May 2017 – The Deck and Patio Company

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Outdated Pool Transformed into Updated Beauty

This Deck and Patio project is not a newly completed one. But it is a project that continues to be regularly saved by visitors to our social media pages. So much so, that we thought it was time to blog about it again.

Backstory

At the time, the clients’ 22-year-old gunite pool needed a facelift. Along with the pool, they had a very uncomfortable concrete spa, and only grass for a patio.

The terrain had a slope behind the pool and they had a dated wood retaining wall holding it back. In addition, their backyard was set in a natural woodland area, so any new patio material would have to harmonize with this natural setting. In addition, Deck and Patio was commissioned to create a colorful landscape within this mostly shady area and repair an existing old waterfall.

The Upgrade

The first step was to demolish the uncomfortable existing spa, the old waterfall area, the retaining wall and pool’s old boulder coping.

Next, a new comfortable acrylic spa with molded seats was added. It was faced with interlocking Techo-Bloc concrete blocks that echoed the new Techo-Bloc patio and the moss rock boulders used to create a new natural-looking retaining wall.

Three handsome supporting walls made with Techo-Bloc Walls stones were used directly behind the new spa to help hold back the grade. Plus, the renovated seven-foot-high moss rock waterfall, ending in new boulder pool coping, added peaceful serenity while also serving to retain the woodland behind the pool.

Next, the old grassy area that surrounded the pool was transformed into a beautiful multi-level patio made of Techo-Bloc tumbled paving stones. The patio paver colors were a blend of tan and natural gray to complement the boulders and moss rock. These Techo-Bloc paving stones boast a lifetime of easy-to-care-for surfaces that hold up very well in the freeze/thaw conditions of the Northeast where this project is located. Another bonus: these pavers stay cool in summer heat…perfect for bare feet.

Lastly, lots of seasonal colorful plants, that did not require too much direct sunlight, were added as part of the landscaping.

Updated Pool/Spa (Huntington/NY):

A 22-year-old pool needed refurbishing. Using handsome Techo-Bloc Walls stones for three wall structures, moss rocks and boulder coping, the natural woodland is beautifully retained behind the pool.

Techo-Bloc Wall Concrete Blocks (Huntington/NY):

Facing the new acrylic spa with concrete blocks is the perfect choice for a natural setting. The spa was designed with a spillover to offer a second waterfall into the pool.

Pool/Spa Upgrade (Huntington/NY):

The refurbished natural free-form gunite swimming pool with a new spillover spa, delightful moss rock waterfall, tumbled stone Techo-Bloc patio and robust landscaping together feel like a natural lagoon created by Mother Nature.

New Acrylic Spa (Huntington/NY):

The new Techo-Bloc wall-stone-spa replaces an old concrete spa; it was constructed with a small patio/lounge area and stone steps. The matching retaining walls can act as seating walls when entertaining.

Pool/Spa Landscaping (Huntington/NY):

When working on this upgrade, Deck and Patio was careful to keep some of the existing landscaping, e.g. the gorgeous Japanese lace-leaf maple that shades the waterfall.

Patio Landscaping (Huntington/NY):

Deck and Patio designed the Techo-Bloc patio with cutouts to plant attractive flower beds.

By June Sullivan|2017-05-25T13:58:53-05:00May 25th, 2017|Backyard Escapes, Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Upgrades, Concrete (Gunite) Pools, Creative Design, Deck and Patios, Design and Build Experts, Landscaping, Patios & Decks, Ponds & Water Features, Pool Surrounds, Pool Upgrades, Pools & Spas, Spillover/Custom Spas, Updating Landscape|Comments Off

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Dining Al Fresco by a Pond

Memorial Day weekend (May 26-30) launches the year’s outdoor living season. And that includes lots of outdoor dining: family barbecues, picnics, dinner for the boss and his/her spouse, romantic dates, and just enjoying the air as we eat our take-out.

“Many in our neck of the woods not only like to dine al fresco during the outdoor season, but they want to do that next to, or near, their own backyard pond,” says Dave Stockwell, owner of Deck and Patio.

As Certified Contractors of Aquascape Inc. — one of the country’s leading manufacturers of pond and water feature products — Deck and Patio is able to stay informed and trained on all the latest techniques and technologies for ideal waterscapes.

Indeed, on any given day, our teams can be found, in addition to other landscaping services, installing ponds, water gardens and other water features across Long Island and her environs.

“The ponds we design/build can, for example, be completely eco-friendly and include rainwater harvesting; they can be landscaped with gorgeous water plants, stocked with pond fish, and aerated with waterfalls. Each project we do is as unique as the clients themselves,” says Dave.

The one thing our ponds all have in common, adds Dave, is how much a backyard pond adds to each family’s outdoor experience. Having a water feature like a pond with waterfalls — with the sounds of moving water and natural beauty this provides — makes outdoor living and dining an exceptional experience.

