Tag: Landscaping

Everything You Need to Know About Synthetic Turf for Residential Homes

A lush, green lawn can transform the appearance of your home. And in neighborhoods in the Liberty Hill, Texas area like Morning Star, Santa Rita, or Cimarron Hills, anything less can mean hefty HOA fines. If you’re considering installing synthetic turf for your home, you’re on the path to a beautiful and functional outdoor space. Below, we’ll explore the various artificial grass options available, what to expect during installation, and the essential maintenance requirements to keep your lawn looking pristine year-round.

closeup golf ball on mini golf course putting green in backyard of Georgetown, Texas home

Synthetic Turf Options

Synthetic turf comes in various styles and materials. Here are some popular options:

  1. Nylon Turf:
    • Durable and resilient, nylon turf is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
    • Its strong fibers withstand wear and tear over time.
  2. Polyethylene Turf:
    • Polyethylene turf is known for its natural look and soft texture.
    • It’s a great choice for creating a realistic grass-like appearance.
  3. Polypropylene Turf:
    • Polypropylene turf is budget-friendly and suitable for low-traffic areas.
    • It may not have the same level of durability as other materials but offers a cost-effective solution.

 

Are you looking to build a rec/practice zone for your athlete? Residents in the Liberty Hill area know we love our football and the most commonly used artificial grass for football fields is often referred to as “FieldTurf” – best known for its durability, shock absorption, and low maintenance requirements.

backyard landscape design with zen garden elements, pergola, and outdoor sculpture

Installing Turf At Your Home

Installing synthetic turf requires careful planning and execution. Here’s what you can expect during the installation process:

  1. Site Preparation:
    • Clear the area of existing vegetation, rocks, and debris.
    • Grade the soil to ensure proper drainage and a level surface.
    • Install a weed barrier fabric to prevent weed growth.
  2. Turf Installation:
    • Roll out the synthetic turf and secure it in place with stakes or adhesive.
    • Trim the edges for a clean and precise fit.
    • Add infill material (typically sand or rubber granules) to support the turf’s structure and improve its longevity.
  3. Maintenance During Installation:
    • Keep foot traffic to a minimum during the installation process to prevent damage.
    • Ensure proper infill distribution for even coverage.

 

Turf can be incorporated in a range of landscape designs for your front and backyard. We can even integrate artificial grass into a patio extension to add warmth, texture, and dimension to an otherwise plain concrete structure. New homes in the Liberty Hill, Texas area are often built with little more than a 5×7 slab for a back porch. A new patio extension can be an exciting part of your landscape design with the right elements to complement the overall style of your yard and home.

Backyard patio extension with turf squares and landscaped edge behind a white house
Turf Squares overlayed on large concrete patio extension with landscaping along edges behind a white house

Maintenance Requirements for Synthetic Turf

Maintaining your synthetic turf is relatively straightforward. Artificial grass requires far less effort compared to natural grass. Here are essential maintenance tasks:

  1. Regular Brushing:
    • Brush the turf fibers regularly to keep them upright and maintain a natural appearance.
    • Remove leaves and debris to prevent them from accumulating.
  2. Occasional Rinsing:
    • Rinse the turf occasionally to remove dust and pollen.
    • Use a mild detergent and water solution for more thorough cleaning when necessary.
  3. Avoidance of Heavy Objects:
    • Avoid placing heavy objects or furniture on the turf for extended periods to prevent compression.
  4. Repair Tears or Damage:
    • Patch or repair any tears or damage promptly to prevent further issues.
    • Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for repair procedures.
  5. Pest and Weed Control:
    • While synthetic turf is less susceptible to pests and weeds, monitor and address any issues promptly.
  6. Seasonal Care:
    • Adjust your maintenance routine based on the changing seasons and weather conditions.
    • Periodically inspect the infill material and top up if needed.

Installing and maintaining synthetic turf for your Liberty Hill area home can provide you with a lush, green lawn that enhances your property’s beauty and value, all while requiring less upkeep than natural grass. And help you avoid those pesky HOA fines for brown/dead grass. By choosing the right synthetic turf material, following proper installation procedures, and consistently caring for your artificial lawn, you can enjoy a vibrant and hassle-free outdoor space year-round. With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning, functional, and well-maintained synthetic turf lawn that you and your family can enjoy for years to come.

