Tag: fence building company calgary

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Fence Installation Calgary

Top Reasons Why You Should Get a Fence

Whether you have a ranch with acres and acres of land, or just a small backyard, or a business or school, there are a lot of reasons to install a fence on your property in Calgary.

Privacy

Probably the top reason for a fence is to establish boundaries and provide privacy.  For the homeowner it is a way to have quality time with family and friends without the neighbors gawking.  It will separate your home from the world around you and allow the personal enjoyment as you see fit.  It is also a factor for families with small children.  It allows them to play freely without fear of some stranger watching them.

Security

fence install calgaryAnother top reason is to add to the security of your home or business.  It will keep unwanted intruders from coming into your area, especially in areas with higher crime rates.  For businesses it can lower insurance rates by adding a level of security from break-ins or intruders.

If you are in an area with a proximity to wildlife, it can help keep some of those critters away from your property.

Demarcation

Fencing is a clear sign of noting where your land ownership begins and ends.  It will help avoid disputes with neighbors that can escalate into lawsuits.  It also shows where maintenance starts or stops making sure you can mow your lawn to the desired height without dealing with a neighbor that feels it should be higher or lower.

It will give you a clear idea of how much space remains on your property so that you can easily decide about additions, renovations, or landscaping.  This includes a play area for children or a dog run for Fido.  It may mean that you can install that swimming pool you have always wanted or to create a nook for gardening or seating area.

Ambiance

Choosing the right materials for a fence means you can add to the decorative effect of your property.  It will coordinate with the architecture of your home and create an exterior effect that will make your property more attractive.

One of the newer trends is vertical gardening.  A fence will give you the blank slate to add pots of flowers, herbs, or small vegetables.  Combine it with some decorative elements and you have a focal point that all of your friends and family will envy.  It will combine the practical with the ornamental.

There are many different choices when it comes to construction materials for your fencing, including chain-link, vinyl, a number of different woods, or wrought iron.  These come in a variety of price points to fit most budgets.

If you check with us at Project Landscape, you will see how easy it is to have a fence for your property.  We have specialists who will help you survey the area and select the right kind of fence for your needs.  We will follow through with layout and construction.  If you like, we can offer suggestions about other options like retaining walls or patios.

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Landscaping Calgary

Landscaping Trends for 2021

The Coronavirus outbreak caused many people to reconsider how they spend their spare or leisure time.  The initial restrictions caused a lot of folks to take to the outdoors.  Both back and front yards became centers for socializing, a respite from Zoom meetings, and a place to grow their own healthy fruits and vegetables.

As the health crisis continues and another warm season is looming, thoughts will be turning to Calgary landscape maintenance and outdoor activities.

Outdoor Havens

calgary landscaping trendsPeople will gravitate to their decks and patios.  There is likely to be an increased desire for privacy.  That means it is very likely that landscaping will feel that effect by strategic plantings of hedges, shrubs and other natural windbreaks.  Climbing vines on pergolas or lattice work will be an easy solution.  Retractable vinyl screens will also likely be used on trellises.  There could be more requests for fire pit installations to extend the use of patio areas into the cooler months.

Entertainment Spots

Backyard pools were a big hit for adults and children last year and will probably be requested again this year.  Parents will also likely be looking at ways to keep children entertained with maze areas, pavements for bike races, or climbing areas.

Vertical Gardens

Small spaces won’t be overlooked.  Vertical structures like fences will see the addition of pots to grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers.  This can become a “statement” area that will give interest to a little used area.

Front Yards

With more walkers and bikers, front yards in residential areas will take center stage.  Native plants have grown in popularity and that trend will probably continue.  With low maintenance needs and still attractive, the environment will be the focal point.  Pollinator-friendly plants will also be important.  Many of these are perennials and well suited to an eclectic landscape.

Remaining as a social mecca, the front yard, driveway or porch will be gathering places for neighbors and safe distancing for friends and relatives.  Additional seating options will start cropping up including retaining walls, or benches.  Expect more pathways and walk areas to be designed, including lighting options and plantings.

