Have you thought your kitchen needs a little more counter space? Have you ever dreamed about updating your current fixtures to get the most out of your kitchen? Are there posts about beautiful kitchen remodel on your social media feed, but you think, “—that could never be my house!”
When you take a step back, you may find that your dream kitchen design might not be as far out of your reach as you might initially think. However, the first step to getting the most out of your current kitchen is figuring out how to utilize all the available space best. You can add more counter space to your kitchen even if you’re not ready to take the jump into home renovation just yet. Figuring out if a kitchen island can help you solve some of your current space problems is easy!
There’s a lot to learn about, even the simplest of kitchen renovations from kitchen island ideas, kitchen décor ideas, and how to map out a floor plan when deciding on a new island. By following this handy guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about kitchen islands and design.

Why Do You Need a Kitchen Island? 

Whether you consider it a want, aesthetic, or need, a kitchen island can add a lot to your home for functional reasons. When there’s more counter space, you have more places to work on your favorite hobbies. 
Cooking and baking are often just the starts of all the hobbies you can practice in the kitchen. If you like to dry your flowers or meats, mix your lotions, or even make candles, you probably do it in the kitchen.
Many of these great hobbies need a good amount of countertop space to do. Adding an island is the best way to create a focal point, hide clutter, and make meal prep easier while keeping your kitchen layout. But what exactly is a kitchen island?

Defining the Island Design

Many people don’t know exactly what’s considered an island or a peninsula when talking about kitchen islands. A kitchen island is a freestanding piece of furniture with a top surface that’s safe for kitchen use, though it may or may not have cabinets. 
A kitchen peninsula extends the existing cabinetry, creating an extra arm of the kitchen counter.
The key difference here is that the counter cannot be connected to the existing infrastructure to be an island. It may not lay directly in the center of a room, but it cannot be attached to other cabinetry pieces or walls. If this is the case, then it’s called a peninsula. 

Choose the Scope of Your Renovation

The first step in choosing how you’ll go about your kitchen remodel, and thus when considering the addition of a kitchen island, is how much time and money you have to dedicate to this project. 
If you don’t own the home you’re currently living at; you should get approval from the homeowner before doing a major kitchen renovation. And you should only consider it if you have an agreement to buy the home after your lease terminates, as some renters do. 
Beautiful luxury materials, like marble countertops, should be for your home, not someone else’s.

Minor and Major Renovations: Making the Right Choices
At some point, you’ve decided if you’ll be taking on a major kitchen renovation project or if you’re going to stick with a smaller kitchen island idea.
With a minor renovation, you’ll have to consider:

• Updating small fixtures
• Buying new towels or rugs
• Refinishing existing cabinets
• Adding racks or shelves for simple storage space
• Better if you are on a tight budget

For major renovations, you will also have to consider:

• Replacing appliances for stainless steel appliances
• Installing new cabinetry
• Considering new light fixtures
• Changing the current appliance layout
• Better for larger budgets

These are a few among the many other decisions you’ll have to consider depending on how extensive your renovation will be. In either case, a kitchen island is not outside of design possibilities. You can even turn a dining room table into a kitchen island.
If you want to maximize your floor plan to get more usable kitchen space, there are two central kitchen island ideas to keep in mind—but we’ll get to that later.

Picking the Right Place and Size
Once you’ve decided that a kitchen island is suitable for your kitchen renovation, you’ll have to make plans that detail exactly where you’ll put your island and how big it will be. More exact calculations should be done later when you hire a contractor or before you begin building yourself.

Plan it Out
You can figure out a new layout using a sketchpad or room designing software available online in this early planning phase. This can give you a basic idea of the shape you’d like your island to be. 
Conversely, you can also use construction chalk, which easily wipes away to draw directly on your floor. This can help you get an idea of what an island would look like in your space and how your kitchen island idea will affect the flow of your kitchen.
This is just the initial planning phase. If you’re unsure of your idea or need help designing your major or minor kitchen remodel, think about contacting some experts. Kitchen interior designers and contractors often offer designing services. 
They are there to help you through this process, all the way up to project competition. 

The Fun Part—Picking the Style

After the scope of your project has also been decided, you should decide on what kind of kitchen island you would like. 
There are two significant kinds of kitchen islands, though they each come in a wide variety of forms and styles. The first is a built-in fixed kitchen island; the second is a mobile or furniture-style island.
These options have benefits, but the best choice will depend on your specific needs and situation.

Fixed Cabinetry Kitchen Islands

The first option to consider is a fixed cabinetry-style kitchen island–the most custom kitchen island. This is the kind of kitchen island that likely comes to mind when you think of one. These can be made to look like a wide variety of furniture pieces and can fit any style when different kinds of materials and trimming are used.

In short, this option is better if you:

• Want to make a more significant investment in your kitchen remodel
• Kitchens where there is a lot of extra unused space
• If you need additional permanent seating in your kitchen
• If you want to install custom features in the kitchen design

Island Ideas to Consider

The best feature of fixed-style kitchen island ideas is that they add a permanent and substantial value to your home. 
These are more costly to make, so adding more personal style to your kitchen through the island can add more value to your renovation. Making this piece unique but fitting to the kitchen and home style will give it more weight in the long run, even though it may come with extra costs in the present.
A designer or contractor better executes the fixed kitchen island idea. Especially if you plan on adding new electronics, fixtures, sinks, or other appliances like a stove, leave electrical and plumbing work to professionals to avoid costly accidents and mistakes.

Freestanding or Mobile Kitchen Islands

The second option to consider is the freestanding kitchen island. As it sounds, a freestanding kitchen island is a piece of furniture you bring into your kitchen that has a kitchen-safe countertop you can work on. This piece can sometimes be completely mobile, like a cart on wheels or somewhat fixed, as in a heavy piece of furniture with a counter on top of it.

This option is best if you:

• Have a limited budget or time
• Don’t wish to remodel the kitchen fully
• Don’t wish to destroy your floor
• If you have limited space
• If you don’t own your current residence
• If you want extra prep space

Island Ideas to Consider

While this option won’t allow you to raise the value of your kitchen with a permanent fixture, it is still an excellent way to increase the amount of counter space in your kitchen. It won’t cost nearly as much as installing new cabinets, and it will give a lot of mobility, especially if you go with a mobile kitchen island idea.
This option may seem less custom than a fixed cabinet-style kitchen island. However, there are still many options, finishes, sizes, and styles of mobile islands. You can even choose to refurbish another piece of furniture that you can turn into a kitchen island, making the piece as unique as you are. It’s also great for a neutral kitchen island design.
By utilizing a mobile countertop, you can also continually update the style of your kitchen at a much lower cost than it would take to correct the cabinetry in the fixed style. 

Understanding Your Kitchen Layout: How to Maximize Space for Ample Storage Space

You may want to preemptively consider how to make the best use of your kitchen space before consulting with a designer. Or, if you’re going the DIY route or picking the best freestanding island option, you’ll also have to consider these factors. To do this, you’ll need to understand how much space you have in your kitchen to decide how large your island could be based on this information. You’ll also have to determine the location of the island.

