Most of us won’t be using our patio furniture much during the winter months. However, harsh winter weather conditions can cause damage to outdoor furniture. Some materials simply can’t withstand freezing and thawing cycles and you will want to winterize and safely store these pieces of furniture. At the same time, there are certain materials that are weatherproof and can stay outdoors. Learn more about best practices for protecting your outdoor furniture during winter.

Wood Furniture

Most outdoor wood furniture is made with teak, which is excellent for keeping out moisture. This type of furniture can safely be left outside throughout the year. If your furniture is made from a different type of wood, it is a good idea to apply a new coat of sealant each winter. Furniture covers can also be helpful. Just make sure that they are breathable so that mold and mildew doesn’t form. 

Aluminum

Aluminum is incredibly durable and can be left out in practically any sort of weather. One thing to consider is that aluminum is also lightweight, which means that your furniture might get knocked over in windy conditions. 

Steel and Iron

Steel and Iron and strong materials, but they are also prone to rusting. Your best bet is to touch up any scratches or nicks on the furniture and store it indoors so that moisture isn’t able to seep into cracks and cause rust.

Wicker

Wicker furniture is also susceptible to moisture. As water freezes, it also expands, which can cause the wicker to crack and break. This type of furniture will need to be moved indoors.

Plastic

Plastic is great for blocking out water, but cold temperatures can make it brittle. If you want to prolong the life of your plastic outdoor furniture, you should store it indoors. Fortunately, plastic furniture is lightweight and easy to stack.

Glass

Many patio tables come with glass tops. While the glass won’t be damaged by cold and moisture, winter weather increases the chances that a stray branch will fall and break the glass. It is a good idea to bring any glass pieces inside.

Ultimately, most wood and aluminum furniture can be left outside without any consequences. Any other type of outdoor furniture should be cleaned, repaired, and stored indoors so that you don’t have to buy new furniture in the spring. For more help with winterizing your outdoors spaces, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping. 

One of the best parts about living in North Carolina is the short winters. That means more time spent enjoying the outdoors even when the temperature does begin to drop. Check out these great outdoor products that will help you get the most out of your patio. 

Wicker Furniture

If you are looking for durable patio furniture that you can use year-round and will be able to withstand harsh weather conditions, wicker patio furniture made from polyethylene is a great option. It won’t fade in the sun and it is water resistant. You won’t have to worry about storing it during the winter so you can take full advantage of breaks in the cold weather. 

Teak

For those who prefer the look and feel of wood patio furniture, products made from teak are your best bet. It is unique because it has a natural oil content that helps to repel water. It won’t crack or warp when it becomes wet. Again, this means that you can leave it outside during the winter months without damaging it. 

Outdoor Heater

A nice fire pit can provide a gathering place where everyone can stay warm, but you may not want to deal with the smoke or tending to the fire. Tall outdoor heaters that use propane as full will radiate heat and help you keep warm. They are commonly used in outdoor spaces at restaurants and bars and you can purchase one for your home for under $200. 

Tabletop Fire Bowl

If you still want to be able to roast some marshmallows, consider purchasing a tabletop fire bowl. These miniature fire pits will provide you with a small flame that will provide warmth, ambiance, and the right amount of heat for some smores. Most models use clean-burning fuel, so you don’t have to deal with the hassles of a smoky wood fire.

For more ideas about how to enhance your outdoor living space and landscape, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping and Lawncare. 

If you love to cook and incorporate fresh produce into your meals, it is time to start your own outdoor kitchen garden. Imagine being able to walk out your door and pick some ripe tomatoes along with herbs and other vegetables. Getting started may be easier than you think. Here are some tips for beginners looking to grow their first kitchen garden.

Choose the Right Location for Your Garden

You will want to choose a spot that gets plenty of sun since most vegetables will need 6-8 hours of sun per day to grow. Next, be sure to remove any rocks from the soil and make sure that water can drain properly. If the plants end up sitting in water, their roots can rot. Your garden will also need plenty of nutrients, so you should add lots of organic matter to where you will be planting.

Choose Easy Vegetables to Start

While you want to choose vegetables that your family will actually eat and enjoy, you can also take into consideration which vegetables are easier to grow. This will help you learn and enjoy your garden even as a beginner. Here are some good vegetables that are more resilient and less temperamental than others.

