Modern and southwestern styles pop with color.

Source: Bianchi Design

For a rustic look, combine wood features with a stone fireplace.

Source: Chipper Hatter

This fireplace with wood boxes and a built in grill are perfect for entertaining.

Source: Copper Creek Landscaping, Inc.

Consider a southwestern look for patios with large tiles.

Source: Grace Design Associates

A timeless fireplace design with water features work well together.

Source: Install-It-Direct

Classic stone traditional fireplace design.

Source: Install-It-Direct

A mediterranean style with natural stone framing the firebox.

Source: J'Nell Bryson Landscape Architecture

The white pillars and wood pergola blend well with this stone traditional fireplace.

Source: LandPlan's Landscaping

Keep yourself warm next to a modern firebox surrounded by stone.

Source: Landscaping Network

Beautiful stone frames the firebox in this outdoor fireplace.

Source: Landscaping Network

Keep things modern and sleek with wood and concrete.

Source: Landscaping Network

Gather around a timeless cobblestone fireplace design.

Source: Michelle Derviss Landscape Design

The southwestern style brings out the beauty of both the fireplace and pizza oven.

Source: Orco

Spice things up with a design lining the inside of your outdoor fireplace.

Source: Orco

Traditional fireplace and pizza oven style with a compact layout.

Source: Paradise Restored

The varying elements contrast each other well in this contemporary design.

Source: Shuler Architects

Keep things classic with a brick fireplace for your patio area.

Source: Sport Nobles Construction

Smooth walls complement a stone fireplace perfectly.

Source: Stout Design Build

Natural large stone pulls together this rustic design.

Source: Urban Design Associates LTD

The extended chimney and timeless style is the main focus of this outdoor living space.

Source: Walnut Hill Landscape Company

The stacked stones and wood mantle provide a charming aesthetic.

Source: Walnut Hill Landscape Company

A stone traditional fireplace covered under an entertainment space.

Source: Belgard

Traditional freestanding fireplace with a flower stone design.

Source: Belgard

This stunning worn brick design fits well with the dark stained wood.

Source: Belgard

The surrounding pergolas tie this outdoor fireplace area together nicely.

Source: Belgard

A short stone traditional fireplace design.

Source: Belgard

This stone traditional wall fireplace is elegant with the smooth wall finish above.

Source: Belgard

This modern stone fireplace is perfect for any patio.

Source: Belgard

The creative blue pavers accent the freesanding stone fireplace.

Source: Belgard

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common fireplace materials?

Common materials used for outdoor fireplaces include natural stone, pavers, clay, brick, stucco, tile, and concrete. Most of the fireplace design ideas you will see on this site will be made from pavers, stone, or bricks.

How much does an outdoor fireplace cost?

Patio fireplace costs depend largely on the style, size, and materials you choose. The cost will also depend on whether you do this as a DIY project or have it installed professionally. The cost can range from $1,500 to more than $20,000. You can expect to likely pay between $9,000 and $20,000 for the design and installation of a custom outdoor fireplace.

Should I build an outdoor fireplace myself?

This is definitely an option. If you are somewhat handy, there are companies that sell patio fireplace kits that you can build yourself. This can also be a good option for homeowners who are working with a limited project budget. If you are looking for a custom outdoor fireplace, enlisting the help of a professional is the best way to ensure a safer, attractive, well-designed fire feature.

What are the most popular types of outdoor fireplaces in 2024?

While some homeowners still prefer a wood-burning fireplace, the trend is towards choosing a gas fireplace or electric fireplace as a focal point for outdoor living spaces or to create a cozy, inviting ambiance.

Let Install-It-Direct build your new outdoor fireplace

Install-It-Direct has years of experience designing and installing outdoor kitchens, paver patios, water features, artificial grass, outdoor lighting, fire pits, patio fireplaces, and everything else you might need to create functional, inviting, beautiful outdoor living spaces.

Contact us today for a free estimate for your outdoor fireplace and any other landscape design and installation needs you have.

(Original publish date: 4/21/22 | Refresh date: 3/19/24)

The post Outdoor Fireplace Ideas for Your Backyard appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Walkways can help define different areas of your yard, guide guests to outdoor entertaining spaces, keep people from walking on living ground covers, provide access for easy harvesting in your vegetable garden, and allow for proper flow of both your landscape design and the traffic that moves through your yard.

They are an important part of landscape design and are instrumental in designing a backyard, front yard or side yard that is functional and meets your needs.

Unfortunately, pathway design is often overlooked or given little thought when creating outdoor living spaces, and walkways are often seen simply as a way to get from the gate to the deck, from the patio to the pool or from the house to the garden.

When considering their most basic function, this is true.

However, pathways can be so much more than just a convenient way to get from one point in your yard to another.

A well-designed walkway can provide the finishing touch if it complements your overall landscape design or can even be a focal point in your yard if it is designed to stand out among your other landscaping features.

It can also seriously take away from your yard’s visual appeal if you do not put a bit of thought into designing it to go with your landscaping.

For example, a poured concrete walkway would look rather out of place in an English cottage garden or Zen garden, but the stark look of poured concrete might fit quite well with a modern design that focuses on clean lines and limited greenery.

Choose a walkway design that works for you and works with your landscape design in order to achieve the most satisfying end result and the most functional yard.

Solid Walkways vs. Stepping Stones

Solid Walkways 

Primary walkways are often a solid surface of some sort, which provides a stable, attractive way to travel through your yard and guide traffic to your front door or outdoor entertaining areas. Solid walkways are typically made from:

• Concrete 
• Bricks 
• Flagstones 
• Paving Stones

Solid walkways tend to be more formal than stepping stone pathways and are almost always 

Stepping Stones

Stepping stones are generally more casual and, in some cases, can be more inviting.

For example, if you have a beautiful Victorian home, there is nothing as whimsical and inviting as a stepping stone path leading to a rose garden or a hidden seating area.

Stepping stones are also a good option for homeowners who do not have the budget for a solid walkway or who prefer to focus the majority of their landscaping budget on other projects.

For example, if you had to choose between spending money on your outdoor entertaining areas or on your kitchen garden, you would likely want to put your landscaping dollars towards the outdoor living spaces where you will be entertaining guests or spending time with your family.

While your kitchen garden is still going to need some walkways between your vegetable beds, you can save money by installing stepping stone pathways and use the bulk of your budget on a beautiful paving stone patio or outdoor kitchen.

When designing walkways, most homeowners opt for solid paths in high-traffic areas or areas where children are going to be riding tricycles or pulling wagons.

They are also a popular choice for high-traffic side yards, particularly if that is where you store your garbage and recycling receptacles and from where you have to drag them out each week.

If that is the case, it is much easier to roll your trash can out over a paving stone or brick walkway then to drag it through a loose-fill walkway or a path with small stepping stones surrounded by loose-fill materials.

However, side yards are typically not an area where homeowners want to spend a lot of money, and a path made from stepping stones surrounded by gravel is a less expensive option that will still work for things like storing garbage cans.

Alternative Pathway Options

However, side yards are typically not an area where homeowners want to spend a lot of money, and a path made from stepping stones surrounded by gravel is a less expensive option that will still work for things like storing garbage cans.

If you prefer a greener landscape, another option you might want to consider is a grass walkway.

Turf paths can be quite attractive; however, a natural grass walkway will not hold up well to heavy traffic, and you will want to include stepping stones to avoid dead spots.

Alternatively, you can choose artificial grass for a pathway that requires no water, minimal care and will always look perfectly manicured.

Stepping Stone Design Ideas

Once you have determined that a stepping stone walkway is the best option to fit your needs, the next step is deciding the type, size and color of stepping stones you will use.

The width of the area in which you are installing your pathway will help determine the size of the stones, but you will still need to decide if you prefer smaller stepping stones that are all similar in size or larger stepping stones that give a very different look.

For example, using large railroad ties cut in half and sunk into the ground will give a much different look than small, smooth, round stepping stones evenly spaced along the walkway.

The type and color of stepping stone you select will depend on the style of your yard and should complement the rest of your landscaping and the exterior of your home.

If you have brick, rockwork or faux stone on your home’s exterior, it is even more important that you select a complementary stepping stone style to keep a cohesive look.

Having a hardscape feature like a paving stone patio does not mean that you cannot have a walkway made of bricks or river rock, but it does mean that you should carefully consider color and texture options when selecting materials for pathways that will lead from the patio to other areas of your yard.

Of course, if you have a paver stone patio, you may want to consider continuing that look and quality elsewhere by opting for pavers for your stepping stones in your walkways.

Pavers are manufactured to provide a stable, non-slip surface, which also makes this stepping stone choice a good option near a swimming pool or water feature.

Here are nine stepping stone ideas to help you decide the style of stepping stones that will work best for you:

1. Railroad Ties

Railroad ties can be purchased at home improvement stores and usually cost less than $20.00 each.

If you choose this stepping stone option, you can cut a single railroad tie into two, three, four or even five pieces, depending on the desired width of your walkway.

2. Bricks

While you might not want to create a solid walkway with bricks, you can create brick stepping stones by placing groups of bricks along your path.

3. Telephone Poles

As more cities take down above-ground electrical, cable and telephone wires and bury them underground, old telephone poles are becoming easier to find for landscaping use.

They can be used as low benches or to border raised garden beds, but they can also be cut into disks to be used as sturdy stepping stones.

4. Shaped Paving Stones

Manufactured stepping stones can sometimes be found in interesting shapes that might better suit your eclectic landscape or personal style.

Pavers shaped like leaves, lizards and a variety of other shapes can be purchased or made as a fun DIY project. (See #8 for more on DIY stepping stones.)

5. Mosaic Stepping Stones

Mosaic stepping stones can be purchased at garden centers, but it is much for fun to make them at home.

If you have kids, this easy family project is a great way to spend an afternoon and let your kids be part of the landscaping process by making personalized stepping stones to lead to their play area or the swimming pool. (See #8 for more on DIY stepping stones.)

6. Flagstone

Flagstone is a popular choice for stepping stones, but its sedimentary nature means that its layers can peel over time, and it is not as durable as other options – such as flagstone-shaped paving stone alternatives that are manufactured for greater durability but still give you the look of flagstone.

7. Tiles

If you have a few large outdoor tiles left from another project (such as slate or Saltillo tiles), you can save money in your landscaping budget by repurposing them as stepping stones.

Just keep in mind that larger, heavier tiles are less likely to shift once placed as stepping stones, and tiles can be slippery when wet.

8. DIY Concrete Stepping Stones

Even if you are not particularly handy or crafty, making your own stepping stones is one DIY backyard improvement project you can likely take on.

It is a great project to do with your partner or your family, and it allows you to personalize your yard with some handmade pieces.

Making your own stepping stones is a fun project that requires little skill and just a few materials, some of which you likely already have, and the rest of which you can purchase at your local home improvement store or some craft stores.

For the simplest DIY project, you may be interested in purchasing a do-it-yourself stepping stone kit from a craft store.

These kits usually have everything you need to make one or two stepping stones and come with easy-to-follow instructions.

Alternatively you can purchase materials individually at a hardware store. Materials needed to create your own concrete stepping stones: 

• Quick-setting concrete 
• A towel 
• Mixing tool 
• 5-gallon bucket or plastic storage bin

For added safety, you may also want to use: 

• Rubber gloves 
• Eye protection 
• Paper mask

You can personalize your creation further by engraving it with names or dates, placing pieces of broken tiles or china to create a mosaic, coloring the concrete to match your landscaping, making your own concrete stamp, or pushing pebbles or marbles into the surface to create unique designs.

You can find plenty of inspiration and instructions for DIY stepping stones online, like this HGTV tutorial about how to make mosaic stepping stones.

9. Paving Stones

Pavers are available in small or large sizes to be used as attractive stepping stones that will immediately enhance the visual appeal of your pathway.

Unlike natural stone options, manufactured paving stones are designed to provide a durable, non-slip surface, which makes them a great choice for high-traffic areas.

Carrying a paving stone theme throughout your landscaping is a great way to ensure an attractive yard, but the universal appeal and variety of pavers available allows you to successfully use them with a variety of other hardscape options.