See more of our landscape designs with turf in our gallery.

Serving Leander, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, and Cedar Park, Texas areas.

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Eco-Friendly Landscaping in Texas: The Future of Outdoor Design

In the heart of Texas, where the sun beats down on rolling hills and rugged terrain, homeowners have a unique opportunity. The increasing temperatures, water scarcity, and concerns about fire safety have prompted a shift in the way we think about landscaping. Enter eco-friendly landscaping—a sustainable and proactive solution for today’s challenges.

What is Eco-Friendly Landscaping?

Eco-friendly landscaping, often known as xeriscaping or native landscaping, is a method of designing and maintaining landscapes in a way that reduces the need for water, protects local ecosystems, and reduces environmental impact. This approach utilizes plants that are native or adapted to the region, minimizes lawn areas that require high water consumption, and implements water-saving irrigation techniques.
close up of round cactus with native grasses and yucca plants

Why Design an Eco-Friendly Landscape?

There are many reasons why Texas residents should care about eco-friendly landscaping. Here are just a few:
  • Water conservation: Central Texas faces periodic droughts, and with increasing global temperatures, water scarcity is becoming a more pressing issue. Lawns and non-native plants can require a significant amount of water. By transitioning to an eco-friendly landscape, homeowners can significantly reduce their water usage, ensuring there’s enough to go around for everyone.
  • Environmental health: Native plants have co-evolved with local insects, birds, and other wildlife. They offer the necessary nutrients and habitat these species need. By incorporating native plants into your landscape, you’re promoting biodiversity and helping the local ecosystem thrive.
  • Fire safety: As temperatures rise, so does the risk of wildfires. Certain plants and landscaping methods can act as firebreaks, slowing down the spread of wildfires. Properly chosen and placed vegetation can provide an added layer of safety for your property.
  • Cost savings: Native plants are adapted to the local climate, which means they require less maintenance, fewer pesticides, and less water. Over time, this can translate into significant savings for homeowners.

Trending Ideas for Eco-Friendly Landscaping in Texas

In addition to the traditional principles of eco-friendly landscaping, there are a number of trending ideas that homeowners in Texas can incorporate into their outdoor spaces. These include:
  • Rainwater harvesting: This is a great way to collect and store rainwater for use in your landscape. Rainwater is soft and free of chemicals, making it ideal for watering plants.
  • Xeriscaping: This is a landscaping style that uses plants that are adapted to dry conditions. Xeriscaping can save you a lot of water and money on your landscaping bill.
  • Native plants: Using native plants in your landscape is a great way to support local wildlife and reduce your impact on the environment. Native plants are also well-suited to the Texas climate and require less water and maintenance than non-native plants.
  • Edible landscaping: This is a trend that is gaining popularity in Texas. Edible landscaping is a great way to grow your own food and reduce your reliance on the grocery store. You can also use edible plants to create a beautiful and functional landscape.
  • Sustainable hardscaping: Hardscaping materials, such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls, can be made from sustainable materials, such as recycled concrete or natural stone. These materials can help to reduce your environmental impact and add beauty to your landscape.

 

Eco-friendly landscaping is more than a trend—it’s a responsible and smart choice for Texas homeowners. By making these sustainable choices today, we ensure a healthier, safer, and more beautiful Texas for future generations.
Visit the Texas SmartScape site for more helpful info and resources!
If you’re interested in learning more about eco-friendly landscaping in Texas, contact our team today. We would be happy to help you create a beautiful and sustainable landscape for your home.
Contact us today or call 512-260-1430

Landscaping for New Homeowners: The Benefits of Professional Landscape Design and Construction in Texas

Getting professional landscape design and construction in Texas is often the best option to help you make the right choices for your property and to meet the needs of your lifestyle. Moving into a new home is an exciting experience, and customizing the landscape design to fit your family’s needs and style is one of the most enjoyable parts of the process. But any Texan can tell you there are a few things you should know and options to consider when building a new home and installing landscaping in Texas – like the occasional rock; indigenous, water-friendly plants; and outdoor living options, because we can! With an abundance of natural elements to work around or integrate, and a variety of options on the table, hiring a professional crew ensures your design is made to last.

