Landscaping around your pool is one way to transform the area into your own personal retreat. If you’ve put up an enclosure, adding plants inside will go a long way toward enhancing the beauty of your surroundings. However, you want to make the right choices when deciding which plants to incorporate. Making the wrong choices can lead to problems, such as constantly finding leaves or petals in the pool clogging up your filters and contributing to algae growth and ring-around-the-pool.

Moreover, some plants left growing too close to your enclosure, whether inside or out, can cause damage to the screens and frames. Planting in containers is a good idea because you can move them around if necessary as your plants grow.

With a little planning, you’ll hit on the right combination of plant life and the tropical atmosphere is sure to enhance your sense of peaceful serenity—one of the main reasons that people design a backyard getaway in the first place.

Which plants grow best inside an enclosure?

Low maintenance plants are those that are the least likely to drop debris into the pool. It makes good sense that the less time you spend skimming and cleaning leaves you more time for swimming or relaxing poolside.

Some good options to consider are:

• Palms—The Bangalow palm and Foxtail Palm are both ideal for adding some tropical ambiance because they are fairly easy to care for and don’t shed much debris.
• Ornamental grasses—Muhly Grass is native to Florida. It has narrow, dark green leaves and yields a beautiful display of pink or purple flower stems during the fall. It needs lots of water to get started, but over time becomes drought tolerant.
• Tropical plants—Bird of Paradise and Hibiscus are considered low maintenance and offer vibrant splashes of color that lend to the oasis feel.
• Succulents—Yucca and Aloe Vera are uniquely shaped plants that are low maintenance. They don’t require much watering which fits in well with busy lifestyles.
• Evergreen shrubs—Such as the Star Jasmine, for example. It’s a perfect choice for growing inside your enclosure. It’s decorative and emits a beautiful fragrance adding to the resort-like feel.

Designing tips

Colors and textures are big in the world of design with good reason. Eye-catching surroundings lend to the overall ambiance so mixing different shades of green with vibrant pops of color is the name of the game. Think about how tall your plants will grow and choose species of varying heights to add depth and dimension to your design. A simple layout idea would be to arrange your plants with taller palms or shrubs in the back and then the shorter plants or flowers in front. It creates a full, lush appearance, in perfect tune with your luxurious backyard getaway.

If you aren’t planning to put down a new floor, adding a walkway outside your enclosure will still compliment your interior design. You could border the walkway around your enclosure or have it lead off toward a garden statue or the tiny grove of orange trees across the backyard. Water features are another great way add to the overall aesthetic. The sound of moving water tends to lull most people into a more relaxed state which is perfect for a backyard getaway spot.

Low maintenance, not no maintenance

Even though you won’t have much, regularly maintaining your landscaping inside and out is the key to keeping your backyard getaway looking luxuriously beautiful.

Keep branches trimmed back so walkways don’t become obstructed. Sweeping up the fallen leaves is easy enough to handle. Periodically ensure that none of your plants are harming the structural integrity of your enclosure. Lastly, check to make sure your screens remain firmly in place along the frames and repair any small holes or tears that appear in your screens immediately.

Taking a little time to spruce up your space is going to make a big difference in enhancing the quality time your family and friends spend poolside this year… and every one hereafter.

No enclosure?

You may want to consider installing one! Pool enclosures offer your family several benefits that you can enjoy all year long.

They include:

• An increased level of privacy
• Create a bug-free zone
• A degree of UV protection
• Protect your outdoor living space from yard and storm debris
• Provide a barrier that holds wildlife at bay

If you have pets or small children, enclosing the pool provides you with an added level of safety too which is good for peace of mind.

We suggest that you consider working with a company that provides you with customized screens. Using digital imagery, your image choice is printed directly onto your screens. Dyes infused with added UV protection ensure images remain vibrant for years to come. You wouldn’t necessarily need to landscape if you were surrounded with the lush vegetation of a tropical rainforest or it appeared as if the ocean was only a short distance away!

It’s a thought worth entertaining, wouldn’t you say? All you’ll have to do to finish out your getaway spot is to add in your furniture and decor. And, maybe plan a party… or two!

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Installing a pool enclosure takes your backyard to an even higher level. They enhance the aesthetic appeal that your home and surrounding property present to the neighborhood. Clean, well-maintained enclosures give the impression of a well-cared-for property that others admire. Let’s explore all the benefits of installing a pool enclosure and the value it brings to your home.

