Patios & Decks – Page 5 – The Deck and Patio Company

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Backyard Upgrades: Winter Is a Great Time to Plan

Landscape Planning in Winter

If you’ve promised yourself that this spring you’ll begin creating the outdoor environment you want, here’s a tip.

There’s no need to wait until the ground is no longer cold.

“People think they can’t begin landscape planning until the ground is perfect,” says Dave Stockwell, owner of Deck and Patio. “But if you wait until all the snow melts and the weather is finally warm, you could find yourself behind a big queue for a landscaper’s attention.”

Google Earth App

Believe it or not, experts like those at Deck and Patio don’t need to see the ground to begin planning a project. Granted, it is helpful to see close up an existing patio or pool that’s being upgraded or replaced. But much of our planning can be done through surveys and Google Earth.

Sure, you may be thinking. Deck and Patio can see under the snow and imagine the possibilities of a backyard refurbishment, but how does a non-expert grasp what it all will look like?

“It’s understandable that a homeowner would not want to proceed blind,” adds Dave. “And they don’t need to. Through computer animation, we’re able to work up a plan in 3-D that gives a good approximation of what the finished job will look like. There’s no need to rely on one’s imagination.”

How Computer Animation Helps

Backyard 3-D Animation Plan

Completed Backyard Upgrade

Sometimes a backyard 3-D animation (top left) not only helps show what the yard will look like — including from different perspectives — it also allows for tweaking and changes as the project goes along.

In the case of this Long Island, NY, project (top right), the property had existing patios and a pool. The key was to decide what to keep and what to remove. One part of the design expanded the original confining upper and lower patios into both shady and sunny expansive areas. This also helped open up the space to allow unobstructed views of Long Island Sound.

In addition, Deck and Patio upgraded their pool and spa and added colorful plants and flowers to enhance these vistas.

For the following homeowners, 3-D renderings helped in a slightly different way.

After work began, when their yard was full of piles of dirt and stones, they panicked. But the 3-D animation really helped show how their original very flat property would be made to appear larger once different patio levels were created.

In addition, they could clearly see what their backyard would look like from the deck and various parts of their house. Here is a photo of the completed project:

Pre-spring Landscape Planning for Backyard Upgrade

Every aspect of the following backyard paradise — infinity (vanishing edge) pool, custom in-ground spa, swim up-walk up bar, pond/waterfalls upgrade, extensive patio, and outdoor kitchen was first done on a 3-D animation program that allowed our clients to literally fly over and walk around this project —even their gas campfires.

This especially helped them appreciate the water-to-water views they would experience from the pool and spa.

Deck and Patio Project Using 3-D Animation

Here’s hoping some of the above has started your creative juices flowing.

By June Sullivan|2021-02-25T12:59:27-05:00February 25th, 2021|Backyard Escapes, Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Resorts, Backyard Upgrades, Creative Design, Landscape Planning, Landscaping, Outdoor Kitchens, Outdoor Living, Patios & Decks, Ponds & Water Features, Pool Surrounds, Pools & Spas, Spillover/Custom Spas, Steps, Terraces|Comments Off

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The Deck and Patio Company Awarded Best of Houzz 2021

A few days before we got the good news, we heard from Houzz that our “photos have been saved 377 times on their platform in the last three months!”

Then, within days, we were given the great news that The Deck and Patio Company — that is, our entire team of outdoor living experts — had won a “Best of Houzz” award for Design.”

About Houzz

As many of our readers know, Houzz is a leading platform for home renovation and design. It is thrilling to know that we were chosen by the millions of homeowners that comprise the Houzz community — and selected from more than 2.5 million active building and design industry professionals who post on their platform.

Houzz’s design awards honor professionals whose work was the most popular among the Houzz community. A “Best of Houzz 2021” badge appears on winners’ page profiles on their site as a sign of a company’s commitment to excellence. These badges help homeowners identify popular and top-rated home professionals in every metro area on Houzz.

Houzz is available on the web and as a top-rated mobile app. It is headquartered in Palo Alto, California and has international offices abroad.

Our Projects

So! Would you like to see some of the photos that have been downloaded recently on Houzz? Don’t be surprised if you’ve seen some of these photos before. We’ve shared them on our social media pages where they are just as popular.

We’ve divided them into two categories for this blog post.

First. Decks!

Houzz Best in Design: Favorite Deck and Patio Decks

Next. Custom Spools and Spas!

