Whether you want to avoid nosy neighbors, live on a busy road, or simply want to avoid prying eyes, there are options to achieve more privacy in your yard without breaking the bank. For example, you could consider installing a privacy fence or planting high hedges. Here is a look at some budget-friendly options for restoring privacy to your garden.
There are two aspects to privacy:
Visual privacy not only protects you from prying eyes, but it also allows you to work or relax without being distracted by whatever may be going on outside your designated private space.
Noise privacy is just as important as visual privacy. The constant noise from traffic and other forms of noise pollution can have a negative effect on your health and well being.
Both visual distractions and noise pollution need to be addressed if you want to reclaim your garden as a private oasis. The only way to achieve visual privacy is to erect a barrier above eye level wherever it is needed.
Fencing material to reduce noise
In order to dampen or eliminate noise, the barrier must also be insulated. Sound travels in a straight line, so a barrier that is above eye level (1.8 metres is usually enough), will also help dampen sound. However, some fencing materials have better sound insulating qualities than others:
Timber fencing offers good sound insulation, but only if there are no gaps between the palings. Thicker timber offers better insulation. Lapped palings cover gaps and doubles the thickness of some of the surface area of the fence.
Acoustic plywood panels provide even better noise insulation than solid timber.
Acoustic foam “bricks” provide the highest level of protection against noise.
If noise is primarily a problem just on one side of your garden, consider spending more on a superior fencing material on that side of the yard and choosing another, less expensive fencing material for the rest of the fence. Timber, acoustic plywood and foam bricks can all be painted to match or you can find inexpensive and virtually maintenance-free aluminium or PVC fencing in a complementary colour.
Enhancing privacy with plants
While plants and trees will not reduce noise pollution, it will keep others from seeing in. High plants, trees, and shrubbery enhance a sense of security and privacy.
While they may have only a psychological effect, planting trees and shrubs or a vertical garden against an existing fence or along the border of your garden may be all it takes to make you feel a sense of greater privacy.
A home with a deck allows the entire family an opportunity to relax in each other’s company. However, the decking needs to be made safe and secure so that there are no unfortunate accidents, especially in homes having small children. In this article, you will find several tips to make your deck child-friendly, while retaining its stylish looks.
Using high-quality decking materials
At the time of the deck construction, invest in the best materials, even if it means paying a little more. This pays off in the long run, keeping your loved ones safe from harm. Hire a qualified, experienced deck builder, who can make your decking sturdy and durable, and can give you a guarantee on the work done. This person also knows which council permits are required for residential decks, and can help you get all the approvals.
Wood is a popular choice for decks because of its appearance, provided it is free from splinters and sharp edges. You can ensure this by sanding the wood immediately after installing the decking, then again before it is oiled or stained for upkeep once every two years. With this taken care of, you can stay worry-free whenever the children play on the deck.
Using balustrades
Elevated decks require a railing or balustrades for safety, even if they are only a short distance above the ground. Adjacent balustrades should not be so far apart that a child can squeeze through the opening and fall out, or get stuck halfway through. Choose balustrades with a height tall enough to prevent children from climbing over. All these precautions will keep your little ones safe and secure on the deck.
Installing child gates
Some people avoid installing child gates on their home decks, thinking that they are a waste of money. The fact is that child gates are absolutely essential at the top and bottom of the deck stairs leading to the ground, and good to have even if your deck does not have steps. Keep in mind that the child gates have to endure varying outdoor conditions, so choose long-lasting materials. These are available in a range of designs, allowing you to match the deck design to the rest of your home. Children can have a nasty fall even with only a couple of steps, so it is better to be safe than sorry.
Deck maintenance
Besides proper construction, regular maintenance is required to keep your deck in good shape. Carry out a thorough inspection at least once a year, so that you can locate any issues and take care of them well in time. This includes looking for rotting, warped or splintered wood, as well as loosened balustrades. Clean and oil the deck at least once every six months, and your deck maintenance costs will be kept under control.