It raises the bottom dollar

Buyers are willing to pay more for a home that comes complete with a swimming pool. It just makes good sense to realize that adding an enclosure causes the home’s value to increase even more. Just how much depends on factors, such as building materials used, the size of course, and, even, the shape of the structure can make a difference. If you’ve enclosed a high dive, for instance, it’s bound to create a splash of enthusiasm!

Most likely, though, you aren’t planning to put your home on the market anytime soon. It’s good to know that your pool enclosure is a good future investment. Still, we want to make sure you know that pool enclosures add immediate value that your family can begin taking advantage of on day one.

Adds privacy

Homeowners agree that the added level of privacy enclosing the pool provides is something they value—some would go so far as to say treasure! Even though screen enclosures don’t completely block the view on either side of the panels, it feels as if they do.

Even if the neighbors aren’t keeping an eye on what’s going on during pool time at your house, sometimes it seems as if that’s the case. The feeling of seclusion that an enclosure creates enhances your family’s ability to relax.

Increases your ability to use the pool

Another great advantage of enclosing the pool is increasing your ability to use it! When you’re protected from the elements, such as wind and rain, a pool enclosure extends your swimming season. Your outdoor space is more functional and, dare we add, enjoyable.

Creates a bug-free zone

With at least 1,049 known species of insects, our sub-tropical climate is a prime breeding ground for billions of bugs! Moreover, many of them prefer living near water. Your pool naturally attracts them but a mesh screen enclosure abruptly stops their flight pattern. Your family can rest, relax, and enjoy the pool without constantly swatting at mosquitoes or other biting bugs. Night swims are a lot more popular!

Swarms of flies aren’t going to invade a picnic by the pool either. Can you even imagine?

Provides UV protection

Mesh screen pool enclosures offer your family some protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays filter through the screen causing them to lessen in intensity. You and your family will enjoy your pool with less exposure to direct sunlight. That means you don’t have to reapply sunscreen as often. The kids are going to love that! Your stuff doesn’t suffer sun fade as quickly either. Another huge plus in our book.

Your pool stays cleaner

If you tend to get caught with the pool uncovered when a storm rolls through, you know what a mess that can make of the water. Eeesh.

Enclosers provide a barrier keeping storm debris—and flying insects, for that matter—out of the area completely. The kids don’t make a mad dash across the yard to leap into the pool with grass and dirt all over their feet nearly as often either.

You spend a lot less time skimming the pool and a whole lot more time relaxing or playing with the kids.

Improves safety

The ever-present danger of owning a pool is making sure children and pets stay away from the water without supervision. Pool enclosures provide a protective barrier that prevents accidental—or unauthorized—access to the area. The added value of peace of mind can be immeasurable—especially for parents of a strong-willed child who lives by the words, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”

Since we mentioned the value provided when selling your home, we’ll note that some insurance companies offer discounts on homeowners insurance for properties with enclosed pools due to the reduced risk of accidents. This, too, is a plus for grabbing a potential buyer quickly—and worth discussing with your insurance provider for the here and now! Every penny saved these days makes a difference!

Energy efficient

Believe it or not, mesh screen enclosures help regulate your pool’s water temperature. They help trap the warmth of the water rather than it escaping into thin air. This fact helps maintain a comfortable water temperature without the added cost of installing an actual heater.

Great space for entertaining

Pool enclosures have so many benefits that add value to your life. In addition to all of those listed above, a pool enclosure turns your backyard into a space for entertaining that can be used for parties, family gatherings, and more! It’s as if you’ve added an entire room to your home—especially if you have invested in a cover that bears weight!

Homeowners decorate the area by adding furniture, plants, and lighting to create an outdoor oasis. You can take things up a notch by working with a company that customizes the screens. Dyes used to print the images are infused with added UV protection ensuring they remain vibrant for years.

The results of screen customization are truly nothing short of amazing! It creates a completely different environment enhancing feelings of peace and serenity. These are prime ingredients for upping your ability to rest and relax.

Florida homeowners love owning pools! Enclosing them only adds further value because of all the benefits that they provide. So, whether you enclose the space for your family’s personal enjoyment or are sprucing things up before you put your home on the market, adding a pool enclosure to the mix is a smart investment, indeed.

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A-frame roofs

This type of roof is also known as a gable roof. They resemble the letter “A” as two deeply sloping sides create a triangle shape. Many Florida homeowners might choose this design strictly because it matches their home’s roof design. Or perhaps because they’re considered very affordable. Either way, it’s a popular style here.

