How to Make Your Garden Appear Bigger

Having a big and beautiful garden is every homeowner’s dream, but not all properties are blessed with the extra space to make that happen. Don’t let limited garden space deter you from having a beautiful garden though because there are still so many things you can do with the patio area.

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In this article, we are going to focus more on making the garden appear bigger than it really is. These next several tips we are about to discuss will help you get started in no time.

Limit the Use of Lawn

Lawns are great in bigger gardens, but too big of a lawn area can actually make your garden appear smaller without the right design. On top of that, you also have to invest in lawn maintenance to keep the garden looking pristine in the long run.

Instead of using a lot of lawn, use beds with simpler designs in order to create the appearance of a large space. The simple design will help keep garden maintenance simple too. You can combine the planting beds with other garden features for a cleaner, more spacious design.

Utilize Straight Pathways

Another great and simple way to make your garden appear bigger is to use straight pathways. Curves will only make the garden appear cramped and smaller; straight lines create the exact opposite effect, which is the effect you want to go for.

It is also a great idea to use darker colors or colors that blend well with the surrounding elements. Aside from the standard pathway colors, you can also turn to decomposed granite colors or other finishing colors to achieve different results.

Add Elevation Changes

Changes in elevation is another great way to create the illusion of space. You can add a deck closer to the house. Raised wooden decks work best for this purpose.

You can even make the elevated areas more pronounced to further push the effect. The area can then be used for the kids to play on or for placing patio furniture to use on special occasions.

Scale the Design

One thing to avoid when you are trying to utilize a small garden space is using design elements that don’t fit size-wise. Adding a water feature that is too big for the garden, for example, can quickly make the garden appear smaller.

Use scale to your advantage when trying to make the patio area look bigger than it really is. When choosing pavers, find the right size to achieve the desired effects. The same can be said for trees, water features, and other elements of the garden. A consistent scale across all of them is what you want.

Keep It Functional

Last but not least, keep the garden functional with furniture and patio items that fold away. You can avoid a cramped-looking garden by storing the furniture away when they are not in use. When you do want to host a garden party or a relaxing afternoon in the garden, on the other hand, the furniture is still available.

These tips will make your garden appear bigger. Utilize them the next time you remodel your garden and have a beautiful and spacious garden at the end of the project.

What You Should Know About Perimeter Surveying

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Perimeter surveying is one of those subjects that you probably know very little about as it is not something which often affects you. However, it is something that you are likely to need one day and for that reason alone it is worth knowing what a perimeter survey is and why it is important. In fact there are several types of land survey which you should know about.

The Perimeter Survey

The perimeter survey is undertaken to establish the exact boundaries of a property and, in the process, define an accurate size of the land and any property on it.

In addition the perimeter survey will acknowledge and show any easements or encroachments which affect the property. It can be useful to know the exact area of your land and also discover that the local farmer has the right to walk through your living room!

As part of this survey land markers will be placed at the edges of the property; helping you and your neighbors know where the boundaries are and who is responsible for them.

An important part of a perimeter survey includes a detailed topographic survey. It is wise to use a reputable and experienced firm when having these surveys undertaken.

The topography of a piece of land is the dimensions; this includes undulations in the land, the location of nearby streams and other features, fire hydrants, drainage and even the sewers.

Of equal importance is the fact that the topography shows the heights of the surrounding buildings; this can be exceptionally important if you are looking to build a property or extend the current one.

Why Have A Perimeter and Topographical Survey Completed

The answer is actually very simple; to ensure that all the relevant information is available to you before you buy your land and building or even just a building site. A topographic survey is an important part of any building process, from small houses to multi story apartment buildings, you will always need a few surveys to ensure the safety of the building.

All the facts displayed in these surveys will help you to calculate the cost-effectiveness of your project accurately. This will help to ensure you have the necessary finances before you start.

Additional Facts About Perimeter Surveys

Perimeter surveys can also help to resolve any ongoing dispute between you and your neighbors. It is a relatively cheap process and will show all the current fences, hedges and even walls. Combining this with accurate and marked boundary posts will ensure that you and your neighbors know exactly where they stand.

You can also get an ALTA land title survey for even more certification that you in fact own the land and can build what you want on it. They are relatively easy to set up with a certified contractor too.