The nature of our relationship with a furry friend can feel heart-warmingly personal, so the desire to celebrate your pup’s special day is no surprise. Whether it’s an actual birthday or the day you brought pet home from the shelter, there are many ways to spoil your canine companion. From custom portraits to birthday cakes, here’s how to celebrate your dog’s special day.
Organise a birthday bash
We have birthday parties all the time, so why shouldn’t dogs? A party is a perfect opportunity to allow your dog to socialise with your friends’ dogs, while you mingle with your (human) friends! Create a menu by offering some healthy doggie snacks, such as steamed carrots or peanut butter biscuits.
Come up with a few activities – a backyard kiddie pool water park will be a hit during the summer, or an agility course will fit perfectly with the higher energy pups. The sight of your dog with his new best friends will make you feel warm and fuzzy inside, so let us connect you to an expert photographer who can capture that feeling.
Perhaps you’re after some more personal portraits of you and your four-legged friend, so why not pamper your pooch? Grooming your pet can leave a pup looking ever-so handsome while the photographer captures your friendship in the best light.
Spoil his belly
Baking a dog birthday cake can be suitable if you’re throwing a party, but it can also be a nice way to treat your dog otherwise. It’s not every day your pet gets to eat cake… And it’s not every day that you get to make one for them! There are plenty of healthy recipes out there – many of them containing simple ingredients such as apples and carrots – and make sure there is absolutely no chocolate.
If you feel you’re not exactly the biggest MasterChef in the kitchen, it will be just as special if you buy a bunch of your pet’s favourite treats from the store and let him slightly indulge on his special day.
Be adventurous
If your pup has good recall, take him for a walk on your favourite off-leash hiking trail, or try hiking somewhere new. The off-leash experience gives your dog the chance to feel super liberated and adventurous for the day.
No matter what you have planned for this special day, make sure it’s filled with excitement, adventure and love. There’s no doubt your dog will be exhausted at the end of the perfect day, so finish off the special day with a warming belly rub.
You have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to patio furniture. When designing a space that is to be comfortable, relaxing, and inviting, the type of furniture you choose will make a big difference in the success of this space. Before you invest consider a few great options that you may not have thought about.
Types of outdoor furniture
Take a look at some of the options available outdoor lounge furniture. Which of these pieces will work best in your space?
Invest in swings if you want a space that is going to be charming and relaxing. You can choose from one to three-seaters. Some will have an adjustable awning to help you to control the sun.
Tables are an important component of many outdoor spaces. Be sure to choose something that is at a comfortable level, sturdy and durable enough to handle the outdoors. It should accommodate the number of people you hope to have seated there.
Lounge chairs are almost a must-have in most outdoor areas. There are many styles to select from including those for one, two or more people. You may want to choose those that have more of a reclining option. You can also invest in chaise lounges for this space.
Think about investing in a day bed for this space. There may not be a better place to take an afternoon nap than on a daybed out in the sun.
Plastic is a common option for the outdoors because it is affordable and it is versatile. You will likely find all of the pieces you need available in this format.
Aluminium furniture is better for smaller spaces; it’s weather-resistant, very lightweight and great for entertaining purposes. You’ll be able to rearrange and swap out aluminium furniture to suit your needs.
Wrought iron goes great with gardens, but is very heavy and prone to rust – it might not be worth that kind of extreme trade-off. If you have to use wrought iron, place it mostly in covered areas
Stone and concrete furniture are great, but they’re heavy – and will only really be appropriate for single-purpose patio areas.
Wooden furniture is often thought of as very traditional. It can be a very good option for those who want something natural and yet durable.
Finding the right wood
If you decide you want to go with wooden furniture there are so many great options to choose from. Here, we’ve listed some of the more popular choices.
Redwood has a reddish hint to its colour. It lasts a long time and is completely resistant to rot and termites.
Cedar is lightly-coloured and splinter-free. This softwood weathers well, and will also repel insects and mould.
Teak is the toughest material out there – it can last up to 50 years and is super-durable.
Jarrah is reddish or pink in colour and is a durable, solid wood.
Shorea has many of the same toughness qualities as teak but is cheaper.
Roble is a long-lasting, very light wood.
Eucalyptus is one of the more attractive woods out there and is very resistant to rot.