For example, if you have a concrete patio, you will find paver stepping stones to be an attractive option that complements and dresses up your existing patio.

Choosing the stepping stone option that’s right for your yard

Whether you make your own stepping stones or purchase them at the store, you are not quite finished with your stepping stone path after they are installed.

You will still need to select a ground cover option to cover the dirt around your stones.

The first decision you must make is whether you want a living or non-living ground cover.

You will need to consider how much sun the area receives and whether or not you are willing to water and weed, if you choose a living option.

If you choose a non-living ground cover and are not fond of pulling weeds, you should consider first installing a weed barrier – like landscaping fabric or plastic sheeting – before spreading out your ground cover.

Bark, mulch, wood chips, pea gravel, beach pebbles and drainage rock all make good ground covers for between stepping stones; however, if it is a high-traffic area leading to your house, you may not want to use pea gravel or mulch, which can stick to shoes and be tracked indoors.

The post Stone Pathways Guide: Stepping Stone Walkway Ideas + Designs appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

In most parts of Southern California, it is just as easy to have a weekend barbecue with friends on Christmas Eve as it is on the 4th of July, making any holiday a good excuse for al fresco dining or catching up with old buddies around a fire pit.

Because outdoor living is such an important part of fully taking advantage of living in this area, homes in San Diego and the surrounding areas need functional, attractive backyard entertaining spaces where we can spend time with family and friends.

Expanding your home’s usable space into your backyard not only allows you to more fully enjoy your property, it can also increase your home’s value and set your home apart from the competition, if you choose to sell at some point in the future.

Creating or improving your outdoor entertaining areas may be as simple as refreshing your patio furniture with new fabric or throw pillows, or it can be a more involved project, such as installing a built-in BBQ or putting green.

The most important thing to remember is that your backyard should work for you, and any backyard improvements you make should be designed with your goals and needs in mind.

For example, a swimming pool is something buyers look for in San Diego homes and an amenity that many homeowners just assume they should have in their backyards, but if you are not planning on selling your home and rarely go swimming, then this probably is not the right home improvement for you.

Here are 10 easy ways to create or improve outdoor entertaining areas in your backyard…

Some of them are simple do-it-yourself projects that you can complete in a weekend; some may require calling in the pros, but are well worth the expense to create a personalized oasis that fits your needs.

1. Clean Up Your Existing Landscape and Outdoor Spaces

The first step in creating inviting outdoor entertaining areas is to clean up what you already have in your backyard.

This will allow you to better assess your current situation, to determine the backyard assets you already have and figure out the best backyard improvement projects for your home.

Trim your trees, pull out dead bushes, look for hardscape features in need of repair and give your yard a good, overall cleanup.

You may find that by completely these simple tasks, you can improve your views, find overlooked maintenance issues that will immediately enhance your yard’s visual appeal or get some inspiration for how you can better use the spaces you have.

2. Assess Your Patio Situation

A good patio is the foundation for any outdoor living area, so the next step in creating your backyard retreat is assessing your current patio situation.

First of all, do you have a patio?

If you don’t, that needs to be changed right away.

Handy homeowners may be able to design and install a wood deck or a patio made from bricks, paving stones or concrete, but this is one backyard improvement project that you may want to leave to the pros.

To ensure proper grading, a satisfactory end product and a design that will function how you need it to, it is usually best to hire patio installation professionals who are familiar with the patio materials you want to use.

If you have an existing patio, you need to consider whether or not it is large enough to accommodate the outdoor rooms you want to create and if it is in good condition.

If your existing patio is too small to meet your needs or is in need of repair, you will need to decide if it is worth fixing or if it might be easier or cheaper to just start over by removing it and installing a new one.

For example, if your current patio is concrete, it may have cracked over the years.

Repairing cracks in concrete is possible, but it is nearly impossible to make the patched concrete match the original material.

While concrete is one of the least expensive patio materials, it also one of the least attractive and often ages poorly.

It may be a better investment to remove a concrete patio and replace it with pavers, which will instantly improve the look of your backyard and provide the most years of enjoyment and continued visual appeal.

3. Create an Outdoor Living Room

Outdoor living rooms are among the easiest outdoor entertaining spaces to create, particularly if you already have a covered patio.

These exterior rooms are a great way to expand the usable square footage of your home on a budget.

By simply adding comfortable seating, a table and an outdoor rug, you can create the perfect place to entertain guests outside.

Of course, if you want to expand on this idea, you can also add more expensive features, such as an outdoor fireplace or a water feature.

4. Create a Theme Garden with Seating

Theme gardens are a great addition to any landscape design and provide the opportunity to show your personality in your landscaping.

Whether you design a garden inspired by your favorite novel or choose a shade garden as a solution for a section of your yard where nothing seems to grow, a themed garden can be completed in a weekend and provide years of enjoyment for you and your guests.

By adding seating to your garden design, you can create an outdoor space that you will enjoy daily and can also use as a space for entertaining.

5. Install a Built-in BBQ

A full backyard kitchen might be a nice touch, but taking on that sort of project can be expensive and time consuming.

If you are looking for a weekend project that won’t break the bank and can set you down the path to a future outdoor kitchen when your budget and time allows, a simple built-in BBQ is the perfect way to enhance your exterior entertaining space.

Hiring a professional to design and install this project is usually the best way to go, but skilled homeowners can make this a weekend do-it-yourself backyard improvement project.

Everything you need is available at your local home improvement store, and you might even be able to find a free class available to help you sharpen your skills before beginning your project.

6. Add a Fire Pit

If you have a home in San Diego County, Orange County, Riverside County or surrounding areas, there is really no reason for you to not have a fire pit.

Fire pits take up little room, are affordable improvement projects and provide the perfect place for an at-home date night or gathering around the fire with friends.

Whether or not this will be a DIY home improvement project depends on the design you choose, your budget and your handiness working with materials like paving stones or bricks.

Kits are available at some home improvement centers and online, which makes this project more accessible for some homeowners.

You can also pick up the materials for a simple fire pit at your local home improvement store, and you should be able to build your pit in just one weekend, if you are the handy sort.

Alternatively, you can always hire a pro to take this on for you, which may be more expensive but also helps to ensure that you will be happy with the end product.

An outdoor fireplace is another option that can increase your yard’s visual appeal and even increase your home’s value, in some cases, but this is a bigger, more expensive project than a fire pit.

7. Build a Pergola

This is another project that will be a simple do-it-yourself build for some homeowners, while others might want to hire a carpenter or contractor.

Pergolas provide an attractive option for adding a shade structure to your yard, particularly if your patio is currently uncovered.

Creating outdoor rooms on covered patios is the ideal situation, if at all possible, and adding a pergola is often an easier, more affordable choice as compared to other options.

Small, pre-constructed pergolas are available at home and garden centers; however, these structures are usually too small to serve the purpose of covering an outdoor room.

To install a pergola of any size, you will likely need to build it yourself or hire someone to build it for you.

If you would like to add additional sun protection or privacy to your pergola, consider adding patio curtains to create a more intimate outdoor entertaining space.

8. Expand Your Current Spaces with French Doors

Opening up interior spaces and expanding them to include the outdoors is as simple as adding a set of French doors between an interior room and a patio.

For example, you can create an outdoor dining room by opening an exterior wall between your kitchen or indoor dining room and an exterior patio.

Add attractive French doors that invite guests to wander between the two spaces, and you have an indoor-outdoor entertaining area that your guests are sure to love.

It is possible for homeowners to install French doors without the help of an expert, but keep in mind that electrical wiring or plumbing could be running through the wall you want to remove.

9. Add More Walkways

Adding paving stone pathways leading to the various areas of your yard is a great way to enhance visual appeal and invite your guests to explore your outdoor spaces and gardens.

Each landscaping feature and amenity should have its own walkway leading to it, including your swimming pool, hot tub, vegetable garden, equestrian area, putting green or satellite seating areas.

This will make your yard look more organized, will guide your guests where you want them to go and keep people from walking on your grass.

This is also a great way to accentuate particular landscape features or to create a focal point in your yard.

Paver stone walkways can be a DIY backyard improvement project for handy homeowners, but it is also easy to just hire paving stone professionals to complete this job for you.

10. Add Landscape Lighting and Patio Lighting

Unless you need to run electricity to areas far from your house, this is an improvement project that you should be able to do on your own.

This is particularly true if you use solar landscape lighting, which is simple to install and a great way to light your landscape without increasing your electricity bill.

There are lots of solar landscape lighting options available, including walkway lighting, accent lighting and string lights for your patio or trees.

String lights or lanterns are great ways to enhance patio lighting while creating a relaxing, intimate atmosphere for dinner parties or social gatherings.

Easy Backyard Improvements: The Little Things

There are lots of little ways you can improve the look of your yard, organize your yard care tools and create a better space for hosting guests.

Here are just a few:

— Invest in a hose holder to hide unsightly garden hoses and reduce tripping hazards when you have guests over.

— Get patio furniture covers to keep your patio furniture in good shape and avoid having to clean it before every party.

— Purchase a grid organization system for your garage where you can hang your rakes, brooms and other yard care implements.

— Add attractive citronella candles to your patio décor to keep bugs away from your guests naturally.

— If you have children, invest in an outdoor toy box so that you can quickly put away toys before guests arrive.

— If you have a side yard, add a fence to hide garbage cans and other unsightly necessities.

Photo Credits (in order of appearance): morgueFile, krossel; morgueFile, phaewilk; author; morgueFile, earl53; morgueFile, krosseel.

The post 10 Easy Backyard Improvements for Outdoor Entertaining appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Outdoor living areas are designed to provide an inviting, comfortable space where you, your family and your guests can relax and spend time together. Unfortunately, there are some things that can make these areas less appealing, such as unwanted smells, pet hair and insects. But you can easily and quickly freshen textiles, ward off bugs and deter animals from sleeping on your patio cushions with little more than a spray bottle, water and a few essential oils.

To help make sure your entertaining spaces are always guest ready, here are five essential oils that can improve your outdoor living areas.

5 Essential Oils to Improve Outdoor Living Areas

1. Cedarwood Oil

Cedarwood oil should be one of the first you add to your collection if you have issues with snails, ants or a variety of other pests in your garden or in your outdoor living areas. Dilute several drops of cedarwood oil in a spray bottle filled with water, and then spray this mixture liberally in areas frequented by ants or on plants that snails and slugs are eating. This can be particularly helpful in keeping ants off of your picnic table and keeping your patio container garden looking vibrant and healthy. You can also burn candles made with cedarwood oil to help keep ants and other pests away from entertaining areas.

You can spray your dogs’ outdoor beds with this mixture or mix a few drops of cedar oil into their shampoo to help ward off fleas. This will help keep your pets healthier and happier while also helping to protect guests from flea bites when petting your furry friends.

2. Lavender Oil

If your patio cushions are a bit musty from being in storage or are a favorite bed for your furry friends, you can freshen their smell with lavender essential oil. If unwanted aromas are an issue, fill a spray bottle with vodka, add several drops of lavender (or your favorite scent) and spray your cushions and other textiles. The vodka helps neutralize odors while the essential oil will add an inviting fragrance for you and your guests to enjoy.

As an added bonus, lavender can also help ward off mosquitoes, so spraying it liberally in your outdoor entertaining areas can help protect you and your guests from bug bites. You can also burn lavender candles to help ward off mosquitoes and other pests – just make sure the candles are made with real lavender essential oil and not fragrance oil.

3. Rosemary Oil

If your neighbor’s cat likes to sleep on your patio cushions, mark your outdoor living areas or leave unwanted presents on your patio, you may want to add rosemary to the essential oils you keep on hand for backyard use. Fill a spray bottle with water, add several drops of rosemary oil and spray the mixture liberally around your outdoor living areas or any other spots you would like to protect from cats.

4. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint is another oil that has so many uses inside and outside of the home that you may always want to have some on hand. For your outdoor living areas, peppermint oil can provide an effective deterrent for flies, mosquitoes, gnats, moths and other pests that might try to ruin your party. You can soak strips in water with several drops of peppermint, and then strategically hang them around your patio or, for a more inconspicuous option, you can add several drops to a water-filled spray bottle and spray the area.