Vegetables

In the coming year, it is expected that veg gardens will be better thought out than in 2020.  The ability to become more self sufficient and to eat healthy will make it a return adventure.  Expect to see more plants available for sale including herbs and trees.  Irrigation systems may be one of the top requests to help maintain gardening plots.

The bottom line is that almost any outdoor activity will be popular in the coming year.  Landscaping will become more important and more thought given to plants that will afford some interest during the winter months.

If you have questions or would like help revamping your yard, contact us at Project Landscape.  We have experts just waiting to help you.  We are available for planning sessions, plantings, construction or ongoing maintenance.  We have lots of ideas to share and are very interested in what you may have developed yourself.

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Fence Installation Calgary

Calgary Fencing Experts

At Project Landscape we have crews experienced in installing or repairing fences including those for:

  • Residential
  • Commercial
  • Recreation Areas
  • Agriculture
  • Industrial

Particularly for our residential and commercial clients, aesthetics are as important as the function.  That is why we stock or have access to a number of different manufacturers that will provide the best options for your area.  Cost is always a concern.  We have found that there are a number of very affordable options available in wood and vinyl.  We are also able to provide more ornamental options.

Fence Installation in Calgary

calgary fence installers

Come to us with your ideas and we will be happy to show you what we can do to make your concept reality.  Our fence designers may also offer alternatives that will fit into your plan but provide options you had not considered.

Designing a fencing project is only a small part.  The major work comes in the construction and installation.   That is where our trained workforce will come into play.  We will show up when scheduled and complete the project to your satisfaction.  We take special care to be respectful of your property and the environment.  We take care to avoid damaging any plants or landscaping effects.  We try to be as quiet as possible to avoid disturbing you, your family, employees or neighbors.

In Calgary and its surrounding areas, agriculture and ranching are important industries.  Often these enterprises require appropriate fencing.  Project Landscape is also able to help these people and companies to secure their acreage.  We have a number of product options that are appropriate for this type of open use.

Personnel that work on these projects are carefully trained to be aware of the impact their work will have on the nearby crops, cattle and horses, and other wildlife.  We only use the marked roads or those paths that are designated for our use.  If we run into situations we feel we are unable to handle, our crew will contact the owner or designated individual to resolve the incident.

With out extensive experience installing and repairing fences, wide range of products and materials, and sincere interest in customer satisfaction, Project Landscape should be your choice for fencing needs.  Whether it is to prevent intruders, enhance the value of your property, or to keep Fido in your backyard, we are ready to help solve your fencing needs.

Our pricing and workmanship are competitive and reasonable.  Just contact us through this website and one of our representatives will be be happy to follow up.  You can also call us with questions or concerns.  Project Landscape has developed a reputation in Calgary for its expertise in many areas of exterior work.  We would be pleased to help you with your project.  We will arrange for a convenient appointment time for our estimator to view the property and take measurements.  After you decide on the materials, we will offer a bid for the job plus an estimated start date.  It is just that simple.

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Fence Installation Calgary

The Importance of Fence Building in Calgary

There can be a number of reasons you are interested in having a fence on your property.  It protects you and your family from unwanted visitors as well as gives you a defined area for animals or even children.  It can help establish privacy or reduce noise or unattractive views.

At Project Landscape we have the know how to help you with your fence installation.  Our finished products are durable, functional and yet attractive.  We have experience working with residential, commercial, and agricultural areas.  We understand the various needs for industrial, recreational and even extensive acreage.

wood fence calgary installWe have access to a good choice of materials.  So, whether you are interested in something utilitarian or something ornate, our products include wood, vinyl, chain link, wire, plank, or ornamental metal.

Our crews are trained to be considerate of the environment as well as our customers’ property.  Our objective is to disturb as little of the adjacent plant life as possible.  From the planning stage through construction and final approval, we attempt to reduce waste and to complete the project to the satisfaction of our clients.

If you are considering adding a fence to your property but are wondering if it will actually be of value, here are some things to consider.