Pine is very resistant to rot and very cheap. It’s yellow and brownish in colour. However, you’ll need to bring pine furniture indoors during the winter – it’s susceptible to the elements.
Patio furniture covers
Due to a patio’s proximity to nature and the elements, the task of maintaining and protecting the furniture can become a bit challenging. Make sure to invest in furniture covers to keep your patio looking beautiful for the years to come. Polyethylene covers are popular as they are completely waterproof, easy to clean and prevent dust and dirt from settling on it. You can also find covers that are resistant to UV rays which will help protect your furniture from sun damage. Standing umbrellas are also a great way to create protection from UV rays on days when the sun is shining.
When the sun winds down, your patio should shine, serving a functional capacity and influencing the mood of its occupants. There are a plethora of lighting options you can choose from to light up your space.
Patio and Deck Lighting
Patio and deck landscape lighting systems illuminate certain features of your home, making them come alive; they also serve as safety devices. The directions of the beams of light, their mechanics and special benefits make them a great option.
Down and Up – Lights
Both down and up-lights offer dramatic effects when mounted in strategic locations. If you want to set a pleasing tone, install up-lights into the floor of your deck or patio and down-lights as an overhead feature. Downlights are softer and more intimate than the direct glare of a naked light. Its also a lot easier on the eyes as it softly blankets the entire area of the patio.
Strip Lights
These are ideal for a variety of lighting solutions. Its low profile and integrates discreetly while offering powerful brightness along edges and soffits. LED strip lights are the smart energy-efficient way to illuminate your deck and access areas.
Spotlights
LED module spotlights are directional lights fitted into fixtures in the loft or along walls. Spotlights are compact and powerful. They work marvellously for highlighting features such as the pool or barbecue areas. Spotlights should be placed discretely above or below your desired spot so that they are not a bothersome distraction.
Floodlights
Floodlights are designed to light up specific areas of your landscape. They will light up a good portion of your patio and are best served by the garden, pool and barbecue areas. Ideally, these powerful lights should be mounted very high and directed downward. They provide added security to your home and are great for extended nighttime entertaining.
Gutters are a critical part of every home, ensuring that water is properly drained from the roof to the ground. When searching for new units, it can be difficult to select the correct model that fits your requirements and budget. There are two types of gutters available today: square and round. Surprisingly, all gutters are not built alike and have many different characteristics. When comparing the different types, keep the following tips and information in mind.
Square gutters: Advantages & disadvantages
As suggested by their name, square gutters have a square shape that provides a modern profile suitable for all building types and architecture. Square gutter units are available in two different models: lo-square and hi-square. Lo-square gutters are 110 mm in height, and hi-square gutters are 130 mm in height. Hi-square versions typically cover the edges of most roof sheets and tiles in order to improve their appearance. Lo-square units are neater in appearance than hi-square gutters, and they’re more economical.
Both versions of square gutters offer high water capacities that can easily manage large volumes of water. If you live in a particularly wet and rainy area, then this is a good option for you. Unfortunately, in lighter rainfall areas, square gutters easily clog over time. However, these clogs can be mitigated by adding a gutter guard to break up the fine debris.
Square gutters are most commonly made from Colorbond, galvanised steel, or Zincalume; and they can be purchased in a variety of colors to match the exterior décor of your residence. Square gutters are extremely durable and will last many years with proper maintenance. There are many accessories that can be added to square gutters, including: gutter mitres, fixing brackets, stop ends, and gutter guards.
Round gutters: Advantages & disadvantages
Commonly referred to as “half-round gutters,” when viewed from an angle, these units have the appearance of a circle that’s been split in half. Half-round gutters can be built to have a straight back, or created in a semi-circle. This type is excellent for Spanish, Tuscan, and modern homes due to their clean look and smooth geometry that matches the architecture.
In addition to being aesthetically-pleasing, half round gutters deliver superior water carrying abilities as a result of their larger diameter. Also, they require less maintenance due to their smooth, rounded shape. Therefore, there is fewer chance that debris will block the flow of water. Additionally, these units are much better at naturally flushing out debris during light rain than square gutters.
