Tag Archives: custom decks in Kansas City

Deck Makeover: Before and After

At Outdoor Environments, we have been creating outdoor living rooms for Kansas City homeowners since 1991! We often add entirely new decks, sunrooms, screened in patios, and gazebos for our customers, but we also perform another vital service- remodeling or replacing old or badly designed decks to better suit the architecture and flow of the house. There are plenty of less-than-desirable decks out there, but you don’t have to resign yourself to living with a badly designed outdoor living area!

Take a look at one of our deck remodeling projects, below.

Before

This was a beautiful, spacious house and yard, but the deck seemed like a last-minute addition that did not relate to the scale or materials of the house at all. In fact, the tiny deck was basically just a landing for the strangely large and prominent staircase. There were not many entertaining or leisure opportunities on that staircase, to be sure!

After

As you can see in the “after” photo, Outdoor Environments created a deck that relates to the architecture of the home and simultaneously creates much more space for outdoor dining and relaxing. The homeowners now have the perfect party deck, and the back of the home looks much more intentional and complete.

If you would like to add or remodel a deck on your Kansas City area home, contact Outdoor Environments today!

Outdoor Lighting for Decks

It’s still National Deck Safety Month!  And it’s a popular time of year for decks. Since home improvements seem to peak during the spring, it’s important to note that deck construction and upgrades are the third most popular home remodeling project behind kitchen and bath remodels. And what are consumer looking for in upgraded decks this year? They want more deck add-ons, particularly outdoor lighting.

Consumers are interested in adding value. They don’t necessarily have to have the best or biggest deck on the block. They want features that will enhance their outdoor living experience while adding beauty and safety. That’s why outdoor lighting is such a hot commodity.

The types of lighting that consumers can choose from include:

  • Tiny, recessed LEDs for deck edges
  • LED strips for running underneath deck railing
  • Light with remote controlled dimming
  • Energy-efficient lighting that incorporates some or all of the above

All of these lighting options help to create a safer outdoor living environment if you plan to use your deck after the sun goes down. If your deck is in need of remodeling and outdoor lighting, call Outdoor Environments in Overland Park/Kansas City at 913-897-2706.

Information from KPVI

Image from Houzz

Consider a Front Yard Deck!

You might remember us talking recently about how the addition of a deck can help you to sell your home. And since everyone knows that location is the primary factor in the world of real estate, it’s time to consider where your deck will be located. Have you considered a deck in your front yard? Reliable Remodeler thinks it’s worth a try!

A deck in the front yard is welcoming and neighborly–a place to enjoy mimosas on a Sunday morning or host happy hour on a Friday evening. It adds instant curb appeal with an attribute of friendliness. In the backyard, a deck can extend your living quarters, adding virtual square footage and helping any property show well during an open house.

Even if you still insist on a backyard or even a side deck, you won’t be disappointed! Outdoor Environments is your premiere source for decks throughout Overland Park and Kansas City. Give us a call at 913-897-2706 to discuss your outdoor living options today!

Deck shown is by Outdoor Environments

Here’s Why You Need an Outdoor Oasis

Let’s cut right to the chase: You need a deck. Or a patio. Why?

First of all, you deserve it. A deck, when designed correctly, is a peaceful oasis in which you can forget about all the stressful things that come with life. You work hard and you deserve to treat yourself.

Secondly, if you would like to sell your home (like millions of other Americans) a beautiful deck can be exactly what you need to finally seal the deal.

Let’s elaborate.

Since the economy hasn’t fully recovered quite yet, having a place to relax and get your mind off things is crucial to your mental health. That’s why having a backyard oasis complete with elements like a deck or patio, swimming pool, flower garden, spa and lots of greenery can serve as your very own personal retreat at home after a long day’s or week’s work. If you want privacy and sanctuary at home, these are all great ways to give yourself peace of mind.