The Size and Length of the Island

To find the best size for your new kitchen island, you’ll have to balance your limitations and wants. While you may want to go with an oversized island design for more entertainment possibilities, it can become a hazard in your kitchen if there isn’t enough space for you to safely walk around it. 
If you choose not to install a fixed cabinet-style kitchen island, this will be easier to consider, as no installation will be necessary. However, you should still select a new island that will provide easy access. In any case, you should avoid investing in a kitchen island that is too cumbersome.

Leaving Walk Space
The first thing to consider is how much walking space will be left around the perimeter of your new kitchen island. As a rule of thumb, you’ll want to leave at least 36″ of walking space around all sides of the island. This allows enough room for two people to walk past one another quickly and for someone to work on a stove safely. 

How Big is Too Big?
If you have an entire room to install a large island design, then you should do it if that’s what you want! As long as there is enough space to work and walk around the island safely, there should be no limits on how large it can be.
However, an excessively oversized countertop will be challenging to work on. And an ample space in the center will be primarily unreachable. This can be an excellent place to display fine plates decorative bowls or use for other kinds of display. However, if you’d like more usable breakfast bars, another option, like multiple island counters, may be best for you.

Calculating Maximum Size
First, measure the length and width of the entire space in your kitchen. From each side, take in at least 36″, as mentioned before, as walkway space, and the remaining number you have is the maximum size of your kitchen island. 
Leave more space for walking if you can, and account for another 18″ on each side of the island if you want to make room for people to sit comfortably. This will add entertainment space for ample seating and space to walk around it. 

Island Layers
Instead of going large, think about diversifying the cabinet heights. This can help you maximize your cooking space while avoiding an overly cumbersome piece of furniture that makes it harder to use your kitchen instead of easier.
This is an excellent option for both fixed and mobile kitchen islands. At the same time, you may need a certain countertop height to work on when kitchen prepping. However, you may also require the countertop to be higher or lower for those who want to sit down at it. Having a lower drop-down counter is especially good if you have small children that need shorter stools to sit on. Keeping these sections at different heights can also add drama and increase the functionality of the counter.
If you have a mobile kitchen island, purchasing several smaller carts or tables can help you achieve this effect, offering more surface area and more storage possibilities.

The Right Countertop

This may seem like a strange time to bring up the physical countertop that will be installed in your major or minor kitchen renovation.

Ensure the Island Unit Fits

Countertop size will play a significant role in how much space your counter takes up. Often, the kitchen island base will not contain the entire countertop area. This depends on the kind of style that you choose. 
If you have a kitchen island idea that includes a sitting area, you’ll have to decide if the countertop is freestanding or include extra storage under or beside it that supports the counters’ wait.
The important part is to understand which design choice you will choose. This will allow you to account for any extra handover that might impede your walkway. An easy mistake to make while calculating the size of your new kitchen island is only accounting for the size of the base and not for the amount of the countertop that will extend from it.

Countertop Style

A professional contractor will help you keep this information in mind and ensure that any overhanging countertop is accounted for in the design and building process. Also, decide if you want the countertop edges to be sharp or if you’ll have rounded edges.
Plus, they can help you if you’d like to mix materials. You may want white marble in one section of your kitchen and a reclaimed wood butcher block for prepping food elsewhere. 

Big Kitchen Island Ideas–Making a Usable Space 

The very point of kitchen remodeling is to make the kitchen more beautiful or functional. Make sure to pick the best countertop space solution that will fit your needs and budget. But understand that each choice comes with its own set of benefits. And this list has not been exhaustive.
Working with a design team can help you pick the best kitchen island for you, whether that means choosing an antique mobile cart for your cottage-style kitchen. Or having an ultra-modern sleek kitchen décor with an equally elegant kitchen island. You may want an innovative solution if you have a particularly large or oddly shaped kitchen. 

Having Multiple Islands

It may make more sense for you to go with a style that includes more than one kitchen island. To maximize the amount of storage and seating, you may want to have several workplaces. If you cook a lot or have a lot of tasks going on in the kitchen, you may want to have more workspaces than usual. By dividing up a single large kitchen island into two or three, you can allocate more room to your different passions.
On the other hand, this style can also allow you to use your kitchen for multiple purposes at once. Your children may use it as a work or eating space all while someone else cooks or bakes, with little interruption to the other.
Choose to mix and match your design ideas, depending on your needs. You could have a more oversized, fixed kitchen island and a smaller mobile island that you can use when you need, and store away in a garage or use elsewhere in your home when it’s not required. This versatility can increase the kitchen’s functionality while saving you on cost and inconvenience.

Style Ideas

How you style your new kitchen décor will depend on the scope of your renovation. Major renovations will mean that you can make significant changes in the aesthetic of your kitchen. Contemporary kitchen décor can completely change how a space feels, even if you don’t want to invest in a large-scale kitchen remodeling project.
There are many ways you can freshen the look of your kitchen décor to make the most of your new kitchen island. Much like considering how large of a kitchen remodeling project you want to take on, choosing to restyle your kitchen can be a large or small project. 
Keep in mind some simple tips for updating your kitchen and things you should keep in mind even when looking for a larger kitchen remodel.

Updating Current Fixtures?

You don’t have to knock down walls and replace all your appliances to complete a kitchen renovation. Doing small renovations can add new life to the kitchen you love without completely overhauling it. Making minor changes every once in a while can also help your kitchen stay updated and keep it feeling fresh every few years.
Consider how you can make minor updates, like:

Adding new knobs to match the new kitchen island. Over time, the knobs and handles of the cabinetry can get loose and worn down. Old knobs can make doors look older and more worn down as well. By replacing them every five years, you can subtly update your kitchen’s look while keeping the hardware up to date. 
When you add a new addition to your kitchen, like in one of these fixed or mobile kitchen island ideas, you should consider it an excellent time to update the little details, like knobs. This will help to incorporate the new addition more seamlessly.

Choosing a different style altogether. A mobile kitchen island can be a great way to add a new flair to your kitchen. If you have a modern kitchen, then a worn but pale wooden accent can completely change the feeling of the space, from ultra-sleek to urban chic. A pillar style or cart type kitchen island can add this shift of aesthetic and are cheaper and easier to replace or refinish than standard fixed cabinetry.
Using different materials in the same color can blend the differing kitchen accents into a cohesive design.  

Antique hunting. Another great way to change your kitchen style quickly is to find new items that can subtly or majorly shift the look of your kitchen. Antiquing is a great hobby and can open you to a whole host of aesthetics that you may not otherwise encounter. 
This can allow you to find antique doors that can become countertops when preserved in hardened resin. Antique dining table tops can become unique furniture style kitchen islands as well.
Or you can even find varnished hooks for hanging pots to increase storage space in your kitchen, among other finds that can change the look of your home while also improving its functionality.

Planning an entire kitchen?