Also made from Colorbond, galvanised steel, or Zincalume, half round gutters are available in many different colours. They are extremely durable and offer a large number of accessories, including: stop ends, internal and external gutter brackets, and external corners.
It is one of the most dreaded chores you can do around the home. The fact that the gutters fill with debris that needs occasional clearing means you probably put off getting it done until its too late or you’re forced to do it.
The issues that arise when you don’t clean the gutters can be severe since the rain gutters were designed to help your home’s structure. If the gutters are left clogged, you could end up with the unpleasant task of paying for some very expensive roof or home repairs.
Why gutter cleaning is important
When it rains, the water runs from your roof into the gutters and down to a designated area. Some people allow rainwater to make its way down to the stormwater system, while others have special catchment areas for gathering rainwater. No matter what you choose, it is vital that your gutters are free of blockages and obstructions at all times. If you neglect this, water will build up inside the gutters and eventually overflow. The overflowing water can get into your ceiling, inner walls, and even the inside of your windows. This can cause devastating structural damage to your home.
In areas where fires are a common hazard, gutter cleaning is an essential part of reducing this risk. Proper, regular cleaning also ensures that your gutters and downpipes last longer and eliminates common breeding areas for insects, like mosquitoes. For the most part, gutters only need cleaning once a year. However, in areas where tree growth is dense, cleaning may need to take place as often as every three or four months.
Certain gutter cleaning services go the extra mile and clean your ceiling cavity too. This reduces the risk of allergies from dust mites and removes rodent breeding areas.
If you regularly clean out your gutters, you will be able to avoid:
Wearing your gutters out before their time
The opportunity for water to enter your home unwanted
Debris blocking down pipes and drains
Creating an environment for vermin and insects like mosquitoes and mice
Having possible dry debris available for fuel during fire seasons
Setting a schedule for gutter cleaning
If you have a large number of tall trees that overhang your home’s roof, this can be the biggest culprit for a dirty gutter. The idea is that if you have a half a dozen trees that shed their leaves, you are going to want to clean them out at least once a year after all the leaves have fallen for the season. Although, it is recommended that you at least inspect and clean accordingly a few times a year. If you have gutter guards, you might only need to inspect the gutters annually and clean them every other year or so.
Should you clean your gutters or hire someone?
If you are physically able to clean your own gutters, then you can save yourself the additional cost of hiring someone to do it for you, and do it yourself. The task of cleaning out the gutters only requires that you have access to a pair of gloves, a hand rake or garden scoop, and a ladder tall enough to comfortably and safely reach the gutter.
If for some reason you do not wish to clean your own gutter or are not physically able to do it, then hiring someone to do the cleaning is a must. Be sure to hire someone who is either licensed to perform work on your home like a handyman or landscaper. If you do hire a professional and do not already have gutter guards in place, ask them about installing some. This will drastically reduce the need to clean the gutters as often in the future.
Professional gutter cleaning services
When calling in the professionals, these are some of the services you can expect:
Leaf and debris removal from the roof, gutters and downpipes
Gutter and downpipe flushing where necessary
Cleaning of the ceiling cavity
Checking for any damaged roof tiles while conducting roof cleaning
Complete waste removal once cleaning is complete
Gutter guards supplied and fitted
Ensuring your gutters are bird-proof
Repairs to damaged roof tiles
Full report on roof condition
Choosing a gutter cleaner
The most important question to ask before hiring a gutter cleaner is whether their company and all its staff are fully covered by insurance. Make sure that they follow all the safety guidelines when doing the job.
Shop around for quotes and, when doing so, make sure that each company is offering the same, or at least a similar range, of services. The cheapest option is not always the best, so make sure you read through all the terms of their service. Check if they remove the waste collected in the gutters. You may ask them to leave it behind if you want to use it as mulch. Ask them if they have a satisfaction guarantee, how soon they will be able to clean your gutters and if they offer any kind of emergency service.
Garden gates are not only functional; they can also add a lovely decorator touch to your entranceway. They can help protect your lawn and garden from damage done by pets or stray animals, and can also be an attractive feature on their own. If you’re looking for the perfect gate for your garden, here are a few tips to help you in your search.
