yard Archives - Serendipity Mommy

How to Install Inground Trampolines – Sunken Trampoline Guide

December 3, 2020 by Mandy

Owning a trampoline can bring a lot of fun and happiness to the family. You might think that these are mostly for kids, but this is where you are wrong. Lots of adults buy them in larger sizes so that they can jump on them as well. Bouncing on a trampoline is a great way to blow off some steam, reduce stress, and even improve your physical health.

There are plenty of exercises that can be done on a device like this. Daily jumping will keep you in great shape. The device, as mentioned above, can be used by kids and adults as well. There are also several types of trampolines that you should consider before you make your purchase. Check out the link to learn more https://medium.com/@HealthBenefitsofTrampoline/the-incredible-health-benefits-of-owning-a-trampoline-eba8f246f538.

Nowadays, the most popular ones are the in-ground trampolines. They are large, practical, and can bring a lot of joy to the family. Some people don’t know how to install them correctly, but all you need to do is follow a guide. The installation process won’t take much of your time anyway. Here are the following steps you should follow in order to correctly install your brand new in-ground trampoline:

Figure out the location

First of all, you should determine where you want it to be installed. Plenty of them are installed outside, so you can jump as high as you want to. You won’t be able to do it inside because you would have to dig a hole in the ground, plus, the ceiling will prevent you from jumping properly.

Therefore, you should pick a nice spot outside. The spot shouldn’t be surrounded by fences, trees, and flowers because they will get in the way. What if you hit your head on a branch? The ideal location should be in a broader area where all of the things mentioned above will be at least 2 meters far from the device. Read more on this page.

Mark the location

The second step is to mark the location where the device should be installed. Trampolines come with tape measures that will allow you to do just that. You will not have to run to the store to buy one. As mentioned above, there are different designs and there are also different sizes.

You should observe the sizes in the instruction manual that comes with the product as well. This will give you a sense of how broad the hole needs to be. Once you have the markings, you should prepare for the next step.

Start digging

Now, it is time to get to the dirtier stuff. You would have to dig out the hole in the shape of a bowl. Your markings will guide you through the process. As long as you follow them, you shouldn’t have a problem. One of the best things about owning an in-ground trampoline is that you will not have to dig a deep hole. You won’t have to waste hours and hours of digging when the whole thing can be over after an hour.

You are nearly done with the inground trampoline installation and as you can see, you will not have to hire professional services to take care of the project, when you can do it on your own. That’s the beauty of devices like these. They are made to be practical and easily installed.

Place the trampoline on top

When the hole is perfectly dug out into the shape of a bowl, then you can proceed to place your device on top of it. The device has short legs, which will allow you to place it on top of the hole without any problems. Make sure that the legs are deep in the ground. This way, they will be protected by the soil and won’t start to rust anytime soon. In a way, you are making your trampoline more durable.

Plus, the shorter legs make it more stable. If your kids want to jump on it, they will be much closer to the ground, and they can balance their jumps more. How amazing is that? The same thing goes for adults as well. Owning this type is one of the best purchases ever.

How to Get Creative When Adding Shade to Your Back Yard

February 20, 2020 by Mandy

Your back yard should be a place where you and your family can relax and enjoy the outdoors. Depending on your situation, it may be a spot where you opt to install a vegetable garden, patio area for grilling out, and more.

However, during the torrid summer months, the back yard can be rendered virtually useless due to extreme temperatures. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to add shade to your backyard so you can enjoy it even when the sun is beating down.

Install a Pergola or Gazebo

If you have the time and skill, you may want to consider building a pergola or gazebo. Although these structures are slightly different in design, both can provide excellent shade. Gazebos can even be used for parties and even backdrops for the wedding officiant and the lucky couple.

A pergola is a structure that uses lattice for the overhead shelter. Combined with climbing plants such as wisteria or various vines, the shelter can provide complete shade from the sun.

A gazebo uses a solid roof rather than a lattice one, meaning that you get 100% shade immediately, without waiting for plants to come in. The disadvantage of a gazebo is that it may be more costly than a pergola.

Regardless of which structure you choose, building one can be accomplished in a weekend. If you don’t feel that you have the skill to build one, there are numerous kits available online or at your local home improvement store.

Consider the Use of a Shade Sail

If you don’t have the time to build a pergola or a gazebo, or you just don’t want to incur the cost, using a shade sail is a very affordable way to increase the shade in your back yard.

A shade sail is exactly what it sounds like: a piece of cloth or similar material is hoisted between 3 or 4 posts, creating an instant patch of shade. Shade sails are excellent choices when you need shade right away, as they only take a few minutes to put into place.