Favorite Deck and Patio Spas on Houzz

The above are only a few of popular Deck and Patio project photos on Houzz. We’ll keep sharing more in the near future!

Watch this space.

By June Sullivan|2021-02-04T15:08:41-05:00February 4th, 2021|Awards, Backyard Escapes, Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Resorts, Backyard Upgrades, Composite Decking, Concrete (Gunite) Spas, Creative Design, Deck and Patios, Design and Build Experts, Landscaping, Moss Rock and Stones, Outdoor Living, Patios & Decks, Pool Amenities, Pools & Spas, Spillover/Custom Spas, Spools, Uncategorized, Vinyl-lined Spas|Comments Off

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Swim-Up Bars: Turning Your Backyard Pool Into a Full-Blown Resort

Many hope that very soon we’ll all be able to have a backyard bash, teaming with friends and family. Because of this eagerness, we can’t resist thinking about what amenities we want to share with them — once we get the “all clear.”

Riviera Maya Caribbean Resort

One popular feature to add to a swimming pool is the swim-up bar.

This upgrade is reminiscent of Caribbean and South Sea resort vacations (left), and once you add a swim-up bar, all you’ll need to complete the resort experience are those drink-umbrellas for your Mojitos and Piña Coladas.

Adults really love swim-up bars because they can stay in the pool while having a drink. But it’s also a great spot for swimmers and backyard strollers to meet up and talk, without the swimmers having to get out of the pool.

“If these are designed well,” says Deck and Patio’s Dave Stockwell, “swim-up bars can be also used as a dry bar — that is they can be enjoyed from its other side.”

Deck and Patio 38-Foot Swim Up Bar

In fact, Deck and Patio specializes in creating bars that do just that — do double duty as a dry bar and swim-up. Take, for example, this stunning bar shown here (top left of photo).

It’s really enjoyable to swim up to this 38-foot “swim-up bar”with submerged barstools.

“The key is each swim-up bar should be unique, designed and custom-made for each project,” says Dave. “Whether it’s the bar’s counter-top, any necessary retaining walls, masonry work, in-pool stools, electrical and plumbing work, it takes skill and experience to ensure it’s perfectly functional, safe, and beautiful.”

And as you can see from this Deck and Patio swim-up, it’s also a dry bar on the other side.

Swim-Up Bars Shade Structures

Shade Structures

While not necessary, a shade structure with the swim-up bar is frequently requested. As a licensed contractor, Deck and Patio is well known across Long Island for award-winning design and custom building.

Some shade structure options are:

— shade pergolas,

— trellises,

— gazebos and

— pavilions.

“A shade structure should blend harmoniously with other elements in your yard and can include everything from an outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, fireplace,” says Dave. “With such additions, your guests can enjoy dining, as well as drinks, from your swim-up bar.”

The main point, of course, is to have sufficient sun protection in that part of your yard and pool.

Lagoon-style Swimming Pool

In addition to a dramatic waterfall area, a stunning Cambridge paver patio and water slide, these clients wanted a swim-up bar with in-pool stools, and Tiki umbrellas.

Landscaping: Throughout this backyard retreat, smaller groups of boulders were fitted with plantings for natural and attractive retaining areas.

The photo below shows the other side of the swim up bar with examples of the landscaped boulders and plants.

True Backyard Retreat

“With True Blue Swimming Pool’s beautiful pool, the clients got what everything they wanted, a full oasis that “wows,” says Dave.

Deck and Patio Swim-Up Bar

Today’s Feature Photo at Top of Page: This is an example of combining many elements — use landscaping, a swim-up bar, pool waterfalls, natural retaining wall, shade structure, etc. — to create a true enticing backyard resort.

By June Sullivan|2021-01-28T14:32:10-05:00January 28th, 2021|Backyard Escapes, Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Resorts, Backyard Upgrades, Creative Design, Design and Build Experts, Family Fun, Gazebos, Infinity Pools, Landscape Planning, Landscaping, Moss Rock and Stones, Outdoor Bars, Outdoor Kitchens, Outdoor Living, Outdoor Rooms, Patios & Decks, paving stones, Pergola, Pool Amenities, Pool Houses, Pool Surrounds, Pool Upgrades, Pool Waterfalls, Retaining Walls, Swim Up Bars, Trellises, Unique Ideas|Comments Off

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Making the Most of 2021’s Outdoor Living Season

Google Earth

Even though winter isn’t over, many are already wondering how to make the most of the 2021 outdoor living season. Just the possibility of welcoming friends again to our backyards, and not just close family, is thrilling to imagine.