It is generally cheaper than a full land survey as you can opt for a perimeter survey without the topographical part.

The perimeter survey is conducted with information from the deeds to the land and surrounding properties. It will be completed with a mixture of compasses, old fashioned tape measures and GPS devices.

If you want the topography mapped as well then you will see the familiar tripods with laser leveling equipment.

It can take less than an hour to complete a survey or it can take all day, the time required will be dependent on the size and complexity of the land.

If you are considering a perimeter survey then it is important to use a local firm with a good reputation; this will ensure you receive a good level of service and an accurate report.

How to choose the perfect kitchen stool

The kitchen is where the family really resides. It is a place where family members and guests eat, chat and make beautiful memories together. Every other room has a singular purpose, whereas the kitchen welcomes all and serves all! Consequently, your kitchen space needs to be well furnished, making it both beautiful and functional. Stools are among the first things you need to consider when choosing your benchtop style and kitchen cupboard layout. Ensuring space for kitchen stools allows you to be flexible with guest seating, casual dining options, and keeping the chef company while cooking. A breakfast bench or kitchen island is a necessity for a great kitchen design. The perfect kitchen stool needs to be at a suitable working height for your cooking helpers and ergonomically designed to make it convenient to sit for long chats and casual meals. Here are some points you should consider when buying kitchen stools:

Choosing the perfect height

How will you most commonly use the kitchen stools? Do you want a stool for the island kitchen or something that can also act as a bar chair? Needless to say, you will have to measure the height that you would be comfortable sitting at. A general recommendation is to have the seat between 9” and 13”. A chair stool is typically designed to seat at 18” from the floor. These can be easily paired with an island kitchen that is between 28” and 30” in height. Counter stools, on the other hand are designed between 24” and 26” and can be paired with counters and tables that are between 36” and 39”. Lastly, bar stools come at an average height of 29”. They are best paired with counters that stand between 40” and 42” in height.

The number of stools that you need

While you can always have an extra stool in your kitchen or stored as backup, it is necessary to have comfortable spacing between your usable stools. When at dinner or socializing, you don’t want to be bumping elbows. The rule of thumb is to allow between 21” and 22” of space per stool. In case, you are going for stools with arms, you will need to extend the spacing in between.

The style of kitchen stool

This depends on whether you are looking to make a kitchen design statement or if you want to keep the seating discrete and tucked away under the benchtop. Also, you will need to consider comfort level which varies greatly amongst stool styles. The longer people will typically sit on the stool, the more you need to consider comfort. Stools with deep seating, arm rests and thick padding are designed for comfort and typically used for cafe furniture seating.

If you have a small or narrow kitchen, you will want to choose stools that take up the minimum space. Backless stools are perfect in this case. However, backless stools are not the ost comfortable choice.

Futhermore, It is necessary to consider the material of the stool. The kitchen can get damp, smokey, messy, and you use harsh chemicals to clean up. Your stools need to be made of hearty materials that you can easily clean and that will last a long time in a harsh environment. Metal, polished wood and leather materials are good choices for this.

There are many stool design options. Do your research, have fun, and find the perfect stools that will make your kitchen even better!

Four Ways to Spruce Up Curb Appeal

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Curb appeal is usually something that homeowners do not consider unless they are planning to put their houses on the market. The notion of your property making the best first impression, however, is something that you should pursue even if you are not planning to sell anytime soon. Here are four ways for you to spruce up your home’s curb appeal.

1. Paint the front door and window seals

Many people think of dollar signs when they consider exterior painting. You, however, do not need to give the entirety of your home a complete color change to have a new look. Painting your front door with a bold color provides the same shock factor at a fraction of the cost. Consider matching your door’s color scheme with the outer window seals and overall trim of the home for added effects. While painting the home's trim, consider checking the exterior of your residence for necessary repairs. It is usually during minor renovations outside that homeowners discover problems that only skilled roofing contractors in San Antonio TX or Harrisburg PA for example, or indeed anywhere across the country can address. Just think: your simple paint job can spruce up your curb appeal all while helping you catch acute issues that could cost you thousands if left untreated.