A Finished Look

Get a Finished Property When You Move In: Landscape Design in Texas
One of the primary benefits of hiring a professional landscaping contractor for your new home is the ability to have a finished landscape design. Why let the feeling of “we’re finally home” be tainted by remnants of construction (and the reminder of work to come) lining the driveway? A custom home deserves a custom landscape design. This can ensure your outdoor spaces are both functional and beautiful, like an extension of your home. A professional contractor can help you create an outdoor living area that meets all of your needs. Because it’s where core memories are made, whether you’re entertaining guests to enjoying family time together.
Travisso, Leander, TX
Personalized to Your Needs
Every family is unique, and so are their needs when it comes to outdoor living. A professional landscape designer will work with you to create a customized outdoor space that is tailored to your lifestyle. This includes factors such as the size of your family, your outdoor activities, and your personal style preferences. Think outside the box! Your home is where you live.
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kid zones
  • Training areas
  • Host of the party
  • Outdoor kitchens
  • Golf greens
  • Poolside landscaping
  • Zen and meditation gardens
  • Outdoor workspaces
Gardens at Verde Vista, Georgetown, TX
Gardens at Verde Vista, Georgetown, TX
backyard landscape design with zen garden elements, pergola, and outdoor sculpture
Gardens at Verde Vista, Georgetown, TX

Functional Designs

Functional for Family and Friends: Landscape Construction in Texas
Your outdoor space can be much more than just a pretty lawn and garden. With a professional landscape design and construction in Texas, it can serve as a functional living space for hosting family and friends. This includes features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, seating areas, and even swimming pools. A professional contractor can help you make the most of your outdoor space and create a space that you will be proud to show off.
See more from our gallery here.
Backyard patio extension and firepit
Year-Round Landscape Design Trends
Living in Texas means that you can enjoy outdoor activities almost all year round. Professional landscape design and construction in Texas can help you create a design that is suitable for all seasons. This includes features such as patio heaters, outdoor fireplaces, and even outdoor fans to keep you cool in the hot summer months.
Complement the Home’s Design Aesthetic
Your landscape design should complement your home’s style and design aesthetic. A professional landscaping contractor can help you select the right plants, flowers, and hardscape features to create a cohesive look that enhances your home’s curb appeal. This will not only make your home more beautiful but also increase its overall value.

Landscape Design And Construction in Texas

Get a Higher Return on Your Investment
Investing in a professional landscape design and build company is a wise decision when it comes to water usage, property value, and getting the most from your initial investment. A professional contractor can help you design a landscape that uses water wisely and is sustainable in the long term. And can help balance concepts like xeriscaping, indigenous plants, and your unique preferences. They can also help you select the right plants and features that will increase your property value and provide a high return on investment.
landscaper installed natural stone walkway along side of house with mulch plant beds
Natural stone walkways and sideyard landscape design

If you’ve recently moved to a new home and need professional landscape design and construction in Texas, look no further. Our team of experts can help you create a custom landscape design that is personalized to your needs, functional, and beautiful. From outdoor living spaces to hardscape features, irrigation, landscape lighting, and construction crews, we can help you create the outdoor living space of your dreams. Contact us today to learn more about our landscape design and build services.

 

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Serving Austin and its greater areas including Leander, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Lago Vista, Lakeway, Marble Falls, Burnet, and Salado, Texas

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Part 3: Clean, Cover, and Winterize

Part 3: Preparing Your Yard for Fall

Taking the time now to prep your lawn and garden for winter will ensure a beautiful start to spring. It may seem hard to believe that frosty weather is right around the corner. The host of rain and colder temps we’ve been experiencing lately trick us into thinking it’s already here. But there are sunny and warmer days ahead! Take advantage of the few nice days we have left to get working on the must-do list we’ve put together to get your lawn and garden ready for what Mother Nature has in store.