When you go about picking a new kitchen island, you may have also decided that the rest of your kitchen is also in need of refurbishing. This is a large project, but when done well can increase the value of your home, adding to the value of your investment in it.
When choosing a style for your kitchen remodel, don’t be afraid to make a bold statement with your kitchen island. Choosing bright colors for your island can make it a center point of the room. By choosing muted colors instead, you’ll make bold designs in other places stand out more. 
Having a “found furniture” feel to your kitchen island can also give it a Moroccan style elegance which is very popular.  

Have Multi-Purpose Workspaces

What is functionality?
For whatever you use your kitchen for, whether you own an at-hope baking company or have a household bustling with several children, you will need your countertop and countertop space for many things. 
Sometimes it’s a desk for doing homework. Sometimes it’s a meeting place for your family and friends. Other times it becomes a field for cooking experiments, both successful or not. The list of ways you can use your kitchen quickly becomes endless. 
When so much responsibility lies on the shoulders of a single room, make sure you have a clever storage idea to compact space better. When you decide to get a kitchen island to increase the amount of counter space in your kitchen, you want to ensure that it suits your unique lifestyle and needs. 
These factors will need to be at the forefront of your mind while making design choices.
Consider if you want easy-to-clean surfaces for heavy use areas or more ornate fixtures that suit your sense of style more. Finding the balancing point between these two desires will help you make the best design choice possible.

Don’t forget about Storage
One significant design flaw in most kitchens is a lack of storage. While making design decisions about kitchen décor, you may forget about storage, as many homeowners do!
Adding a new kitchen island can be a great way to address these concerns with deep drawers and wide cabinets. Choosing to build a fixed kitchen island is a great way to add a lot of storage. Adding cabinetry and shelving are easy to install under the countertop while still leaving space for people to sit comfortably.
Mobile kitchen islands can also offer you more storage though they might not be as customizable. Adding hooks inside a cart can help you store pots more effectively. Adding in low shelves on a converted table can also offer you a layer of storage space for books, towels, and pantry items.

How to Account for Kitchen Island Seating

Think of all the reasons you’ll need seating space for your new island countertop. This is another factor to consider in your planning phase when initially deciding on the width and length of your potential kitchen countertop.
While adding a bar area to your new countertop is a great way to add more living space to your kitchen, you must also account for how much room it takes to seat several people comfortably. When looking at the maximum space you have available, be realistic about how many can sit counter-side.
To do this, you should account for at least 24″ of space for each person. On top of this, you must also consider the proper height of the countertop. If you have small children, you may want to consider having an island bench seating where they can safely access without the fear of falling. This is when the multi-level design approach, as discussed earlier, is a great design option to consult with a kitchen designer or contractor.

Having the Right Chairs
Finally, you have your custom island. It’s time to consider the final kitchen décor finishes that truly finish your new kitchen island. This includes small soft furnishing finishes, including towels, rugs, and bar stools that will tie together your new design.
But on top of these smaller items, if you’ve decided to make a seating or bar area next to your kitchen island, you’ll have to pick the perfect bar stools to go along with it. They can’t be too tall or short, as they will make it uncomfortable for anyone to sit and use the countertop space.
If this is the case, you need to pick the best colors and fabrics to finish your space. Do you want backless stools or seats? More comfortable seating with soft materials will be better for children or family meals. 
Wooden stools look natural and are great for neutral kitchens. Metal bar stools will bring a sleeker look or give a country room a modern twist. They will also be easier to clean.

Getting Inspired

With all this information under your belt, you can start designing your new kitchen island idea! However, you may still need some inspiration. With today’s technology, this is easily obtained from online sources. Social media posts, online blogs, and even ideas from the homes of your friends and family are all inspirations that can better shape your vision for your own home.
Take the time to contact a designer with your inspirational photos as a reference to help them understand your vision. In the end, this ensures that you get your unique perspective on your dream kitchen.

Make the Most of Your Kitchen Remodel

A good kitchen renovation will significantly increase the value of your home, especially if you plan on reselling it soon. However, if you’re looking to update an existing kitchen, then a kitchen remodeling project may be just what you need to fall in love with your kitchen again.
When considering all the kitchen island ideas offered here, think about how an island will improve the usability of your kitchen—giving you new eating and working space where there was just empty floor space before. By carefully designing your kitchen to match your other kitchen décor, your recent remodel will seamlessly work with the existing features and become the beating heart of your home once more.

We all want a beautiful lawn that is lush, vibrant, and feels great underfoot. Something that the neighbors will envy, and our kids will laugh and play in. To get to that stage, you might be asking yourself, “What’s better, sod or seed?”.

In an everyday conversation among neighbors, everyone seems to have their own opinion. The answer to this question is personal and involves your budget, timing, and how much work you are willing to put in. There are many differences between Sod and seed, with distinct benefits and drawbacks.

What is Sod

Let’s start with the fundamentals. What is Sod?

Sod is grass with a thin layer of soil held in place by the root system or biodegradable material. It comes in rolls and is installed simply by rolling it out and watering it. It is the quickest way to establish an instant lawn, but it requires attention to detail and more physical labor than grass seed.

Cost of a New Lawn

The price plays an essential role in deciding between Sod and seed. While the upfront costs of Sod can be 3-10x the cost of seed, you need to consider the speed and ease of installation when deciding.

Sod

The price of Sod is typically between $0.30 to $.90 per square foot. This depends on the variety of grass, location, source, and how much you need. This does not take into account delivery fees or professional installation costs, which can raise the price by $1 or more per square foot.


Grass

As the inexpensive, albeit time-consuming, option, grass seed costs $.24 installed. Added to a seed spreader, grass seed is evenly spread over the ground before being raked in.


Outcome

From the numbers above, we can see that professionally installed grass seed is cheaper than the cheapest sod option using DIY installation. Paying the premium price and going with sod installation makes sense considering the timing (3 weeks vs. 3 months-1year).

How Long Until It’s Lush

Regarding timing, Sod and seed could not be any more different.

Sod

Laying Sod is a near-instant way to have a brand-new lawn. Because it is pre-grown, it already has roots ready to dive into fresh soil and start growing. As a result, the grass can immediately begin absorbing sunlight and growing and can be established in as few as two to three weeks.

To install Sod, you must strip your yard down to the bare soil. For this reason, Sod is often used to install a new lawn and not to repair an existing lawn.

Seed

Seed, on the other hand, takes one entire growing season to become dense and healthy enough to withstand foot traffic. Because of this, the seed is often used to repair existing lawns that have damage or sparse areas rather than grow a brand-new lawn.

Unlike Sod, seed is a very effective way to fill bare patches in an existing lawn.

Outcome

If you are in a rush or starting from bare soil, Sod is the way to go. Using seed is your best bet if you are repairing an existing lawn.

Ease of Installation and Upkeep

The convenience of growing a new lawn from Sod far outweighs planting from grass seed if you know what you are doing.

Sod

When correctly planted, Sod is as straightforward as unrolling, watering, and waiting. But installed incorrectly, you will end up with a quickly dying yard that costs you more time and money.

