Author: admin

Over 2 months ago, I received a notice about the Gold Awards given to 4 landscape designers/ and or design companies for this year’s American Professional Landscape Designer (APLD) Awards.

As I perused over the names and projects, my eyes were drawn to:

Charles Hess, Lansdale, PA, won THREE Gold awards, two in the Residential category and one in the Specialty Projects category.

Although my focus is on naturalistic plantings and designs, when I laid eyes on what Chuck had created on this Bryn Mawr estate, I felt compelled to share it with you.

Unfortunately because of my wild traveling and work schedule this summer, I didn’t have time to interview Chuck; but he sent on plenty of information that will offer you a robust understanding of the ‘whys’ and ‘whats’ of this outstanding project.*

*Please see PDF at end of article.

Chuck’s design and his use of stone work are both elegant and sumptuous.

For so many of us gardeners who are focused on plantings themselves, we tend to forget that the bones of a garden is the first step that we need to pay attention to when creating our own personal paradise.

Here is a description of the garden:

“The design of this residential property incorporates an all new exterior program to compliment the newly constructed estate home. Traditional materials are used with modern twists, to create a property that appears timeless but also lively. A diverse selection of plant material creates rich tapestries for the outdoor rooms placed into the landscape.

Plantings at the front of the home are traditional in form to create a tailored appearance, featuring a greater reliance on evergreen material for four season structure. Containers are used here to provide seasonal color, and are changed out with seasonally appropriate materials throughout the year.”

“In back areas where outdoor living is more frequent, plantings were selected to provide long periods of sequential bloom, and to provide a looser, textured character. Flowering Cherry trees jump-start the spring season, and are followed by Winter King Hawthorns, Dogwoods, and Crape Myrtles. Improved varieties of Hydrangea such as Endless Summer® and ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ offer prolonged seasons of bloom. Full sun area blends of perennials include Montauk Daisy, Salvia, Iris, Nepeta, Perovskia, Amsonia, and Achillea. ”

 

 

“Shadier spots incorporate blends of Astilbe, several different varieties of Heuchera, variegated Solomon’s Seal, Hakone Grass, and Hellebore. Herbaceous foliage texture and color plays an important role through these areas, augmenting the garden’s appearance during times when plants are out of bloom. A vegetable garden was also provided per the client’s wishes, to provide fresh produce for the family during the growing season.”

 

 

 

 

*Written Brief of Bryn Mawr, Pa garden designed by Chuck Hess

1. This residential project is located in USDA Hardiness zone 7-A.

2. A historic residence located on this site had fallen into disrepair to the point of being unsalvageable. The client made the difficult decision of removing the structure completely in order to create habitable dwelling space on the site. Deed restrictions limited the availability of building sites and impervious coverage. Most of the site was mown lawn, and only a few large trees remained.

3. The client needed a home and grounds suitable for raising their young family. Their preferences included amply-sized outdoor recreation spaces for children play areas, as well as purpose-built spaces for outdoor entertaining. Their favoured style involved less formal structure, with the incorporation of layers of loose plantings bordering spaces.

4. The intent of the design was to meet as many of the client’s program requirements as feasible while creating a beautiful garden which the users would move through and interact with.

5. The new dwelling was positioned to take advantage of existing views, to establish privacy from neighbours, and to preserve important natural features. Distinct areas were created outside the new home for entertaining and gathering, including a formal arrival motor=court, the main terrace with outdoor kitchen, a soccer field for the client’s children, and a Koi pond. Centred on the new swimming pool are other new features such as a spa, a fire pit, and a separate pool house structure. The backdrop for all spaces includes many different types of plants, which have been selected and used in specific combinations to provide a succession of seasonal bloom and attractive textures. Remnants of the former home on site were preserved where feasible, such as the lower wall, Wisteria arbour, and grand stairway. An existing rock outcrop was planted as a garden feature, with its own unique palette of plantings.

6. Portions of the existing historic structure’s garden were retained and associated with the garden spaces. The pergola and retaining wall bordering the main terrace spaces were refurbished, with some materials being replaced to match the new home’s vernacular. Storm-water runoff was all retained and infiltrated back into the ground on site. A vegetable garden was created since the client’s eco-friendly ambitions included raising their own household vegetables and culinary herbs.

7. The role of the designer included all landscape design services. After conducting an initial site inventory and assisting with the positioning of the new home on the site, a master plan was created which addressed all program elements required by the client. Construction documents were prepared to guide contractor work. Planting plans which delineated all plant species, sizes, and locations were developed. The significant trees were selected by the designer at nearby nurseries. On-site supervision of plant installation assured the plans were followed closely. Follow up with the maintenance contractor was critical, and ensured the garden’s elaborate appearance was preserved. If you want a fabulous garden just like the one shown, you may want to calculate how much equity you have in your home which can help fund the project!

