Adding a pool to your outdoor living area can be a great way to enjoy the spring and summer months! When it comes to choosing an inground swimming pool, it seems that the options are endless. There are fiberglass pools, vinyl lined pools, custom gunite pools, and more! Vinyl lined pools are built with a concrete bottom and a wood frame. Their downside – they are vulnerable to staining from pool chemicals. Fiberglass pools are in-ground swimming pools that be installed in as few as seven days. They are available in a multitude of shapes and sizes! Gunite swimming pools are highly durable and can be created in almost any shape. Keep reading below on the advantages of choosing a gunite pool!

Choose a Design and Shape That Fits Your Needs
One great thing about custom gunite pools can be made in any shape or size to fit your landscape! This means that you can have precisely the right size and shape of pool for your outdoor landscape. You won’t have to re-design your area around your pool, you can design your pool to fit in your existing outdoor area!

You Can Personalize Your Pool
Gunite plaster finishes come in a multitude of different colors and finishes. This means you can personalize your pool to truly fit in with the surrounding landscaping! You can even choose finishes that are created from pebbles or glass for a high-end look! The personalization is endless and you can truly make this pool your own!

Your Gunite Pool Will Be Built to Last
Custom gunite pools are extremely durable. Out of all of the in-ground pools available, gunite pools are the longest lasting and also come with the best warranties. Be sure to take this into account when considering the higher cost of gunite pools because you’ll get many more years of swimming out of them.

Easier to Construct than Concrete Pools
Concrete swimming pools take a long time to build and the quality of the construction can depend on things like outdoor temperature. With a custom gunite pool, the rebar framework is sprayed with a concrete and sand mixture. This makes the construction time shorter and less variability.

Choosing which type of pool is best for your outdoor area can be a tough decision. Each type of pool comes with pros and cons, and ultimately it is up to what will best fit your home’s needs. Give Outdoor Hardscapes a call today at (251) 214-9166! We will help your hardscape dream ideas come to life. We have the experience and know-how to create amazing outdoor spaces and we will take your outdoor living to the next level. Visit our website at www.outdoorhardscapesgroup.com or email chaves716@gmail.com.

© Southern View Media 2018: Reproduction without explicit permission is prohibited. All Rights Reserved. “We Put You Online So You Don’t Get Left Behind.”

If you are looking to install an inground pool, you are probably aware that there are three different types: fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete. While each pool type comes with a set of advantages and disadvantages, it is up to you to decide which one is the correct fit for your home. Keep reading below for more information regarding concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl liner pools.

Fiberglass Pool Advantages

Fiberglass pools have many advantages. One of the main ones being that it is so easy to maintain because of its surface porosity. Another advantage of a fiberglass pool is that is manufactured off-site, and the installation typically happens within two days. Fiberglass swimming pools are also durable because they have no liner and they have an attractive look that is elegant.

Disadvantages

The initial cost of a fiberglass pool is a little higher than a vinyl liner. However, if you factor in the cost of liner replacements, you will spend far less. Another disadvantage of a fiberglass pool is that the sizes and shapes are not customizable. You cannot change the shape, size, or depth of the pool – so you will need to be able to find a model that you will be happy with for as long as you are living in your current home.

Concrete Pool Advantages

A concrete pool’s main advantage is that the size and shape are customizable. Concrete pools give you the opportunity to customize the shape and depth, so if you are wanting an extremely deep or large pool, concrete may be the way to go! Also similar to fiberglass pools, concrete pools are very durable.

Disadvantages

Although concrete pools are customizable, they are pretty high in maintenance because they are extremely porous. You should brush the surface of the pool with a steel brush at least once a week to remove anything from the surface. Because it is so porous, you also must use more chemicals in order to kill the algae, which embeds into the surface of concrete pools. The biggest disadvantage of concrete pools is that it cost exponentially more money to own because of the money spent on chemicals, electricity, acid washing, and more.

Vinyl Liner Pool Advantages

Vinyl Liner pools has one large advantage – it is much more affordable to install, typically $10,000 less than fiberglass or concrete pools. This is typically their most appealing factor to those looking to add a pool to their home. Another great advantage of vinyl liner pools is that you can also customize the shape, size, and depth of the pool. This will cost more, but typically still be less than a fiberglass or concrete pool.

Disadvantages

The largest disadvantage of vinyl liner pools is the cost and frequency of having to replace the liner. Liner typically last between 5-9 years and has an average cost of $4000 to replace. Another disadvantage of vinyl is that the warranty tends to not be straightforward. It usually says the liner lasts about 20+ years, but you may find that the warranty only covers the seams of the liner, doesn’t cover labor, water, or other expenses, or that it is pro-rated.