Small spray bottles filled with homemade insect repellent that combines peppermint, rosemary and clove oils diluted in water make functional party favors that your guests will really appreciate at your next outdoor dinner party.

5. Cinnamon Oil

Along with peppermint oil, lavender oil and a handful of others, cinnamon oil can be an effective way to keep spiders out of your outdoor living areas. Add several drops of cinnamon oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spray areas where spiders like to hang out, such as in the corners of canopies, under patio chairs or along the eaves of your house. The added bonus here is that your patio will have the warm, inviting smell of cinnamon to welcome your guests.

Your Turn…

Which essential oils do you use to make your outdoor living areas more enjoyable? Let us know in the comments below.

Note: If you are not familiar with working with essential oils, it is a good idea to do a bit of research before using them. Some oils can cause skin irritations or should not be used by people with certain health conditions.

The post 5 Essential Oils to Improve Your Outdoor Living Areas appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Heading to your local movie theater or making the short jaunt to one of the drive-in theaters in the San Diego area is not your only option for enjoying your favorite flicks on the big screen.

Here in San Diego, where we enjoy some pretty great weather throughout the year, we have another option that can be a lot more fun: backyard movie theaters.

It might seem like you need some extensive tech skills, expensive audio-visual gear and a pricey movie screen to set up an enjoyable movie-watching experience at home, but creating your own theater is actually easier and cheaper than most people think.

In fact, DIY theaters are so easy to set up, it is a bit surprising that we do not see more of these outdoor room options in San Diego homes.

Of course, expensive, luxury options are available that require bringing in professionals to set up high-end A/V equipment and a huge, permanent movie screen, but DIY options are available that should fit into any homeowner’s budget.

You probably have at least some of the necessities for this do-it-yourself project already on hand, which will make it even more affordable.

There are a lot of options when it comes to setting up a backyard cinema, including portable options that can be used for both indoor and outdoor home theaters, inexpensive options that can be put together in a day using mostly items you already have, and luxury, permanent installations that could even increase the value of your home.

This DIY project can range from simply hanging a white bed sheet on your clothesline to installing a high-end, retractable projector screen on your patio, which means almost any homeowner with a yard or some sort can get in on some alfresco movie-watching action.

So let’s get right into gathering your gear, expanding your usable outdoor living space and getting your at-home movie theater set up for your next date night, family movie night or social gathering.

Finding a Space for Your Outdoor Cinema

The first thing you need to decide before choosing a space for your theater is whether your setup will be permanent or temporary.

If you will just be bringing out your equipment for occasional movie nights, then you will not necessarily need to make any permanent changes to your backyard.

Your existing patio or lawn may suit your needs, and you will just need to move some patio furniture to accommodate guests or find a spot to hang your screen temporarily.

If you want a more permanent setup that can be enjoyed at a moment’s notice, you will need to find a dedicated space that allows room for your screen, seating and audio-visual equipment.

You will need to consider the size of the screen you wish to use, the number of movie watchers and the space your particular A/V equipment will require.

Typically, you will need at least enough space for a small table to accommodate your equipment.

Keep in mind that you will likely want a bit of space between your seating and the screen.

Most people do not like sitting in the front row of a movie theater or parking in the first rows at the drive-in, so remember that these same preferences will likely hold true for your backyard movies.

Aside from making sure you have adequate square footage to create this outdoor room, you will also want to pay attention to streetlight placement, potential wind conditions and other environmental factors that may affect your movie-watching experience in your chosen space.

DIY Backyard Movie Theater: Selecting Your Movie Screen

Choosing what you are going to use for your screen is where you can really save some money on your setup or choose to go for a higher-end option and hit the top of your budget.

If it is within your budget and you want to ensure that your at-home cinema will be the envy of all who attend a movie night at your home, purchasing a permanent or retractable projector screen is definitely an option.

You can easily find multiple choices in various sizes either online or at an electronics store near you.

There are also less expensive inflatable screens and several types of portable screens available for outdoor use.

Retractable screens and inflatable screens are both portable options that can be stored when not in use or left up during summer months when you will likely watch more movies outdoors.

You can easily find some of these portable screen options for around $200.00, and you can sometimes find smaller inflatable screens on sale for less than $100.00.

Nicer options that will appeal to more discerning homeowners looking to create a permanent outdoor room usually start closer to $1,000.00 and can cost several thousand, depending on the option you choose.

Or you can make your own screen for as little as a buck.

Making an outdoor movie screen is an easy DIY project.

Some options for making your own screen require a few tools and minimal handiness, while others require no skills at all.

Here are 10 ways to make your own screen:

1. Use white paint to create a space for watching movies on a fence or wall.

2. Hang a white bed sheet on a wall, fence or clothesline (it is better if there is a dark backing, like a fence).

3. Stretch white fabric over a frame made from wood or pvc pipes.

4. Buy a cheap black-out curtain, and hang the white side (backside) facing your projector.

5. Paint a large artist’s canvas white, and hang it on a wall or fence.

6. Buy black-out fabric or curtain backing at a craft store to hang over a fence or stretch on a frame.

7. Tape butcher paper to a fence or wall.

8. Head to your local home improvement store to purchase white vinyl panels (usually used in bathrooms) to attach to a wall or frame.

9. Attach a white sheet or fabric to a roller shade hung from an inside rafter on your patio ceiling.

10. Buy a white shower curtain or shower curtain liner at your local dollar store, use the included grommets to hang it, and use a shower rod, curtain rod or large dowel as a weight.

This last option can cost you as little as one dollar, if you already have a few nails and an extra shower rod in your garage.

You can also use the rod or dowel to roll up your shower curtain movie screen when not in use.

You do not want your screen to be too big or too small for your space, so make sure you know how much space you have to work with and how far away from the screen your seating will be located before making or purchasing a screen.

DIY Outdoor Movie Theater: Audio-Visual Equipment

For the non-techie crowd, this is the most complicated part of setting up a backyard cinema, but it is actually much easier than you might think.

If your budget allows, you can purchase a projector and sound system as part of a complete outdoor theater setup that comes with everything you need to start watching movies in your yard right away.

If you are going the DIY route with this project, you can pick up the A/V equipment you need and combine it with items you likely already have on hand, and can most likely save money in the process.

If you plan to purchase a low-cost screen or make your own, the projector will likely be the most expensive piece of your theater.

You will want to acquire an LCD projector or DLP projector for the best movie-watching experience, which you can purchase at any electronics store.

If you are want to create your theater on the cheap, you can likely find a used projector for significantly less money than purchasing a new one.

To find a used projector, you might try online classified advertisements or print classifieds, or you might want to contact your local school district or public library to see if they have used equipment they are willing to sell.

Once you have your projector, you will need something on which to play movies and some sort of sound system.

To play DVDs, you can use a DVD player, Blu-Ray player, laptop or gaming console.

On a side note, if you choose a laptop or gaming console and have wireless Internet, you can also play video games on your outdoor screen.

While you can certainly add a spectacular surround sound system to your cinema, you can also use a simple, inexpensive set of speakers.

While surround sound might sound like a great way to enhance your experience, keep in mind that nearby neighbors might not appreciate the theater-quality sound coming from your backyard quite as much as you do.

You will need to determine the best way to run electricity to your A/V equipment and will need the correct cords and wiring to set up each component, so keeping it simple with an extension cord, surge protector, DVD player and regular speakers might be a good way to start.

You can always upgrade your system once you have had a chance to try out your setup and are a bit more savvy about what you want to use.

If you plan to leave your equipment set up, you may want to consider a locking cabinet that will protect your investment from the weather and potential theft.

If you plan to host a movie night soon after setting up your backyard cinema, be sure to do a trial run with a video and sound check to make sure your projector is in a good location and that everything is in working order before your guests arrive.

DIY Outdoor Theater: Seating and Ground Cover Options

If you have an existing patio from which you can view your screen, this might be the best place to set up seating.

Lawn chairs, beach chairs, blankets or comfy patio furniture works great if you have just a few guests or it is a casual gathering.

If you do not have a patio, but you do have a natural grass lawn, you can set up your seating on the grass without too much concern – if you plan on hosting occasional movie nights.

If you plan on using your backyard theater more frequently, a conventional lawn may not hold up well to the wear and tear of traffic and chairs.

You will also need to consider things like turning off an automatic sprinkler system that may be set to water your lawn at inopportune times, using natural pesticides to keep bugs at bay, and making sure your grass is dry and free of muddy spots before your guests arrive.

Wet grass or bugs will definitely bring a damper to your movie night if this is the location of your seating.

If you do not have an existing patio to use for seating, you may want to consider installing a small paving stone patio to provide an attractive, stable foundation for chairs and your projector table.

If you want to create a more theater-like experience, pavers also provide a great foundation for theater-style seats purchased new or from a theater that has closed.

Alternatively, if you want the area to double as lawn where your kids and pets can play during the day, you may want to install durable artificial grass, which is an ideal ground cover for outdoor living spaces.

Soft, natural-looking synthetic turf does not provide an inviting environment for insects and does not require water, which makes it a great option for a seating area where you plan to spend evenings outdoors.

As an added benefit, if a guest happens to spill their soda, the spill can easily be rinsed off your low-maintenance manufactured grass.

Creating a Theater-Like Experience

Now that you have your own personal movie theater in your backyard, you will likely want to make a few additions to enhance your outdoor living experience.

If you have an outdoor kitchen or built-in barbecue, you may want to consider adding a counter-top hot dog machine.

Savvy shoppers can find a hot dog roller grill and bun warmer setup for as little as $100 online, and this is a great way to create a more authentic concession stand experience.

Of course, you will probably also want a popcorn machine, which can be purchased new or used.

Both freestanding and counter-top options are available, so you are sure to find an option that will fit your space.

To complete your concession stand, you can purchase snack-size bags of candy, pretzels or peanuts, and reusable popcorn containers for serving up this quintessential part of any movie-watching experience.

Luxury movie theaters are opening across the country with comfy armchairs, and there is no reason you cannot include this high-end feature in your San Diego backyard.

If your seating area is protected from the weather and includes a durable ground cover, like fake grass or pavers, armchairs are a perfect seating option that will provide a much more comfortable experience for you or your guests.

Your Turn…

Do you have a backyard movie theater? If so, what are your tips for ensuring the best outdoor cinema experience?

Photo Credits (in order of appearance): lumix2004, stock.xchng; kinsum; stock.xchng, plattmunk; stock.xchng, Bubbels; stock.xchng, leocub; stock.xchng, Cancia; stock.xchng, lumix2004.

The post Backyard Movie Theater: DIY Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Baking soda is a versatile, tried-and-true product that you can be pretty sure your grandmother used for everything from washing clothes to unclogging drains. This natural cleanser and deodorizer has never really fallen out of fashion, but it has been largely relegated to sitting in a box in the refrigerator to ward off odors.

It started to once again make appearances outside of the refrigerator when more folks became interested in avoiding chemicals and moving towards a greener, eco-friendly lifestyle. Now, many people use it to deodorize rugs and carpets, freshen laundry and scrub their bathtubs.

While lots of households are using baking soda for all sorts of purposes inside their homes, many have not yet discovered how easy it is to also use it in our outdoor living areas.

To get you started, here are 10 easy ways you can use baking soda to clean and deodorize your outdoor living areas without chemicals.

1. Use baking soda to clean the stainless steel in your outdoor kitchen.

Make a thin paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to any stainless steel surfaces with a damp rag. Use another damp rag to remove any residue and to buff the stainless steel until it sparkles. This method is a great way to get your stainless steel appliances and surfaces clean without using expensive stainless steel cleaners with harsh chemicals.

2. Use baking soda to clean and deodorize outdoor rugs, dog beds and patio cushions.

Baking soda can help remove pet accidents and can remove unwanted smells from textiles. In the case of pet accidents on outdoor rugs or patio cushions, blot the liquid with a rag, and then sprinkle baking soda on the wet spot to absorb more of the liquid. Use a damp rag to blot the (now wet) baking soda.

If your pets like to sleep on your patio furniture or rugs, they are likely to begin to smell like your pets after a while. You can remedy this by liberally sprinkling baking soda onto the rugs and cushions, leaving it for several hours or overnight, and then vacuuming it up. You can use this same method to deodorize dog beds.