In this final part of our three-part fall prep series, we’re giving you the details on cleaning, covering, and winterizing.

Part 2: Preparing Your Yard for Fall

  • Leaving soil in pots over the winter can cause them to crack. Remove it from your pots and scrub them clean with a water and bleach solution – nine parts water to one part bleach. Store in a protected area—empty water cans and a place where they can’t collect rainwater.
  • Water features need some attention. Drain smaller water features such as fountains and store the pump in the garage or shed. Turn off your irrigation system, and set automatic timers to the off mode. Arrange to have the lines blown out to prevent them from freezing and damaging your system. Find irrigation resources for Rain Bird ESP TM2 and Rain Bird ESP ME here as well as more information on how to winterize your system.

  • Drain garden hoses and store them inside for the winter. Freezing water can cause damage and create leaks. Thoroughly rinse out grass seed and fertilizer spreaders.
  • Garden tools will last longer if you take good care of them. Wash off dirt and grime. Use linseed oil on wooden handles to prevent cracking. Sharpen blades on shovels, hedge trimmers, and pruning tools.
  • Empty the gas tank in your lawn mower and trimmer. Give your mower an oil change. Check air filters, and spark plugs, replacing them if needed. Clean off grass and grime on power equipment. Remove blades and sharpen them for a fresh start in the spring.

As you can see, there is a lot of work to be done to get ready for the frosty temperatures heading our way in the not-so-distant future. Take advantage of a lovely day here and there to check these things off your list before your landscape settles down for its long winter’s nap.

Want help designing a new landscape for Spring or installing an irrigation system? Give us a call at (512) 260-1430 to schedule your FREE in-person consultation.

Are Landscape Remodels Worth the Investment?

By Alicia Witt  |  5/27/22

Like many of us, spending more time at home has probably given you the sudden urge to change your surroundings. You’ve repainted the bedroom walls, hung up some new pictures, and rearranged your furniture one too many times. With summer weather here, and no more indoor space to spruce up, you’ve set your sights on larger grounds: your outdoor space.

Suddenly many great ideas are coming to you – the patio and poolside can use an upgrade and a firepit would be nice. And while you’re at it, why not add an outdoor kitchen since that’s most likely where you’ll be spending the majority of your time? All of these additions seem really tempting, up until you look up pricing. You’re probably starting to wonder: is remodeling a landscape really worth the investment? In this article, we’ll go over a few reasons why a landscape renovation is more than worth it. Let’s get started!

Why remodel your outdoor space?

Aside from the obvious and much-needed change of scenery, there are many great reasons to invest in renovating your landscape: 

Quality of Life

Creating a beautiful outdoor space can have a significant impact on your quality of life and mental wellbeing. According to a 2018 study conducted by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) and the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 85% of homeowners reported a greater desire to be home after completing their project, 78% reported feeling an increased sense of enjoyment when at home, and 79% reported a major sense of accomplishment when thinking about their project. 

Other studies have also found that spending time outdoors surrounded by nature can reduce stress, decrease blood pressure and increase memory and attention. Simply put, a well-designed landscape remodel will bring you happiness, something that we can all use a little bit of and that is priceless!

Family Living

Are the kids growing up much faster than expected? Or maybe you couldn’t resist bringing home one more puppy. It happens to the best of us. Instead of shopping for a larger home to accommodate your growing brood, why not renovate your backyard for some extra living space? When going this route, you should start by defining the areas you’d like to see in your yard.

Do you want to keep your vegetable garden? Do you want to add a space for entertaining family and friends? Do you have or want a pool with a lounging space? Can you easily keep an eye on your kids and pets from your patio? Properly planning your backyard remodel will ensure that you maximize your space and create a living environment that can be enjoyed by all for years to come. 

Home Resale Value

Something often overlooked when performing any renovation is how it may increase the resale value of your home. Improving our living environment is nice, but wouldn’t it be great to also see a monetary return on investment?

