We’re always hearing about “curb appeal.” For those without a constant diet of the various cable TV shows on home improvement, we’re not talking about going crazy with paint on the bumps that separate the street from your lawn. That would more turn the concept into “curb unappeal.” No need to splash a bucket of enamel on the area. That’s because what we’re really getting at is something defined by Wikipedia as:
“Curb appeal is attractiveness of the exterior of a residential or commercial property. The term was extensively used in the United States during the housing boom and continues to be used as an indicator of the initial appeal of a property to prospective buyers.”
“Curb appeal can be accomplished by any number of methods including the installation of exterior decorations, re-painting, extensive attention to the landscaping. Several television programs have been created to explore ways for homeowners and building contractors to increase the curb appeal of their properties for a more profitable sale.”
You’re Not Selling the Place, Just Prettying It Up
By combining river rocks — from the size of a ping-pong ball to an ostrich egg — with wood is a very hot way to add value and beauty to your front and backyards. It’s so very natural a marriage that more-and-more homeowners and businesses are employing the combination. By using these “green” materials, you’re landscaping by blending nature with your yard’s “look.”
Some Ideas
The smarties at the University of Texas tell us that you must first start with a landscaping plan. Create a blueprint of what the finished project will look like. Not all that artistically inclined? There are a mind-numbing number of magazines and books to give you some inspiration.
Don’t want to buy any periodicals? Cruise around the countryside and take pictures of some other residences that have brought some wood and rocks into their yard.
But if you’re up for taking the creative route, as you draft your plan make sure you account for existing trees, pathways, driveways, existing garden beds and whatever already takes-up room on your property.
Is This a Focal Point?
Sure it is. When it comes to getting some river rocks, enlist the help of the kids and head-over to a natural stream that’s on unowned property. Or just buy some of the stones. They come in all shapes and sizes. However, if you decide to purchase a boulder, best not buy it and think it’s going to fit in the trunk of your Volkswagen. You’re going to need much help getting it from point A to point home.
Something you can handle is bags of mulch. Stay away from certain types as they are not animal friendly. Color-wise, it’s up-to-you.
Get some landscaping spray paint and transfer your plan to the area you want to augment with wood and stones. The kind of wood Timbertown Austin suggests is the hardest stuff you can buy, like ipe (EE-pay). This exotic lumber lasts nearly forever, resisting bugs and water.
Before you bring in any of the stone or wood, clear the area of grass and spritz some herbicide in the area to stop the growth of weeds and lawn.
The last part is the payoff. Assemble the puzzle you’re working from to the actual area, piece-by-piece. One tip: While you’re not working with latex or enamel, remember this rule — don’t paint yourself into a corner. While ipe and stones are more forgiving than a fresh coat of color, think practical. What goes where first will save you a headache as you totally improve what lies beyond the curb.
Original Source: http://timbertownaustin.com/landscaping-and-design/wood-and-river-rocks-landscaping-solution