Where to install a gate
Gates can be set into any type of existing fence, railing or barrier wall. To help control access to your home, consider installing a driveway gate to monitor access to your main entrance. In addition to a driveway gate, you can also install a small access gate for pedestrian use. These are especially convenient if you don’t want to bother with using your main gate when you’re taking a walk. Small-scale garden gates can also be installed to help protect your plants from kids, pets and stray animals. Basically, you should consider installing a gate in any area that you want to protect, yet still have easy access to.
Garden gates: Designs & materials
Garden gates are made in a wide variety of materials and styles. Here are a few of the most popular:
Metal gates: These are typically made from wrought iron or cast iron, as well as aluminium, brass and steel. Metal gates are strong and durable, and can be made to fit just about any dcor. Theyre more weather-resistant than other materials such as timbers, and they wont warp.
Wood gates: These are made from a wide variety of timbers and can be as simple as an unadorned picket fence, or as fancy as a solid hardwood gate with carved panels. In addition, wood can be combined with metals and other materials to create a designer look.
Ornamental gates: As the name implies, these gates typically feature a design scheme that can be simple and figural, or ornate and showy. These are generally made from wrought iron or other metals or timbers, and are meant to be a showcase feature on their own.
Japanese gates: These are primarily made from light woods and bamboos, and are constructed in a simple Asian style and sometimes lacquered in red, gold or black. Japanese gates are perfect for a Japanese Zen garden.
Choosing the right gate
Before you start looking at garden gates, take time to consider exactly what it is that you want. Try to match your gate to the mood and appearance of your garden. If you have a highly-structured garden with a contemporary layout, then a streamlined, minimalist-style gate might work best. Likewise, if you have a profuse cottage-style garden or more formal landscaping, you should choose an ornamental gate with an ornate thematic design. The material you choose should also tone in with your garden. Timber gates look especially charming when installed in a rustic country garden, while wrought iron or brass gates look splendid when showcased in a classic formal garden.
Aesthetics aside, youll also want to consider how much maintenance youre willing to do on your gate. Some materials, such as certain woods, might need weather treating or staining periodically. Other materials, such as brass, may need polishing. A heavy-duty outdoor type of material, such as wrought iron, will outlast any type of wood, and generally requires little maintenance.
Try to get the nicest-looking garden gate that you can afford. Even though it may seem like a small thing, a lovely little garden gate can actually be a focal point of your garden. Its an important design accessory that can last for years, so you’ll want to choose something that gives you pleasure every time you look at it.
Security additions for your gate
You’ll want to get a secure, heavy-duty lock for your gate. These can range from simple latch-type systems to complex electric locks that you can wire into a security system. You can also choose industrial-strength padlocks. Make sure you keep the key or the combination where you can easily access it in case of emergencies.
In addition to locks, consider setting up a high-tech intercom or security camera at the site of your gate. Intercoms, cameras and other similar electronic monitors can show you exactly who is standing outside so you can decide whether or not you’ll allow them to enter. In addition, these monitors can also show you if someone you don’t know is hanging around your property illegally.
Sometimes, a garden or yard just doesn’t feel complete without paving to tie everything together. However, it can be overwhelming deciding on a colour or pattern with such a variety of pavers and sones available.
How to choose a paving colour?
There is a large selection of paver colours to choose from. You can choose solid colours or designs that have a myriad of vibrant colours. The colour you select can help create the illusion of space, add depth, brighten up or tone down an aesthetic and create the perfect ambiance. When deciding on a colour for your pavers, here’s what you should consider.
1. The location
You will need to assess whether or not your paving area is in a sunny area or in the shade. Opt to use lighter pavers for areas not exposed to too much sunlight and darker pavers for areas that receive lots of sunlight. If the area is sunny sometimes and shady during other times, then choose a light-dark pattern.
Paver colours assist with the illusion of space and can create a warmer or harsher ambiance. When you pave a narrow concrete patio with light paving it creates a cheerful ambiance and makes the patio appear larger. Be careful though, as a very light paver used in a large area can make the area appear cold. For patios where there is lots of sunlight, it’s advisable to use softer tones. The use of clay tiles can do wonders for the transformation of a plain patio.