3. Use baking soda to clean your barbecue grill and stove.

If you have a stove or barbecue grill in your outdoor kitchen, you can remove grease and clean them with a paste made with baking soda and water. This all-natural grill cleaner is a safer alternative compared to commercial grill-cleaning products, which are often full of harsh chemicals. For light cleaning, you should be able to get your grill or stove grates clean with just this baking soda-water paste and a damp rag. If there is excessive buildup, you may need to use a scrub brush to get the job done.

4. Use baking soda to clean and deodorize patio trash cans and recycling bins.

If your trash cans or recycling bins need a good scrubbing, you can make a mildly abrasive cleanser by mixing baking soda and water into a paste. Use a rag – or a scrub brush for more stubborn dirt, grease or debris – to clean the bins. If your bins just need to be deodorized, sprinkle baking soda in them to remove the smell.

5. Use baking soda to keep your patio refrigerator smelling fresh.

Setting a box of baking soda in the refrigerator to combat food smells has always been one of the most popular ways to use baking soda. Most of us have a box in our main refrigerators right now but might not think about also putting one in the refrigerator we have in the garage or in our outdoor kitchens. All you have to do is place an open box in the fridge and switch it out every couple of months to avoid unwanted odors.

If you purchase baking soda in larger packages, you can also place a bowl of baking soda in your patio refrigerator for the same effect.

6. Use baking soda to soak up grease and spills.

Baking soda can be used to soak up grease and liquid spills on almost any surface. This means that you should keep some on hand to sprinkle on spills on your patio, outdoor kitchen counters, rugs or other surfaces. If you have natural stone counter tops or a patio made from porous material (such as paving stones, bricks or concrete), baking soda can even help pull grease and other liquid stains out of the stone or other material.

7. Use baking soda to clean your paving stones, concrete or bricks.

If you have paving stone, concrete or brick walkways or patios, you may find that staining occurs from things like your guests spilling wine, mold or algae growth, or keeping your container garden in one spot for too long. You can remove these stains by creating a mildly abrasive cleanser made with baking soda and water. If it is a fresh, liquid stain, you may want to sprinkle dry baking soda on it first to allow the baking soda to absorb as much liquid as possible. Once you apply your paste, you may need to let it sit for a while before using a soft scrub brush to gently scour the area. Rinse with water and repeat, if necessary.

Sometimes a professional cleaning is in order. Consider professional paver clean and seal services in your area to help your patio, walkway or driveway look like new.

Using a baking soda and water paste is also a good way to remove stubborn sidewalk chalk.

8. Use baking soda to clean your patio furniture.

If your patio furniture needs a bit more than a light dusting, you do not have to turn to harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. Instead, sprinkle baking soda on a damp rag and use that to wipe down your chairs, sofas and tables.

9. Use baking soda to clean clay pots, fountains and birdbaths.

If you have clay, porous or glazed pots, fountains or birdbaths that need a good cleaning, simply take a damp rag, sprinkle baking soda on it, and wipe down the surfaces. If there is some mineral buildup or bird droppings, you may need to switch out your rag for a baking soda-water paste and a scrub brush.

10. Use baking soda to clean toys.

If you have kids or dogs, you are sure to have outside toys, and those outside toys are sure to get pretty grimy after a while. You can easily clean them and remove the gunk by soaking them in a bucket of water with about a cup of baking soda. You should be able to use a rag to remove most dirt and gunk after soaking the toys. If there are particularly stubborn spots, you can use make a paste with baking soda and water and use this mild abrasive with a rag or scrub brush.

Your Turn…

What are your favorite ways to use baking soda as a natural alternative in your outdoor living areas?

The post How to Clean + Deodorize Outdoor Living Areas with Baking Soda (Guide) appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Expansive, natural grass lawns are so last century; today’s backyards are built for outdoor living, and that means usable spaces with groundcovers that are better-suited to heavier traffic and al fresco entertaining.

Here in Southern California, we have the luxury of sunny days and warm weather that allow for outdoor living throughout the year, but there are still too many backyards that lack the basic infrastructure required to support the fresh-air lifestyle so many of us crave.

Homeowners who are fortunate enough to enjoy a climate that allows for backyard grilling on Christmas Day are in the coveted position of being able to significantly expand their home’s living space by creating entire rooms outdoors or taking hobbies to the backyard, instead of taking up valuable space in the garage.

The problem is that most homeowners who purchase a home that is not a new build move into a property that has well-established lawns in both the front yard and backyard.

This brings with it the need for weekly mowing, regular watering, edging, aerating, weeding and all of those other time-consuming tasks that are required to keep a natural grass lawn looking its best.

Even after months of insane water bills and hours of yard work that could have been better spent on more enjoyable pursuits, many homeowners resist the urge to rip out that lawn and replace it with something that better fits their lifestyle and could decrease the time and money they spend on their yards each month.

After all, every house needs a lawn – right?

Not necessarily.

In fact, even a quick online search for current trends in landscape design will bring up plenty of evidence that today’s homeowners are moving away from conventional lawns and towards landscaping features and groundcovers that are lower maintenance and better suited for actually using a home’s outdoor spaces.

This movement towards functional exterior spaces designed for entertaining and everyday living is driven by our busier lifestyles, an increased desire to more fully enjoy our spare time and a greater appreciation of creating personal spaces that are focused on meeting our needs, instead of just giving off the right impression to our neighbors.

Sure, we still want to keep up with the Joneses, which used to require a perfectly manicured, lush lawn, but natural grass does not have the same power to show socio-economic status as it did in the 1900s.

Sure, we still want to keep up with the Joneses, which used to require a perfectly manicured, lush lawn, but natural grass does not have the same power to show socio-economic status as it did in the 1900s.

Today, the amount of water you are wasting or your home’s impact on the environment is more likely to be the first thing that comes to mind when a guest arrives to find an expanse of natural grass separating your home from the rest of the world.

And it is more often the homes with elaborate walkways, paving stone driveways, and well-designed, grassless front yards that become the envy of neighbors.

When someone steps out through the stunning French doors that lead to your back patio, it will be the amazing water feature, elegant outdoor fireplace, fashionable fire pit or outstanding pool design that will catch their eye – not a perfectly mowed patch of natural grass that is mostly used as a bathroom for your pet or a play area for your kids.

It is the stone sitting wall that curves around your patio featuring an intricate pattern of pavers or the meandering walkways leading to themed gardens scattered throughout the grounds that are the truly impressive features in any backyard.

Whether you want to be the envy of your neighbors or just want to expand your living area to include functional outdoor spaces, one of the best things you can do is get rid of your grass and create a backyard paradise you can actually use.

Why Get Rid of Your Grass?

This isn’t really an anti-grass article; natural grass certainly has its place and can serve a purpose.

It is a popular choice for parents and pet owners who want outdoor areas for their little ones to run and play, or for their dogs to roll, wrestle and use the restroom.

Conventional grass provides a pretty good surface for these activities, but it does come with its own problems, such as bacterial buildup, brown spots, tripping hazards and higher maintenance requirements than other options.

It is understandable that some homeowners will want at least a small patch of grass for their kids or pets, but there are alternatives that can provide a safer, lower-maintenance groundcover for areas frequented by your loved ones.

While there are many grass alternatives available, artificial turf is one that is definitely worth mentioning.

Synthetic grass allows homeowners who want to include grass in their landscape design to do so with the benefits of a natural grass lawn, but without the downfalls.

When you choose manufactured grass, you get the lush, green, soft lawn that you want without the water bills, hours spent mowing and weeding, toxic chemicals to keep away weeds and pests, or monthly costs of having a landscaping company complete the maintenance tasks for you.

You get a level, safer surface on which your kids can play and easy cleanup in areas used by your pets.

After all, the point of this article is to help you create outdoor living spaces that your entire family can use, and your pets and children are certainly part of the family.

This means that a synthetic turf lawn could very well be part of an overall landscape design meant to create more usable outdoor spaces.

If you happen to want your expanded living space to include a putting green or a lawn bowling green, artificial grass is also the best choice for these functional spaces.

Just keep in mind that the more you limit the space you dedicate to a lawn of any kind, the more space you will have to install a swimming pool, build a greenhouse, increase your outdoor storage, create patios for outdoor entertaining or finally put in that horseshoe pit you have always wanted.

Expanding Your Living Space Without Adding On to Your House

Home additions are expensive, require costly permits and encroach upon your yard, making them a less-than-ideal option for many homeowners.

Fortunately, those who live in Southern California can easily expand their usable living space by simply installing a patio or creating entire rooms outdoors.

You can cook outside, dine outside, entertain outside and even sleep outside, if you create functional spaces that allow for al fresco activities.

The simplest way to do this is to remove some or all of your existing lawn, and replace it with a traffic-friendly hardscape option, such as brick, paving stones, composite decking or wood.

There are plenty of online tutorials that can help handy homeowners install a patio or build a deck, or you can enlist the help of professionals to help ensure a satisfactory end product with fewer headaches along the way.

If you happen to have a larger yard, you may even want to consider installing multiple decks or patios that can serve different purposes.

For example, you may want one patio directly off your indoor kitchen that is dedicated to your outdoor kitchen, built-in barbecue or al fresco dining room.

This allows for easy indoor-outdoor entertaining and is a great place to start when expanding your outdoor living areas.

You may also want a separate deck or patio around your pool for poolside entertaining, or a paving stone patio with a central fire pit for nights spent outside stargazing or roasting marshmallows with your kids.

Creating multiple seating areas scattered throughout your yard is an ideal landscape design for anyone who entertains large groups or has frequent social gatherings, while also providing an abundance of options for family members to slip away some quiet time with a good book or their morning coffee.

Screened patios are particularly nice backyard improvements for homeowners who enjoy spending a lot of time outside or frequently dining outdoors, since this is a great way to keep bugs at bay and provide some protection from the elements.

A screened porch or patio also usually feels more like an extension of your indoor living space, since it feels more like a true room.

A similar effect can be achieved by adding patio curtains that can be closed to block the sun or create a more intimate atmosphere for outdoor dinner parties.

How a Paving Stone Paradise Can Transform Your Backyard

Paving stones are not the only hardscape option available that will help you expand your living area by utilizing exterior space; however, they are often preferred for this purpose because of their durability and visual appeal.

Because pavers are installed in a zipper-like fashion, they are much easier to replace than most options in the rare event that damage occurs.

They also offer a slip-resistant surface, which makes them an ideal choice around swimming pools, and are easy to clean and maintain.

But, above all, they bring an elegant, upscale look to any backyard, which can instantly transform a lackluster landscape design into a visually appealing backyard oasis.

When properly installed paver patios and walkways are paired with attractive groundcover options, stone sitting walls, water features or well-kept flowerbeds, in is almost inevitable that the resulting environment will provide the perfect backdrop for everyday outdoor living, as well as outdoor entertaining.

Paving stones provide an ideal foundation for outdoor kitchens, an attractive floor for al fresco dining rooms and a durable option for areas where heavy traffic is expected.

Walkways leading to a hot tub, a meditation garden, a garden shed or a gazebo are far more attractive when they are made from decorative pavers.

While some patio trends eventually fall out of fashion, the attractive look of paving stones is sure to keep this upscale option in style well into the future, making decorative pavers the type of home improvement investment that is well worth making.

It should also be noted that paving stones are the longest-lasting available option for driveways, walkways, pool decks and patios.

While concrete will age and crack, asphalt will need resurfacing, gravel will work into the soil and need to be replaced and bricks are far more fragile than most people think, pavers will stand up to the test of time and continue to look beautiful.

Additionally, paving stones may actually be less expensive than you think, depending on the type of stones, the manufacturer of the stones and the installation company you choose.

If you want to create truly functional spaces that are also durable and attractive, pavers should be at the top of your list for hardscape options to use in your landscaping design.

Final Thoughts on Getting Rid of Your Grass

Many homeowners think they have to have a lawn to greet their guests in their front yard and take up most of the space in their backyard.

Why do they think this?

Mostly, because this is simply what they are used to.

Most of us grew up with grass surrounding our homes and recall spending weekends as a kid helping our dads pull weeds while he mowed the lawn into a perfect pattern.