As you can see there are a lot of pros and cons to owning each type of pool. We hope the above advice will help guide you to making the right choice for your home!

If you are still undecided which one is right for you, call Outdoor Hardscapes to help bring this dream to life. Give Outdoor Hardscapes a call today at (251) 214-9166! We will help your landscape and hardscape dream ideas come to life. We have the experience and know-how to create amazing outdoor spaces and we will take your outdoor living to the next level. Visit our Outdoor Living Area.

© Southern View Media 2018: Reproduction without explicit permission is prohibited. All Rights Reserved. “We Put You Online So You Don’t Get Left Behind”

After years of bringing the outdoors in, people are moving back outside, soaking up nature for all it’s worth. From kitchens to living rooms, even game areas, our yards have truly become an extension of our homes. It’s also 2018, which means electronics are in every aspect of our lives. This means they are apart of our outdoor living spaces as well. The two concepts though—outdoor living and electronics—haven’t completely caught up to each other. This means that we need to take precautions on our behalf as well. Luckily Outdoor Hardscapes is here with tips for electronic protection in outdoor living spaces.

1. Solar Caps for Lights
   1. Harness the light for yourself! Instead of running cords, use solar powered caps on top of lighting that is placed around your yard and living space. This might be a bit more difficult for larger fixtures, ones that are under a gazebo or pergola for example so make sure that for those lights you are using proper, sturdy outdoor covers. But for all of those sidewalk and/or pool accent spots, use these caps for both protections against the elements and as a way to provide electricity.
2. Inset Storage for Audio
   1. So many times, we step outside for a party, relaxation or a nice quiet dinner. All of these benefit from a bit of mood music. But audio systems are not easy on the wallet so you don’t want to risk the elements getting the best of your investment. Build inset spaces to put the larger control centers. Then use element covers for speakers. This means finally getting your own modern version of the rock speakers that you probably used to laugh at due to their obviousness. As technology evolves though so does design and you can find plenty of stylish options to provide both ample sound and protection.
3. Covers for Televisions
   1. If you really want to create an outdoor living space then you need to have a television. But just like the stereo systems, this is too much of an investment to just throw out there with little to no protection. Cover the screen up right away to be safe. When covering it though don’t just choose any jacket you can find. A simple plastic cover might seem like enough to keep water out but it’s also important to remember you don’t want to keep out condensation in. Any sort of dew or humidity can seep through and once there, a full jacket will trap that moisture in, effectively ruining your screen and it’s inner workings. Instead find one that is waterproof and breathable. Or if you really want to take protective steps, spend a bit more on a spray that will allow you to apply it directly to the screen for protection, like a scotch guard.
4. Buried Wires
   1. The flip side of dealing with electronics is having to find a place for the wiring. Keep them buried to ensure safety for both the wiring and your own family.

Don’t let yourself be trapped inside simply for the use of technology.  Take life back to nature while still enjoying modern comforts with these electronics protections in outdoor living spaces. When you’re ready to make these updates call Outdoor Hardscapes to help bring this dream to life. Give Outdoor Hardscapes a call today at (251) 214-9166! We will help your landscape and hardscape dream ideas come to life. We have the experience and know-how to create amazing outdoor spaces and we will take your outdoor living to the next level. Visit our Outdoor Living Area.

© Southern View Media 2018: Reproduction without explicit permission is prohibited. All Rights Reserved. “We Put You Online So You Don’t Get Left Behind”

There’s something about seeing a koi pond that causes people to immediately feel happy, overjoyed and entranced. There’s almost a kid like wonder for even the most hardened of adults…unless your Michael Scott in “The Office” and have a traumatic experience during which you can’t get out of a koi pond no matter how much you fight. For the rest of us, though, these little oasis’s have numerous benefits. Outdoor Hardscapes provides a few by examining koi ponds and the reasons you need one.

Stress Relief

These beautiful water features and their inhabitants have been shown to lower stress in those that visit them often. This can be especially beneficial for someone with high blood pressure or a patient who has just experienced a stroke. This is why you can find koi ponds at hospitals and nursing homes. These ponds are usually  larger thanks to the tranquility of the space.

Good Luck

The Japanese—who first originated this idea—believe that the area brings good luck and fortune to the space and/or home that it inhabits. Koi will swim against the stream as well so the Japanese also believe the fish help pass on “perseverance in adversity and strength of purpose.”