Whether or not a reduced pandemic will allow such outdoor bashes, we know we will be able to bust loose at some point. So as we gaze over our yards, imagining what upgrades we’d like, Deck and Patio has some outdoor living spaces ideas.

When to Plan

You might think you should postpone landscape upgrades until spring.

“People think they can’t begin planning until it’s warm,” says Deck and Patio owner Dave Stockwell. “But that’s really not necessary at all. It can be done during any season, including winter.”

Even if the ground is covered in snow, adds Dave, our experts don’t need to see the ground to begin. Plus, with the computer software available today, the drafting and collaboration design process is surprisingly quick — even providing an accurate representation of how your outdoor spaces will look after the work is done.

“Granted, it is helpful to see close up any existing patio or pool that’s being upgraded or replaced,” says Dave. “But much of our planning can be done through surveys and Google Earth.”

Backyard Upgrade on a Budget

“Before”

“After”

As you will see from the before photo (above left), space is often tight. Even so, this Massapequa couple hankered to enjoy their backyard more.

“Space was definitely at a premium,” says Dave. “So in lieu of what would have been a more expensive pool, the couple decided on a hot tub, installed with a custom look, in-ground, which would also made it easier to get in and out of.”

However, even though they knew they’d love spending time outdoors in their new hot tub, they wanted something beautiful to look at while in it. They certainly did not want to be facing their home’s siding, or even just a plain line of healthy evergreens. The idea of a pond, with soothing waterfall, and colorful koi swimming about that they could feed right from the hot tub, was the perfect complement (see right photo),

Upshot? The pond with waterfalls, custom hot tub installation, and landscaping were still less expensive than a pool.

Large Pond Under Stone Bridge

“Before”

“After”

Shortly after the owner purchased his property, he contacted us. An entrance he had to drive over each day, on his way to and from work, had not been kept up for many years.

He asked us to accentuate the property’s beautiful 1880 bridge structure with a man-made reflecting pond. Our design allowed the pre-existing bridge’s entire stone gazebo to be reflected in the pond water.

The water feature we designed and built was more than 240-feet-long and 60-feet-wide, so it also captured the surrounding landscape. Plus, such a wonderful expanse of water made the perfect habitat for koi.

Our team ensured the pond design included lots of flowing water, with rock overhangs, and plenty of space for pond fish to hide and thrive. Such a design makes it difficult for natural predators to reach the fish.

The stone bridge with turret creates a stunning pond reflection in its crystal clear water, doesn’t it?

Pool and Retaining Wall Upgrade

“Before”

“After”

A family in Dix Hills, NY, called on Deck and Patio when they decided to update their 1980”s backyard pool area (see above before/after photos above). Their old wood deck and red brick patios were small and unusable for parties and entertaining. But they couldn’t come up with a complete plan themselves to transform the space.

“We suggested a unique idea to deal with the large wall behind the pool and small patio spaces,” says Dave Stockwell. “The plan was to remove the wood retaining wall, re-grade the slope, and create a large natural waterfall, stream, and woodland garden.”

Stepping stones in front of the waterfall makes it possible to walk right up to the waterfall — like being on a Caribbean vacation. The teaming waterfall flows into a “pondless” waterfall system, capturing the water under ground, filtering it, and recirculating it.

The plan also called for draining the pool and removing the liner; a poorly built concrete block wall was uncovered and we straightened the wall and filled the block in with concrete and steal rebar for strength. New vinyl-covered stairs were added to the pool, plus new pipes, returns, skimmers, pump, filter and a new liner.

New Modern Deck

“During Construction”

“Completed Construction”

These Centerport, NY, homeowners were both outdoor enthusiasts with a property that had a nice water view. Their wish list included: an attractive modern-looking deck from where they could best appreciate their view; a deck/railing that did not in any way obstruct the view; and a conveniently placed portable spa.

It was clear a two-story deck was needed. But we realized that the deck also needed to be large enough to allow designated areas for grilling, dining, lounging and hot tubbing. Plus, the railing would need special consideration.

An important choice for this Trex Deck project was the steel cable railing by Feeney does not obstruct the water views from any place on the deck. Deck and Patio built a custom spa “cradle” as a mount for their new hot tub. This positioned the spa so they could enjoy the views when inside the tub.