A-frames are a perfect choice if your swimming pool stands away from the house and the roof will peak at the center of the structure. If your pool is next to the house, these roofs can blend perfectly into your home’s gable roof.

The steep slopes strengthen the structure’s integrity meaning it can better withstand high wind. The sharp angles provide optimal water drainage. Both are attractive features here.

Mansard roofs

Mansard roofs are another popular design and feature a roof that slopes upward on all sides with a flat, level midsection. This roof style is reminiscent of that of a quaint little beach cottage. The pitch is very steep but not 100% vertical. They certainly don’t give rainwater a chance to accumulate.

Because of the steep pitch, only certain materials can be used for the build due to the weight factor. Many contractors suggest using synthetic shingles when installing a Mansard roof because they’re lightweight. Synthetic shingles are made of an engineered polymer or recycled materials that look like slate or cedar. This type of shingle is more expensive than asphalt but lasts much longer so it all works out budget wise.

While very attractive, mansard roofs aren’t known for durability. The gentle pitch makes it more difficult for rainwater to drain. This shortens the roof’s lifespan if you live in a climate with lots of rain—which, of course, we do. You may be in for frequent repairs with this style.

Dome roofs

Dome roofs are great for creating an open space with their notable half-sphere shape. This design can benefit people who suffer from claustrophobia. They may spend more time swimming because the dome allows them to relax rather than begin to suffer those “closed-in” feelings that can send them into a panic attack.

The gently sloped roof boosts your home’s curb appeal too. They’re also built to resist strong winds. That’s always a plus when living near the coast.

Hip roofs

Hip roofs are easy to build. So much so, that it’s said that a hip roof simplifies the construction process. They resemble the mansard roof having but one main difference. Instead of a flat mid-section, all four sides of a hip roof slope downward from the peak connecting at the eaves. The design may draw Florida homeowners specifically because it provides optimal wind resistance. It’s a self-bracing design meaning it strengthens structural integrity making it more durable.

Homeowners don’t lose any aesthetics though as they are attractive to the eye creating an elegant roofline. Another perk? Insurance companies are known to offer lower rates for this roof style due to its structural benefits. So, you may want to consider that fact before deciding on a less costly roof style.

Still not sure?

We can help you design your pool enclosure if you want help determining which roof style to choose. We would love to get you scheduled for a free estimate. Our staff gladly shares their knowledge and offers advice to help you make your final decisions.

You might want to ask about our customization feature too. Imagine feeling as if you’re whisked away to your favorite vacation spot every time you head for the pool! It can happen! You are in complete control and can choose the imagery from your digital library. However, you’re welcome to browse our catalog if you wish.

Designs are printed onto the screens using dyes beefed up with added UV protection guaranteeing that they remain vibrant for years to come without being affected by sun fade. The results are amazing!

The right choice

Mesh screen enclosures are popular due to the benefits they provide you and your family. They create an added level of privacy that surprises most. Additionally, you aren’t going to be invaded by bugs and mosquitoes. Imagine what a difference that can have when you head outdoors for a night swim. No more diving underwater to escape the buzz of mosquitoes indicating they’re moving in for a meal!

Your pool stays cleaner too. There won’t be windblown debris waiting to be skimmed before you allow anyone in the water. Moreover, because the area is enclosed, the kids won’t be as likely to take off across the lawn only to do a 180 and race toward the pool to dive in… no matter what may be stuck to their feet.

They don’t provide 100% sun blockage, but the screens will filter those UV rays making them less dangerous. You won’t have to reapply sunscreen as often and your lounge chairs won’t suffer sun fade nearly as soon as before.

All in all, installing a pool enclosure is sure to enhance time spent with family and friends. And it’s hard to beat that no matter what type of roof you’ve got over your head.

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This year, Burris predicts an above-average risk for coastlines along the Gulf that begins in Louisiana and extends to include most of Florida’s coast. He believes that Floridians may be at the highest risk during three specific periods this season.

They are between May 23rd and May 28th, July 9th through July 15th, and August 26th through September 1st. Time will tell if his predictions prove accurate, but if you haven’t done due diligence and prepped for hurricane season, you should. You want your home ready to weather the storms if necessary.

Since we prep for hurricane season every year, you may have your preparedness list ready to roll and it’s simply a matter of checking through it. If not, we’ll run through a typical checklist here so you can make yours.