Some of these concerns are out of your hands, as your lawn may have a different environment than where the Sod was harvested. Differences such as the amount of sunlight, nutrient balance, and moisture levels can affect how the new Sod will grow and adapt.

To ensure a high success rate, you must do your research before attempting to install Sod. As a DIY project, this is more complicated than using seed, and hiring a professional will raise costs. Sod is heavy and unwieldy, and while you don’t need specialized equipment, it is not easy work.

Seed

As the more time-consuming option, it’s also more DIY friendly. When growing from seed, you don’t have to concern yourself with visible seams or the short transplanting window, issues that sod installation carries.

Because grass starts from seed and only knows your natural environment, it does not need to adapt like Sod. Therefore, it has a better chance of developing a robust, deep, and healthy root system.

The trick to growing grass from seed is to stay diligent in your responsibilities. Water regularly and monitor your lawn throughout the growing season to ensure everything is up to par.

Outcome

If you do the research or hire professionals, Sod has the shortest installation time. Seed is DIY-friendly, although it requires more time and dedication over a much extended period.

Availability of Varieties

Many homeowners have their favorite type of grass, whether that’s because of color, feel, water needs, or existing lawn. However, when it comes to finding a specific variety of grass, you will have a better chance of going with seed over Sod.

Sod

Because Sod has a short window for transplanting (24 hours), the variety you are looking for may not be in stock. So you may need to call around more or travel to find the type you are looking for. Or you may have to go with something else.

Seed

When properly stored, grass seed can be kept for up to three years. This makes it much easier to find the grass variety that you want. Not only that, but you can also find seeds designed for your particular region and soil type.

Outcome

If you feel flexible, Sod will allow quick gains if you take what is available. Seed will offer more options if you want a specific variety or something that will excel within your particular landscape.

Summer is here, so let’s enjoy it! Birds are singing, bees are buzzing, and your lawn is starting to look like it needs a trim.

These are all signs that it’s time to begin your annual summer maintenance, getting your home ready for late-night outdoor lounging and social BBQs. While the chores may seem daunting, this article will help you get started on revitalizing your outdoor space so that you can enjoy these long, sunny days.

Give Your Lawn Some Love

You may notice the weeds have started to come in, so grab your gardening gloves and get to work! Start by pulling up those pesky plants and spraying a targeted herbicide to stop them from returning. Just be mindful of spraying on your grass, as it can negatively affect its growth.

If you have a lawn, the grass should be kept between 2″ and 3.75″ tall. Higher cut grass promotes root growth and is more stress-tolerant, ideal for the extended summer heat. Also, keep your lawnmower blades sharp; otherwise, they will tear and shred your grass instead of providing a clean cut.

We all know that pests love the summer just as much as we do, so minimize their attendance at your next bbq by treating your lawn. June Bugs and Japanese beetles chew on grass and will cause wilting and bare patches if left undisturbed. You can fend off these hungry critters by spraying your lawn with a preventative grub control product.

Power Wash Your Hardscape

Your patio, outdoor furniture, and sidewalk could probably use a good scrub. Covered in cobwebs, winter salt, and general muck, these areas will look brand new after a thorough power wash.

Blast all the dirt and debris from your driveway, walkway, sidewalk, patio, and even siding if you’re feeling adventurous. After spraying your outdoor furniture, leave it in the sun to dry. You can also power wash your grill; just make sure to take out the pieces and let them dry in the sun.

If you don’t have a power washer, one can be rented from Home Depot or a local hardware store. This step will give your home an affordable facelift and have you feeling fresh and clean whenever you are lounging around.

Set Up Your Patio Furniture

Arrange your patio furniture in a way conducive to relaxation and socializing. Choose fabrics and materials that are resilient to sun bleaching and are easy to clean. Waterproof cushions and metal framing makes power washing and quick wipe-downs a breeze.

Design-wise, color is crucial and will help bring some beach vibes to your backyard. Choosing colorful outdoor furniture will help take attention off any less-than-stellar grass patches, and you can also put an outdoor rug down to create a more designated seating area. This is also a great option if you have babies and toddlers who can’t walk yet.

Get Your Pool Swim Ready

Get your pool ready for water aerobics by following these steps.

Keep your pool cover on and scrub down the baskets and filter cartridge. Remove any plugs that were installed when you closed the pool for the winter, and if the water level has fallen, grab your hose and top it off. Once your filter is installed and ready, turn it to the standard-setting and let it run.

It is recommended to have your water professionally tested at the beginning of swim season so that you know exactly what needs to be adjusted and how much. Then it’s time to don your lab coat, balance your PH levels, and add chemicals to the water. After this step, the filter will need to be cleaned daily until the water is clear. This process can take up to a week before you should remove the pool cover.

Clear the water by vacuuming all the leaves and debris from the bottom of your pool and covering it.

Fire Pit

An outdoor fire pit is the social hub of any summer gathering. Made from brick, stone, and metal, there are many designs, shapes, and sizes to choose from. You can build your own or purchase one from the store, whichever fits your yard and aesthetic best.

The most common fire pit burns wood and is the cheapest and easiest option to find. However, gas and propane fire pits are also easier to get going and allow you complete control over the flames. They often look cleaner and more stylish than wood-burning fire pits, but they take a little more effort to get set up.

Whichever fire pit you go with, make sure to allow enough clearance around the sides that it’s safe. Your seating should be fire-resistant, and it’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Lights

Outdoor lights can significantly elevate the aesthetic of an outdoor area with minimal cost and installation. For example, you can hang string lights across your yard, creating an overhang of illumination that will provide a romantic and charming nighttime vibe.

Tiki torches and solar lights can be used to line a walkway, and stylish lanterns placed around your outdoor furniture will highlight the seating area.

There are many styles to choose from, and with LED and solar lights rising in popularity, they are one of the most affordable ways to upgrade your outdoor space.

Mosquitos

Mosquitos are the bane of any good outdoor party, and it’s all too common to spend more time slapping at the air than enjoying yourself.

Mosquito season starts in March and goes until September, though warmer regions have extended periods. Because mosquitos lay their eggs in standing water, removing any pools of water from your house is essential so that there are no breeding grounds.

Maintaining your pool and yard is another important step to minimizing their presence. Keeping your lawn mowed and removing leaf piles will do wonders for reducing their population. It’s also good to have bug spray for social gatherings near your patio furniture.

Once summer hits, everyone wishes that they had a pool. As the ultimate hot weather escape, pools are relaxing, refreshing, and a great way to enjoy a scorching afternoon. However, with so many pool types available, it can be challenging to determine which best suits your family’s needs. From workout-friendly lap pools to decorative infinity pools and the classic above-ground pool, you have many styles, sizes, and features to choose from.

In this article, we head to the deep end to learn about the different pool types and their features. With some planning, budgeting, and research, you could be splashing around with friends and family in no time.

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools are a popular choice due to their easy installation and affordability. They don’t require the same extensive planning or installation as in-ground pools, drastically reducing their cost. Most above-ground pools are constructed using aluminum, resin, steel siding, and vinyl liners, making customizations possible. You can also build a shell around your pool or a spacious deck to improve its aesthetic and functionality.