  • Privacy – Personal privacy is certainly something to be aware of.  Whether it is that solitary cup of morning coffee, the freedom to entertain, or the comfort to know that no one can see your children playing in the backyard, a fence can help maintain a hindrance to prying eyes.  Another factor is if you have dogs as pets.  Unnecessary barking at neighbors or passers by can be annoying and frustrating to the animals.  If this is the purpose of your fence, you should shy away from chain link, or other see-through materials.
  • Safety – Fencing can teach children and pets the importance of staying safe.  It prevents wandering into a road or investigating new areas.  Fencing around a pool area also restricts an accidental drowning.
  • Décor – Your landscaping maintains a reflection of your taste and decorative interests as much as interior wall hangings or furniture.  Choosing the right kind of fence will provide curb appeal, increase the value of your home, and provide the ambiance for outdoor entertaining.
  • Security – Probably the topmost reason.  Even areas with low crime rates can be victims of intrusion.  The right fence can help deter burglaries.  If you live in a rural area or near a wildlife preserve, it will prevent most wild animals from coming into your yard and causing damage.
  • Property Lines – Erecting a fence is the perfect way to denote your property from your neighbor’s.  We can arrange to have the property line surveyed and authenticated prior to a fence installation so that you will have documentation in the event of a dispute.

When you are ready to discuss fencing options, contact us at Project Landscape.  We will be happy to arrange for a convenient appointment so that we can take measurements and discuss your needs and options.

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Landscape Experts

Ways to Spruce Up Your Backyard This Summer

A staycation is a great time to give a little TLC to the backyard where you will undoubtedly be spending a large portion of your time this summer.

deck builders Calgary7 Ways to Spruce Up Your Backyard

  • Container plants will give a lot of interest to the area, especially if there are large hard surfaces.  Start with a matching pair of containers.  You can plant flowers or have a mini vegetable patch.  Shop the thrift stores and find other containers.  They don’t all have to match.  In fact some coordinating colors will tie the areas together with no problem.
  • If the concrete patio or walkways are looking a little sad, get some concrete paint and freshen them up.  Something a bit easier is to use a power washer.  For a more polished look, purchase some teak interlocking tiles.  Another choice would be a roll-out cedar pathway.  No tools required.  In fact, you can take them with you when you move.  One more idea is to buy an indoor/outdoor rug.  They are easy to clean and make the outdoors feel more homey.
  • Create an area that uses little or no water.  This is called xeriscaping.  It requires little maintenance and can add interest to a little used area.  Create a theme with succulents, stones and a bench and you are done.
  • Storage is always a concern.  There are easy, build-it-yourself bench that doubles as storage.  It can be as simple as a plywood box that is dressed up with wood slats and fancy hardware.  Add a shed to hold trash or recycle bins, lawn mowers, bikes or other items.
  • Once you have a shed, decorate the outside.  Paint a mural or try a vertical garden by hanging pots or planters.  This idea works just as well on a fence.
  • Fire pits are fun.  In fact, you can make a mobile one.  With a fireproof cube for the exterior, you insert a propane tank and then has a top like a typical gas grill.  Because it moves, you can stash it out of the way until you are ready.
  • Luminaries are always a nice addition to a walkway or to put around the porch for an evening sitting on the porch.  Try something whimsical for a change.

If some of these things appeal to you, but you are not handy with tools or just don’t have enough time to complete, contact Project Landscape from Calgary today.  They are not only able to construct your dream, but can make suggestions for other improvements.

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Landscaping Calgary

Rustic Landscaping Tips

Rustic landscaping is designed not to follow the rules and instead take on a naturalistic look. This means allowing moss to grow on the pathways, using materials such as wood and stones, and adding carefully thought out water features. Basically, rustic landscaping derives its inspiration from nature and hence creates more of a country feel.  Some people would even prefer to pick a location near a lake or mountain just to emphasize the serenity and privacy that this kind of landscape has to offer.