New Backyard ‘Spool’

“Before”

“After”

Deck and Patio built this backyard ‘spool” (a cross between a spa and pool) several years ago. The homeowners decided on a ‘spool” for their yard because they didn’t have room for a full-sized pool.

A spool would also allow them to enjoy it year-round. They could opt to run cool water in the spool during warm months, and hot water during cold months and cool evenings.

In addition, the mechanics of a spa provide the benefits of hydrotherapy massage — not to mention the amazing experience of sitting under flowing water from an added waterfall. A new fence was added for contrast and a bit of drama; a rushing stream flows through the large moss rock boulders to become a waterfall flowing into the spa. Lush plantings and a new patio completed their new backyard retreat.

So even if it snows, or blasts cold, yu can stay warm but still start planning your new backyard upgrade.

Lush Landscapes

Today’s Feature Photo at Top of Page: Note how vibrant, lush landscaping enhances any outdoor space — be it patio, pool area, and even around a spa.

By June Sullivan|2023-01-09T16:27:11-05:00January 21st, 2021|Aquascape Biofalls, Backyard Escapes, Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Resorts, Backyard Upgrades, Creative Design, Deck and Patios, Design and Build Experts, Family Fun, Landscape Planning, Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Patios & Decks, Pondless Waterfalls, Ponds & Water Features, Pool Amenities, Pool Surrounds, Pool Upgrades, Pool Waterfalls, Portable Hot Tubs, Retaining Walls, Seasonal Landscapes, Serenity Escapes, Trex Decking, Unique Ideas|Comments Off

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Landscaping with Pantone’s Color for 2024: ‘Peach Fuzz’

Peachy Tulips

Updated 1-11-24

As part of our landscaping work, Deck and Patio designers frequently receive requests for plants in the latest popular colors. So we won’t be surprised to be asked for plantings in the vein of Pantone’s Color for this year: ‘peach fuzz.’

Why Pantone Chose Peach Fuzz

“In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless,” says Pantone.

Even if Long Islanders don’t have big plans for property upgrades, many may wish to include touches of this year’s Pantone color in their landscape plans. “Such a warm, comforting color is, indeed, a great way to uplift our spirits,” says our own Dave Stockwell, “whether it’s with peach aquatic plants in your pond or regular plants along your front entranceway or throughout your garden.”

Velvety ‘Peach Fuzz’ Plantings

So o bring some comforting and lovely hues to your property could be simply be to choose plants that boast o Panatone’s 2024 warm peach.

Here are just a few ideas for your landscaping plans:

Nymphaea/Peach Water Lily

This soothing water lily has a long bloom season providing a lovely blush to your pond this year. And there’s more to aquatic plants than aesthetics. Plants such as water lilies and irises feed on the nutrients (algae or small primitive unwanted plant life) in the pond water, and produce oxygen while they provide shade and food for small creatures attracted to the water garden.

Nymphaea/Peach Water Lily

Alstroemeria

Also called Peruvian Lily: these plants do best in full sun or partial shade, in fertile, well-drained soil. They don’t love hot weather and this may affect their flowering. A thick layer of mulch at planting time should help to keep its roots cool.

TIP: If you want to bring these lovely flowers inside or remove spent blooms, don’t cut them; pull the entire stalk out of the ground.

Alstroemeria

Geum Mai Tai

This lovely peach to apricot plant has been described as a “fluttery, poppy-like petals with a rose blush.” It has also been described as “velvety” which is exactly the look Pantone intended in choosing “peach fuzz” as their 2024 color. It’s also a long-blooming perennial that likes well-drained soil in full sun.

Geum Mai Tai

A Peach of a Rose

Whatever their color, roses need a bit of care in your garden. Sandra Vultaggio, a local Horticulture expert, says roses should be planted in the sun.

“Also, they need a good amount of air circulation around them,” she says. “Strictly avoid overhead irrigation or sprinkler heads. They will get more disease that way because viruses prefer wet environments. Keep them watered at the roots through a drip system or soaker hose.”

A Peach of a Rose

By June Sullivan|2024-01-11T14:48:44-05:00January 7th, 2021|Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Upgrades, Creative Design, Gardening, Herb/Vegetable Gardens, Landscape Planning, Landscaping, outdoor maintenance, Patios & Decks, paving stones, Plants, Seasonal Landscapes, Updating Landscape|Comments Off

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Winter Outdoor Living: A Hot Tub Deck Makes the Season Bright

In order to extend the outdoor living season, lots of homeowners add a heat source like a fire pit or fireplace to their deck.