3. Further considerations when choosing colours
Be sure to select a colour that blends in with the surroundings. Try to avoid matching colours but opt for colours that complement the area.
For an expansive area such as your driveway, opt for multi-coloured pavers. You can use monotones for the rims andpavers with designs for the centre. You can add character and beauty with sharp coloured edging stones too. When using multi-colours on your driveway, you have the advantage of concealing small marks.
Natural multi-colours can be used to create a classy look for your garden path or lobby when you apply it to your main area with a charcoal coloured edging.
How to choose a paving pattern
Before you start reading about paving patterns, here are a few key terms that you’ll need to know in order to understand the paving descriptions:
Header – the paver’s shortest side
Stretcher – the paver’s longest side
Course– pavers set in a row
Bond – completed paving pattern
Herringbone paving pattern
For this popular design, any kind of paver, bricks, or stones can be used. They are laid diagonally in alternate directions. The length of each joint is no longer than that of one and a half pavers. This design can be done at a 45-degree or 90-degree angle.
There are several paving patterns to choose from, like a Herringbone pattern / Source: Boronia Gardens
Basket weave paving pattern
As the name suggests, this design resembles a woven basket. Two rectangular pavers are positioned horizontally, with the next two in a vertical position. This is repeated until the designated area is completely covered. For added contrast and style, use different shades of pavers. Darker and lighter tones will really emphasise the design and create a lovely contrast. A single basket weave pattern will have alternating courses of single horizontal bricks and double vertical bricks.
Stretcher bond paving pattern
This is the simplest of all designs, also known as a running bond, the stretcher bond pattern is a simple, classic, and enduring paving pattern. Pavers are laid in the same direction next to each other – ensuring that each paver overlaps the one beneath it by half. The same way a standard brick wall is laid. By choosing to lay the pavers lengthways or widthways, you can make a certain area appear larger or smaller.
An example of stretcher bond paving in a garden / Source: Landscape Construct
Stack bond paving pattern
This type of pattern is perfect for square pavers, and it’s incredibly simple and easy to build. Just lay the pavers evenly with an equal distribution all around. Then, you can use differently coloured pavers to create a pattern within the courses. Many stack bond paving patterns also have a border laid around the outer edges of the paving.
Stretcher/Header combination paving pattern
This design is created by using both the long (stretcher) and short (header) sides of the paver. As is the case with many other designs, you can create an even more stunning result by selecting different colours and shades. Alternate between paver sides and colours for the most captivating and intricate result.
Large format design
This elegant design consists of large square or rectangular pavers placed either close together or with larger gaps between them. The gaps can be filled by small plants, pebbles or even woodchips. This design really makes the paved area appear larger. This style is regularly chosen for outdoor entertainment areas, patios and walkways in the garden.
Radial paving pattern
By alternating between the long and short sides of the pavers, stunning rings are formed with a radial design. The herringbone design is also partially implemented with this design to form the core. This design can consist of rings running side by side or overlapping each other slightly.
An attached carport is a storage unit for your car that is attached to the structure of your home. Carports can be made of a variety of different material, including wood or metals such as aluminum or steel, and feature open sides and a roof. This allows easy pull in and out access for your car, as well as effective protection from the elements such as sunlight, rain and snow. Carports are typically inexpensive to build and kits can be purchased at many large home renovation stores.
Source: Shutterstock
Reasons to install a carport
If you need to protect your car from the elements, you might want to consider a carport. They have many advantages, and may be more economical than a garage.
If you already have a garage, but there isn’t room for both cars, a carport could be the answer. Your car will be protected from rain and other harsh weather conditions, and it won’t be nearly as costly as extending your current garage.
Carports go up quickly and easily; they can be ready in a matter of hours or a matter of days, depending on the type you have chosen. Carports range from the simple to the more complex — a roof with four posts to gables and curved roofs. The pitch of the carport’s roof can even be matched to the roof of your home. Whether you go fancy or simple, your carport will be finished far sooner than a garage ever could be.