As much as a rustic design is mostly surrounded by raw nature, you still have to pay attention to detail. For instance, the rocks should be appropriately positioned, water features, if any, should be carefully positioned and pathways created to reflect the nature around us. In all honesty, it’s nothing complicated but professional will do you more good than harm. If you have been yearning for a cozy rustic design for your home, get the best of the best from Calgary landscaping.  Remember to follow your heart and let the designs you choose to replicate your personality. Here are a few more ideas to get you started on the rustic landscape of yours dreams;

deck builders CalgaryRustic pergola

Pergolas are an awesome addition to any backyard and certainly transform any plain landscape into an amazing outdoor living space.  One of the supreme reasons why you should consider a pergola for your backyard is it serves as a supporting structure for climbing plants.  This can be a perfect way of enhancing that natural characteristic.

With a pergola, you have a variety of options at hand. For instance, you can decide to have it free standing or attached to the house.  Most of the time, pergolas are used to add an aesthetic appeal to a backyard or garden.  The focus is not so much on providing shade and shelter especially if it’s a rustic pergola.

A wood pergola is considered most suitable in rustic landscaping.  Keep in mind a rustic setting is supposed to imitate nature and nothing does that better than wood. With that said, there are different types of wood. Cedar wood has gained so much popularity and many people are now using it for their pergolas. Not only is it gorgeous but also naturally insect resistant.  Therefore, you won’t have to worry about the wood getting destroyed or eaten away by insects. Also, cedar pergolas have a longer service life.

Rustic fencing

Fencing is necessary for any backyard or garden.  With that in mind, you will require a rustic fence that will outline the perimeter of the backyard or home garden. When deciding on a fence, it shouldn’t just be for privacy or to keep the critters out of your way. A rustic fence is supposed to be designed in such a way that it will bring about a serene environment and at the same time maintain an aesthetic appeal. Also, you can decide to go for a simple and minimalistic style depending on what you have in mind.

In this case, the most suitable material for fencing would be wood. Any kind of wood does the job but if you want a gorgeous fence that you will be gazing at for years, go for cedar fencing. One person might ask, what is so special about cedar fencing? The answer is pretty straightforward; it ages like fine wine.

The water features

water features calgaryOne of the best things about rustic landscaping is it allows you be creative with everything that you do. The water features are among the things that will portray the creative side of you. Whether it’s just a small pond or a waterfall, there are numerous ideas at your display. If your aim is to have a calming environment, a slow flowing waterfall is ideal. Use natural rocks to create the waterfall and even around it.

There is the option of going for a pondless waterfall. The choice of having a pond or not depends entirely on what you want and also the budget. Other than a pond, you can form a small stream that runs through the garden or backyard. This is all what a country setting is about. Make the most out of it.

If the waterfall has a pond area, use gravel, river rock and pebbles inside it. This way, when the water runs over the small stones in the pond, it produces a soothing sound. A lot of work and detail goes into the making of an outstanding waterfall. For instance, the rocks you choose have to be suitable for the landscape and the kind of rustic setting you want. If you are facing trouble with this, get professional help from Calgary landscaping experts.

 Paving stones

The paths and walkways are the signature areas on any rustic landscape. Also, this is where you get to play around with different shapes and colors to come up with something unique and outstanding. For instance, people with a hilly yard may opt for a stone stairway.  The sides of the stairway should be laced with various plants to create contrast.

There are basically many types of pavers. Limestone is perfect for those people who are thinking of a stone walkway. It’s not only long lasting but also can be cut into juts any shape or size to meet your needs. It serves well for a garden path. Other natural stones appropriate for paving include cobblestone, bluestone and flagstone.

Another thing is that stone walkways or paths can be done is such a way that they embrace imperfection.  This means that you can use stones of different shapes, sizes, textures and colors. However, such an idea involves immense care and thought to come up with a worthwhile design.  Consider a meandering garden walkway or path. When you are taking a walk in the garden or backyard, it’s refreshing to simply slow down and take in the beauty and tranquility that the surroundings have to offer.  This is basically the purpose of having a winding pathway.

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Fence Installation Calgary

Privacy Fence Options

The major reasons homeowners consider fence installation are for security and privacy.  A fence installed by a professional fence building company will offer not only peace of mind but will allow creativity and design to still showcase their landscape.

There are many options available, but today we will explore materials in types of fencing options.