When we drive through most neighborhoods of single-family homes, we still see cookie-cutter lawns right next to cookie-cutter driveways, which keeps us thinking that grass is what most people want and, therefore, is what we are supposed to want.

But it is not that most people want grass; most people want usable outdoor living spaces, they just are not sure how to create them.

Thankfully, lots of helpful online resources and home improvement centers are helping homeowners expand their options by showing them all of the useful things they can do with their yards if they simply limit the size of their lawns.

The growing popularity of grass alternatives and the trend towards larger patios that can accommodate entire outdoor rooms is evidence that today’s homeowner wants more from their yard, and that they are not afraid to cut out a little grass to get it.

Photo Credits (in order of appearance): stock.xchng, kellyeld; morgueFile.com, xfoto; morgueFile.com, jlpeterson; morgueFile.com, beglib; morgueFile.com, dhester.

The post Replace Your Grass With Pavers + Artificial Turf {Expand Your Outdoor Living Space} appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Now that you’ve cleaned your barbecue in anticipation of warm weather and massive amounts of outdoor entertaining, it’s time to get down to business.

What essential grilling tools do barbecue enthusiasts need to get the job done right?

We’ve got a list of must-have and nice-to-have barbecue gadgets you may not even know you need.

Essential Grilling Tools —

In this short video, Martha Stewart shows us her favorite tongs and spatulas and, of course, recommends more than one for each type of meat as not to mix flavors.

She also points out that tools with wooden handles don’t conduct heat, which is why she prefers them to metal.

1. Long-Handled Tongs

Long-handled tongs are great because they can be used for a variety of foods, from corn to hot dogs and beyond.

A lot of grillers tend to reach for the fork, but stabbing meat causes juices to release which results in a loss of flavor and moisture.

Go for long-handled tongs versus kitchen tongs to avoid burning your hands if you need to reach food at the back of your barbecue.

2. A Grill Brush

Keeping the grill grates clean is a must for health and taste reasons.

Have  a look at your manufacturer’s instructions to select a grill brush that’s right for your grates, but remember it’s easiest to clean the grate when their hot so you may want to turn them on for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing them.

3. A Spatula with an Offset Handle

The offset handle allows you to really get under food cooking on the grill while keeping your hand away from the heat.

Unless you’re grilling on a small barbecue,  go for a long-handled spatula–metal or silicone work best for barbecuing.

4. Grill Mitts

Every once in a while, you’re going to need to grab something hot, whether it’s to lift a grate to catch something or remove a grill pizza stone.

5. Fire Extinguisher

Not only should there be a fire extinguisher in your barbecue area, know how to use it by re-reading the directions occasionally.

6. Long-Handled Basting Brush

Keep food moist and juicy by basting with marinade, butter or whatever goodness you have on tap, especially in the last few minutes before you pull the food off the grill.

7. Instant-Read Thermometer

Rather than constantly slicing into your meat, have an instant read thermometer tell you it’s done because it’s way easier and less damaging to food.

8.  Flashlight or Grill Light

You need to see your food, right? I’m not sure we need to elaborate much on this point.

9. Chimney Starter (Charcoal Grill)

Ditch lighter fluid for good by using a chimney starter with a few sheets of newspaper and a match to get your charcoal going.

The Nice-to-Have List of Barbecue Gadgets —

10. Himalayan Salt Block

It is a real salt block harvested from the Himalayan mountains, often pink in color and said to be one of the purest forms of salt in the world.

It’s meant to naturally salt your food (without adding a heavy table salt-like flavor). So all you need is some Himalayan salt, your protein and, perhaps, a squeeze of lime versus a heavy marinade.

Plus, the salt block eliminates the risk of charring food!

Salt blocks are popular choices for barbecuing seafood such as skewered shrimp or scallops and for serving foods like cheese or sushi at room temperature.

11. Skewers that Slide

No more struggling with uncooperative kebabs with this handy gadget that has a disc on the end to help push meat and vegetables off with ease.

They are even dishwasher safe.

12. Pizza Grilling Stone

In the event you don’t have a woodfired pizza oven in the backyard, a pizza grilling stone may be the next best thing.

They come in round or rectangular, but make sure to use a thin crust as the pizza will cook from the bottom up and if your bbq isn’t clean, your pizza will taste extra-smoky.

13. Rib Rack

A rib rack not only allows air to circulate around your precious ribs, it also conserves grill space for other food.

The rack props the ribs up vertically and can be used for chicken breasts and other meat, too, but make sure you have a drip pan somewhere underneath.

14. Hot Dog Roller

OK, this might seem unnecessary but think about it: You’ll never struggle while flipping hot dogs with this handy gadget that spins hot dogs and sausages around and around.

Glide a spatula over the dogs to roll them on the rack or invest in motorized version that can plop on the grill.

This way, you don’t have to worry about hot dogs falling through grates, plus, they’ll cook evenly.

15. Skillets and Other Cookware

Why dirty up your kitchen if the grill is already going?

Rather than roast veggies in the oven or on the stove, with perforated cookware grilled asparagus or even wok Chinese food can be yours over the grill.

16. Meatball Grill Basket

Any meat tastes better smoked, right?

Why not grab your favorite recipe and load it into this highly-rated and handy grill contraption.

Then, think about how awesome your meatball subs will taste.

17. Potato Griller

Apparently, exposing the potato to indirect heat results in a buttery texture–without the butter (though we’re sure a little extra won’t hurt).

A potato griller like this averages around $10, so if a heaping baked potato is your speed, this might be an excellent investment.

The spike allows heat to enter the inside of the potato for more efficient cooking and they say this works well in a regular oven, too.

18. Grilling Planks

The original plank pairing is said to be salmon and cedar, pioneered long ago by residents of the Pacific Northwest.

Make sure the wood is untreated—be it cedar, alder, hickory or maple—and soak it for an hour or so to add moisture and prevent burning.

Add wine, vinegar or citrus juice to the water in order to infuse the plank with aromas as it soaks.

It’s also important to lightly season a new plank by placing it on the grill and turning it over once after a few minutes in order to prevent it from warping.

19. Hamburger Wrappers

Sure you could cut up wax or parchment paper yourself but for a very inexpensive price, you can have these little squares at the ready to separate freshly pounded burgers with ease.

Bleached or unbleached, these papers can save time and aggravation.

20. Jalapeño Pepper Roaster

Peppers seem to be all the rage so cook them with ease using this handy contraption.

Stuff them with cheese, meat or whatever your heart desires while infusing them with smoky goodness.

This highly-rated item has the added bonus of being dishwasher-safe.

Your Turn…

What are your essential barbecue tools?

Photo credits: spatula, Flickr/Dinner Series; chimney starter, Flickr/Eric Kilby; Himalayan salt, Flickr/George Arriola; pizza stone, Flickr/m.gifford; paella pan, Flickr/PincasPhoto; cedar planks, Flickr/Neeta Lind.

The post 20 Grilling Tools Essential for a BBQ appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

A backyard gazebo is the ultimate…

…accent for any yard or deck.

Gazebos are enchanting, practical and visually stunning.

These charming structures provide a comfortable, welcoming area to relax in, and they come in a variety of styles to suit any aesthetic.

Whether you want a romantic hideaway or a festive party zone, there is a gazebo style that is perfect for you.

The post A Guide to Gazebos On Artificial Grass appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

However, you can select trees, plants and lawn options that reduce your exposure to pollen and can allow you to enjoy outdoor living without worsening your allergy or asthma symptoms.

Having an allergen-free garden does not have to mean forgoing flowers or limiting the size of your lawn, but it does mean that you need to choose flowering plants carefully and consider allergy-friendly lawn alternatives that can help you more fully enjoy your outdoor living spaces.

Try these allergy-free landscaping tips to create a garden where you, your family and your guests can enjoy spending time outdoors without irritating your allergies.

Allergy-Free Gardening Tips: Allergen-Free Landscaping Trees

Trees provide shade, can lower your utility bills, add height to your garden and just look nice, which is why most homeowners want to add some type of trees to their landscape design.

There are two types of trees used in landscaping of which you should be aware if you or a family member has allergies or asthma: monoecious trees and dioecious trees.

Monoecious trees are species that have both male and female parts in a single tree.

Dioecious trees are species where a single tree is either male or female.

Spruce, pine, birch and oak trees are examples of monoecious trees that are both male and female and, therefore, produce pollen.

Allergy and asthma sufferers pretty much just need to avoid using these species in their yards at all, since all of them produce pollen that can make symptoms worse.

If you choose dioecious trees for your landscape design, you can select female trees to limit your exposure to pollen.

The problem with landscaping with trees is that most of the dioecious trees you find at your local nursery are going to be male, and male trees produce allergy-inducing pollen.

Here’s the deal: Homeowners want lovely trees in their yard, but they do not want the stuff the trees drop, such as seeds or fruits, which then have to be raked up on a regular basis.

Female trees are the fruit and seed bearers, which leads to more cleanup and more ongoing yard maintenance.

Male trees do not produce nearly as much debris that will later need to be cleaned up, but they do produce plenty of pollen.

Since most people prefer less yard maintenance over less pollen, landscaping trends have led to an increased use of male trees.

And since nurseries tend to carry what the majority of their customers want to buy, most of the dioecious trees you find at garden centers are male.

This is all well and good for most homeowners, but if you have an allergy or asthma sufferer in the house, you should consider removing pollen-producing trees from your yard and replacing them with trees that are friendlier to folks who have allergies.

To limit exposure to tree pollen, try planting one or more of these landscaping trees in your yard:

1. Female poplar trees
2. Female red maple trees
3. Female silver maple trees
4. Female mulberry trees
5. Female ash trees
6. Female red cedar trees (these are often called juniper trees)

While it might be a bit more difficult to find female dioecious trees for your landscaping needs, it is well worth the effort.

Your best bet is talking to your local garden center about placing a special order.

If you have well-established male trees in your yard that you would like to keep, you may be able to lower their pollen production by grafting the trees with wood from females of the same species.

You can look online for grafting tips or hire a professional gardener with tree grafting experience to do it for you.

Allergy-Free Gardening Tips: Weed Reduction

Weeds are annoying to any homeowner, but those who have pollen-irritated allergies or someone with asthma in their family find weeds particularly troubling.

In most parts of the country, weed pollen is at its worst during the late summer and early fall, but Southern California’s fantastic climate for growing plants of all sorts makes weeds a year-round issue for folks with respiratory ailments made worse by weed pollen.

Ragweed, Russian thistle, sagebrush, dandelions and Lamb’s Quarters are some of the worst, but there is a wide variety of common weeds that can increase symptoms in folks with asthma or pollen allergies.

You may not be able to ensure a completely weed-free garden, but you can reduce weed growth with these weed-free landscaping tips:

1. Cover areas of bare dirt between plants and trees with ground covers like mulch or gravel to limit weed growth.

2. Install a weed barrier beneath ground covers and around plants and trees.

3. In areas where you do not want any vegetation to grow, you can spray distilled white vinegar to kill weeds and limit regrowth.

4. Fill cracks between concrete slabs, bricks or paving stones with sand or small gravel.

5. Install weed-free artificial grass instead of a natural grass lawn where weeds often thrive.

6. If you have a natural grass lawn, keep it fertilized and healthy to try to limit weed growth.

7. If you have natural grass in your landscaping, make sure to mow it regularly to help keep weeds from flowering and producing pollen.

8. Pull weeds as soon as they appear to avoid allowing them to mature enough to produce pollen.

9. Keep your yard clear of piles of leaves, brush and other areas where weeds can flourish.

Allergen-Free Gardening Tips: Go Easy on Grasses

Grasses can be great for landscaping.

Including a lawn in your landscaping design provides a place for kids and pets to play, teenagers to sunbathe and adults to have an impromptu picnic right in their backyard.

Grasses of the ornamental sort can provide texture and color to your backyard or front yard landscaping and are also a popular choice.

The problem with natural lawns and many ornamental grasses is that they can significantly worsen symptoms for folks with asthma or pollen allergies.

They also provide a great spot for weeds to flourish, which leads to a higher pollen count in your yard and even more problems.

Grass allergies are more common than many people think, but it is amazing how many allergy sufferers still insist on having natural grass in their yard that they cannot even enjoy.