To receive a copy of the plant list for this award-winning garden, click on this link:

bryn-mawr-residence_master-plant-list-1

On another note: if you haven’t heard yet, My 1000 FREE Digging Deep Book and Course Giveaway is open. To receive your free copy and to sign up for my course (and gain immediate access), click on HERE.

This is a one time only offer that is selling out quickly! So take advantage of it immediately and share the link with family and friends so that they can get a free copy of Digging Deep and take the 3 part online course with you!!

As always, if you enjoyed this article, please share with friends and colleagues on social media. It’s good karma to share things that inspire you with others in the world. With love, Fran

The post appeared first on Gardening Gone Wild

You’ve brought your patio furniture into the garage. You collected wood for the fireplace. You even have a new set of mittens in the closet. Sounds like you are ready for another biting-cold Chicago winter. But while you are thinking about spending your days inside your toasty abode, have you stopped to think about what is going to happen to your property exposed to the elements?

Decks and fences – especially those made of wood – are subject to some noticeable damage during the winter that many homeowners and business managers don’t address until the spring. By then, repairs could be difficult and a total replacement of the fence or deck might be necessary. Instead of waiting until after the last minute, check out these hazards the average fence may encounter this winter, and why you should schedule repairs before frost falls over Chicago.

Not Today, Knotholes!

As the temperature starts to drop and fluctuate, it is not uncommon for knotholes to rattle themselves out of wooden fences. The result is a hole that looks awfully inviting to termites. Handle any potential knothole issues ahead of time to avoid turning your fence into a hotel for insects.

Filling the Gaps

For the same reason why knotholes may appear in the colder months, gaps between planks of wooden fences and decks can become prominent. The more wide gaps you have, the weaker the entire structure becomes, and you risk a collapse.

Watch Your Head

Snow is not the only thing that falls during the winter season. Sometimes branches take a tumble, too, and cause considerable property damage. Either reinforce your fences and decks near trees now or start slicing up your conifers.

Stand Up Straight

As the temperature changes, so does the consistency of the soil. Some patches may become brittle, dry, or otherwise unstable, and fence posts start to lean. Have a professional inspect each post and determine which ones need reinforcement, repair, or replacement.

It’s Up to Your Knees Out There

Perhaps the main reason you should be considering fence and deck repairs sooner than later is the major inconvenience inches of snow makes for everyone. Even the best crews might not be able to readily access your damaged property if snowfall won’t let up. If something goes wrong and your fence is damaged, it could be a while before it can be corrected.

Looking for friendly and experienced fence and deck installation and repair service? Contact our Chicago fence repair team at Fence Masters today and ask how you should prepare your property for the winter. We have 30+ years of service experience and offer free estimates, so call 708.758.5250 now. We look forward to hearing from you.

The post appeared first on Fence Masters

If you’re hoping to take your deck up a notch, it’s important to first know what to look for before beginning any projects. While you may be able to accomplish some repairs on your own, more extensive ones often require the help of a professional team. As a Chicago deck repair company, we can get your deck ready for the warmer months ahead and turn it into a place you truly want to be.

What are the most common areas in need of deck maintenance?

Stairs
If your deck already has stairs, but they haven’t been touched in some time, they should be repaired or replaced. Even one weak stair can damage the entire structure and lead to serious injuries. A complete overhaul should always be taken care of by an experienced professional.

Ledger Board
An addition on a much smaller scale involves attaching a deck ledger board. A house with vinyl siding is susceptible to leaking water from a deck, so installing this board can protect your house and its siding from water damage.

Surface
Sometimes giving your deck new life is as simple as renting a pressure washer and buying some stain. Older decks begin looking worn due to weather exposure, but this problem can be fixed in one afternoon. With a pressure washer, you can eliminate tough stains and a fresh coat of stain makes your deck look like new!

Boards
Boards that are beginning to warp or split thanks to the weather should be treated before you make good use of your deck. Without a proper restoration coating, you can suffer from splinters and other injuries. Restore your deck before a new season of use arrives.

Whatever your deck maintenance needs, Fence Masters is here for you. We have over 30 years of experience and have committed ourselves to put our customers first every time. Why wait? Get in touch with us today to take your deck to the next level!

The post appeared first on Fence Masters

With the arrival of spring and the promise of warmer temperatures in the near future, you may have dreams of barbecuing out on your deck. But before that can happen, however, your deck may be in need of a little TLC.

Winter weather conditions can take a serious toll on wood decks and the natural aging process also contributes to the general wear and tear. Fortunately for most homeowners, it’s nothing some time and attention can’t remedy. Before you spend spring and summer days on your deck, use the following information as a helpful guide toward a possible need for deck repair.