Wood

Traditional and still one of the most popular types is a wood fence.  It offers a warm and yet welcoming look to privacy.  The cost will depend on the type of lumber you choose as well as the height and overall size.  This will also take some labor to install, so you will need to add that to the price tag.cedar fence installation calgaryChain Link

Not a lot of privacy, but chain link fences certainly send a message.  They are very inexpensive and low maintenance.  If the homeowner landscapes with some appropriate shrubbery, vines, and other flowers, the aesthetics are greatly improved, along with adding a bit of privacy from the neighbours.

Vinyl

This is one of the easiest fencing material options.  Manufacturers state that it is stronger and more flexible than wood.  This is a huge advantage during storms with high winds.  Maintenance is usually some soap and a good hosing off.  It resists paint, so the color you choose is the color you live with.  However, if the area is prone to graffiti, that clean up is significantly easier.  The price is the trade off.

Aluminium

This is another basic alternative.  There are a number of drawbacks, including the fact that it is not very strong and offers little in the way of security.  It is fairly easy to maintain and can be made to resemble other types of fencing.

PVC

If you are looking for the most inexpensive method to fence in your yard, this is it.  Instead of wooden stakes and pickets, the posts are PVC sleeves that go on top of the wooden posts.  They are attached either with adhesive to the cross bars or fastened with screws.  There are lots of color choices and heights and it will stand the test of time from the elements.  Because there is less wood, the price is very affordable.

Wrought Iron

Classy and stylish, wrought iron has been used for fencing for centuries.  However, there are a number of negatives.  They will take maintenance through sanding and repainting every few years.  They are not especially secure and they are one of the most expensive because they must be custom made.  But they are elegant!

These are some of the options you will have available when you talk with a representative of your fence building company in Calgary.  If you have questions, our service desk is very helpful.

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Landscaping Calgary

Modern Landscaping Tips

Modern landscapes are often characterized by clean straight lines, streamlined walkways and an uncluttered appearance. It’s a landscape where symmetry and geometry are the key elements. There are basically no curves and even the plants if any are placed in a neat row. It’s actually also considered as a formal type of landscaping in Calgary.

A modern landscaping play by the more is less rule. It’s understandable that people barely have time to maintain a demanding yard or garden. This is taken into account. The most important part is usually the materials used.  The design focuses more on the aesthetic appeal of the home rather than having plants or flowers. Plants will still be present but they are kept to a minimum. The main concern is with crafting sleek patios, concrete paths, carefully placed water features and steps.

Pergolas

pergola-decks-fences-composite-calgary-landscaping-experts-5c4b24b4a8706A pergola fits into almost any type of a landscape and can be an invaluable addition to contemporary landscaping. Modern pergolas are stunning to look at considering all the work that goes into it. Both metal and wooden accents are used but the most common is wood.

Many people opt for a pergola as a shade structure that enhances the outdoor living experience. It can be attached to the house or constructed separately. In most cases, the modern pergolas are minimalistic with more attention given to creating straight lines and right angles. Some are constructed with roof louvers that you can open and close as needed. This way it provides shade when the sun is hot or during drizzles.

Pergolas are not just meant to be shade structures. They can also be entertainment areas.  For instance, it can frame an outdoor hot tub or a barbeque area. Opt for materials that are highly durable.

Modern paving stones

paving stones calgaryThe modern pavers are mostly made of concrete, angular tiles or cut bluestone. These are materials which will easily create symmetrical and right angled shapes. Remember, geometry is key in this landscaping and there is no room for error.

Brick is rarely seen because it does not fit well in the modern concept. This is probably due to the color variations and its organic appearance. The walkways are bold and can even create some sort of a focal point. You can opt to fill part of the yard with concrete so as there is less work done in terms of maintenance.

The appropriate plants

The main concern of modern landscaping is low maintenance and uniformity with the design. Mulch is largely used to prevent weed growth and conserve water.  If you need some plants on the landscape, choose the ones that don’t require regular pruning. Also, you wouldn’t want a tree that will drop thousands of leaves on the walkway or outdoor space.

Container plantings are very common. They are more suitable for a symmetric space and can easily be moved around. All plants are positioned in straightforward geometric schemes rather than rounded lines. On the other hand, the lawn is designed to frame gravel flower or plant beds and walkways. The colors are simple but a bit of texture is welcome.