Many homeowners think a lawn is a necessary part of the package when designing their landscape, but the popularity of natural grass is shrinking as more and more people become aware of its many cons, such as its excessive water needs, the need for hours of ongoing maintenance every month, how it provides a perfect place for weeds to thrive, the potential for bacterial buildup and just how difficult it is to keep a natural lawn looking green and inviting.

However, even knowing all of this, many people feel that they must have a lawn area for their kids to play on, their pets to use as a restroom or their neighbors to admire.

Fortunately, there is a simple solution that can meet everyone’s needs: artificial turf.

Synthetic grass has come a long way over the last couple of decades, and today’s options provide a lush, welcoming lawn for all to enjoy.

In fact, the high-quality manufactured lawns being installed at residential and commercial properties in all areas of the country have such a realistic look and feel that you have probably seen them many times and had no idea they were not real grass.

For those who suffer from grass allergies, faux grass is a dream come true.

Installing a synthetic turf lawn means no more worries about weeds creeping up unnoticed, and having the chance to run, play, roll around or lie on your lawn without worsening your allergy symptoms.

Having an artificial lawn also means never having to mow, weed, water, aerate, fertilize or edge your lawn, which can save you lots of time and money well into the future.

If you have dogs, fake grass also provides a perfect restroom area that is easy to clean and will not get the brown spots that dog owners must live with when they have natural grass in their yards.

If you have a natural lawn and do not want to replace it with allergy-friendly artificial turf, make sure you keep it mowed and fertilized regularly to try to limit allergy-irritating pollen.

Allergy-Free Landscaping Tips: Picking the Right Plants

We all want a visually appealing garden for outdoor living and entertaining guests.

This often includes flowering plants that add texture, color and fragrance that make outdoor areas more inviting.

The problem with flowering plants is that they produce pollen, which is an issue for folks who suffer from pollen allergies or asthma.

This does not mean that you have to have a flower-free garden, but it does mean that you should make picking the right plants a priority.

While all flowering plants produce pollen, not all of them trigger pollen allergy symptoms in most people.

The problematic pollen is generally the type that is transported by the wind, such as that of dandelions.

Plants with colorful blooms that attract insects to carry the pollen generally do not have the same negative effect on allergy sufferers.

This means that most people actually can have vibrant colors and beautiful flowers in their gardens, as long as they choose plants that are pollinated by insects.

Here are 10 insect-pollinated plants that generally do not cause problems for those who suffer from pollen allergies:

1. Roses
2. Hydrangeas
3. Shasta daisies
4. Salvia
5. Lavender
6. Rosemary
7. Hostas
8. Veronica
9. Yarrow
10. Russian sage

In general, you want to look for plants that produce bright, vibrant blooms that attract insects, and avoid less-showy plants that rely on the wind to spread their pollen.

General Gardening Tips for Allergy and Asthma Sufferers

If is difficult to avoid pollen completely when designing a beautiful garden – particularly if you have existing plants with which you do not want to part – but you can still reduce pollen and allergy symptoms with mindful gardening practices.

Here are 11 general gardening and everyday living tips for those who suffer from pollen allergies:

1. Always wear long sleeves, long pants, gloves and sunglasses when gardening.

2. Remove your gardening gear and place it directly in the laundry basket to avoid spreading pollen throughout your home.

3. Uphold a no-shoes rule in your home, since the bottom of your shoes can track in pollen, pollutants and other allergens from your yard.

4. Keep your hedges, bushes, shrubs and plants properly pruned to reduce pollen production.

5. Keep pollen-producing plants and trees away from windows, doors and walkways to limit your contact with them.

6. If it is in your budget, hire a professional landscaping company to mow natural grass and care for pollen-producing landscaping features to avoid exposure to irritants.

7. Stay informed about the pollen index and forecast in your area, and avoid long periods of time outdoors when the pollen count is high.

8. Pollen is usually at its highest in the morning, so schedule your gardening tasks for later in the day.

9. Drying your clothes on a clothesline may be better for the environment and can lower utility bills, but wind-blown pollen can collect on your clothes when lined dried, so you are likely better off using a clothes dryer.

10. Keep your doors and windows closed on windy days to avoid pollen entering your home.

11. Include attractive hardscape options in your landscaping design, such as paving stone patios or walkways, to add beauty to your yard without allergen-producing plants or grasses.

Photo Credits (in order of appearance): morgueFile, chelle; morgueFile, krosseel; morgueFile, talldude07; morgueFile, EmmiP; morgueFile, chamomile.

The post Allergy Free Landscaping Ideas & Tips appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

When some folks think of eco-friendly landscaping or making their home greener, common misconceptions can lead them to think this means they have to rip out all of their current landscaping and replace it with succulents, fill in their swimming pool, install a field of solar panels, or never again turn on their garden hose.

These are all options that can lower your home’s environmental impact, but they are not the only options available to you. This is your home and your outdoor living spaces, and they should look and function as you want them to so that you can fully enjoy your home and property. There is no need to sacrifice function, visual appeal, or your personal style as you take steps to make your home a little greener. Plus, just how green you go is completely up to you.

You can start with easy things like swapping out chemical-laden cleaning products for all-natural options or asking your pest control service to start using organic sprays. You can make a do-it-yourself solar oven as a fun family project or you can implement a recycling system for when you host social gatherings.

If you start with these smaller changes and build on your successes, it probably won’t be long before you are considering bigger steps like replacing your natural grass lawn with artificial turf or replacing your barbecue grill with an option that is more earth-friendly. Some of these changes are going to feel like an investment, but you might be surprised and just how cost-effective and easy it can be to take these types of bigger steps towards eco-friendly outdoor living.

10 Tips to Create Eco-Friendly Outdoor Living Spaces

1. Start with an Overall Design Plan

You know you want to go at least a little greener in your outdoor living areas. You also know you want these outdoor spaces to look good and function in a way that meets your family’s needs and supports their hobbies. Therefore, whether you are redesigning a single patio or you are coming up with an eco-friendly landscape design for your whole yard, the first step is having an overall plan. This is the only way to ensure that your overall design is cohesive and is going to meet your needs. This will also help you determine your budget and will help you more easily find opportunities to go green.

Make a list of must-have features and a second list that is more of a wish list. Your must-haves are going to include the features that you cannot live without – or at least really wouldn’t want to. This might be a built-in barbecue grill, an outdoor television, an expansive patio for entertaining, a putting green, a pond, a playground, or a vegetable garden.

Your wish list can include things that would be nice to have but that you can live without. These are the things you will fit in if there is space and if your budget allows.

The scope of your design will help you decide if you will be taking this on as a do-it-yourself project or if you will be hiring landscape professionals to help create eco-friendly outdoor living spaces that fit your needs and include environmentally conscious features wherever possible.

This will also help you know what to consider or include early on. For example, if you are planning on installing an outdoor kitchen, you will need to run plumbing and electricity before you lay your patio.

2. Include Eco-Friendly Hardscapes and Ground Covers

Hardscapes and ground covers are the foundation on which the rest of your design is built. The choices you make here will significantly impact whether or not you end up with eco-friendly landscaping. This is also where you can see a big difference in water usage and your carbon footprint.

Remember that part of saving water with non-living hardscapes is not having to irrigate them, but another important part is to clean them with a broom instead of a garden hose to save even more water.

Artificial Grass

If you choose an expansive, natural grass lawn, you are not choosing an environmentally responsible ground cover. Natural grass requires tens of thousands of gallons of water every year and it requires electric- or gas-powered equipment to maintain it. Therefore, if this is your foundation, it will be challenging to create an eco-friendly landscape.

On the other hand, if you choose a low-water, low-maintenance ground cover that can function like natural grass and provide the same look and feel, then you are choosing a foundation on which you can create green outdoor living spaces. The best example here would be artificial turf. This long-lasting ground cover requires no irrigation, no mowing, no aerating, no edging, and no pesticides to control the pest population. It also looks and feels like natural grass but comes with the added benefit of always looking lush and green like your dream lawn even if your dogs use it as a restroom or if there are high-traffic areas.

Gravel, Mulch, Bark and Wood Chips

Low-maintenance, low-water grass alternatives like gravel, bark, wood chips, and mulch are also great options for eco-friendly ground covers. These options require no water, are easy to keep looking good, and generally just need to be replenished every couple of years.

Gravel, in particular, is a good choice for seating areas, for use around fire pits, and for walkways. There are lots of sizes and colors to choose from, so you should have no problem finding an option that fits your needs.

Mulch, bark, and wood chips are good for affordably covering large areas and for covering bare earth around trees and plants. These eco-friendly ground covers help the soil retain moisture, which helps conserve water. They also help to regulate soil temperature, limit weed growth, and reduce erosion.

If you prefer a living ground cover, make sure to look for low-water options to lower your water bill and reduce your overall water consumption.

Concrete and Paving Stones

Choosing hardscapes over natural grass is already an eco-friendly move. The smaller your lawn or any other living ground cover that requires water, the better. Therefore, creating functional spaces like patios and walkways made from concrete, bricks, wood, composite, or paving stones is a great step.

Larger patios cover more ground with non-living hardscapes, which means cutting down on your water bill while creating some great spaces for outdoor living and entertaining. Wood or composite decks, or concrete or paving stone patio is ideal for this. Among these options, pavers may be the most eco-friendly choice.

Wood decks are good looking and provide a great area for entertaining guests. As far as the environment goes, cutting down trees to make the wood planks is not as great. Neither are the chemical-laden stains and sealers that need to be regularly applied. There is also the issue of termites, wood-boring beetles, and dry rot. Woods decks do last a long time, but they do not last forever.

Next, we have concrete. This is not a bad option for an eco-friendly outdoor living area. Concrete is considered a sustainable building material and can be recycled. The manufacture of conventional concrete does give off more than its fair share of greenhouse gas emissions, but there are now greener options available that produce less carbon dioxide and require less water if the manufacturer recycles their wash water.

While slab concrete is a good option for eco-friendly landscape design, paving stones are better. Paving stones can be made from brick, flagstone, slate, other natural stones, or concrete. Concrete pavers, like poured concrete, are building materials made from sustainable ingredients and can be recycled. However, it is less likely that they would ever need to be recycled.

There are a couple of reasons for this.

First off, paving stones can last the rest of your lifetime, and then your children’s lifetime, and then their children’s lifetime. So, there is no problem with longevity.

Secondly, if your patio or driveway gets damaged somehow, the way paver installations are put together allows them to be taken apart to replace just the damaged paving stones. If a slab concrete patio is damaged, you may need to replace the whole slab, which means breaking up and recycling the original slab. Recycling is great, but it is still better to not have to recycle something, since recycling requires transportation, water, and energy.

3. Choose Eco-Friendly Outdoor Lighting

Landscape lighting is an important part of designing your outdoor living areas. This is how you will safely guide your guests through your yard, how you will accentuate special features, and how you will be able to see what you are doing when you are grilling those perfect steaks.

It is very easy to make greener choices with your outdoor lighting. Really, all you have to do is avoid older, halogen lights and choose either solar lights or LED outdoor lights.

Solar lights use no electricity, can be placed anywhere where they will get sun, are great for lighting pathways, and are inexpensive to maintain. They do require some maintenance and are not the right choice for folks who need lights that last late into the night or that can still be on when they leave for work early in the morning. Solar lights might be right for you and are clearly an eco-friendly choice, but be sure to read our solar light guide to get familiar with the pros and cons to see if this is the right choice for you.

The other option is LED outdoor lighting. With LED landscape lights, you will have wires and they will require electricity throughout their lifespan. They use much less electricity than halogen lights, which makes them an eco-friendly option. LED bulbs also have long lifespans and offer more consistent lighting than solar lights. LED lighting is more versatile and can be used in more places, such as under trees or near structures where a solar light might not get enough sun to charge.

Schedule an outdoor lighting demo to see if this might be the right option for you.

4. Choose Greener Barbecue Grills or Outdoor Ovens

Most folks in Southern California either grill in their backyard regularly or wish that they could. This means that barbecue grills are essential to designing functional patio kitchens and outdoor living areas. The issue is choosing outdoor cooking options that are safer for you and your family and that are better for the environment.