• Peppers
• Tomatoes
• Green beans
• Carrots
• Peas
• Radishes
• Lettuce
• Beets
• Zucchini

Do Some Pest Control

To naturally repel pests, plant some marigolds with your vegetables. These flowers will also add some color to your garden. You may also want to visit your local garden store and explore other pest treatments so that insects don’t eat your plants before you have a chance.

Do Some Research

Different plants need to be planted at different times of the year. They will also require different spacing so that they don’t end up crowding each other and fighting for resources. When you purchase seeds and seedlings, the packaging should include information and when and where to plant, but it is also a good idea to do your own research.

Work with a Professional

If you want your first garden to be a success, consider working with an experienced landscaper who can test your soil, make plant recommendations, and help you with the planting process. For more expert guidance with planting your first outdoor kitchen garden, contact JT’s Lawncare and Landscaping today.

If you didn’t have to worry about a budget, your outdoor living spaces would probably include a pool, complete with a waterfall, an outdoor fireplace, and all the comforts and luxuries you could imagine. However, most of us aren’t working with an unlimited budget, but still want to make the most of our outdoor living spaces. Explore these budget-friendly ideas to get inspiration for your outdoor living spaces.

Create a Covered Living Space

Installing a pergola or planting fast-growing vines is a great way to provide shade and protect you and your guests from light rain. With a little covering, you may find that you can stay more comfortable and spend more time outdoors. Check out hardware stores for affordable DIY options and remember that even a basic frame can provide the right support for clematis and wisteria. 

Add Light and Texture

You will be amazed how simply adding some cushions, blankets, candles, and/or lanterns can soften and improve your outdoor spaces. This is especially true when it comes to smaller spaces. As you shop around for accessories, look for solar-powered lighting options so that you don’t have to worry about wires, plugs, or batteries. 

Install a Firepit

An outdoor fireplace may not be in the cards, but you can still create a focal point and gathering place with a simple and affordable fireplace. There are clean burning options that use gas so you don’t have to worry about burning wood and ashes. As a bonus, the fire will keep you warm and create an inviting ambiance. 

Bring the Indoors Outside

As you look for outdoor furniture, opt for comfortable and lightweight pieces that could also be used indoors. You want to stay away from bulky furniture. An outdoor rug will help to soften the area even more and the addition of a side table will create the perfect outdoor living space.

Build an Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen doesn’t have to be an elaborate setup. Find creative ways to build food prep areas around your grill so that you can have all the supplies you need right at your fingertips and you won’t have to keep running back and forth.

For more money-saving ideas and help creating beautiful and functional outdoor living spaces, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping and Lawn Care.

If you are looking for a great way to enhance your outdoor living space and make better use of your landscape, adding a fireplace or fire pit is a great option. A nice fire provides the perfect gathering place and can help keep everyone warm on cool nights. That only leaves one question: Which is a better choice, a fireplace or a firepit? 

What to Consider for an Outdoor Fireplace

Installing an outdoor fireplace means building a more permanent structure in your yard. In many cases, the outdoor fireplace is freestanding and placed around the perimeter of a seating area. You will want to take some time and strategically plan placement so that there is enough distance between the fireplace and the guest seating. While you will be able to move around tables and chairs, it is always a good idea to spend some time thinking about how far you want the fireplace from the house and how seating will be arranged.

Advantages of an Outdoor Fireplace

An outdoor fireplace will provide a beautiful piece of architecture and make your yard more functional and it comes with financial benefits. Investing in installing an outdoor fireplace will cost more upfront in labor and materials, but it will also increase the value of your home. If you decide to sell, you will be able to increase your asking price.

Advantages of a Firepit

If building an outdoor fireplace isn’t within your budget, a fire pit provides a more affordable alternative. Fire pits come in a variety of sizes and styles so you can still find something that reflects your personal taste and compliments your landscape. Finally, fire pits are much more portable. You can move it around the yard as needed and try out different seating configurations. 

Ultimately, the decision between an outdoor fireplace or fire pit often comes down to money. A firepit is more adorable and portable, but it is also temporary. An outdoor fire pit will add architectural interest and increase the value of your home. Either way, the experts at JT’s Landscaping and Lawn Care are here to answer all your questions and provide you with all the installation services you need.   