Do not mix so many plants. Two types are enough for a modern landscape setting. Notable examples of plants include bamboo, mountain laurel, boxwood, Japanese maples and ferns.

Water features

While a water feature can be incorporate in any landscape, it takes a focal point in contemporary landscaping. If there is a busy street nearby, adding water feature will work to buffer the noises from outside the home.  Ponds and pools are made in rectangular or square shapes. Anything curved spoils the authenticity of a modern landscape. A fountain or a waterfall can act as a focal point. Keep in mind, there are so many ideas for awe inspiring water features for the modern landscaping.

Fencing

fence installation calgary Every home requires a fence for the sake of privacy and to keep the critter out of your property. For a very long time, people used wood and at times metal for fencing. However, with the growing technology, there are better materials which also come with many benefits.

Have you heard of vinyl? It’s the main competitor of wood and has earned a soft spot in the hearts of many. Majority of people want something that is durable.  Wood has its popularity but vinyl fencing beats it pants down in terms of long service life.

Another significant benefit of vinyl fencing is that it needs almost no maintenance. Wood has to be treated and stained to keep it in perfect condition. On the other hand, vinyl is strong enough to withstand the harsh weather, insects and decay. The essence of modern landscaping is going for the alternatives that cut down on maintenance. This is exactly what vinyl fencing is all about.

Landscape lighting

pool lighting calgaryIt’s good to enjoy the outdoor living spaces both day and night. That’s why landscape lighting is essential. It gives you room for entertainment and to do some activities outside in the evening or nighttime. Additionally, a properly lit landscape creates both ambience and beauty.

Contemporary landscape lighting features straight lines and immense attention to detail. For instance, if you have floating steps running through the garden, you can place lighting underneath. Furthermore, there should be lighting placed strategically on the water features to illuminate them. This way, they can be seen at night too.

Use lighting on the planters too. In some cases, this not only makes the surrounding beautiful but also illuminates the walkways that have planters lining them. Also, installing lights on the steps is a good idea since you watch your steps and avoid accidental falls. If you have a swimming pool, consider lining the sides with some lights especially when it’s close to an entertainment area.

Basically, lighting ideas for a modern landscape are endless.  You can get creative and even add a dramatic touch where needed. With that said, choose LED lighting since its energy efficient and tends to last longer.

Creating a perfect modern landscape is not a mean feat. There is so much detail involved and it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the information and ideas at your disposal. Luckily, Calgary landscaping is here for you providing the best landscaping services around.

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Landscaping Calgary

Traditional Landscaping

Unlike modern landscapes, traditional landscapes are timeless. Mostly, a traditional landscape is designed in such a way that it enhances the modern experience. It takes on a more natural approach. This means that you will find more trees and plants than you would in a modern landscape. Furthermore, this kind of landscape makes use of what’s already present in the surroundings to make an even better piece. In this case, when there is a tree somewhere in the garden, it becomes part of the design.

It’s easy to think that a traditional landscape is random. Well, this is not true because there is so much attention to detail involved. As much as the design incorporates the existing elements, the look is not just diverse but also carefully thought out. It’s allowed to have colored plants, but they should be placed in a strategic manner and contain borders. From all this, you can deduce that the traditional designs tend to be a bit informal. But again, the less is more adage still applies here.

Calgary landscaping will help you design and implement a classic traditional landscape that is second to none. The landscape Calgary team consists of a team of experts with immense experience in designing and creating traditional landscapes. With the services, you can cool your feet and expect a job perfectly done. Here are some notable traditional landscaping ideas and tips;

landscape lighting calgary Landscape Lighting

Nowadays, people spend more time in the outdoor living spaces. We live in a busy world where everyone is running up and down trying to make a living. With such a lifestyle, the best way to unwind and escape the monotonous indoors is having quality time in the outdoor living spaces.

There is nothing as relaxing as gazing at the stars in the evening while sipping a glass of wine or even coffee. This calls for planning and identifying the best lighting ideas that will work wonders on your traditional landscape. Remember landscape lighting should provide both ambience and security to the home. So, choose your designs wisely.