Map it out

First and foremost, you need to have a plan of action. Plan your evacuation route ahead of time. Having a map handy may not be a bad idea either. That’s because in the “event of a real emergency,” it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Written instructions or a map outlining your planned escape route can help you keep a level head. That will affect how your entire family reacts to the moment.

If it’s suggested that you evacuate the area, the sooner the better! Waiting until the last minute will likely hamper your escape as traffic congestion worsens. You may not need to travel far to get your family into the safe zone, but you should remove yourselves from its path to avoid possible injury.

What’s your contact plan?

Make multiple handwritten lists of emergency contact numbers in addition to 911. Police, fire, utilities, and rescue numbers can be listed individually as a just-in-case measure. Include the phone numbers of relatives, friends, and neighbors whom you want to reach as soon as possible after the storm passes.

Share meeting places with those close to you. That way, if phones and internet access are inaccessible, you still have a game plan. Perhaps everyone can plan to be at the meeting place during designated times each day making it easier for everyone to connect.

Do you need an insurance check-up?

It’s cutting it close to make the start of the season, but it doesn’t hurt to check with your insurance agent to make sure all the “i’s” are dotted and “t’s” crossed as far as your coverage goes. Should you get caught in a storm, you want to be sure you can repair or replace anything severely damaged or destroyed.

Act now if you need to get flood insurance in place because it typically takes thirty days for it to go into affect.

If it’s been a while since you documented your possessions, take some photos and list serial numbers so you have ample information for the insurance company if worse comes to worst. It will help speed up your claim.

Strengthen your home

There are several things to do around your home that will help it sustain the onslaught of hurricane-force winds and rain. If you have hurricane shutters, make sure they are easily accessible, and then should you need them, they won’t be buried behind everything else you’ve got stored away.

It’s important to remember that the garage door is the most vulnerable part of your home because if it falls prey to the wind, the odds are your entire house will be destroyed. Once storm-force winds access such a large opening, the wind will mercilessly attack the remainder of your home looking for any nook or cranny to escape again. The result may liken an explosion—no kidding. You can purchase garage door kits that will help you strengthen its integrity if replacing it with a hurricane-resistant door isn’t in the budget.

Anchor down any large planters, sheds, privacy enclosures, and maybe the grill if you don’t have a place to store it away. Be prepared to bring in patio furniture and decor.

Trim your trees of any dead branches and excess foliage. The leaves act as a barrier blocking the wind’s path. That coupled with the rain-saturated ground could cause the tree to topple over. Any hanging fruit should be picked. Even if you lose your harvest, it saves your—and your neighbors—home from being hammered with it. An orange hurtling through the air at hurricane-force speeds causes damage. Imagine a hundred of them!

Stock up on supplies

Consider everything you and your family need to be self-sufficient and start gathering it! NOAA recommends that you be ready to meet basic needs for food, water, medicines, and cash to sustain yourselves for 72 hours and, possibly, up to a week.

It’s best to plan for two separate scenarios. One is remaining at home and, the second is evacuating to safety.

We borrowed this list from NOAA’s site:

• Cash: Banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods.
• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for 3-7 days for drinking and sanitation.
• Food: 3-7 days worth, include non-perishable packaged or canned food and juices, baby food, and pet food.
• Meal supplies: Manual can opener, paper plates, paper cups, paper towels, and plastic utensils
• Radio: Battery-powered radio and NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries
• Sleep: Sleeping bag, blankets, and pillows
• Clothing: Seasonal clothes, rain gear, and sturdy shoes
• First-aid kit with, vitamins, medicines and prescription drugs
• Toiletries: Hygiene items, moisture wipes, and sanitizer
• Flashlight and batteries
• Car and house keys
• Toys, books, and games
• Fire extinguisher
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to filter contaminated air
• Wrench or pliers to turn off gas or utilities
• Maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Paper and pencils
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
• Glasses, contacts, and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, and diaper cream
• One week or longer supply of prescription medicines with a list of all medications, dosage, and any allergies
• Copies of medical insurance and Medicare identification cards
• In case of emergency (ICE) contact information for doctors, relatives, or friends to notify if you are injured

Prepare for your pets

Make sure and gather things you need for your pet as well. Food, medications, water bowl and water supply, leash, collar, and toys should make the list. Also, we suggest making sure you have a picture of you and your pet to help you identify them if you become separated.

The photograph was a “why didn’t we think of that?” type of moment around here. In this digital age, we don’t always think to have “hard copies” of documentation available when we need them. As far as the picture goes, instead of storing it in the supply bin, pop it in a frame for “safekeeping” until next year.