2. Swap out your mailbox

Installing a new mailbox takes just over an hour, depending on the size and mounting of the box, yet it revives your property in ways you may have never thought possible. Many view the mailbox as the first welcoming aspect of the home. If such is the case, then you need to make sure that your box reflects your personality. Consider splurging with a bit of creativity for large mailboxes. You can remain innovative and practical with built-in mailboxes as well by decorating the area surrounding the flap. In all of your creativity, make sure that you check with your city’s ordinances to ensure that your mailbox complies with regulations. The last thing that you want is to have to remove your mail holder because of a hidden rule.

3. Install flower boxes

Plants work wonders for curb appeal. Installing a few flower boxes or plant bowls is a great way to add color to the outside of your home. It is important to remember, however, that failing to care for flowers associated with the front of your home is counterproductive to your mission of a beautiful curb appeal. 

4. Install LED Lights and replace address numbers outside

LED lights make the environment safer at night, and larger address numbers allow visitors to find your house with ease. New LED lights and placards come with an abundance of benefits aside from contributing to curbside appeal. You should consider upgrading your light fixtures alongside new LED lamps for an even more improved exterior look.

Many people think that upgrading curbside appeal will cost thousands. The truth is that you can make small improvements that will have lasting effects on the exterior of your home. Remember that the outside of your residence is the first thing that guests see. You, therefore, want it to reflect your vision just as much as the interior portion of your home.

Home Ownership: Two Areas to Watch out for

Home ownership is an integral part of the American dream. However, despite the rewards of home ownership, there are undoubtedly costs — physical, monetary and time — of being a home owner. Anyone who has spent a brisk fall afternoon cleaning out gutters stuffed with soggy leafs can tell you that it is not a fun task, and neither is nailing down loose shingles or patching cracks in an old foundation.

Given how daunting home ownership can be — particularly for first time owners or those who have an older house — many people do not have the slightest idea about where to start. What are the projects that people should focus on first? There is no one clear cut answer to this challenging question. For some homes, the answer is easy — if your roof leaks every time it sprinkles, clearly a new roof should be your first priority. On the other hand, if sparks shoot out of your outlets every time you plug in a lamp, then getting a qualified electrician out to assess your electrical system should be priority number one.

Not all necessary home repairs, however, are big ticket items, such as a new roof, upgraded electrical, or all new plumbing. Some projects are much less costly and less time intensive. But, this does not mean that these smaller projects can be overlooked. In fact, overlooking these everyday chores can lead to long-term problems and even bigger costs.

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Two important everyday chores that a homeowner should definitely place on their to do lists are cleaning their carpets and pumping out their septic tank (even the mere mention of a septic tank is enough to get a nose wrinkle or a loud EWWWWW out of even the least squeamish homeowners).

Even though vacuuming is on most people’s weekly list of things they have to do, vacuuming alone is often not enough to get dirt, germs, and grime out of a person’s house — particularly if people regularly wear shoes into the home. A recent newspaper article explained that carpeting is often the single dirtiest item in a home — far surpassing the toilet seat as a petri dish of bacteria, dust, and millions of other creepy crawly things. If vacuuming alone is not enough to get your carpets clean, then what should you do. The answer is relatively straightforward. You should arrange for professional carpet cleaning, ideally steam cleaning, at least once per year. The cost of this cleaning will vary, depending on the location where you live and the size of your house. The bigger the house, the higher the bill. But, even for a large home, the costs are relatively reasonable.

Once you have tackled your carpeting, the next step on your to do list should be pumping out your septic tank. Many homeowners forget that their properties have septic tanks, and even more overlook the necessity of regularly pumping one’s tank. In general, a septic tank will need to be pumped once every one to three years — but the frequency will depend on factors, such as the size of the tank and the size of your family.

Forgetting to pump your tank can cause expensive and smelly failures. But, regularly pumping your tank need not break the bank. Most septic tank pumping can be done for less than $300. And with some basic skills and YouTube tutorials to help you, many homeowners can figure out how to pump their own tank.

Being a homeowner can be one of the greatest joys in your life—but these joys also come with costs and responsibilities. Don’t forget to regularly repair and maintain your home, from major tasks (such as replacing your roof) to the more mundane (like having your carpet professionally cleaned and your septic tank regularly pumped).