Because you need to climb a ladder to get in, there is little risk of children accidentally falling into the pool. This makes them an excellent option for those with young kids. If you have a small backyard, you can opt for a semi-permanent above-ground pool, which can be taken down and stored away during the colder months.

The biggest drawback to above-ground pools is their lack of creative flexibility regarding design, shape, and size. While you have some options, you will be limited to the plans offered by manufacturers. And while they are quick and easy to install, as far as pools go, they do not have the longevity of in-ground pools, as the liners will need to be replaced every five years.

On average, above-ground pools cost $8 – $20 per square foot, or roughly $2,000 – $5,000.

In-Ground Pools

When we think of hot summer days spent lounging poolside, in-ground pools often come to mind. These permanent structures are built into your landscape and offer complete control over their size, shape, and design. There are a variety of materials they can be created from, depending on multiple factors.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass pools are delivered in one piece or constructed from fiberglass panels. They are the most flexible option and ideal for earthquake-prone areas to reduce the chance of cracking. A high-quality fiberglass pool can last 25-30 years if properly taken care of. The drawback to this style is that you have less creative control and are limited by size and shape.

On average, you can expect to pay between $45,000 – $80,000 for a fiberglass pool. Although more expensive than vinyl-liner, fiberglass pools do not require any replacements over the years.

Vinyl-Liner

Built by fastening vinyl panels, this type of pool sits on a concrete foundation. More affordable than fiberglass and concrete, vinyl pools are also easier to construct, reducing installation time. You can create your dream pool in any shape and size using vinyl and have it completed quickly. The downside is that vinyl-liners have a life span of 5-8 years and will need to be replaced. These pools are also prone to algae and are considered high maintenance.

The average cost for a vinyl-liner pool is 35,000 – $65,000, with replacement vinyl costing $5,000.

Concrete

As the most expensive material for pools, concrete must be poured on-site. While costly, this allows full customization over size, shape, and features. There are also endless options for the finishes, whether plaster, paint or specialty coatings. As a result, it has the longest life span and the greatest flexibility but at the highest cost.

Concrete pools cost between $50,000 and $100,000.

Infinity Pools

Infinity pools grace social media with their awe-inspiring design. Commonly found at fancy resorts, these pools are meant to highlight spectacular views and gorgeous landscaping. Infinity pools create the illusion that one edge is dropping off like a waterfall, adding to its classy appeal. This feature tricks your eyes into thinking there is no separation between the water and what lays beyond.

As one of the most complicated pools to design and build, they are also one of the most expensive. On average, they cost 20%-30% more than a regular pool because of the infinity edge. They are also a little more challenging to maintain, and the energy costs are higher, as a pump in the catch basin runs around the clock.

On average, infinity pools cost $80 per square foot, or between $55,000 and $130,000, depending on size and shape.

Lap Pools

If fitness is your goal, a lap pool will be perfect for your needs. These long, narrow pools take up minimal space and are ideal for small yards. The standard lap pool is 40’ long and as little as 8’ wide, though you can customize this to fit your space.

Like most pools, lap pools can be constructed using concrete or fiberglass and are quick and straightforward to build. But despite their straightforward design, the average cost of a lap pool is $44,000. This makes them more expensive than most standard in-ground pool options.

Saltwater Pools

A saltwater pool is not a structural swimming pool but a method of cleaning the water. Nearly any pool can be converted to a saltwater pool using a professionally installed chlorine generator.

Standard pools rely on adding chlorine or bromine to the water to disinfect it. However, many people switch to saltwater to eliminate the need for storing these dangerous chemicals. Although a saltwater pool uses a chlorine generator, which breaks down added salt to create chlorine, it is not the same chlorine that is added to standard pools. This reduces the smell, eye redness, and skin irritation from swimming in a chlorinated pool.

Saltwater pools are easier to maintain, as you do not need to take measurements or mix chemicals. Instead, you simply add salt at the beginning of your swimming season and monitor the levels weekly, adding salt when needed.

A salt-chlorine generator costs between $600 and $2000, with $50 – $100 in yearly maintenance costs.

Patios function as a focal point for socializing and relaxation and can be the centerpiece for professionally designed landscapes. From beautifully arranged seating areas to outdoor kitchens, a patio adds value and style to your home. Building a patio is an exercise in creative thinking, and there are many ways to incorporate this entertaining hub into your outdoor space.

Not only do patios offer more flexibility in using your property, but they can also add 8-10% to your home value and an ROI of over 80%. This makes them one of the best ways to get your money’s worth when improving the value of your home. Take a look at the options below to learn what kind of patio would work best for your situation.

Attached Patios

Attached patios are an extension of your home and are used for relaxation, dining, and entertaining. Often located off the living room or kitchen, these can open up interior space and turn it into a multifunctional room. This is an excellent choice if you have a small kitchen because you can open the door and now have an attached dining area.

Attached patios can be enclosed or left open, using patio covers, screens, and awnings. There are many styles and varieties of patio covers, and when used, they create a definitive “extra room” in your home. Covering an attached patio gives you privacy while protecting yourself and your furniture from the weather.


Detached Patios

Detached patios are set away from the house and offer a unique multipurpose space. They can be left open or enclosed with patio covers for added privacy and comfort.

Building Materials for Patios

The standard building materials for patios are concrete, brick, flagstone, pavers, tile, cut stone, and loose material. Each has pros and cons, ranging from cost and ease of installation to overall design.

Concrete

Concrete is the most versatile and durable material for building a patio. It can conform to any shape, allowing complete control over your patio design, and is easy to maintain. It also comes in various finishes, from smooth, stamped, and brushed to dyed, painted, and surfaced with other materials.

Brick

Brick has a classic appeal that offers a sturdy and timeless aesthetic. You can organize the bricks to create different patterns, such as herringbone and jack-on-jack, and have a few colors and shades to choose from.

Flagstone

Flagstone is made up of large, flat slabs of irregularly shaped stone. It provides good traction when wet, making it a good material for poolside patios. Flagstone incorporates sandstone, limestone, bluestone, and quartzite, usually determined by local availability.

Pavers

Pavers are made of concrete and designed to look like brick, cobblestone, or irregularly shaped stones. The most popular paver style is interlocking, which allows them to fit together neatly without grout or mortar.

Tile

Tile comes in porcelain, terracotta, and quarry, each with a distinct personality. Porcelain tile is stain-resistant and durable. Terracotta has a rustic southwestern appeal and is best suited for dry climates because it is porous. Quarry tiles are textured and give more traction.

Tile is usually sealed to protect it from stains, wear and tear, and moisture.

Cut Stone

Made from a variety of beautiful stones cut into geometric shapes, cut stone is favored among those creating a modern aesthetic. Granite, marble, travertine, limestone, blue stone, slate, and sandstone are all used to design awe-inspiring patterns.