With fertile soil and warm temperatures throughout most of the year, Raleigh is the perfect place to take advantage of outdoor living spaces and create a truly stunning landscape. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to try and decide on a backyard landscape design. That is why we have collected some of the best landscaping ideas to help inspire your own backyard oasis.

Water Feature

The great thing about water features is that they come in all different styles, shapes, colors, and textures. You can install a Japanese-inspired pond complete with a bridge, add a natural-looking stone pond that blends in with the surrounding landscape, or go for more of a modern fountain that is a true statement piece. The options are virtually limitless and it all depends on the kind of space you want to create. No matter what type of water feature you choose, it will provide a beautiful and calming focal point.

Flowering Trees and Bushes

There is nothing quite like springtime in Raleigh. Dogwoods, pear trees, azaleas, and other flowering trees and bushes provide dazzling color and an array of pleasant smells as the weather turns warmer. Utilizing these plants throughout your backyard can create a stunning display that will provide plenty of colors as the seasons change.

Flowering Arbor

An arbor can provide the perfect combination of hardscape and landscape along with some shade from the sun. While it will take some patience to plant and nurture different flowering vines, the payoff will be worth it when you get to relax under a beautiful and fragrant canopy. It is an excellent alternative to a plain umbrella or a more solid piece of architecture. Climbing and flowering vines will soften the overall look of the structure and help it blend in with the landscape for a natural look. 

Firepit with Seating

For homeowners who love to entertain, a firepit with plenty of seating is a must. You can raise the level on the usual portable fire pit surrounded by lawn chairs by making the area a permanent fixture. Consider a stone pit surrounded by matching stone benches that can be covered in removable and easy to clean cushions.

No matter what size backyard you have, it is full of potential. For more landscape design ideas and help getting the most out of your backyard, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping. We can help you create a backyard that fits your lifestyle and brings you a little more joy.

If you browse the internist for outdoor living space ideas, you can see some truly spectacular landscape designs. However, not everyone has the money to install an outdoor kitchen complete with a pizza oven and hot tub. Fortunately, there are some simple and affordable things you can do to create a space you enjoy while also sticking to a budget.

Repurposed Furniture

While patio furniture comes at a variety of price points, not all of them are budget-friendly. It is always a good idea to visit your local thrift or resale store with an open mind. Even a rusty old table can easily be brought back to life with a good scrub and a new coat of paint. Most patio furniture is made to be durable, so even if the surface looks like it has seen better days, you may be able to reuse old furniture and avoid having to buy new.  

Patio Pillows

Even if you don’t have the nicest set of patio furniture, you can dress up your outdoor seating with colorful pillows. Choose bright fabrics and durable material that is easy to wash. If you have some basic sewing skills, you can even put them together yourself. A few strategically placed pillows will make the space more inviting. 

Add String Lights

Want to add some ambiance to your backyard and make sure that you can keep socializing well past sunset? Hanging string lights is a simple and affordable way to add some personality to your outdoor living space. The warm glow will make any evening feel a little more special.

Install Vertical Gardens

If your backyard space is bordered by plan brick walls, consider adding vertical planters for a garden space that blends right into the home. Succulents to especially well in these types of planters and will add some warmth and greenery to what could feel like a cold space.

Add Outdoor Artwork

There is no rule that says paintings and statues can’t be placed outside to add some color, shape, and a little bit of whimsy. It is the perfect way to express yourself and make your outdoor living area your own.

Until you can build the outdoor living space of your dreams, there are plenty of small and affordable changes you can make. Focus on adding color and texture along with a little bit of comfort and functionality. For more ideas, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping and Lawn Care. 

Having a pool is a great addition to any home, but it can present some landscaping challenges. A pool expands your outdoor living space and creates a focal point, but it can also interrupt the flow of your landscape. The right landscaping can add life to the entire area and help to blend the boundaries between hardscape and softscape for a more cohesive look. 

Tips for Pool Landscaping

The pool shouldn’t overwhelm the yard and become the main element of the landscape. Adding plants, shrubs and flowers will help the pool to become a more naturally integrated part of a larger design. Ultimately, the pool should complement other landscape elements. 