The post An Active Hurricane Season Likely appeared first on Patio Scenes Outdoor Privacy Screen.

What a unique structure.

Frankly, the homemade enclosure isn’t as appealing as you hoped when you heard them describing their design plan a couple of weeks ago.

The kids love it though! They come home from playing next door raving about the backyard adventures it inspires, “It’s just like we’re camping in the wild!” You can’t disagree with that. There’s no denying that it appears as if they drew up their plans while watching their favorite survival series. And you can’t help but wonder where they went to gather all that natural building material.

Different strokes

Rough and ready isn’t your cup of tea though—mainly because you would much rather be sitting out on the lanai enjoying a cup as you wind down from the day rather than taking on any nighttime challenges that nature throws your way. Take mosquitoes, for instance. Their new structure provides a natural habitat more than it does protection. Especially, when they wet it down in the evenings.

They’re sure that will help keep it from drying out and becoming brittle as the temperature rises drawing closer to summer. You haven’t asked but wonder if that’s a “thing” in the state where they moved from. The city will likely call it nothing more than a fire hazard in a few short months.

Rather than letting a homemade structure or giant piles of “stuff” build a barrier between you and the neighbors, we’ve got a solution you ought to consider.

What appeals to you?

Take a moment to consider what it would be like to step out the back door and into an environment that instantly appeals to your senses. Somewhere beautiful, relaxing, and private. Where would that be? The beach? A beautiful flower garden? Standing near a cascading waterfall?

What if we told you there is a way to create a private getaway spot right in your backyard? If you’re one of the families choosing to forego the summer vacation this year, you might want to consider what a luxury enclosing your outdoor space can be.

A customized creation

Some companies that build screen enclosures offer customers a design feature that allows them to create a truly unique space for their families. Advancements in digital imagery technology make it possible to print any digital image directly onto the privacy screen used for the build.

The results are nothing short of fantastic!

Once you add your flare for decorating to the mix, you will have created a space that your family will flock to—friends, too!

Other benefits to enjoy

The main reason homeowners give for enclosing their outdoor space is to add another level of privacy. Screen enclosures don’t completely block the view of what’s going on on the other side of the screen. However, they do create an illusion of privacy that our brains tend to run with. In fact, some homeowners report they had no idea what a difference putting up an enclosure would make. If they had, they would have done it sooner!

And that’s just one of the benefits mesh screen enclosures provide. Moreover, living in Florida means you and your family will enjoy all of them year-round!

Bug-free area

The screen used to build your enclosure will be finely woven which allows air to flow freely throughout the space but bugs don’t come through them. That includes mosquitoes. Even those tiny—and extremely annoying—noseeums won’t get to you when you’re inside the structure.

A degree of UV protection

While screen enclosures don’t block 100% of the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays, they filter through the screens and lessen your exposure. That means you won’t have to reapply sunscreen as often. That’s golden if you are putting an enclosure around the pool. You won’t have to pull the kids out of the water to reapply sunscreen nearly as often.

Another advantage that you gain is slowing down sun fade. Your stuff lasts longer!

Keeps the area clean

When storms blow through, you don’t need to tidy up before you’re free to enjoy the space again. Enclosures keep yard debris out in the yard where it belongs!

Safety features

When you’re pool is enclosed, you don’t have to worry about the kids or pets getting too close and falling in. Just lock the door when access is denied.

When you enclose your porch, lanai, or patio, you create a safe space for young children and pets to get some fresh air and sunshine but provides a safety barrier that keeps them from wandering off. You can take some time to scroll your phone or read that book you’ve wanted to get to without suddenly looking up to find yourself alone.

Speaking of barriers

If you’ve ever been surprised by a snake, gator, or small animal that’s come too close to the house for comfort, your enclosure provides a blockade. That won’t ever happen again… unless the door gets left hanging open anyway.

New view, same outlook

There is no need to stress about the way the neighbors choose to design their yard. It might drive a wedge in a beautiful relationship. If you’ve already got an enclosure up, you might consider replacing the one that gives you a view of the yard.

Creating a private space for you and your family to enjoy inadvertently strengthens your family bond. A beautiful relaxing environment fosters conversation, provides a great place for family game nights, creates a wonderful environment for friends to gather, and the list of positives can go on.

What can you add to the list?

The post Need a New View? Look At This! appeared first on Patio Scenes Outdoor Privacy Screen.