Lawn aeration involves the removal of small soil plugs or cores out of the lawn. Although hand aerators are available, most aeration is done mechanically. Known as a core aerator, it extracts 1/2 to 3/4 inch diameter cores of soil and deposits them on your lawn. Aeration holes are typically 1-6 inches deep and 2-6 inches apart. Other types of aerators push solid spikes or tines into the soil without removing a plug. These are not as effective because they can contribute to lawn compaction. Core aeration is a recommended lawn care practice on compacted, heavily used turf and to control thatch buildup.

As lawns age or sustain heavy use from play, sports activities, pets, vehicle traffic and parking, soil compaction can result. Soil compacting forces are most severe in poorly drained or wet sites. Compaction greatly reduces the pore space within the soil that would normally hold air. Roots require oxygen to grow and absorb nutrients and water. Compaction reduces total pore space and the amount of air within the soil. It has a negative impact on nutrient uptake and water infiltration, in addition to being a physical barrier to root growth. This results in poor top growth and lawn deterioration. Core aeration can benefit your lawn by:

• Increasing the activity of soil microorganisms that decompose thatch.
• Increasing water, nutrient and oxygen movement into the soil.
• Improving rooting.
• Enhancing infiltration of rainfall or irrigation.
• Helping prevent fertilizer and pesticide run-off from overly compacted areas.

Awnings can be a great way to add value and curb appeal to your home. In addition to making sure your property is nicely groomed, adding awnings to your home will make it more attractive to prospective buyers and can  increase your chances of getting a good sales price from the home.

Aluminum awnings are probably the most popular types of awnings for homeowners. One good reason for installing aluminum is the fact that they are virtually maintenance free. Although canvas awnings can usually last between five and ten years, they will eventually fade with time. Most experts agree that canvas awnings will need to be replaced within ten years. Aluminum awnings, however, can last for an indefinite amount of time.

A major  drawback of aluminum awnings is the range of options available. Aluminum awnings do not come in such a wide variety of colors, styles and options as canvas awnings. If you’re looking to add color to your patio and design to your patio, this type of awning may not work for you.

Aluminum awnings usually provide better protection against solar heat. Because they are made of metal, they are more effective than fabric or canvas awnings at reflecting heat away from the home and windows. This reflection proves to be a great energy saver and can greatly reduce energy costs. This is especially true during the very hottest of the summer months.

 Home awnings are perfect for a wide variety of uses, on windows, doors, porches, and decks. Retractable awnings allow you to have fun outside without getting burnt by the sun or overheating and help you create a comfortable space outdoors to enjoy in the summer time.

Another benefit is that awnings can actually help keep you cool without having to spend a lot of money. In fact, retractable awnings can save you money on energy costs by cooling your home. Because awnings block the sun’s rays you won’t need the air conditioner as much, and energy costs will go down. Plus, you’re helping out the environment. Retractable awnings also protect furniture and carpets from fading due to excessive sun exposure.

Patio awnings protect windows and doors from weather damage and provide shelter and protection when you leave the house, especially on rainy days.  The great thing about retractable awnings is that you can have them custom made to fit anywhere  outside your home. Patio awnings, as well as other types, come in a wide range of colors too. It’s easy to match them to your home. And if you purchase a retractable awning for a window or deck, you won’t have to manually put up and take down the awning every time you go to use it.

Awnings can be made of a wide variety of different materials. They are made of canvas, aluminum, and other materials. Aluminum awnings have different benefits and drawbacks compared to canvas awnings - it depends on what you want to use the awning for.

Keeping sunlight out of a home is an efficient and effective way to regulate temperatures and ensure your home is comfortable.

Even if you don’t need awnings to cool your home, they are great additions to the exterior of a home, making it easier to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. Also, stronger fabrics are used for awnings, so you don’t have to worry about the elements taking their toll on the fabric and causing premature fading. Beautiful fabrics make a wonderful addition to any backyard or patio, and you can choose colors and patterns that match your outdoor décor and patio furniture.

Stylish seating is just a stone’s throw away.

Trying to figure out how to make an attractive seat for two in the yard without breaking the bank? Take a second look at that slab of rock laying around in the backyard. The idea originated with landscape designer, Michael Glassman while he was shopping for stone at a rock yard. Glassman used stone to make loose-stacked stone benches and tables.Stone is more durable than wood and other materials garden furniture is usually made of. Stone benches and tables are virtually maintenance free. Plus, the ones you construct using separate pieces of stone can often cost less than most pre-made wood, iron or concrete benches at the garden center.

Have you gone GREEN yet?

What a great way to go green- with Organic Bath Towels! West Elm now sells these great towels and have many color options to choose from. If you have been wanting to go green but haven’t yet, then this is a great place to start.

Vetrazzo Countertops are the newest rage in Green Design. It is a product made from recycled glass bottles, windshields, glass windows and also decommisioned traffic lights! This product is very durable and easy to maintain. Many compare it’s strength to granite, as well as it’s scratch and heat resistance.  85% of the surface is glass which cannot stain, however certain types of liquids like red wine, lemon juice or vinegar may etch away the surface if not cleaned promptly.  Other types of countertops such as butcher block or marble have an aged look over time, but Vetrazzo will not age and will stay beautiful and new forever if taken proper care. Vetrazzo cleans up with simple soap and water since it is mostly glass.

Vetrazzo countertops are the new trend in the design world today. If you would like more information Style on a Shoestring would be more than happy to provide that for you.

Another option for “going green” in the home is linoleum. Linoleum is made from linseed oil, woodflour, and/or cork dust and sometimes pine rosin,  jute and limestone. 

Pros – It comes in a wide variety of colors. It is quiet and durable. More importantly it is biodegradable and environmentally friendly. It is also very hygienic and doesn’t collect dust like some flooring. It is a good  choice for people with dust allergies.

Cons - It is made to be porous so it may need to be waxed or polished from time to time. Overall it is  a strong flooring but repairs can be very difficult for a do-it-yourself homeowner. Also, linoleum doesn’t really add to the resale value of your home.

If you are considering the environment when thinking about flooring; Cork is a great way to go. There are many options for cork flooring and it should definitely be considered if you’re going “green” at home.

Pros – Cork is soft and adds warmth to a room. It’s offered in a  wide variety of colors and patterns and has a great texture. Also, it’s  easy to install  and  can be very affordable.  When selecting a cork floor you have the option of going unfinished or  using a polyurethane seal.

Cons – It is  not as durable or easy to clean as vinyl.  It can be “soft” even if sealed and may not be a good choice for families with kids and/or big pets.