As with most things in life, first impressions matter, and the façade of your home is no different. According to 99% of NAR members, your home’s curb appeal will have a large impact on attracting potential buyers. So, what does that mean? Think manicured lawn, blooming flower beds, gorgeous steps, and an eye-catching driveway. Additionally, a well-landscaped home can sell for up to 12% more than a home with no landscaping!

Which features should you invest in?

The features you choose to invest in will depend largely on the reason why you are remodeling your landscape in the first place. That said, certain features will increase your home’s value more than others. If that’s a deciding factor for you, we’ve compiled a list based on the NALP-NAR survey mentioned earlier:

Outdoor Kitchen

Barbecues are great, but a fully equipped and personalized outdoor kitchen is even better! If you enjoy hosting get-togethers in your backyard, this is a feature you definitely want to look into. From shelving to mini-fridges and even side burners, there is no reason for you to be running back and forth from the indoors to the outdoors. We offer a wide range of retaining walls, allowing you to build a feature that is 100% you. Should you decide to sell your house, your outdoor kitchen just might seal the deal, and you can expect to recover about 71% of the invested cost. 

Concrete Patio

What’s a backyard without a patio? Whether you’re looking for a spot to lounge while the kids play in the yard, a place for your outdoor dining table, or a space for friends and family to gather, a patio is a must. According to the NALP, walkways, and patios with contemporary, geometric patterns are a growing trend! And with our large selection of concrete pavers and patio slabs, designing your perfect patio is made easy. From traditional to modern and everything in between, you will certainly find a product to match the style of your dreams. 

 

Fire Feature

Nothing says summer more than gathering around a crisp, warm fire after a day of lounging in the pool. But when we think about a fire pit, the image of a cast-iron bowl often comes to mind. Luckily times are changing, and options are growing, making it oh so simple to create a feature that will match your home’s aesthetic. Have a modern design in mind? Why not add a more modern fire pit into the mix? Its ultra-sleek design will certainly make it the centerpiece of your yard. Prefer something a bit more rustic? No problem – we can custom-build your ideal fire feature. Regardless of the style you choose, real estate website Zillow reported that homes mentioning ‘’fire pit’’ in their listing sold on average 3.8 days faster, and for 2.8% more – That equates to $8,400 more on a $300,000 home! It also ranked number one in the American Society of Landscape Architects survey on the most popular outdoor design elements. Finally, whether you’re selling or not, you’ll have something to make your space enjoyable throughout the seasons. 

Curb Appeal

If you’re thinking of selling, now is a great time to spruce up your entrance! The façade of a house usually tells buyers what they can expect once they come in, and a poorly kept front yard can leave potential buyers wondering what else is wrong with your home. A simple way to refresh your lawn is by keeping the grass green, the flowers blooming and adding garden edging and planters to keep everything in place. If you really want to take it up a notch, now would be the time to redo your driveway and follow design trends by laying pavers in eye-catching and unique patterns! You’ll certainly boost your curb appeal and have passersby doing a double-take. 

Landscape Lighting

Often an afterthought when planning a landscape renovation is lighting. But if you’re investing so much in your home’s exterior, wouldn’t you want to enjoy the view even once the sun has set? Not only does lighting increase safety when walking around your property at night, but it can also set the mood for your outdoor space. To really get the bang for your buck, we suggest investing in high-quality lighting that can be set with a timer and is guaranteed to last for years! If you’re in the process of redoing your steps, driveway, or any hardscape project, think about including integrated lighting such as step lights or recessed lighting, and use them to highlight key features of your landscape design. Adding ‘’outdoor lighting’’ to your home’s listing can even speed up the sale by three days. Not 100% sold on the idea? Check out our gorgeous hardscape lighting ideas for inspiration. 

So, is a landscape remodel really worth the investment?

In our opinion, a well-planned and thoughtfully designed landscape remodel is always worth the investment. Whether it be an improved quality of life and mental wellbeing, more space for family activities, or a higher resale value, renovating your outdoor space is sure to bring you long-lasting benefits. So, what are you waiting for?

 

Find out how much your project will cost and treat yourself to the landscape remodel of your dreams!

 

 

Serving Austin and its greater areas including Leander, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Lago Vista, Lakeway, Marble Falls, Burnet, and Bertram