When it comes to choosing the right plants to place around the pool, here are some things to consider:

• Ease of maintenance. Look for plants that are hardy and won’t require constant maintenance. Succulents are actually a great option that will add color and texture withing requiring constant watering. For a super low-maintenance approach, consider container gardens.
  
• Privacy. Tall, lush plants can be placed around the pool to add some privacy and make the pool area feel separated from the rest of the landscape.
  
• Variety. Think about incorporating a variety of different size plants that offer color and texture. 
• Climate. Do your research and make sure that you are installing plants that will thrive in the North Carolina climate. This will help protect your investment and make sure that you have a landscape that continues to look good throughout the year.
  
• Trees. When looking for the right trees to provide some shade near the pool, go for varieties that will reach the right height and won’t drop leaves, flowers, or fruit into the pool.

Installing the right landscaping around the pool will not only enhance the overall look, but help to create a more fully integrated landscape. With so many plants, shrubs, trees and other landscaping materials to choose from, you can get truly creative with your design. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the options and want help designing the perfect pool landscape, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping and Lawn Care. 

One of the best aspects of living in Raleigh is the beautiful weather. With warm temperatures throughout most of the year, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Creating a welcoming and functional outdoor living space can provide an ideal place to entertain guests, visit with friends and family and simply enjoy the relaxing sounds of nature. If your outdoor space isn’t exactly inspiring, follow these tips to make some improvements. 

Screened-in Porches

If you have an existing porch that you aren’t taking full advantage of, adding some structure and screens can provide you with some much-needed shade and protection from bugs. Constructing a screened-in porch, especially if you already have a slab, may be easier and less expensive than you would assume. 

Firepit

A firepit provides an architectural focal point and a place to gather once the temperatures start to cool down. Today, firepits are made from all sorts of materials and can come in practically any shape or size. From more modern glass and gas-burning firepits to more traditional stone firepits, you can install a design that complements your home and your landscape.  

Outdoor Kitchens

For the ultimate in luxury and convenient outdoor living, consider adding an outdoor kitchen. You can incorporate a grill, sink, countertops and prep areas and even a pizza oven. The possibilities are practically endless.

Water Features

From coy ponds to water fountains, water features come in a variety of styles. No matter what type of design you choose, you will enjoy the relaxing sound of running water. A water feature also provides the perfect opportunity to add plants and flowers to complete the look. 

There are countless ways to improve your outdoor living space and get the most out of living in Raleigh. For more ideas and questions to all your landscaping and hardscaping questions, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping and Lawn Care.   

Adding a fire pit to your landscape will create an architectural focal point and a gathering place for friends and family. It is also a great way to compliment your home and get creative with expressing your personal style. Your fire pit doesn’t have to be a plain metal bin. There are all sorts of ways to dress it up and enjoy a unique fire pit.    

Retaining Block Fire Pit

If you want to keep it simple, you can build a fire pit using retaining blocks. Choose from different colors and textures to add interest. With the blocks, your fire pit can be practically any diameter and height. If you are going the DIY route, don’t forget to leave vents near the bottom so that oxygen can feed the fire. 

Modern Fire Pit

For a more modern look, you can opt for a concrete fire pit in a bowl shape. Instead of using firewood for fuel, gel fireplace fuel can help to create a cleaner look. This product can be placed on any type of stone and gives off bright flames. 

Natural Stone Fire Pit

You don’t necessarily have to go with a traditionally shaped fire pit. Natural stone can be stacked and arranged to create a more organically shaped pit that blends in with other natural elements in the landscape. Some people have even turned old Koi ponds into fire pits.

Contemporary Glass Fire Pit

Combine a rectangular metal base and glass case for another contemporary take on a fire pit. Remember that using gel canisters can allow you to be a lot more creative with the types of materials you use to construct the actual fire pit. 

Classic Cast Iron Bowl

While there are a lot of unique ways to create a fire pit that fits your style and accommodates your outdoor area, there is also nothing wrong with the classic cast iron bowl. Look for unique metalwork to help make a statement.

For more ideas and inspiration on how to turn your backyard into an inviting and functional space, complete with a beautiful fire pit, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping. For decades, we have worked with homeowners in and around Raleigh and we can help bring your design ideas to life.