Loose and Mixed Material

Using loose and mixed materials is an affordable way to lay a beautiful foundation for your patio. Very easy to work with, the common loose materials used are pea gravel, bark mulch, and rubber mulch. This style is usually combined with other materials, such as larger stones, wood, tile, and brick, to create a more dynamic effect.

Heating Your Patio

Whether you love roasting marshmallows over a fire or live in a wintery-wonderland location, adding warmth and comfort to your patio will extend its year-round potential. From simple solutions to expensive statement pieces, you have multiple options to consider.

While an outdoor rug won’t provide warmth, it does add comfort to your space and will create a cozy feeling of relaxation. In addition, these are easy to roll up, allowing you to change the vibe of your patio with ease.
Fire pits are the most popular addition to patios and create a focal point for any social activity. Wood fire pits are easy to move and can be stored when not used, while gas firepits create an easily controlled flame.
Heat lamps are the ideal way to warm up an outdoor space. They are tall, thin, and often use propane, which is easy to have refilled. Commonly used at restaurants, most models will heat a 25-square foot space, efficiently covering most patio spaces. They are also easy to store when not needed.

Cooking

With an outdoor kitchen, you can prepare meals for your friends, host parties, and no longer have to run in and out of the house. Whether you go with a simple grill on patio pavers or build an elaborate kitchen with gas burners and a pizza oven, this outdoor eating area will become a social gathering spot.

Furniture

The outdoor furniture market is projected to hit $50 billion in 2022, which gives you plenty of creative control over how you design your patio. Excellent patio furniture adds style and comfort to your outdoor space and can massively transform how your backyard looks. Made from various easy-care fabrics, most furniture is easy to spray down with the hose and let dry in the sun.

You can incorporate creative storage solutions, like a bench with a lift up top, to store pillows, blankets, and other outdoor accessories. Laying an outdoor rug under your patio furniture helps define the seating space and contributes color and style.

First impressions are the ones that stick, which is why many people fall in love with homes before stepping foot inside. A beautiful porch can boost your home’s value, increase curb appeal, and give you more space to enjoy.

Porches date back to Ancient Greece, and over the years, we have modernized their form, function, and features. Let’s learn more about the different types of porches and how to maximize their capabilities.

What is a Porch?

A porch is a covered exterior space that is attached to a house. By utilizing the outdoors and giving protection from the elements, porches are an excellent investment and can improve the look of your home.

There are many styles, from simple stone platforms at the front door to elaborate wrap-around porches that hug three sides of the house. Left open or enclosed with screen or glass, porches provide extra space to socialize, relax, and entertain.

Front Entry Porch/Portico

Essentially a covered entryway, this type of porch protects from the rain and adds aesthetic value to your home. While not large enough for seating, you can use decorative items like vases and plants to add vibrancy and color.

The portico is where visitors will stand when arriving at your house and where mail and packages will be dropped off.

Front Porch

Everyone loves a good front porch. This is where you greet visitors, relax, chat with neighbors, and show off your decorating skills. Many front porches will have seating, tables, plants, and various décor filling the space, which creates a comfortable and inviting vibe.

Having a front porch sets the mood for your home’s overall aesthetic and is the first thing visitors notice. Whether you have a small front porch or a large wrap porch, this space is excellent for indoor/outdoor seating, storage, and adding extra style to your home.

Back Porch

The back porch is a covered structure attached to the house, usually opening up to the living room or kitchen. Oftentimes, the back porch will have open sides, which creates the effect of being outside yet protected from the elements. Unlike the front porch, a back porch provides privacy, making it an excellent option for uninterrupted relaxation.

Screened Porch

As the name implies, a screened porch is a covered porch with screen walls on all sides. Both front and back porches can be screened; converting an open porch to a screened porch is not complicated or expensive.

As one of the most popular styles, many screened porches act as second living rooms with electricity, lighting, heating, and ceiling fans.

With 3-season flexibility, you can comfortably enjoy the space without worrying about bugs, rain, or other inclement weather. It also means that your furniture and décor aren’t as visible, which helps deter thieves.

Sunroom

As the brightest spot in the house, the sunroom is a warm and inviting space that can be enjoyed year-round. With wall-to-wall windows, sunrooms allow plenty of natural light and give the feeling of being outdoors without needing to deal with bugs or bad weather.

Four-season sunrooms can be enjoyed all year long, with heating and AC maintaining a comfortable temperature. As an extension of the home’s interior living space, sunrooms are usually not separated by doors and open up to the house.

Sunrooms can be used for various purposes, such as extending living rooms, setting up a home gym, or creating an office space.

Rain Porch

This type of porch features an awning that comes off the house 3-6′ past the porch floor. With enough space for a seating area, this covered patio is ideal for enjoying afternoon rainstorms without getting wet.

Boost Your Aesthetic

If you have a simple porch, you can significantly amplify your home’s curb appeal by upgrading different aspects. Moreover, these changes can be done quickly and affordably, from replacing old and rusty hardware to swapping out your house number.

For more elaborate alterations, consider replacing a basic door with one that has ornate detailing and features. You can also paint your door to create a dynamic composition, choosing a color that pairs well with your home’s exterior paint.

Replacing an old mailbox, doorknob, and exterior lights can play a huge role in your home’s appearance. Lighting is essential for safety, and there are a variety of outdoor sconce and pendant lights to choose from.

Even something as simple as pressure washing the exterior of your porch and the steps can make a dramatic difference. Once clean and dry, adding a fresh coat of paint to the steps of your porch creates an inviting welcome.

Accessorize Your Porch

There are many ways to decorate your porch to elevate the aesthetic and bring some personality to the space. For smaller areas, focus on the purpose before getting into the finer details.

Seating and Comfort

If you want to create a seating area on an open porch, ensure the fabrics are weather-resistant and easy to clean, as dust, dirt, and pollen will eventually settle in. To elevate the seating area, consider using an outdoor rug to pull all the furniture together and give your feet a soft spot to land.

Small tables, lamps, and throw pillows will make your porch an entertaining haven. These details invite comfort and relaxation, perfect for afternoons lounging with a book or drinking lemonade with friends.

Plants

Adding plants to any space will brighten the mood and give your porch a lush, green feel. You can hang planters from the ceiling, letting them swing in front of the windows, and floor plants in the corner of the room will help make it feel cozier. For an extra boost, choose plants with fragrant blooms, as this delightful scent will welcome you whenever you return home.

For porticos, set pots, vases, and floor plants along the sides to add character. To add more visual interest, you can hang a floral arrangement on the door, which is easy to swap out as the seasons change. For small spaces, it’s essential not to overdo it on the accessories, as this can make the area feel cluttered and uninviting.

Installing pavers can elevate your outdoor aesthetic if you want to transform a lackluster garden space into a beautiful retreat. Pavers are natural and manufactured stone blocks that fit together to create beautiful walkways, driveways, and outdoor flooring. 