Carports can be freestanding or attached to the roof of your home. If you opt for attaching it, both you and your car will be protected from the elements. No more standing out in the rain and snow while you haul in groceries, and no more enduring the hot sun beating down on your head. You will be able to get in and out of your car in comfort.
Carports are amazingly versatile; not only can you store your car there, but if you wish to entertain, all you must do is move the car and you have a breezy, protected place for an outdoor party. Set up some tables and chairs or bring out the portable bar and invite all your friends to join you there — something you could never do in summertime in a garage.
Types of carports
Metal carports
Both aluminium and steel metal carports are an option in most areas. Unlike other materials, metal does not warp. It is also very durable and strong, even in the worst winds. Most types are fire resistant, unlikely to rust, and long lasting. In most cases, they only need a bit of cleaning every now and then to be maintained.
Steel carports made from Colorbond are a popular choice. This is perhaps the most rugged option. However, aluminium has its benefits, too, including being lighter and less expensive. Both options allow for plenty of flexibility when it comes to design. Both can be attached to the home or kept as freestanding unit. You can have any type of roof design you would like, including curves, flat roofs, and gables. Work with a professional to customise your needs.
Timber carports
Another option is timber carports. Timber is used for the entire carport, including the supporting posts, beams, and rafters. Timber is durable enough to stand up to most types of weather conditions, depending on the kind of timber that is used. You can use virtually any type of roofing on these, including Colorbond, polycarbonate, or Zincalume – all of the popular roofing materials. You can also choose a flat or gable roof.
Timber tends to be significantly less expensive than metal. Additionally, you can build your own without having to rely on a kit so much, though timber carport kits are available and include all of the pre-cut timber, roof sheeting, and other fixings you need for the project. Wood is far easier to adorn with various decorative finishes, such as using lattice.
Timber, unlike metal, is more likely to expand and contract due to weather conditions. It does require more maintenance than metal would as well. You can paint or stain it in virtually any colour you would like. You may even change this from time to time, which is significantly harder to do with metal.
Source: Shutterstock
Retractable carports
Retractable carports are more cost effective than building a permanent garage or carport. They’re ideal if you are trying to preserve the look of your house or don’t want any permanent structure on your property. When your car is parked, you simply have to extend the carport and your car is protected. When the car is elsewhere, retract it and it’s like the carport was never there.
Building a retractable carport is extremely simple, you simply install an automatic awning. Select an awning with fabric that is sturdy enough to hold up to the most severe weather you can expect – including the weight of ice or hail. Make sure the fabric is also easy to clean and has good protection against UV rays. It should also be flexible enough to retract and extend easily and not develop damage from fatigue.
The remote control which operates the awning should be placed somewhere accessible and convenient. Ideally, you should be able to keep it in your car, so you can extend or retract the awning as you pull out of or into the carport. A good alternative is to install a control pad on the outside of your house. This is especially convenient if you can install it on a section that you pass on the way to and from your car.
The retractable carport needs to be installed in a place that is convenient to park as well. Make sure its location does not interfere with other cars entering or leaving the property. Depending on the layout of your property, it may work best on the side of your home or existing garage, or you may need to instal it on the front or back of your home.
Costs of a carport
The overall costs will range significantly based on what you buy and if you erect it yourself. You will likely need to turn to an installer for a more professional, well-built solution, however.
One way to save money is to purchase a carport kit. This kit will provide most, if not all, of what you need including the required posts, guttering, and the roofing materials. These kits can range in price from $3000 to $5000 or more.
Professional installation is another option. It will cost more to have a professional erect it, but at the same time, it will ensure a better result in most cases. To reduce costs, paint timber boards yourself. You can also select lower-quality materials. You may also want to give the company a longer time to complete the project because this can reduce costs.
Perhaps the most important step to take is to ask for quotes. Get quotes from several carport builders, and then determine which one is the ideal choice for your situation. You will want to compare various materials, sizes, and designs to ensure that you get the look you want.
A good guttering system is vital to any roof, but many homeowners know very little about the gutters that protect their home. In addition, todays gutters can come in a wide range of colours and shapes and can offer both high-profile and low-profile aesthetics for your rooftop.