Easy Pet

If you want a pet but aren’t quite ready to commit to a cat or dog then choose the much simpler option of a Koi and place them in their pond. This will require a bit more work up front since you will have to construct the pool and habitat. But after that initial bit of work, the animals are essentially self-reliant save for a quick feeding. And they are beautiful to watch!

Equity Value

Real estate agents will tell you that having a koi pond immediately increases the value of your home. The reason is not concrete but it’s believed that the addition represents a certain style, makes a statement and of course, provides the aforementioned health benefits. While this is still technically dependent on the right buyer finding the pond appealing, studies show that the majority of buyers are attracted to the area.

Attracts Natural Beauty

The installation of a koi pond will mean some planting of flowers and plants around the rocks and other barriers. Then over time, the ecosystem will adapt around the area to include even more colorful plants. This, in turn, will attract birds, butterflies, and other nature. With the installation of the pond, you are increasing nature’s footprint in your yard tenfold.

Educational

Koi will eat right out of your hand when it’s flat. So if you have children, this can be especially beneficial. The feeding time will be fun for them while also giving you an opportunity to teach them about different parts of nature and how everything works together. It’s a built-in educational tool.

Once you’ve examined Koi ponds and the reasons you need one and it will become clear how helpful these oases can be in your yard and your life. At that point call Outdoor Hardscapes to help bring this dream to life. Give Outdoor Hardscapes a call today at (251) 214-9166! We will help your landscape and hardscape dream ideas come to life. We have the experience and know-how to create amazing outdoor spaces and we will take your outdoor living to the next level. Visit our Outdoor Living Area.

© Southern View Media 2018: Reproduction without explicit permission is prohibited. All Rights Reserved. “Get Online or Get Left Behind”

After being cooped up all winter—and what a frigid winter it was—many of us along the Gulf Coast are ready to move back into nature. As the weather warms, we begin to dream of nights under the stars in our backyards with friends all gathered around a fire pit. That last part seems essential to any backyard hangout. Just choosing to bring the flames into your yard though is the first step. Then there’s the matter of deciding what kind of pit works best in your space and for your needs. Here are four styles of fire pits from Outdoor Hardscapes to help you determine the best option for your yard.

1. Stone Wall
   1. This classic look will work well in both grassy areas and off a patio. The stone size, color and texture can vary depending on the exact aesthetic you’d like to achieve. Some things will remain the same no matter the yard however. The stone wall fire pit is one that is built above ground, usually in a circular shape. It can be built into an existing wall if need be or be free standing.
2. In-Ground Pit
   1. For something a little more permanent and natural, go below the dirt for an in-ground pit. This can still be lined with stone, brick or another material. Doing this will keep dirt from eroding away, making your pit long lasting. We make sure to line the bottom with some sort of gravel; since we’re digging into the ground, wet dirt can become a problem so a barrier layer will help keep the moisture from dousing your flames.
3. Cowboy Campfire
   1. The original fire pit, a cowboy campfire is the kind you’d see out on the range. It lends itself to marshmallow roasting and bonfires no matter the time of years. A cowboy campfire is generally indicative of a pit that can also be used for cooking. This will require a much larger and hotter fire than something that’s used just to set the mood. Combat any danger by lining your area with stone and cement that is packed specifically to withstand extreme temperatures. Add hooks and braces for griddles to complete your workingman fire pit.
4. Portable Globe
   1. Take your fire pit with you even if you move. A smaller and portable globe can be packed if you want to reuse the device at a new home. It also means you can consider different options for your yard. Instead of pouring something more permanent, move the globe around, taking into account accessibility and seating. Consider spots on a porch or creating a patio just for the extra fire pit lounge. Move it from underneath a gazebo to sit closer to the pool. The options are endless when you don’t limit yourself to a permanent spot. Since these are manufactured there is also a larger variety in terms of color and textiles.

Get a jump-start on your spring and summer nights by considering one of these four styles of fire pits from Outdoor Hardscapes for your yard. If you are considering a fire pit or renovating an existing one, give Outdoor Hardscapes a call today at (251) 214-9166! We will help your landscape and hardscape dream ideas come to life. We have the experience and know-how to create amazing outdoor spaces and we will take your outdoor living to the next level. Visit our Outdoor Living Area.

© Southern View Media 2018: Reproduction without explicit permission is prohibited. All Rights Reserved. “We Put You Online So You Don’t Get Left Behind”