There are many different materials, styles, sizes, and colors, each with distinct advantages. Pavers are relatively easy to install, durable, and require very little maintenance. If done correctly, they can look fabulous for decades with minimal upkeep. The secret to their success is learning what kind of paver will work best for your project and learning the proper way to install them yourself or hire a professional to do the job for you. 

Where Pavers Are Used

Pavers are widely used for outdoor areas in both residential and commercial properties. They improve the aesthetic and functionality of many areas with simple installation. You commonly see them used for patios, walkways, driveways, parking areas, courtyards, and social spaces. 

Types of Pavers

Depending on their function, you have a few options when choosing which paver will work best for your project. For example, certain materials are better equipped to handle the weight of vehicles without cracking, while others are more visually appealing and perfect for walkways and decorative features. 

Natural Stone Pavers

Natural stone pavers are the most popular choice, as they reflect the natural hues of your landscape. Each stone is uniquely different from piece to piece, which adds to its allure. The top natural stones used for pavers are:

Flagstone
Limestone
Bluestone
Travertine
Cobblestone
Fieldstone

These stones look best in their natural, rustic state, without too much refining. Since most natural stone is resistant to water and heat, they are excellent in high-slip areas like surrounding a pool. They can also be used for driveways, as natural stone is a strong, sturdy, and robust material. However, due to their weight, professional installation is recommended. 

Brick Pavers

Brick pavers have a classic appeal with their rich, deep earth tones. Either made from heated clay or concrete dyed to look original, these pavers increase curb appeal and aesthetic value. They are known for being extremely strong and durable; they are an excellent base for driveways, walkways, and patios. Although they can exhibit minor fading over time from the sun, brick sealants can be used to minimize this effect. 

When installing brick pavers, it’s essential to hire professionals, as they can shift and crack over time, especially in high-traffic areas. Another thing to note is that they are not as slip-resistant as other paver materials when wet. 

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are very versatile and can be made in any size, shape, color, and texture that you would like. Unfortunately, concrete is not very porous, so pavers must be laid correctly to ensure proper drainage. They can also stain more easily than other materials, so a sealant should be used to protect their color. 

Porcelain Pavers

Porcelain is very popular as a countertop in modern kitchens and for use as hardscape pavers. Made from highly heated material, they are very durable and nearly impermeable. This means that they are naturally stain and mold resistant, perfect for high-traffic areas. 

As one of the more expensive paving options, porcelain is not recommended for DIY installation. They can break and crack easily during the cutting and laying process, and the costs can add up quickly. 

Rubber Pavers

For the eco-friendly, rubber pavers are made from recycled materials. They are ideal for high-traffic areas and spaces where kids and families spend ample time. They have excellent shock absorbency and slip resistance and are very easy to clean. Swapping them out is much easier than the other paver materials if a replacement is needed. 

Because of their lower durability, they are not a good option for driveways or areas where aesthetics is important. However, they are the most cost-friendly option. 

Paver Styles

Along with choosing your paver material, you will need to choose your paver style. The four most common types are interlocking, tumbled, textured, and smooth. 

Interlocking

Interlocking pavers can be thought of as a jigsaw puzzle. Each piece fits perfectly with its neighbor to create one tight and cohesive structure. When finished, you will have an extremely stable platform that allows for proper drainage and looks beautiful. In addition, if you need to replace any tiles or access something beneath them, they are more easily removed than stone slabs.  

Tumbled

Tumbled pavers have been tossed into a mixer and tumbled around until the edges have become naturally worn down. This process gives each stone its distinct look and the completed project a unique appearance.

Textured

Many different texturing methods can be applied to paving stones to alter their appearance. No two texturing effects are alike, and you can choose from lightly chiseled to “found in the woods” rough and beaten styles. 

A textured stone is more slip-resistant, which makes it an excellent option for pools and other high-traffic areas that can get wet. They are also great for stone wall applications and creating a more rustic vibe. 

Smooth

Smooth stones are untextured and natural, with the least amount of transformation from their original form. While they are more slippery than textured varieties, they provide a more uniform look and create a dignified aesthetic when used for driveways and patios. 

Pros and Cons of Pavers

While there are some distinct pros and cons to using paving stones, they are an excellent option for nearly any application. 

Pros:

Versatile and Design-friendly: Pavers come in many styles, sizes, shapes, colors, and materials. 
Durable: Pavers pay for themselves in the long run, as they are made from materials meant to last. From harsh winters to scorching summers, pavers can last for decades with the proper sealants.

Easy Maintenance: Paving stones can be removed and replaced if needed because they are individually placed. This is great for accessing areas with underground water or electric lines. 

Quick Installation: Unlike other materials, there is no waiting for pavers to set and dry. Once your pavers are installed, they are ready to be enjoyed. 

Cons:

Can Be Expensive: Depending on the stone material, professional installation, and sealing, the costs can add up quickly. 

Weed Growth: Weeds can grow between the cracks because pavers are individual blocks nestled together. With correct installation, this can be minimized. 

More extended Installation: Although there is no wait time once pavers are installed, the installation process is more arduous and time-consuming. 

HVAC units are a “set it and forget it” luxury for most people until something happens that requires a professional. Many of these issues can be avoided with regular maintenance, and fortunately, these projects are easy to do yourself.
As a homeowner, it is common to schedule annual appointments with an HVAC technician who will inspect your system and make sure it operates at peak performance. Between these visits, you can do a quick run-through yourself and help keep everything working smoothly.

DIY HVAC Inspection

If you want to save on HVAC inspection costs or learn more about the intricacies of your home, you can conduct an HVAC inspection yourself. It’s a straightforward process, and with the right tools, it should only take a few hours.

Thermostat

This is your starting point, as it is the brains of the whole operation. It is also the most accessible component to inspect and should be a relatively quick procedure.

Batteries and Heating/Cooling

If your thermostat is battery-powered, now is the time to check on its charge. Typically, these batteries can last up to two years, so replace or recharge if it is nearing that time.

Although you would notice if there was no heat in the winter and no cooling in the summer since you are doing an inspection, test these functions to make sure that they work. Each setting should come on quickly, and if there is a long delay, this should be mentioned to your HVAC professional, as it could signify an issue.

Heading Outside

Most residential HVAC systems are a “split system,” which means that some of your components are indoors, and some are outdoors. For example, the HVAC systems compressor will be located outdoors, next to the house. It is a large, square machine sitting on a concrete slab.

Before any work is done, turn off the power to the indoor and outdoor unit using the on/off switch or the breaker.

Cleaning the Compressor

With outdoor compressors, debris such as dirt, dust, and leaves can build up around them and get into the grates. It can also clog the drainage and reduce airflow, which will impact the performance of your HVAC system. You want to give your compression two to three feet of clearance on all sides, so remove any debris and clean up the area.

After you have finished cleaning the perimeter, you can remove the fan cage. This will allow you to clean inside the machine using a shop vac. Vacuum up any dirt and debris, then move on to cleaning the fins.

Clearing the Fins

The fins of the compressor are located on the side and look like a metal grate with vertical slots. These provide airflow and move heat away from the HVAC system. If they are dirty, clogged with debris, or bent out of shape, this will reduce the airflow and the system efficiency.

