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.
Many pool owners fall into the trap of only paying attention to their pool during summer – when they’re about to go swimming. If you find yourself falling into this category then you’re on a collision course with excessive service and repair bills should you let things go too far.
Pool maintenance is a year-round obligation and doesn’t stop during the off-season. There is plenty to do; from scooping out leaves and debris to balancing your chemicals. So, to help you keep your costs as low as possible, we’ve put together this annual pool maintenance guide that will guide you through every season. Let’s dive into it.
Spring
The secret to a crisp, clean summer-ready swimming pool is opening it up the right way at the end of spring. Start by removing your pool cover and storing it away. If you took proper care of your pool during winter, then there shouldn’t be any nasty surprises lurking underneath such as a green pool.
From here, you get your pool ready for the swimming season in 5 easy steps. We’ve detailed them below.
Home swimming pools require careful maintenance all year round / Source: JLN Designs
Connect your hoses and other equipment
This first step won’t apply to the majority of pool owners in Australia, though it’s worth covering for those that live in colder regions. If your neighbourhood often experiences freezing temperatures, then you would have disconnected your filters, pumps and skimmer. If that’s the case, it’s time to hook them back up to your pool.
Top up your pool water
Simple enough, make sure your pool water is about halfway up your skimmer. Topping up your pool water is a great opportunity, however, to check for any leaks. To do this, you can perform a simple test for which all you need is a bucket.
To perform this test, place the bucket on the top step of your pool and fill it most of the way up with water. Then, mark the water levels on the inside and outside of your pool and then leave it for 24 hours.
When you come back, measure the water levels both inside and outside of your bucket. If the water level has dropped only inside your bucket, then there is no cause for concern. Your pool is losing water due to evaporation, and this is normal.
If the water level drops below the marking on the outside of your bucket, this is an indication of a leak. At this stage, you might want to call in a pool servicing professional to have a look.
Break out the vacuum
If you properly closed your pool during winter, then there won’t be much need for this step either. Then again, many pool owners don’t have a cover, making this step another necessity. Grab your leaf skimmer and remove any debris from the surface of your pool. Then, scrub the pool walls and floor before vacuuming away all particles. If you’d rather skip this step, then you should consider investing in a robotic pool cleaner. Then this step will become as simple as pushing a button.
Circulate your pool water
Circulation is among the most important factors when it comes to keeping your pool water sanitary. During the off-season, you typically turn down your pumps to save on electricity bills. During your summer startup though, run your pool pumps for a full 24 hours to ensure it’s properly circulated. This conveniently brings us to the final step.
Test and balance your water
You can test your pool water by breaking out some test strips or scooping out a sample of your pool water and taking it to your local pool shop. For the latter option, measure your pool dimensions so that your local professional will be able to properly advise you on the number of chemicals that you need to use.
Finally, balance your pool based on the advice you receive. Then, test your water one more time to make sure that everything is in order. If everything is in order, your pH levels will be between 7.2 and 7.6.
Summer
Your summer pool maintenance efforts will be an extension of the work you performed during spring. In fact, everything should be pretty routine provided you haven’t bumped into any nasty surprises. All you need to pay attention to is circulating your water, cleaning your pool and balancing your chemicals.
Water circulation
Your pool naturally experiences more use during summer. Therefore, it is only normal that your water should be circulating at a higher rate compared to the offseason. By circulating your water, you will ensure that all dirt and particles make their way to your pool filter where they are collected and kept out of your pool water. As a result, algae build-up and cloudy water will be prevented, both of which can lead to expensive pool cleaning bills.
Replacing a worn-out spider gasket on a multiport valve of a swimming pool filter system is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy pool. The spider gasket creates a seal between the different ports in the filter system, preventing leaks and maintaining pressure. To replace a spider gasket, first, turn off the pump and drain the filter. Remove the screws that secure the multiport valve and gently remove the valve from the tank. Remove the old spider gasket and clean the area with a cloth. Install the new gasket and carefully reassemble the system, ensuring all connections are tight and secure. It’s recommended to replace the spider gasket every 5 years. Seek professional help if needed.
Cleaning your water
The biggest thing you can do to ensure your pool is looking good is to skim it. You should do this on a daily basis or whenever debris collects. The more you remove through a leaf skimmer, the less bacteria and debris will get into the filtration system. It is also just as important to remove all strainer baskets from the filter area and clean these. You may not need to do these every day, but any time there is material in this area, remove it.