There are lots of traditional landscape lighting options. You can opt for lanterns, lamps and ground lighting to provide the kind of illumination you need. Furthermore, if you often entertain guests in the outdoor living spaces, you have to pick the right lighting. Mostly, your friends and other guests won’t really like bright lighting when having a drink or barbeque out. Therefore, choose subtle lights and those that are not shining directly on the entertainment area.

irrigation landscape calgarySmart Irrigation

Landscape irrigation can use up gallons of water if conservation measures are not taken into account.  I don’t doubt irrigation is essential in maintaining a lush green lawn or vibrant plants in the garden or around the house. However, about 50% of the water used in the traditional irrigation systems is wasted. The end result is usually higher monthly water bills. Well, this is definitely not good for your finances and only makes the landscape more expensive to maintain. For this reason, investing in a smart irrigation system may be the wisest decision of your life.

The smart irrigation system is automatic and flexible. The traditional sprinkle operates on a pre-programmed schedule and a timer. What happens is a landscape is divided into different zones each with its own set amount of watering to occur at a particular time. Determining the exact amount of water required for each zone is done using trial and error methods. Therefore, it’s easy for costly mistakes such as overwatering to occur.

On the other hand, the smart irrigation technology monitors weather conditions, and the moisture content in the soil to schedule watering times and adjust the amount of water released in the sprinklers. For instance, through sensor on site, a smart system recognizes when there is rain and hence stops the watering.

Retaining Walls

Most people will think of a retaining wall as mere structure used to hold back soil and hence prevent soil erosion. The truth is landscapes are not all the same. Some are hilly with varying ground levels. In this case, a retailing wall is built to level the ground and ensure the soil stays in place. Aside from that, retaining walls can be designed using a variety of materials to evoke a certain style. Currently, people construct them to add beauty to the outdoor living spaces and make the landscape more appealing. This way, you definitely kill two birds with one stone.

In traditional landscaping, the retaining walls are useful in creating spaces that serve as flower beds or even gardens.  You also have the chance to get creative with the designs. For instance, there is no rule of thumb that says the walls have to be super straight. Therefore, you can set up a curve where applicable to add a bit of texture to the landscape

project-landscaping-water-features-calgary-Water Features

Water features tend to create some kind of tranquility in the home environment. The best way to improve your outdoor living experience is considering a water feature. It can be a water fountain, pond or waterfall. If you have a large backyard, there is nothing wrong with including a stream with some stepping stones or small bridge.

Go big and add a water features such as a pool that you can jump into on a hot day. This is perfect for a fun day with friends or family.

Composite Decking

Composite is quite a popular decking material and people all over the world are using it. This is for a good reason considering the myriad of benefits this material has to offer. For starters, maintaining a deck can be extremely expensive and daunting at the same time.  The main advantage of a composite deck is it requires minimal maintenance. Its resistant to rot and insects and hence has a longer service life. Composite decking comes in a variety of colors. This means that you can choose a color that suits your home décor.

There are many more ideas for traditional landscapes. Whenever you find yourself stuck, get the help you need from Calgary landscaping professionals.

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Landscape Experts

Xeriscape Landscaping

Xeriscape landscaping is all about water conservation. Look around you, and it won’t take long before you realize over 50% of the water used in homes goes to the lawns and gardens.  Xeriscape landscaping is mainly meant for people living in areas that experience a long period of drought throughout the year. It’s also applicable in the regions where water conservation is highly encouraged among the residents.

With that said, you can opt for a Xeriscape landscape if you have a busy lifestyle with little time to do things such as mowing and watering the lawn. After all, this is usually referred to as no maintenance landscaping.

There are lots of ideas that can be used to come up with a low-water landscape. The focus should not just be on using fewer resources but also creating a beautiful landscape. Keep in mind; you can still have a gorgeous green garden without necessarily using tons of water. Furthermore, a Xeriscape landscape is not characterized by just cacti and lots of rocky surfaces.  There are Calgary landscaping professionals that will get things perfectly done. At Calgary, the team of experts takes time to plan a suitable design, discern ways to improve the soil, and select the best plants for your landscape.