Hot Tub Deck

But another very special amenity that really draws them outdoors — even in winter — is a portable hot tub. Installed in or against their decks, close to the back door, ensure they’ll use the spas all year long.

“We find this is true, even when there’s a massive amount of snow,” says our own Dave Stockwell. “When we design and install the deck and spa, we ensure that the hot tub is properly supported within or against the structure of the deck.”

An example of the many ways Deck and Patio ensures a safe and convenient hot tub installation is the hot tub deck we completed in Centerport, NY.

“We set the hot tub on a custom platform positioned to make it easily accessible from anywhere on their new two-story deck,” adds Dave. “It’s just steps out their back door, so even snowy and cold winters won’t put them off from enjoying it — something they especially wanted.”

Decks and Hot Tub (Centerport/NY): We matched the hot tub platform boards to the Trex “Lava Rock” Transend decking for a harmonious look to it all.

Deck and Hot Tub (Centerport/NY): Here’s a shot of that same project that shows the size of the platform we built to hold the spa.

Some decks can be turned into a complete outdoor room. Along with a hot tub set into their multi-level deck, these homeowners added comfortable furniture, a fire pit, and a television.

Outdoor Room with Hot Tub on Deck (Long Island/NY):

Today’s LED televisions can be properly encased to be theft-free. Encasing the television carefully will also ensure the proper internal temperature control/circulation to protect it.

There are also televisions designed for outside use which resist rain, dust and other elements. So even in very bad weather, these clients can turn on their fire pit, relax in their hot tub, and even watch TV.

“A steamy hot tub is so inviting in winter,” says Dave. “Plus, it offers an ideal spot to sit outdoors and enjoy your backyard winter wonderland.”

Hot Tub Deck

By June Sullivan|2020-12-17T14:18:14-05:00December 17th, 2020|Backyard Escapes, Backyard Upgrades, Creative Design, Deck and Patios, Design and Build Experts, Fire Pits, Landscape Planning, Outdoor Fireplaces, Outdoor Living, Patios & Decks, Trex Decking|Comments Off

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When Do Backyard Upgrades Require Design/Build Expertise?

Fall, and even winter, are great times to do outdoor upgrades. And if your needs are simple ground-level upgrades, they can be done pretty much by anyone.

But if your property’s terrain is challenging, or your outdoor living dreams call for more artistically designed spaces, the advantages of choosing a “design-build” firm is worth consideration.

What Is Design-Build Construction?

Design-build inside contractors provide the architectural design for a project as well as its construction. This is also true for “outdoor living” contractors like Deck and Patio.

“Choosing one firm to do the design as well as the construction doesn’t cause the project’s costs to be more expensive than hiring two groups of experts,” says our own Dave Stockwell. “Nor will clients lose all control either.”

On the contrary, adds Dave. Clients find they develop a closer relationship with their design-build project manager, who knows all that’s going on and can easily accommodate their changing needs/ideas as the project develops.

As you’ll see from the examples of some of our work that we’ve included today, when it comes to outdoor living projects, having a singular vision — which might include plantings, waterscapes, and hardscape — results in beautifully harmonious backyard escapes.

Pool Landscaping

Multi-level Patio Design

For this handsome free-form pool, Deck and Patio designed a surrounding patio using a design kit from Cambridge Pavingstones with AmorTec.

“The kit allowed us to create a very attractive random pattern, with gradations in tones,” says Dave.

“Also, our several in-depth consultations with the clients helped us know their needs and tastes, resulting in its multi-level patio design, with designated spaces for all their priorities — dining, lounging, etc.”

Plus, adding a water feature on one side of the pool, along with a pool slide, not only was alluring, adds Dave, but the moss rock boulder placements and landscaping do double-duty as a natural-looking retaining area for the pool.

Backyard Water Features

Natural Looking Water Feature Design

Designing and building a backyard water feature takes time, especially if you want your man-made feature to appear as if Mother Nature designed it herself.

This requires ordering and installing perfect-sized rocks and boulders which will cause water to flow in natural spills into either a pond or, in this case, a ‘pondless’ water feature.

Designing/Building for Privacy

Backyard ‘Spool’

Sometimes the need for privacy is an issue when designing for comfortable outdoor living. This property, for example, was open on three sides and in full view of four homes.

“The clients wanted a ‘spool’ — or a cross between a small pool and a spa — but the best spot for it was in a very exposed area,” says Dave.