You will also need to vacuum the floor of the pool on a regular basis. There are some devices that are automatic and others that work manually. Automatic devices are ideal because they do the work for you. Be sure to clean out the filter in the vacuum as well.
Perhaps the most challenging part of the process is to manage the pH level in the pool. It is ideal for it to be between 7.2 and 7.8. Test regularly with a kit from your local pool store. If the pH is not right, you likely need to add chemicals to balance it. For complete peace of mind, it’s also worth hiring someone qualified for fortnightly or monthly pool maintenance.
Keep the pool covered
To reduce the amount of maintenance you need to do on a regular basis, keep the pool covered when not in use. This helps reduce the amount of evaporation that is taking place as well. It can help to keep your chemicals in the pool and balanced, rather than being removed through exposure to sunlight. Covers also keep debris out.
Maintain the Filter
The filter needs to be cleaned following the manufacturer’s specific instructions. In most cases, you will need to remove it and clean it about once a month or less frequently. If you notice it is not working as efficiently as it was, this is a good indication that you need to clean the filter.
Super chlorinating may be necessary
In many cases, ammonia and nitrogen will build up in your pool. You need to remove these so that they do not interfere with the chlorine you are using in the pool to manage the cleanliness. When you can smell chlorine, this is a good indication that the balance is off. By using a super chlorinating product, you can shock the pool and bring it back to the level it needs to be.
Autumn
Once you’ve had your fun and the swimming season is over, then the next step is to close your pool for winter. Getting your pool winter-ready isn’t tricky at all. In fact, this part of your pool maintenance follows many of the same steps that you performed during your startup.
Clean your pool
Much the same as you would during summer and spring. Remove leaves and debris and then get scrubbing. Brush the walls and the floor of the pool, vacuum the pool, clean the skimmer basket and the pump’s lint basket.
Check your equipment
You want to make sure that your filters and pumps are in working order. Make sure all the oil, grease and scale deposits are out of the pool’s filter. At this stage, you can also wind down your pumps and run them for only 4 hours per day during the whole offseason.
Note: On the off chance that you do live in an area that regularly experiences freezing temperatures then you want to think about disconnecting your equipment as winter approaches.
Balance your pool water
There’s no need for too much detail here – but you’ll want to aim for a PH level between 7.4 and 7.6, . Simply take a sample of your pool water to your local pool shop, and you’ll get all the advice you need. Visiting your local pool shop is also a good opportunity to ask for phosphate remover, though. You might also want to mix in an algaecide to stop algae from coming in.
Put on your pool cover
If you don’t own a pool cover already then get one ASAP. They’re the perfect way to keep debris out during winter, minimize water loss and will also help trap some of the heat in your water.
The most important part of owning a pool during winter is that you don’t forget to keep an eye on it. There’s not much work involved, and you will only need to peel your pool cover back occasionally to make sure everything is in perfect order.
Clean regularly
Pools that are dormant are an open invitation to all sorts of debris and grime. Cleaning a pool is an activity that takes just a few hours, and it is absolutely crucial to make sure that all the pool equipment such as the skimmers and filters are thoroughly cleaned every fortnight. Frequently cleaning your pool also ensures that algae do not form on the surface of the tiles, which can be hard to get out after a long period of growth.
Cover when not in use
Make use of a pool cover or a pool blanket once you have cleaned the pool. This will prevent leaves, twigs and other debris from accumulating over the surface of the water, making your next pool clean a lot quicker. Remember to remove the pool blanket regularly so that algae does not begin to grow inside the pool.
Check your chemical balance
The chemicals in pool water should be regulated during the winter months when the pool is not in use. Using a water testing kit from your local pool shop, check to see whether the alkalinity and pH of the water are at the appropriate levels around every 6 weeks. Add the needed chemicals to return the water to a state of balance if that is not the case. Another crucial step that must not be forgotten in rebalancing pool chemicals is to run the filter for a period of eight hours so that all the added chemicals are properly mixed through.
Don’t forget the filtration
Running the pool filter in winter helps maintain the balance of pool chemicals and is also essential in ensuring that the water is cleaned and filtered from debris. You can do this by running the filter for three to four hours a day.