Photo # 1

Pond-side Living:

This pond project by Deck and Patio included a new deck with a viewing platform where the family can dine and enjoy the pond and its robust landscaping. After dinner they can walk across a set of large stepping stones to view the pond from another vantage point.

Dining Al Fresco By a Pond:

This photo, which is featured at the top of this page, was supplied to us by Aquascape Inc. Here a group of family and friends — and even someone’s favorite pet —- enjoy a meal beside an exquisite pond stocked with koi. Soothing sounds from the waterfall help everyone relax and be at ease.

Backyard Sanctuary Perfect for Dining Al Fresco:

These homeowners asked Deck and Patio to create a natural backyard retreat complete with a large deck and pond that comes up to it. The layout detailed different settings and focal points; we planted over 4,000 bulbs, 300 species of deciduous woody plants, evergreens, and perennials, including 150 different varieties of these species. The family can dine on the deck or in their glass conservatory. (Note: Deck and Patio did not build the conservatory but worked with the contractors the family hired to bring this beautiful project together harmoniously.)

“Deck” Pond Perfect for Dining Al Fresco:

Aquascape Inc. provided us with this photo of a charming dining area set on a deck with pond. Note how the wall mural picks up where the real plants leave off, giving a smallish water garden area the sense of natural expanse. The homeowner also chose blue cushions to go with the mural’s water scenes, which helps to tie it all together.

Picnicking “In” a Backyard Pond:

Yes, you can picnic “in” a pond. When Deck and Patio built this lovely pond water feature (which comprises two separate ponds next to each other), in the larger pond shown here there was space for a sizable stone island where the homeowners placed two Adirondack chairs. We installed stepping stones out to it adding to the overall Zen-like experience. They can go their island just for quiet contemplation; however, the chairs’ arms offer room for a small plate/box lunch and a cool drink.

Al Fresco Drinks/Dining by a Pond:

Thanks to Aquascape Inc. who supplied us with this photo as well. Imagine getting home from work, taking off your shoes and sipping some cool lemonade before dinner while the kids play by the pond? Yup, this is pretty much as good as it gets.

A big thank you to Aquascape for sharing some of today’s photos with us.

By June Sullivan|2017-05-18T13:23:44-05:00May 18th, 2017|Aquascape Biofalls, Backyard Escapes, Creative Design, Deck and Patios, Design and Build Experts, Koi Ponds, Landscaping, Living Landscapes, Outdoor Furniture, Outdoor Living, Patios & Decks, Plantings/Pondscapes, Ponds & Water Features, Rainwater Harvesting, Sustainable Water Features|Comments Off

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Quality Backyard Makeover Pulls Out all the Stops

Pulling out all the stops of an organ increases the sound so an audience can hear everything — every grand sound, in all its lovely variations.

You might say that the two Long Island homeowners who planned this backyard upgrade also “pulled out all the stops” to orchestrate a wonderful experience in outdoor living. Their completed project included:

— a free-form pool and surround renovation

— new custom pool pavilion

— refurbished multi-level Techo-Bloc patio

— new multi-faceted water feature (several sets of waterfalls and stream)

— new koi pond, and

— a new hot tub (Bullfrog Spa) wedged in-between the upper and lower patios.

“The totality of these amenities create a beautiful paradise,” says Dave Stockwell, owner of Deck and Patio. “But the homeowners didn’t stop there. They asked that their multi-faceted water feature (which they can enjoy on the upper patio, from the house and poolside) be extremely eco-friendly. For example, Town water is not used to keep the stream and waterfalls supplied.”

To ensure no use of Town water, Deck and Patio installed a ‘pondless’ reservoir system below the lower-level waterfall. The spills from the waterfall pass through river rock and gravel and is collected underground. Inside the reservoir, a pump recirculates the filtered water back up through the system.

Also, by letting gravity pull the flowing water downward, the whole system is turned into a complete ‘green’ maintenance-free water source that can enjoy throughout most of the year.

The Pool Area

“We designed the overall look of the refurbished pool area to appear organic so it blends with the property’s beautiful natural surroundings,” says Dave. “The pool construction included a 24-by-42-foot free-form concrete wall.”

Deck and Patio’s toughest challenge was accurately measuring and cutting the vinyl liners needed for the pool itself and its in-pool stairs. However, having done many vinyl-pools over the years, Deck and Patio’s team knew it would just require patience and steady attention to detail.

“All this was done so as to create bodies of water that would be in harmony with the patio area, with its outdoor kitchen, and with the waterfalls, stream and koi pond. Not only is the end result beautiful to look at, but the sounds of moving and spilling water can be appreciated at every section of the outdoor retreat. For sure, these clients pulled out all the stops.”

The following photos highlight many of the project’s elements.

Backyard Upgrade Showcase Project:

This photo looks up from the custom pool pavilion (not seen) over the newly renovated vinyl pool, Techo-Bloc pool surround, a pair of natural stone steps leading to upper patio that flank the waterfalls, the lower-level waterfalls, and a portable spa set against the upper patio area. Not seen is the upper waterfall that faces the house.