In this brief, I will talk about the features and principles of Xeriscape landscaping. This way, you have a clear picture of what it’s about and how it can help in water conservation.

Plant Selection is Vital

xeriscape-landscaping-calgary-5f0dd45d4b34cNobody said a Xeriscape landscape should not have any great plants apart from cacti. As a matter of fact, with a wide selection of plants, you can create an attractive garden or lawn that is no different from the typical watered one. The truth is plants are quite an important part of a landscape and only prudent to go for the best.

The number one choice for a Xeriscape landscape is native plants that are already well adapted to the surroundings. Also, the plants should be drought tolerant to immensely reduce water usage. With that in mind, drought tolerant plants still require considerable amounts of water during the first stages of growth. These are plants that rely on a deep root system for survival. They require enough water to develop deep roots which will afterwards take in moisture further within the soil. Additionally, it’s prudent to water them at least once in a week during the hot weather.

Notable examples of drought resistant plants include artichoke, lavender, fountain grass, red maple, barberry and blue oat grass among many others.

Opt for Smart Irrigation

The main aim of Xeriscape landscaping is to greatly reduce the amount of water used by as much as over 60%. This goes beyond simply selecting a variety of drought tolerant plants. Xeric vegetation still requires a bit of watering to keep all the plants healthy, vibrant and strong. This is usually done in the first weeks of growth and even after they reach maturity to prevent wilting during extreme hot weather.

Look into effective irrigation methods that are not only stress free but will aid in conserving water. Consider having a drip irrigation system on your Xeriscape landscape. This kind of irrigation system gradually provides water to the plants depending on the intake.

Another thing I must mention is smart irrigation. This is basically an automated irrigation system. You don’t have to estimate the irrigation needs of your particular landscape with this technology.  The smart irrigation technology has sensors engineered to monitor the current weather conditions and the soil moisture to determine the water requirements of the landscape. This is especially helpful to people interested in Xeriscape garden or a sizeable lawn.

Put Up a Water Feature

Xeriscape means dry but we live in the 21st century where everything is possible. The truth is in this case, the landscaping is supposed to be low water but who said anything about waterless. Bend the rules and go ahead to install a water feature. The landscape will definitely stand out.

With that said, putting up a water feature especially on seemingly dry land is quite a challenge.  For instance, do you have a reliable water source for the fountain or pond? What kind of water feature is suitable? Do you want a pool, bird bath, fountain or waterfall?

Additionally, think of a way to reserve water since it will be evaporating. A water feature with an underground reservoir is a good choice. Remember, any water feature on a Xeriscape landscape will add appeal and bring about ambience.

Create Practical Turf Areas

People often prefer to reduce the lawn rather than completely eliminate it. The first thing to do is research on the various types of grasses in the region. You will definitely come across some which need less water and suit your kind of landscape better. There is also the option of using artificial turf which is basically low maintenance and requires no water.

One of the perfect ideas you might want to consider is replacing the lawn with a cedar deck. At the moment, I believe decks are a vital part of any home. They work well in enhancing the outdoor living experience. Additionally, cedar decks are long lasting, resistant to insects and rot and are low maintenance. For sure, it’s a classic addition to a Xeriscape landscape.

Mulching

Mulch is a layer of organic matter at the base of plant. On a hot day, there is very little you can do to prevent the soil moisture from evaporating. However, mulching makes this possible. It’s one of the key techniques that greatly aid in conserving water.

Place mulch at the base of the plants to conserve water in the soil. This ultimately means very little watering. Besides, drought tolerant plants require moisture in the soil so that they can spread their roots further and deeper into the soil.

Sit Back and Plan

Xeriscaping calls for efficient planning regardless of the size of the area. You have to identify how much hardscape should be allowed as well as the area that will be used for plants. Do you need many plants or just a few?  What about the entertained areas and how much spaces will that take up? This is among the many questions you have to answer before getting started.

Take out a paper and a pen so as you put down everything you have in mind. Additionally, you don’t have to do this alone when there are professional ready to help at the go. Calgary landscaping experts will deliver the Xeriscape landscape of your dreams.