What are rain gutters?
Rain gutters steer water drainage that comes off your roof away from your house to prevent water damage to the exterior of your home, the foundation of your home, the interior of your home and to your landscaping. Many people don’t realize the importance of rain gutters until it’s too late and the damage is already done. If your home doesn’t have rain gutters, you should consider having them installed to prevent damage to your house.
While all rain gutters are designed to direct water away from your home, they don’t all work the same way. Each type of rain gutter is better for different situations
Fascia: Fasica gutters (also known as eaves gutters) combine both the fascia and the gutter, thus eliminating the necessity to install a separate fascia system. Typically installed onto the rafters of the roof, fascia gutters are made from materials such as ColorBond or Zincalume, and can be purchased in a variety of different colours or in a traditional plain finish. They are visible, yet attractive with decorative shapes and are installed on the outside edges of the roof.
Box: Box gutters are called this because they’re boxed or positioned into the edge or middle of the roof in a way that is virtually invisible from below. Box gutters are typically made from stainless steel or ColorBond. You need to fit them with an overflow accessory during heavy rains, or the water will accumulate on the roof.
Square: Square gutters are square-shaped and are available in different sizes. They’re convenient because they can handle a high deluge of water and are typically made from heavy materials such as Zincalume, galvanised steel or ColorBond. Aesthetically, square gutters are desirable because they come in different colours and offer an attractive-looking profile for your roof.
Quad: Quad gutters, also called “D” gutters, are the most popular type of rain gutters. These come in low profile models for small buildings and high profile models for large buildings and work equally well on new homes and older constructions. They’re made of durable materials, such as galvanised or stainless steel, Zincalume or ColorBond, and are made to fit a variety of widths and roof profiles. Quad gutters are either slotted or without slots, but the slotted ones are popular because they’re constructed to handle water overflow.
Half round rain gutters: are designed for use in areas that have a lot of trees. These gutters have a “C” shaped base to prevent leaves and other debris from falling into the gutters and clogging them.
M-Type rain gutters are designed for use in areas that are subject to a lot of rain. These gutters have overflow slots that prevent the gutters from becoming overloaded with water during heavy downpours.
Smooth line rain gutters are an attractive option. These gutters have a flat mounting surface and are half rounded in the front.
Rain gutter materials
Rain gutters are most commonly made of vinyl, aluminium or other types of metal. Here are the advantages to each type of material.
Aluminum: is the most popular material for rain gutters. Aluminum is inexpensive, corrosion-resistant, and very lightweight. You can install it yourself if you’re handy. Aluminium rain gutters are available in a wide range of colours to match the exterior of your home.
Galvanised steel: Finished with a zinc coating to protect it from corrosion and rust, galvanised steel is very durable and long-lasting. However, it’s not compatible with every type of roofing material. This type requires professional installation
Stainless steel: rain gutters are extremely durable and will likely last the lifetime of your home. These rain gutters are expensive and require professional installation.
Vinyl: rain gutters are inexpensive and are easy to install yourself.
Timber: A timber gutter is a rainwater drainage system installed along the roof’s edge, traditionally made from timber, that channels water to downpipes. They are commonly found in older houses of a specific architectural style and require regular maintenance and periodic painting or sealing to avoid rot and deterioration.
To resolve the issue of deteriorating timber fascia boards that can damage the guttering system, homeowners can install metal fascia over timber. Colorbond fascia is a popular choice due to its excellent durability, low maintenance requirements, and range of colours. Metal fascia over timber is easy to install and provides a hassle-free solution that supports the guttering system while adding style and value to the home’s exterior. Installing metal fascia over timber is a durable and long-lasting solution that protects the guttering system while adding an attractive finishing touch to the home.
Buying Rain Gutters
When shopping for rain gutters, keep the types and styles in mind. You want to choose rain gutters that are in your price range, look good on your home and are designed for the weather conditions in your area.
Before you make your choice, decide if you want to install coloured gutters on your roof or if youre content with basic white or black. You’ll also want to decide if you want gutters that can be seen from your roof or if you want to invest in low-profile varieties that are virtually invisible from the front of the house.