Let’s take a look at some options.

Charcoal Barbecue Grills

Conventional charcoal is not eco-friendly and is not healthy to burn around your family, friends, or pets. Therefore, it should be avoided by anyone who is trying to take steps towards greener, healthier living. However, if you already have a charcoal grill, you do not necessarily have to replace it. You might choose to replace it with an eco-friendlier option, but you can green your grilling routine and keep your favorite grill at the same time.

To do this, stop buying conventional, additive-laden charcoal and switch to natural lump charcoal. Natural lump charcoal is made from natural or processed wood and will give you the smoky flavor you love without releasing all those added chemicals into the air that comes with burning conventional charcoal.

You will also want to get a charcoal chimney starter to get your grill going so that you can avoid using chemical-laden lighter fluid.

You will still be burning wood, which is not the best choice, but it is a step in the right direction.

Gas Barbecue Grills

Propane and natural gas grills produce less pollution than charcoal grills and are far more energy efficient. Propane is the more popular choice and is readily available at almost every gas station, grocery store, and convenience store. If you choose propane as your gas, you also do not have to run a gas line to your patio, since you purchase it in returnable tanks and canisters. With natural gas, you will need to run a gas line for your grill.

Natural gas grills are the greener option, since they produce less carbon dioxide, but do keep in mind that both of these options, while better than charcoal, do burn fossil fuels.

Electric Barbecue Grills

Electric barbecue grills can be a greener option, depending on how you get your electricity. If you run your home on green energy generated from solar, water, or wind, an electric grill can be an eco-friendly choice; however, if your home runs on conventional energy, the manufacturing of the grill plus the fossil fuels burned to run it makes this not a good choice.

Pellet Barbecue Grills

Pellet grills burn pellets made of compressed scraps of wood. This makes them an eco-friendlier option for backyard cookouts. Pellet grills do require electricity but not a significant amount, which becomes even less significant if your home runs on a green power source. It should be noted that you will need to run electrical wiring, so be sure to do this when you are installing your patio.

Pellet grills are also easy to use, easy to clean, and will impart that smoky flavor we all love.

Solar Ovens

Solar ovens require no energy source aside from natural sunlight, which they use to cook food in one of the eco-friendliest ways possible. You can purchase a pre-made solar oven that will have you cooking outdoors the day it arrives. Or, if you are just a little crafty or handy, you can make your own solar oven or even make it a fun project to do with your family.

General tips for purchasing and maintaining a grill include choosing a quality product that will last and keeping it clean. Like so many things manufactured now, cheaper grills are often not built to last. This increases waste and the need to manufacture more products. Choosing a better grill that will last for many years to come is a greener choice. Keeping your grill clean results in less smoke, which means less pollution caused by your cookouts.

5. Find Sustainable Patio Furniture

Once you have installed your hardscapes, your outdoor kitchen or built-in grill, and most of your landscaping features, it is time to focus on creating an eco-friendly outdoor living area. The first step in this will be finding eco-friendly, sustainable options for patio furniture.

Look for quality products that are built to last and made from sustainable materials or recycled materials. If you are shopping for wood patio furniture, look for products that have independent certification showing that the wood was grown and harvested in an environmentally responsible, sustainable manner.

Teak and eucalyptus are two popular options to consider. Teak, in particular, is a favorite among eco-friendly wood choices and is known for its strength, durability, and beauty. Teak is usually more expensive than other options, though, so, if you are working with a smaller budget, you may need to look for less-expensive, eco-friendly patio furniture options.

Other options to consider include stainless steel, aluminum, or eco-friendly, synthetic wicker products. Whenever possible, seek out local, independent makers or local companies that make and sell eco-friendly outdoor furniture. This avoids the carbon emissions of transportation and supports the local economy.

6. Look for Eco-Friendly Textiles

The textiles you choose are what will bring your outdoor room together and provide the finishing touches needed to create the desired environment. Whether you are shooting for an outdoor man cave or a relaxing, spa-like retreat, it is the textures and colors of fabrics and rugs that will tie the look together and solidify the overall feel of the space.

Selecting organic fabrics for throw pillows, all-natural outdoor curtains, and outdoor rugs made from sustainable materials will bring the beauty of nature into the space while also helping you avoid exposure to chemicals used in conventional production and dyeing processes.

Eco-friendly outdoor rug options include those made from natural, renewable materials, such as jute, bamboo, and sisal.

7. Choose an Eco-Friendlier Fire Pit or Patio Fireplace

Fire pits and fireplaces are not the most earth-friendly landscaping features. Whether they are wood-burning or gas, they use fuel and produce greenhouse gases that affect the environment and add to climate change. However, you can make some choices that will allow you to have a fire feature to gather around with friends without feeling too guilty about your carbon footprint.

Wood-burning fire pits and fireplaces are bad for the environment and bad for your health. The particulate matter they produce in the smoke can get into your eyes and lungs and cause a variety of issues. They also emit greenhouse gases. The smoke is the main issue, so you can reduce this at least a little by only burning seasoned wood, which will burn cleaner.

Propane and natural gas fire pits and fireplaces burn fossil fuels and also emit greenhouse gases, but they emit less and also do not produce the particulate matter produced by wood fires.

8. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repurpose

Everything we buy requires water, energy, and materials during the manufacturing process, followed by the environmental impact of the product being transported to the store or shipped to us. This means that it is pretty much always better for the environment to use what we already have rather than to buy something new.

Do you have wood furniture you could refinish instead of buying new furniture? Could your patio cushions be reupholstered with eco-friendly fabrics instead of replaced? If so, this is probably the greener option. If you can reuse items you already have, this also saves you from having to figure how to get rid of them and, of course, saves money.

The next best option is to buy used. Check local flea markets, thrift stores, garage sales, and online classified ads to look for patio furniture that just needs a little sprucing up before adding it to your outdoor living area. This will also help you save money and reduces the demand for newly manufactured products.

This goes for other products as well. For example, could you build your fire pit with rocks dug up during the landscaping process? Would it be viable to purchase inexpensive dinnerware from a thrift store to have an outdoor set of reusable dishes instead of using paper plates?

9. Commit to an Organic Garden

If a vegetable garden is part of your eco-friendly landscape design, commit to making it an organic one. This is better for your family and better for the environment. Going organic in your garden means using organic methods for growing food, which includes natural fertilizers and pesticides, and either pulling weeds by hand or using organic herbicides.

10. Maintain Your Eco-Friendly Outdoor Living Spaces

After you have gone to the effort of designing and implementing an eco-friendly landscaping plan, stay true to your now-greener lifestyle by caring for your yard and entertaining spaces in an earth-conscious manner. You can keep up this green routine by continuing to avoid chemicals, choosing low-water and low-energy options whenever possible, and implementing a few household policies for everyone to follow.

Make Recycling Part of Your Plan

When hosting social gatherings, make sure recycling receptacles are readily available for cans and bottles, and consider banning plastic water bottles and using a water filter pitcher instead.

Reduce Garden Hose Use

It can be tempting to grab the hose every time our hardscapes need cleaning, but you can save water and burn a few extra calories by grabbing the broom and sweeping away dust and debris instead.

Use All-Natural Cleaners

Chemical-laden cleaners are not necessary and expose your family, friends, and pets to toxins that are bad for them and bad for the environment. Instead, make or buy all-natural cleaning products. You can find options for purchase in almost any store that sells cleaning products, as well as online. Or you can make your own with simple ingredients you probably already have, such as distilled white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.

Make Small Changes

Making small changes to how you entertain can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Choose soy or beeswax candles scented with essential oils instead of paraffin wax candles. Buy compostable plates instead of paper or Styrofoam. Start a compost pile for all of your food scraps and kitchen waste from dinner party prep.

Keep Things in Good Repair

Clean, maintain, and repair your patio furniture, barbecue grill, and other outdoor living accessories to avoid the expense and waste of replacing them more often than necessary.

The post How to Create & Maintain an Eco-Friendly Outdoor Living Space appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Many of us are always going to wish we had more space than we do, but small backyards are not necessarily a bad thing. Having less space to maintain means having more time to enjoy that space with your family and friends. Plus, having less space to landscape means you can choose higher-end features and still stay within your budget.

A small yard gives you the opportunity to create an intimate atmosphere for entertaining guests and to maximize your space with cozy outdoor living areas and creative, space-saving solutions. They can have as much color, texture, and visual appeal as their larger counterparts, can be just as functional, and can meet your needs just as well. Sure, you might not be able to fit a regulation-size soccer field or a nine-hole golf course in your backyard, but you probably can fit a portable soccer net or a putting green.

The keys to making a small backyard work for you are to make a priority list of features you and your family want and to have a plan before you break ground.

To help get you started, here are 10 small backyard ideas that will help you design a yard that is an inviting, functional outdoor living space for you, your family, and your guests to enjoy.

10 Tips for Small Space Landscaping Design

1. Small space landscaping design is key.

It might be okay to take a more cavalier approach to landscaping when you are dealing with larger spaces. When you have multiple areas with which to work and plenty of room for numerous features, you might be able to get away with a landscaping mishap here and there or adding to your landscape design whenever you get inspired or fall in love with a new feature.

This is not the case with a small backyard.

If you do not plan carefully, you are going to run out of room quickly. You also cannot afford to lose much-needed space with something like a poorly placed tree and must take into consideration that your guests might be taking in your entire yard as they step outside and onto your patio. Having little space to work with means there is no room for error. It also means that you need a cohesive, comprehensive design to create the overall look and feel you want.

It is usually best to hire a professional landscape design consultant to help ensure a satisfactory end result but, if that is not in the budget or you are just hoping to take this on as a do-it-yourself project, the most important thing is to have a plan before you break ground. Draw it all out and make sure it includes your must-have features, will be functional, and will be visually appealing.

2. Small space landscaping requires prioritizing.

In order to make your plan, you need to know what to include in that plan. Since you likely will not be able to include every feature you and your family members would like to have, you are going to need to prioritize.

To help accomplish this, first make a list of every feature you and your family would love to have in your dream backyard.

Once you have that list, make a second list of the absolute must-haves that are necessary for your yard to function in the ways your family needs it to. For example, if you have dogs, a pet restroom area is a must-have feature. If you grill every weekend, a barbecue grill and patio dining table are a must. If your kids play sports, some sort of practice setup might be a must.

Once you have these two lists, it is time to put them together to make the list of features that will actually be in your backyard. This list should start with your must-haves at the top, and then your dream features listed in order of priority. You probably will not be able to fit in everything on this list, so make sure your priority items are near the top.

While making your final list of features to include in your small space landscaping design, get creative to see where you can save space by compromising a bit or by selecting dual-purpose features.

For example, you might not be able to fit the swimming pool of your dreams, but could you fit a smaller pool or a hot tub? If not, could you at least fit another water feature, such as a small pond or a fountain that you can put your feet in while hanging out with your friends?

You might not have space for an expansive patio kitchen, but you can probably fit a built-in barbecue grill or an efficient kitchen with just the basic features. Or, if you have both a barbecue grill and a fire pit on your list but only have room for one or the other, consider installing a fire pit with a grill that is designed for both gathering around and cooking.

If your dream is to step outside and onto your own golf green, but you do not have room for even a miniature golf course, you can probably still find a spot for a small putting green where you can at least work on your short game.

3. Small backyards still need a focal point.

It might be tempting to just cram in all of the features you can without paying much attention to creating a focal point, but every yard – small or large – needs a focal point to bring the overall landscape design together and to create visual interest.

Decide what your focal point will be at the beginning of the design phase. This will allow you to place it first and design the rest of your landscaping around it to create a cohesive look.

You have lots of options when it comes to choosing a focal point. It might be something that already exists, like a great view or a heritage tree, or it might be something that you plan to add, such as a salvaged piece of garden art, a sculpture, a fountain, or even your outdoor dining room or sitting area.

4. Use height and layers for small space landscaping.

Tall plants and other features with height can be used to enhance privacy, create separation between different parts of your yard, or define spaces. If you have a small yard, chances are you have nearby neighbors. This might mean that incorporating height in your design around the borders of your yard or the edge of your outdoor living area can help create more privacy for you and your guests.