Deck and Patio’s landscaping design team used Skip Laurels, Leyland Cypress, and Cedars to create an attractive natural privacy screen around the spool. In addition, texture and color were brought in to the buffering divider by incorporating flowering deciduous shrubs.

“We also incorporated creeping evergreen ground covers to cascade and wind over and between the rocks we installed,” says Dave. “Plus a careful selection of plants provides the area with color from April through October. The whole design flows beautifully into the back property.

This project was actually built during winter months. Next week our blog will focus on how that project was designed, built, and completed including dealing with the worst of winter.

Design/Build Decks

Deck Designed/Built To Enjoy the Views

For this project, privacy was not an issue for the clients. In fact, they wanted it as open as possible to take in the property’s wonderful views.

“We designed a 2-level TimberTech XLM PVC deck for them, with one level just for the outdoor dining table, and the other places for deep seating outdoor furniture like chaise lounges and the barbecue,” says Dave.

”We also recommended the black railing for a strong contrasting tone to the decking materials. The design also included 45-degree angles in order to orient the outdoor furniture toward the views.”

By June Sullivan|2020-12-03T13:11:20-05:00December 3rd, 2020|Backyard Escapes, Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Upgrades, Composite Decking, Creative Design, Deck and Patios, Design and Build Experts, Koi Ponds, Landscape Planning, Landscaping, Living Landscapes, Moss Rock and Stones, Outdoor Living, Patios & Decks, paving stones, Plantings/Pondscapes, Pondless Waterfalls, Ponds & Water Features, Pool Amenities, Pool Surrounds, Pool Waterfalls, Pools & Spas, Retaining Walls, Serenity Escapes, trees, Unique Ideas, Updating Landscape, Wood Decks|Comments Off

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Dix Hills Snowplowing: ‘Be Prepared’ Is a Wise Motto

Be Prepared for Snow

The weather may be fine these days. But Mother Nature can be full of surprises. So Dix Hills Snowplowing — which provides residential/commercial shoveling, sanding, salting, and deicing for a large portion of central Long Island — is ready.

Our vehicles are serviced, shovels and deicing materials are stacked and accessible, and client lists are lining up. And we recommend homeowners and business owners be prepared, too.

“When you have a home, for example, snow can present problems beyond keeping stairs and walks free of snow and ice,” says owner Dave Stockwell.

“It’s critical that water cut offs are also accessible, and that your driveway is ice and snow free. If you plan to take care of all this yourself, make sure that your snow blower, generator, roof rake, deicers, etc. are all placed where they can be easily retrieved.”

Snow and ice storms are occasionally accompanied by a power failure, adds Dave. So do plan ahead, including putting fresh batteries in your carbon monoxide monitor. Also, have emergency telephone numbers near the phone.

Additional DIY Tips

1. Driveway Prep

Plow Stakes

Even before you hear of any storm approaching, it’s important to “prep” your driveway and walkway by installing fiberglass stakes (sometimes called “plow stakes” or “snow stakes”). And the longer you put it off, the harder the ground will get from the cold.

(Note: wood plow/snow stakes aren’t as strong as fiberglass and can be easily damaged.)

Position the stakes to indicate where any costly Belgium Block or other edging could be damaged from snow plows. One end of the stake is pointed for easy insertion in the ground. Also, they come in different colors and you can let a particular color indicate, for example, where a fire hydrant is, the regular curb, your driveway entrance, etc.

If your driveway is straight, you won’t need as many markers. But if it’s curved, it’s important to mark key points at every turn. In addition, if you will be doing the snow removal yourself, chances are you’ll be doing it before or after work, when it’s dark. In this case, consider reflective snow stakes, which, while more costly, can be alternated with less-expensive non-reflective ones. This way, you’ll be sure to see all the important areas.

When placing the stakes, consider placing them further back from the driveway than the 2 inches often recommended. This allows for the opening of car doors, piling of shoveled snow, etc. without dislodging or covering a key stake.

2. Roof Prep

Roof Snow Removal

Snow can cause a lot of pressure on your roof. One of the best ways to remove it is with a roof rake, so it’s good to have it readily on hand. Also take a look at your gutters to make sure ice doesn’t dam them up and cause leaking into your home or attic.3.

Some experts recommend stringing heat cables through them, or on the roof just above the gutters. This should be done, of course, before major snowstorms to avoid any Clark Griswald-like ice rockets from a frozen gutter fail.

3. Snow Blowers, Shoveling

Snow Removal

Even an inexpensive snow blower is preferable to shoveling by hand.