Using a hose and sprayer can clean the machine from the inside, blowing any grime outwards. If the fins are bent, you can use a fin comb to straighten them out. If you do not feel comfortable with this step, you can ask your HVAC tech to straighten out the fins for you on their next inspection, as they will have the correct tools.

Leveling the Unit

Because the concrete slab will be sitting on the ground, it can shift and move over time. If your compressor is not level, this can disrupt the refrigerant and oil that moves through the system, leading to some costly repairs. Use a level to check that your machine is sitting flat, and if minor adjustments need to be made, use rot-resistant shims.

Indoor Inspection

Inside your home are the furnace and evaporator, though you will not have a separate furnace component if you have a heat pump. These are located in your attic, basement, or utility closet.

Before you do any inspecting, you must turn off the power and the AC.

Cleaning the Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil uses refrigerant to remove heat from the air before it circulates throughout your home. The evaporative coil is in the access panel of the air handler unit, and you will need to remove the screws and panel to access it.

Once exposed, check to see if it is dirty. A dirty coil can become clogged or frozen, and it is essential to clean it to prevent this from happening. You will need to use a special cleaner made for cleaning coils, and it is recommended to go with a no-rinse foam cleaner that you spray on and leave.

Cleaning the Evaporator Drain

During hot days, the evaporator coil can produce a large amount of water, up to gallons per day during peak summer use. Check that the drain is free of dirt and debris, using a shop vac to clean the area if needed. When finished, reattach the access panel.

Finishing Up

The final touches to your DIY HVAC home inspection are to replace the air filters. Regularly changing these filters is the single best thing you can do for the air quality of your home and its efficiency. These can become clogged with dust and air pollutants, restricting the airflow and their ability to filter.

HVAC filters should be changed every three months, depending on the type, but changing these monthly can make a difference if you have pets or severe allergies. There are many types of filters with different ratings, from HEPA filters to the more common MERV-rated filters.

What is a MERV Rating?

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values and signifies the filter’s ability to capture particles between .3 and 10 microns. Many HVAC systems use MERV filters, and for residential properties, the standard rating is MERV 6 or MERV 8. For comparison, hospitals often use a MERV 14 to MERV 18, but this will significantly reduce airflow in a typical residential HVAC system.

Conclusion

Now that your DIY HVAC inspection is complete, you can rest assured that your system is running efficiently!

Droughts are no fun for anyone, especially those who take pride in their beautiful landscaping. But, when the summer highs hit, and water restrictions are being enforced, there are a few things you can do to keep your lawn looking healthy and vibrant. Of course, the best offense is a good defense, so preparing for drought season before it starts will set you off on the right foot. Read on to learn tips on saving your luscious grass blades from a dehydrated demise.

Improve Your Lawns Drought-Tolerance

Keeping your lawn healthy is the number one way to protect it from drought. When you follow a regular feeding and water schedule, your lawn will build up a better immunity to drought conditions. In addition, taking the time to ensure that your grass is well-established and healthy will safeguard it against periods of low water, high temperatures, and other problems.

Watering Your Lawn

Building a healthy root system is the first step to creating a healthy lawn. Water in heavy doses rather than more frequent light sprinklings to encourage a healthy root system. It’s essential to water the lawn in the morning, when temperatures are cooler, to prevent evaporation, as afternoon watering is estimated to waste up to 60% of the water applied.

Regrowing Grass After a Drought

During periods of high temperatures and low watering, grass will wither, wilt, turn brown and die. Although spring can provide plenty of rainfall, it is often not enough to last throughout the summer. This is why it’s essential to water your lawn during the hot summer months regularly.

Grass enters a natural dormant phase after a few weeks without water, and most lawns can survive drought conditions for four to six weeks. Your grass may turn brown during this period, but its root system is still alive and well. However, beyond six weeks, you are risking your lawn’s health.

If your grass is brown, but the root system is still alive, then a few watering cycles should return it to its regular beauty. Unfortunately, if your grass is dead from lack of water, there is no way to revive it.

Best Grass for Drought Conditions

Your best option for keeping your lawn looking healthy and vibrant during periods of drought is to install the correct type of turf. There are many types of grass that you can plant, and a few of these are well-known for being drought resistant. The best drought-tolerant varieties are Bermuda and Zoysia and are commonly found in the yards of warmer states like California. Other popular types include Oysia, St. Augustine, Buffalo, and Bahia.

Bermuda Grass

Bermuda grass has dense, dark green blades and is known for being the most drought-resistant variety. Thanks to its low water needs, it can survive and thrive on only one inch of water weekly, either through rainfall or irrigation. In addition, because it has such a deep root system, it can stay alive longer than varieties with short root systems.

Bermuda grass can survive for up to seven weeks during a drought before going dormant. From there, it can make it an additional three or four weeks before drying up and dying. Altogether, that’s ten weeks of drought that Bermuda grass can withstand and still spring back to its luscious green appearance when watered again.

Zoysia Grass

Zoysia grass needs even less water than Bermuda grass, requiring only .5 inches per week. After three or four weeks of drought conditions, it enters its dormant phase, where it can sustain for another three weeks. Zoysia has a complex system of underground stems called rhizomes, which allow it to self-repair once it is watered. Zoysia grass survives so well because it quickly shuts down active growth and puts its energy towards conserving resources. Once the lawn receives moisture, it will soon spring back to its light-green color.

Best Time to Plant Grass Seed

The best time to plant your drought-resistant lawn is late spring and early summer. The months of May and June are prime periods when the temperatures are usually over 65-degrees. Planting during this time ensures faster seed gemination for drought-resistant varieties.


Fertilizing During a Drought

Fertilizing your lawn is an essential aspect of keeping a beautiful-looking yard; however, you want to discontinue your fertilizing schedule during periods of drought. Because fertilizer increases the growth rate of your grass, when your lawn lacks water, this can cause severe stress. In addition, the fertilizer will not be absorbed correctly, and once watering resumes, it can oversaturate your lawn and cause a nutrient burn.

The best time to fertilize your lawn is during the transitional seasons: early and late spring and the fall. This is dependent on your climate and your grass variety.

Cutting Your Grass During a Drought

You will not have to mow as often because the grass will stop growing and go dormant during a drought. It is essential to keep a good length on your lawn to protect it from the sun and to help maintain moisture levels. Grass that is too short can easily be scorched, so be careful not to remove more than one-third of the grass height.

Because dull mower blades can rip the grass, leaving torn edges that dry out and turn brown, this is a good time to do blade maintenance. If your drought lasts longer than a few weeks, reduce your mowing frequency or completely stop until you start watering again.

Conclusion

There is only so much you can do to protect your lawn from a drought, but with consistent effort and attention to detail, you can elevate your chances of success. While it will depend heavily on how long the drought lasts, what grass variety you are growing, and the health of your lawn, the best method for longevity is preventative care. Using quality soil, selecting the suitable grass variety, and building a healthy root system will improve your chances of making it through a drought.