When using height to define spaces or increase privacy, keep in mind that tall landscaping features can make your yard look smaller, so place them with care.

If you are hoping to grow some food plants or would like to add more greenery to your yard without a large footprint, you can also take advantage of vertical space by installing vertical gardens. A vertical garden is a great way to grow herbs, lettuces, and other foods, to add texture and color to your outdoor living area, or to increase privacy while beautifying your yard.

You should also incorporate layers into your landscape design. Landscaping in layers creates depth and can make your yard look and feel larger than it is.

Landscaping in layers is a pretty simple concept and is easy to do. For example, if you have flowerbeds around the edge of your yard, plant the tallest plants in the back by your fence, somewhat shorter plants in front of those, and then the shortest plants at the front of the beds. If you have an island bed in the middle of your yard, plant the tallest plants in the center of the flowerbed, and then work your way down to planting the shortest plants near the edges of the flowerbed.

5. Choose low-maintenance hardscapes and groundcovers instead of natural grass.

There was a time when a lush, healthy natural grass lawn was considered a status symbol and could be found in just about every backyard and front yard in suburbia, but those days – fortunately – have passed.

While the idea of expansive lawns acting as a display of the homeowner’s success has not completely gone by the wayside, more and more homeowners have come to see natural grass lawns as a landscaping feature that requires too much time and money to maintain, wastes water, and takes up valuable space that could be better used as functional areas for outdoor living and entertaining.

This is particularly true when designing small space landscaping where every foot of space needs to be considered and maximized. Plus, it is difficult to justify the cost of a lawnmower, edger, and other lawn maintenance tools – and having to find a place to store them – when you only have enough room for a tiny lawn.

Instead, that space and that part of your budget could be better spent on hardscapes and low-maintenance groundcovers that require little or no special equipment to maintain.

This does not mean that you cannot have a lawn. If you have dogs that need a restroom area or kids who need a place to play, artificial grass will serve these purposes well and provides a visually appealing grassy area that looks and feels like natural grass. However, unlike natural grass, it will be lush and green all of the time, will not get brown spots from your dogs having limited choices of spots to urinate, and can be installed under trees or in shady areas to maximize the space you have.

Synthetic turf is easy to clean, requires minimal maintenance and upkeep, provides a stable and level surface on which kids and pets can play, and is more versatile than natural grass, which is always important when working with small spaces.

Hardscape walkways and patios will also serve you better than a natural grass lawn, since a paving stone patio or gravel walkways are easier to maintain, add texture to your design, and provide usable spaces that can be used as seating areas or to guide guests to outdoor living areas.

One of the things that is great about small space landscaping is that you have less square footage to cover, which helps you save on materials and labor. For example, when you are installing a small patio, you may be able to splurge for higher-end finishes that would be outside of your budget if you had to cover a large area. This might mean you could finally have that paving stone patio that you have always wanted and that will actually increase your home’s value instead of a concrete slab.

6. Consider a container garden to maximize or define spaces.

Container gardens are an ideal addition to smaller spaces. They are the perfect solution for someone who wants to grow vegetables or herbs but does not have room for a garden. They are also great for creating groupings of containers at the corners of your patio or to define a space. Containers can increase privacy and help create more intimate seating areas or can be used to separate different parts of your yard that serve different functions. They are also an easy, space-saving way to add color and texture to a small space landscaping design.

7. Add color and texture to your design.

It may initially seem challenging to create inviting outdoor living spaces in a small backyard, but adding color and texture can help with this. Adding color and texture will enhance your yard’s visual appeal and can even make it look and feel larger than it is.

The above-mentioned containers are an easy way to add color and texture, but they are not the only way. Festive textiles, colorful flowers, and brightly painted chairs create an inviting space where your guests are far more likely to forget that the fence is just a few feet away.

Similarly, adding different textures creates a more inviting, welcoming space, as well as adding depth to your backyard. To achieve this, you might consider including a mix of gravel, wood chips, artificial grass, and foliage in various textures and sizes to enhance the overall look of your yard and to make outdoor living areas more inviting.

8. Fire pits are a great addition to small space landscaping design.

Fire features are a mainstay in landscape design and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can gather with family and friends. The heat and light allow you to use your outdoor living spaces longer into the night and in colder months, which means you can get a better return on your investment by being able to use your outdoor living areas more.

If you are working with a small backyard, you may not have room for a built-in patio fireplace, but you will have room for some type of fire feature. If your space and budget allow, install a built-in fire pit. If not, opt for a portable fire pit or chimenea that will provide warmth and light in a smaller footprint.

You can pick up a portable fire pit for less than $100, so this option is going to fit most budgets. Plus, with a portable fire pit, you have the added benefit of being able to store it in a shed or garage when not in use. So, if you are not planning on entertaining or roasting marshmallows with your kids that day, that space can be used for other purposes.

9. Choose portable and dual-purpose features and furnishings.

While we are on the topic of portability, one way to maximize space in a small backyard is to opt for portable features that can be stowed out of sight when not in use. Another way to maximize space is to purchase furnishings and features that serve more than one purpose.

Portable fire pits and portable barbecue grills are great for small spaces. You can bring them out when it is time to grill or entertain, and then put them away when you want to use the space for other activities.

Stacking chairs and floor cushions are other options that can be brought out when you are having guests over, and then stored when you are not entertaining. Another example is a backyard movie theater setup with a movie screen that rolls up between showings and a rolling cart for your projector and DVD player or laptop.

The first thing to keep in mind when purchasing patio furniture is to make sure it is not too big. Large furniture pieces will crowd your patio and make your outdoor living areas look even smaller. Opt for smaller pieces that fit the space. The second thing to keep in mind is looking for furniture that can serve more than one purpose. For example, look for chairs that have built-in storage or a deck box that can also serve as a bench or coffee table.

The same goes for features. If you have limited space, a dual-purpose feature like a fire pit that doubles as a grill might be a good choice.

When selecting furnishings, do not forget to take advantage of your vertical space. For example, instead of a patio bar, perhaps you could mount a murphy bar on the wall so you can fold it up when not in use.

10. Avoid clutter in your small outdoor space.

Clutter takes away from the visual appeal of yards of any size. It makes your outdoor living areas less appealing and less inviting, which means you and your guests are less likely to want to spend time there. When every square foot counts, clearing the clutter is even more important.

Keep a basket by the back door for dog toys, put a children’s toy box on your patio to keep outdoor toys out of sight, and make sure your gardening tools find their way back to your storage shed or garage.

If you happen to have a side yard, this might be a good spot to squeeze in a storage shed or put up a fence to hide your garbage cans and other unsightly necessities that can make your yard look cluttered.

The post Small Backyard Landscaping: 10 Tips for Making the Most of Small Outdoor Living Spaces appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

How to Remove Rust from Grilling Tools & Utensils

Even well-made, stainless steel grilling tools advertised as rust resistant or rust proof can eventually begin to rust. This is particularly true if they are left outside or if you have used a cleaning product or tool that has damaged the chromium protecting the surface of your utensils.

If the rust is significant and you are concerned about the safety of using your grilling tools, it may be time to invest in a new set of outdoor cooking utensils. However, if there is a just a small or moderate amount of rust – or you have a lot of patience and do not mind putting in the effort to remove heavy rust – you can salvage your old barbecue tools and continue using them for years to come.

There are commercial rust removers available, such as WD-40 Rust Remover Soak and Evapo-Rust Super Safe Rust Remover, which are non-toxic and biodegradable. However, while these products are sometimes used on grills and other outdoor cooking surfaces, it is best to use natural products that are specifically known to be food safe when removing rust from grilling tools.

You can also save money by skipping store-bought cleaners and using products you likely already have in your kitchen.

Before we get into how to remove rust from grilling utensils, let’s first look at a few more options you should avoid. Anything that could scratch the surface of your tools should be avoided, since this will only increase the potential for future rust. This means that rust-removal favorites, such as steel wool, wire brushes and crumpled balls of aluminum foil, may work wonders on gardening tools and wrenches but are not good choices for cleaning cooking utensils.

Your best bet for naturally removing rust from grilling tools is to gather baking soda, vinegar, water, a small bowl for mixing, a bucket, a soft-bristled brush, and a sponge or soft cloth. Most folks already have these items, and this combination of products gives you a couple of options to try to see what is going to work best on your utensils.

The first rust-removal trick to try is to make a thin paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the rusted areas, allow it to sit for a few minutes, and then gently wipe the paste away with a sponge or soft cloth. If this is not quite enough, try applying the paste, waiting a few minutes, and then removing it by gently scrubbing the rusted areas with the scrubby side of a kitchen sponge or a soft-bristled brush (like a toothbrush).

If this basic rust-removal technique is not doing the job on heavily rusted utensils, knock off any loose debris, wet the utensils, and pour baking soda directly on to the rusted areas. Leave the baking soda on the utensils for about an hour before scrubbing the rusted areas with the toothbrush or other soft-bristled brush. Use water to rinse off any remaining baking soda, and then dry your tools to avoid further rusting.

If you are hoping to remove rust from grilling tools with a little less scrubbing, you can try soaking them for a few hours in a bucket of cola or vinegar. Depending on how much rust you have on your tools, this could take as little as a couple of hours or as long as a few days. The key is to check on your utensils regularly while they are soaking, since these products will also damage the metal if they are left soaking too long.

How to Remove Grease and Grime from Grilling Tools & Utensils

If you forgot to clean your barbecue tools after your last cookout and now you are wondering if removing the cooked-on grease and grime is even possible at this point, there is hope. In fact, it might be as simple as soaking them in a bucket of hot, soapy water. Choose a dish soap specifically designed to cut through tough grease, squeeze a few drops into a bucket of hot water, agitate the water to create soapy bubbles, and then place your barbecue tools in the bucket. Leave them in the bucket for 30 minutes to an hour, and then use a scrubby sponge or soft-bristled brush (like a toothbrush) to remove the grease, grime, and cooked-on food. Rinse your cooking utensils and dry them with a soft cloth.

If this does not work, it is time to up your grime-removing game with the acid in coffee. Buy some inexpensive coffee and brew it in your coffee pot or in a stock pot on the stove. If you brew the coffee in a coffee pot, pour it into a stock pot or other container that can withstand the heat, and then place your dirty grilling tools in the pot. If you brew your coffee in the stock pot, remove it from the heat, and then place your tools in the pot. Allow them to soak in the coffee for about an hour, and then rinse the utensils in hot water and dry them with a soft cloth. You may need to use a sponge or toothbrush to remove any particularly stubborn spots. Keep in mind that coffee can discolor the wood on older tools with wood handles.

Spraying the metal parts of your utensils with a light coat of cooking oil or using a cloth to apply a light coat of an oil with a high smoke point can help prevent your tools from rusting between uses.

Tips for Keeping Your Grilling Tools Clean

The best way to keep your barbecue tools clean is to wash them after every use and store them inside. If you must store them outside, keep them in a drawer or case that will protect them from the elements and keep them clean between uses. It may be convenient to hang them on the hooks on the side of front of your barbecue grill and store them there between uses, but they will get dirty, which means they are not really ready to go next time you fire up the grill and will need to be washed before use anyways.

Most grilling utensils can be washed in the dishwasher, which is also a great way to sanitize any utensils that touch uncooked meat, but keep in mind that cooking utensils with wood handles should not be placed in the dishwasher.

To keep grilling tools clean while cooking outdoors, keep a bowl or small bucket of warm, soapy water near your grill. When not in use, place your utensils in the bowl or bucket. When you need a spatula or meat fork, simply remove it from the soapy water, dry it with a kitchen towel, and it will be clean and ready to use.

If you regularly grill large meals that involve meat, invest in two sets of barbecue tools. Keep one set of utensils on the left side of your grill for use with uncooked meat and another set on the right side of your grill for use with cooked meats. Keeping them on different sides will make it easier to remember which tools to use at which point in the cooking process. This will help reduce the potential for transferring bacteria found on uncooked meats to your cooked meats.

Related Resources

• How to Clean an Outdoor Gas or Charcoal Barbecue Grill
• 20 Essential & Nice-to-Have Grilling Tools

The post Grill Tools & Utensils (Cleaning Guide) appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.