Rough Textured Boards

Aging wood decks can be a major culprit for splinters, particularly if yours has been out of commission for a while. The natural glue in the wood is prone to breakdowns and this can cause splits across your deck. If you find this to be a problem on your own deck, it is time to have the surface resealed.

Bubbling Sealant

Without reliable sealant protecting your deck, you run the risk of extreme exposure to the sun and other weather conditions. When the sealant begins to bubble or crack, you will need to strip the deck and reseal it.

Uneven Staining

Although it may be more for aesthetics, staining can also affect the overall quality of a deck, as well. Staining that has become uneven or abnormal should be treated quickly. If you notice moss growth, it is important to treat this, as it may indicate water infiltration in the wood.

Inability to Resist Water

The sign of a good deck is its ability to easily resist water. To test this, just pour a cup of water onto your deck. Water that is absorbed into the wood instead of merely beading on the surface means your deck should be treated before making use of it.

Warping Boards

Over time, the wooden boards of a deck can expand because of temperature changes and water exposure. This can weaken your deck and eventually even lead to wood rot. By taking care of the problem when you first notice it, you can eliminate more serious future problems.

Don’t wait until the middle of summer to take care of your deck! The Chicago deck repair team at Fence Masters can treat your deck with efficiency to give you many years of enjoyment outside. Call us today to schedule your free estimate.

The post appeared first on Fence Masters

For many people, their deck is simply an extension of their home. The freedom to barbeque, spend time outside, and host parties are some of the best parts of owning a home with a deck. You probably don’t think about how much you actually value that part of your home until something happens, like weather damage. Fortunately, most forms of weather damage can be fixed with some sweat and elbow grease.

Controlling Moisture & Mildew for the Long-Term

Wooden decks are often most at risk for weather damage and should be treated accordingly. Before you can protect your deck for the long-term, you have to first deal with the problem at hand. Winter weather can be brutal for wooden decks, particularly when snow accumulates for long periods of time. The best time to deal with weather damage is when the snow is officially gone for the season.

To start, use a plastic shovel to clear the snow and ice from your deck. This will reduce the impact on the wood and prevent any unnecessary damage. The snow should be cleared as soon as possible because wood can begin to warp if it is exposed to moisture for too long.

Although tempting, avoid applying any salt or chemical products on your deck. It can seem beneficial, but over time, these products can weaken your deck. Sealing your deck is the best way to combat mildew and moisture.

If mildew developed during the winter, you may need to use a removal solution to remove it. The simplest solution includes water, oxygen bleach, and soap. Apply this to your deck and let it sit for 20 minutes. Simply spray it with water, scrubbing certain areas if necessary.

Finally, it is time to seal your deck from future damage. Consult with a Chicago deck company before beginning to ensure that you are using the right product. Rid your deck of debris by sweeping or pressure washing. Using a roller, apply the sealant over the entire deck. It is important to allow the sealant to dry completely, or you may have to repeat the process.

Repairing a weather-damaged deck can be labor-intensive and many homeowners simply don’t have the time to do it themselves. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t hesitate to call the team at Fence Masters! We would be delighted to help you repair your deck and seal it for longevity. Contact us today!

The post appeared first on Fence Masters

Weather in Illinois can be extreme, with freezing temperatures and snow in the winter, and the risk of serious storms during other parts of the year. Unfortunately, this can do serious damage to your home and create the need for costly repairs. Because fences are so exposed to the elements, they can be one of the first things to suffer the brunt of the weather.

No matter what material your fence is made out of, it is not uncommon for it to need a tune-up or more extensive repairs at some point during the year. You may be able to accomplish some of the work yourself and in the event that you need professional assistance, our Chicago fence repair company is here to help.

Repairing Your Fence & Protecting It from Future Damage

In decades past, wood fences were by far the most common for homeowners. Today, materials have become more varied and often include vinyl, wrought iron, aluminum, and chain-link. Wooden fences can be most susceptible to damage, but maintaining them throughout the year is critical for their longevity and sustainability.

When you first notice that your fence has sustained damage, it is important to inspect the areas that may need repairs. How significant is the damage? Is it something you can handle on your own? In most cases, quicker is always better when it comes to fence repairs.

Next, gather your supplies. Acquire everything you’ll need at the same time – the last thing you want is to be stuck without an important supply in the middle of your repair project. More serious repairs may require you to order parts online before you begin.

While you’re actually working on the fence, take your time to ensure that no step gets skipped in the process. Consult with a professional if you are ever concerned about a certain aspect of your repairs. At Fence Masters, we have more than 30 years of experience and can use our expertise to properly maintain your fence.

Get in touch with us today for affordable, world-class service!

The post appeared first on Fence Masters