Another sign of the shaky economy times is the abundance of homes for sale, but very few of them are actually selling. Too often, homeowners make the mistake of focusing on their home’s interior when they’re in the process of trying to sell their property. They fail to realize that investing in decks, patios, outdoor kitchens and an overall well-designed backyard can make or break a home sale.

This is especially true for those who live in neighborhoods or subdivisions where similar floor plans are pervade the immediate area. If two homes with the same floor plan go up for sale, the one with the outdoor living space will automatically get more points with potential buyers. And ultimately, it will sell faster. An outdoor space that’s put together creatively will gain the edge because they’re unique and they stand out among other homes on the selling block.

Are you convinced? If so, give Outdoor Environments a call for all your outdoor design needs at 913-897-2706 today!

Information adapted from The Statesman

Deck pictured is by Outdoor Environments

Do You Need a Deck Upgrade?

The peak season for your deck will be in full force in just a few weeks, if it’s not already. Why not make some deck upgrades that’ll get it ready for the peak season?

  1. First and foremost, your deck should be prepped, cleaned, washed, repaired and/or stained if necessary. Many times, just refreshing a deck is enough to make it look brand new again.
  2. Just because your deck takes up a lot of yard space doesn’t mean your gardening dreams are out the window. Use large containers and planters to grow flowers and even vegetables right on your deck!
  3. Need a major deck change? How about adding a gazebo, pergola or shade arbor?
  4. Gates and railings can be multipurpose. Not only can you sit planters and bird feeders on top of some gates and railings, but many of them also come with decorative and architectural features that make your deck even more beautiful.

For all your deck remodeling and upgrading needs in Kansas City and Overland Park, contact Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706.

Information and image from BHG

Is It Time for a New Deck?

Even if you’re convinced that you have the best outdoor deck in town, it’s not going to last forever. The combination of weather conditions, high traffic and everyday wear and tear will take its toll eventually. But how do you know when it’s time up repair or even replace your deck? Here are some signs to look for, courtesy of Do It Yourself.

Screws and Nails

Loose nails or screws on a deck are hazards that should never be ignored. They can be stepped on or picked up by children, not to mention the possible dangers that can occur from a weakened deck foundation. A deck that shows signs of instability should be avoided at all costs.

Boards

If your deck is prone to high traffic, everyday wear and tear will eventually do a number on the deck’s boards. This may include splits that result from the pressure applied when people walk across the same area of the deck consistently. This type of deck damage should be address as soon as possible, to prevent structural damage during peak months.

Visible Spots and Discolorations

Stains are a common and expected occurrence when it comes to wood decks. But they can ruin the overall look of a deck in addition to causing structural damage if it permeates through the deck’s protective sealant. Minor stains can be removed with a simple water and mild detergent solution, but major stains will need to be professionally handled.

Dry Rot

Many people assume that dry rot only occurs to decks in certain climates and regions. However, if your deck is constantly exposed to moisture and has experienced shrinking boards, fungus, dark stains or a strange odor, dry rot is most likely the culprit.

To inquire about building a new deck in Overland Park or Kansas City, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706.

Image from Flickr

Designing and Customizing a Deck

It’s important to know that when it comes to deck design and layout, the conventional rectangle shape is a thing of the past. Residential Design + Build reports that decks are not a “one size fits all” deal.

According to research,

… “homeowners can take up to two years from the time they think about their deck until the time they actually pull the trigger on a project. Consumers will do everything from Internet research, buying books about design, and visiting showrooms.

Deck design can begin with a simple rectangle, and by cutting back each corner at a 45-degree angle the deck begins to take on character. Add other shapes, spaces, color and levels and it becomes completely unrecognizable as what decks once were. The important step today, though, is making all these variables work together.”

It’s all about customization and making the deck work for the homeowner and their specific needs. Surprisingly, some consumers don’t want a barbecue area or an outdoor kitchen on their deck at all.