But if you are going to shovel, here’s a tip: coat the scoop of the shovel with non-stick cooking spray.

Be sure, whether you are using a snow blower or shoveling, to remove the snow in small increments at a time — don’t try to do it all at once.

Professional Snow Removal

Dix Hills Snowplowing

Of course, the easiest way to handle some of this is to contact professionals like Deck and Patio’s Dix Hills Snowplowing.

In speaking with our own Office Manager, Linda LaRose, if you live in our corner of Suffolk County (Huntington/Dix Hills etc.) and wish to have us take care of your snow removal, you can contact us with no obligation (631-549-8100).

Once we hear from you, Linda will email a contract to review and you can always call her with questions before signing on, or incurring any expense. When you make this initial contact, this would be the right time to let us know if you have any special requirements: e.g., early service, service at 1-inch (ours usually begins at 2”), sand service, if garage doors need to shoveled, mail box cleared, etc.

We can also stake the driveway for you, if you ask for it. (Note: For snow removal from roofs, you should contact a roof contractor for their specialized service.)

Dix Hills Snowplowing 631-549-8100

By June Sullivan|2020-11-19T13:55:49-05:00November 19th, 2020|Deck and Patios, Driveways, Landscaping, outdoor maintenance, Patios & Decks, paving stones, Seasonal Landscapes, Snow Removal|Comments Off

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When It Comes to Hardscapes, ‘Patio’ Is Our Middle Name

Referring to our company’s ‘middle’ name is more than a play on words. We have been successfully enhancing the hardscapes of our clients’ properties for over 25 years.

“Deck and Patio has become known as experts in natural stone, pavers and other landscaping materials,” says Dave Stockwell. “Brickwork and stonework are seeing new trends in recent years, and we like to think the many awards we have received for our projects suggest the superb design talents and installation competence of our team.”

Done properly, Dave adds, outdoor hardscapes are more than serviceable — they can be an essential element in ensuring a residence and surrounding property remain one harmonious whole.

To accomplish this requires choosing a new hardscape’s ideal hue, texture and pattern so that it complements the exterior of your residence and other outdoor spaces.

It also needs to be designed in a way perfectly suited to the amount of property space involved, and the use it will have.

Three Deck and Patio Projects

#1.

Welcoming Entrance

“For a truly welcoming entrance,” says Dave, “driveways constructed in the right paving stones can offer inviting curb appeal and distinction.

“In backyards, the right patio material can also feel like an extension of its surroundings.”

The driveway was done in handsome earth-tone concrete tumbled pavers that appear as an extension of the geometric patterns and hues of the home’s Glen Gary brick.

# 2.

Manhasset Backyard Oasis

Last fall we completed this backyard upgrade for a client’s newly-built home in Manhasset, NY.

The project boasts: a free-form heated Gunite pool with spillover spa and Jandy equipment, stream-fed waterfalls, pavilion, sunken fire pit with circular seating, outdoor kitchen, Cambridge Pavingstone patios/pool surround, and lush landscaping.

Close Up of Pool/Spa Area

Deck and Patio designed a large 25’ x 52’ free-form Gunite pool with a flowing stream alongside it to feed the pool’s 4’ x 6’ moss rock waterfall and second waterfall; also a custom spill-over spa with a veneer of Bucks County Country Ledgestone. We also allowed for a Dolphin waterslide, and partial boulder coping.

“The couple wanted us to pull out all the stops,” says Dave. “But that wasn’t what made us so happy to do the job. You see, they came to us as repeat clients — clients who loved our previous work for them, which to us is the very best testimonial.”

In addition to a custom pavilion with fireplace and an outdoor kitchen, we constructed a large sunken fire pit. The veneer we used on the fireplace, and on the inside of the sunken fire pit, as well as on the face of the outdoor kitchen and exterior of the custom spa is all Bucks County Country Ledgestone.

“The patios are made of Cambridge Pavingstones — from their Sherwood Ledgestone XL series. We laid them in a random pattern from our own design, including inlays with custom cut in borders.”

#3.

Travertine Patio

When it comes to natural stone, Travertine is a popular choice. Warning: it is key to work with reputable suppliers for this product as some Travertine comes from countries that produces a stone that will not hold up in the freeze/thaw climate of the Northeast.

For this glorious expansive Travertine patio, Deck and Patio installed Travertine from Turkey — for its beauty, density and porosity — which we could guarantee would withstand our area’s severe climate changes and maintain its elegance.