Backyard Water Feature:

Looking down at the pool and new custom pavilion that grace the lower level, the eye is first captivated by an upper waterfall; its spilling water flows downward forming a stream behind that gravity pulls to the lower level. This part of the water feature was installed to face the house so it can be enjoyed from the upper patio as well as inside the home.

Waterfall-Fed Koi Pond:

The complete water feature for this project includes a 10-by-15 foot freeform koi pond, which is regularly aerated by waterfalls from the 35-foot backyard meandering stream. Parts of the property is natural woodland, so care was taken to protect the fish. Predators, that might live nearby, are discouraged from going after the fish by installation of a small cave where the fish can hide unseen — as well as remain dormant during winter months.

Techo-Bloc Patio and Steps:

One reason we love Techo-Bloc products is because they appear natural. They come in kits with varying shapes that allow us to create an attractive design instead of being limited by one-sized bricks etc. The Bullfrog Spa these clients chose fits snugly against the patio which was shaped to embrace it.

Bullfrog Spas:

This portable spa was positioned against the patio in a way to appear built-in — or custom. This way the clients have the best of both worlds, a handsome looking spa that is fitted with Bullfrog’s enviable massage jets — their patented JetPaks.

One last thought. The Waterfalls, stream, double steps, moss rock and plantings along the change in grade together create a natural looking retaining wall — a great way to cut costs while increasing the aesthetics of a beautiful graded property.

By June Sullivan|2017-05-11T14:19:15-05:00May 11th, 2017|Aquascape Biofalls, Backyard Escapes, Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Resorts, Backyard Upgrades, Bullfrog Spas, Creative Design, Deck and Patios, Design and Build Experts, Koi Ponds, Landscaping, Living Landscapes, Outdoor Living, outdoor maintenance, Patios & Decks, Plantings/Pondscapes, Pondless Waterfalls, Ponds & Water Features, Pool Houses, Pool Upgrades, Pools & Spas, Portable Hot Tubs, Sustainable Water Features, Vinyl-lined Pools|Comments Off

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10 Ways to Enhance Outdoor Living This Season

Camping trips and the rugged outdoor experiences they provide are fine in short bursts. But a full 5 or 6 month outdoor season spent enjoyed in one’s backyard cries out for comfortable and superbly functional amenities.

Today’s blog, however, will not focus so much on the key foundations of outdoor living — patios, decks, and large water features such as swimming pools — as the delightful amenities that enhance them.

Here’s Our 9 Ways!

This first photo from Fiberon Decking, for example, highlights two opposite outdoor living enhancements — an attractive fire table that adds warmth on cool evenings and a shade umbrella that reduces the heat of the day.

In addition, note how an awning provides even more relief from the sun on the upper deck level. And very comfortable outdoor furniture means no sense at all of ‘camping out’ when sitting on this deck. Plus a highly functional outdoor kitchen means no need to limit the dining experience — although marshmallows roasted over the fire table is one camping treat worth bringing home.

A garden gazebo is another wonderful amenity for providing shade and comfort. As architectural statements, gazebos are beautiful to the eye while providing shade, protection from rain, as well as comfortable seating.

But a gazebo can be used in many more ways: as a meditation center; a spot for exercising; the ideal location for a hot tub; a venue for special celebrations like a wedding ceremony. Indeed, we believe this gazebo, built at the edge of a new deck by Deck and Patio, would be a gorgeous location for a wedding. A reception held on this poolside deck would truly be memorable.

Trellises and pergolas also make dramatic architectural statements. They require less materials than a gazebo (or 4-season room) to construct, and provide limited shade with just support beams and rafters.

Taking the time to grow vines on a trellis/pergola, however, will eventually increase the amount of shade. In the meantime, one can always add a canopy overhead — a good idea if the space underneath is used frequently when the sun is high.

Swim-up bars turn a regular backyard pool into a full-blown resort. Looking at these two Deck and Patio projects, one can almost hear steel drums in the background, can’t you? Whenever a a swim-up bar is added to the pool, all that’s needed to complete a vacation-resort feeling are small drink umbrellas in the Mojitos and Piña Coladas.

Deck and Patio not only designs in-pool submerged bar stools for swim-up bars, but we can design it all so this amenity can also be used as a dry bar, enjoyed on the other side.

In-pool amenities that make a splash include waterfalls and jet sprays like those shown here. When either of these are added to a pool, their gentle sounds screen out in a delightful way any noise from the pool’s high-tech equipment and even nearby traffic.

This Deck and Patio project also includes another outdoor living enhancement — an outdoor shower (not shown). It is located at the base of a stepping stone path that leads up to the hidden pool equipment.

Information about tanning shelves (a.k.a. Baja shelves, tanning ledges) seen above in this blog’s feature photo can be seen here.