Experts say that those considering a deck should consider three main components:

  1. How it looks
  2. How it functions
  3. How much it costs

Also, homeowners seem to be very interested in adding other features to their decks. These features include:

Outdoor Environments builds and remodels decks in the Overland Park and Kansas City areas. Call us at 913-897-2706 to discuss your deck options today!

Image from RDB

Growing Trend: Outdoor Kitchens

According to Kitchen & Bath Business, experts agree that outdoor kitchens are no longer considered a luxury. They are now a common and standard feature for home remodeling and new home construction. But to achieve the perfect outdoor kitchen area, the perfect patio or deck must first be installed.

So why are outdoor kitchen areas so hot? Experts say there are many reasons. Among them:

  • Homeowners have an increasing desire to invest in projects that increase property value.
  • Plain and empty backyards are boring and uninspiring.
  • Consumers are more interested in cheaper, healthier ways to eat and outdoor grilling helps to fill that void.
  • For those who can’t sell their homes, outdoor kitchens and living areas not only add value, but quality of life.

In order to create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams, you must first realize that a custom patio or deck sets the foundation. Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today to get started with planning your outdoor oasis!

Photo from Outdoor Environments

Want a Deck? Here’s A Few Thoughts to Ponder

If you have an eye on a new deck add-on for your home, now is the perfect time to start planning and brainstorming. Waiting too long can possibly delay your deck installation and before you know it, the cool fall weather will be here again. Don’t let time pass you by! Here are just a few general ideas to get you started with identifying your deck needs:

  • What will your deck be used for? The purpose of your deck, whether it be simple relaxation or lively entertainment, will weigh heavily on its placement and how it is designed.
  • Decide your style. There are many different ways to go here. You can choose to do something bold and unique, or design your deck much like an existing room inside your home.
  • Start thinking about deck features you might be interested in – furniture, tables, kitchen area, fire pit, etc.
  • What lies beneath? You may not be able to see wiring, drainage systems and gas lines, but they are there. So don’t be surprised if you deck can’t be placed in your desired location. Safety first!

Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 to get started with planning your deck in the Overland Park or Kansas City area.

Photo courtesy of Outdoor Environments’ Facebook Photo Gallery

The Psychology of Color in Landscapes

Last week we blogged about adding color and life to your outdoor space. Have you ever considered the moods that those colors evoke and what they might possibly say about you? The psychology of color is a fascinating concept. Here’s what James Hardie online has to say about the meaning of color and how it relates to your home and landscape:

  • Blue is the color of the sky, water and mountains. In the northeast part of the country, gray-blue shades are associated with weathered wood that’s reminiscent of Nantucket. Blue exteriors are calming, relaxing and fit in with any landscape.
  • Red on a home’s exterior is most commonly associated with nature’s flowers and fruits. Nature uses red in most cases as an accent, especially when seen in bright, clean shades. Deeper, grayer-toned reds are common in Midwestern farm areas and northern areas of the country and therefore have a very warm, friendly rural feeling. Reds are also associated with fall leaves and bark and work well in landscapes that experience all four seasons.
  • Yellow is strongly associated with sunshine. It also has strong links to flowers, especially in the spring. Traditional associations, such as energy and intellect, do not translate well when yellow is used on the exterior of a home. Yellow homes appear to be clean, fresh and happy houses.
  • Green in many parts of the country is strongly associated with nature, new growth, trees and shrubs. Greens that are more yellow-based will be associated with new growth and springtime. Deeper greens are linked to maturity, such as older plants or trees. Keep in mind when working in arid areas of the southwest that there are limited associations to this color in nature, so use it sparingly as an accent color, if at all.
  • White is generally associated with adjectives such as pure, clean, new and bright. These are all positive associations, but be careful of using too much white on your exterior because it can be very boring. If you really want a white house, make sure you use some other colors to add interest, personality and drama.

Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 to get your new deck, patio or seasonal room ready for spring!

Photo courtesy of House Beautiful‘s Outdoor Room Design Ideas Gallery