If you have trouble deciding on the right hardscape materials, our staff can explain the different benefits of each one — be it bluestone, brick, concrete pavers, permeable pavers, Travertine, etc.

Contact our office manage — Linda LaRose — during regular business hours at: 631-549-8100.

By June Sullivan|2020-10-15T15:07:34-05:00October 15th, 2020|Awards, Backyard Refurbishments, Backyard Upgrades, Concrete (Gunite) Pools, Creative Design, Deck and Patios, Design and Build Experts, Driveways, Landscape Planning, Landscaping, Outdoor Fireplaces, Outdoor Kitchens, Outdoor Rooms, Patios & Decks, paving stones, Pool Surrounds, Pools & Spas, Unique Ideas|Comments Off

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Fall Is a Great Time to Install a Patio or Driveway

It’s not just deck building that’s great come autumn. Fall is also the perfect time to add, repair, or expand your patio, driveway or pool surround.

Fall Weather

When it comes to patios, driveways and pool surrounds, digging up your property in fall is less of a hassle after the outdoor season is mostly over and you’re not outside as much.

Also, just like with building a deck, there’s less damage to the landscape when plants are dormant.

Not to mention you’ll find that design/build firms like Deck and Patio have more time open on their schedules in autumn so they can provide quicker service as opposed to our busiest months.

Types of Materials

Choosing the right hardscape materials is important in the northeast’s freeze/thaw climate. The wrong products trap heat in the summer which can be tough on bare feet. And who wants to wear shoes or sandals around a pool or hot tub?

That said, it’s equally important that the paving material you choose can stand up to the freezing weather that occurs in our cold seasons.

“Helping our clients choose the right product is part of our service,” says Dave. “And whether the choice ends up being brick, natural stone, pavers or other landscaping materials, at Deck and Patio we know how to install them correctly. We have earned many HNA awards from the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute which signify the superior design ability and competence of installation by our construction experts.”

Examples of Deck and Patio Hardscape Projects

Patio: Permeable Pavers

Deck and Patio Project/Brooklyn, NY

Because these Brooklyn clients wanted to collect rainwater for irrigation of their garden and backyard landscapes, they opted for permeable pavers. Voids between the pavers are filled with crushed stone; when rain passes through the pavers’ joint spaces, it flows down into an underneath layer of bluestone gravel and about an inch of crushed stone which filters the water as it’s being collected for recirculation.

Patio Techo-Bloc Pavers

Outdoor Kitchen on Lower Patio:

Techo-Bloc pavers, which are engineered in Canada, are a good example of a product that can stand up extremely well to the freeze/thaw that occurs in our area.

Here, we built for our clients a two-level patio in Tech-Bloc’s Borealis’ modular slabs. On the lower of two new Deck and Patio patios, we added an outdoor kitchen with built-in stainless steel grill, expansive work area, sink, refrigerator and eating/drinking bar with stools.

The upper level is a lovely dining area with custom fire pit and nearby is a hot tub with stream and waterfalls.

Driveway Tumbled Pavers

Paving Stone Driveway:

Deck and Patio’s design team was brought in during the early stages of planning and construction of this home and its many hardscapes.

Working with the architect and homeowners, in front, our design team created a driveway in earth-tone concrete tumbled pavers that appear as an extension of the geometric patters and hues of the home’s Glen Gary brick.

Pool Surrounds

Cambridge Pool Surround:

Handsome Cambridge Ledgestone XL “Toffee Onyx Light” pavers (Sherwood Collection) were chosen as a patio/pool surround for this yard. The pavers come in 3-piece design kits for a beautiful random design.

The color of the pavers nicely pick up both the pool water while simultaneously suggesting beach sand for a beautiful natural appearance.

Deck and Patio Travertine Patio/Pool Surround:

Here is a lovely example of natural stone. Travertine is a gorgeous natural stone that can make a beautiful patio. Here the Travertine surrounds a 50-foot-long pool, 800-square-foot pool house, an outdoor kitchen with natural stone facade, and an outdoor shower.

Note: Although Travertine has traditionally been used indoors in colder climates, more and more it is being used outdoors. Be careful, however, from where the stone is quarried. You want Travertine from Italy, Mexico or Turkey, not China, which doesn’t hold up in the freeze/thaw conditions of the Northeast.

To learn more about different materials and design/build opportunities, contact Deck and Patio during regular business hours at 613-549-8100.