Although a shade sail will not be as durable as a pergola or a gazebo, a high-quality shade sail should last you several years with the proper care. For this reason, and due to the ease with which you can switch them out, decreased durability should not be a major concern for you.

Another advantage of a shade sail is that you can cover a larger area than might be feasible with a gazebo or pergola. While those structures tend to cap out at 10 feet to a side, shade sails come in much larger sizes.

Finally, a shade sail is an excellent choice if you are looking for temporary shade. The vegetation in your back yard needs sun to thrive; if you were to shade a large area for an extended period of time, you would find some of the plants struggling to survive. Using a shade sail lets you enjoy the shade while you need it, while giving you the option to take it down when you are finished, allowing your plants access to the sunlight they need.

7 Key Tips for Choosing the Best Fence for Your Yard

July 23, 2019 by Mandy

As a homeowner, it’s crucial that you take time out to make improvements that’ll make your house more comfortable, safer, and a more valuable investment.

Bar none, a new fence installation is one of the best investments that you can make.

So how can you find the best fence for your yard?

The tips below will help you find out the best design. Follow these strategies so you can choose the right household fence for your needs.

1. Figure Out How Much You Can Spend on the Fence

It’s always important to have a budget in mind when you are trying to buy a new fence. Stick to the budget so that you don’t accidentally overspend.

You might pay between $5 per linear foot and $25 per linear foot on a new fence installation.

When you are shopping for a new fence for your household, you’ll need to talk to a few professionals. They’ll come to your property and give you a price range so that you know how much such an installation might cost.

That way, you can check your finances and lending potential and come up with a budget.

2. Find Out Your Local Requirements and Obligations

Making certain changes to your property might necessitate permits, zoning changes, and other requirements.

The laws and requirements for installing a new fence will differ depending on where you live, so make sure that you check into these matters ahead of time. You may also have certain neighborhood rules or homeowner’s association (HOA) policies to check on.

Always look into these rules in advance so that you don’t break them with your new fence installation.

3. Decide on What Factors are Most Important For Your Fence

When buying a new fence you’ll need to consider what kind of attributes matter most.

Things like aesthetics, security, and privacy are important when you’re shopping for a new fence. Knowing what’s most important will help you figure out which fence type is best.

The type of fence you decide on will let you know everything from the price you’ll pay to the level of upkeep required.

4. Learn About the Different Types of Fences

Always research more info on the different types of fences and materials so that you can make the best decision for your household.

There are several different fence materials you can research, to include vinyl, wood, aluminum, PVC, bamboo, and iron. There are also a number of styles, to include privacy, picket, chain link, and driveway gates.

Be sure that you look into the pros and cons of these fences so you can figure out which you’d like to get installed in your household.

For instance, wood fences are incredibly popular and you can cut them to a number of heights and styles. Chain link fences are inexpensive and easy to install.

Wrought iron fences are charming and add a lot of value to the property, in addition to serving as great security fences. PVC fences are eco-friendly materials that are also low-maintenance and long-lasting.

Since each fence type and material has its own perks and liabilities, it’ll require you to do some research. Be discerning about which fence type you invest in, and don’t hesitate to get the help of a contractor that’ll assist you.

5. Play Around With Some Design Principles

You can make your fence a decorative asset for your household.

Think about what you want to accomplish aesthetically and then work backward. For example, if you want your home to have a nice landscape that’ll help you entertain company, you can design the fence in a way helps to accomplish this.

This means looking into the shape, square footage and entryways. You’ll also want to consider different color schemes and think about how they match your current home setup.

6. Bring in a Professional For Surveys and Advice

Be sure that you get the help of some contractors that’ll assist you in putting together the best fence for your needs.

There are a number of fence contractors that you can talk to, and they will come out and survey your property, while also answering any questions that you have. Be sure that you do your own research ahead of time so that you can ask all of the pertinent questions that come with the territory.

7. Properly Insure and Maintain Your Fence

Be sure that you do everything you can to maintain your fence. Since you’re likely paying a few thousand dollars to get it installed, it’s crucial that you do all you can to get the most out of it.

Each fence type has different requirements when it comes to washings and cleanings. You’ll also need to call up a fence professional to fix any structural issues that may come about.

Buy an insurance package for your fence, or purchase a warranty to go along with it. You can also add your new fence to your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Find the Best Fence For Your Yard

When you need to find the best fence for your yard, these words of advice will be helpful to you.

This fence is more than just a decorative addition, it dictates a lot about your home security and privacy as well. Since it’s also an investment that can bring equity into your property, follow these tips and reach out to some professional fence contractors.

For all things DIY, crafts and home living, check back for more of our content.

Up Your Curb Appeal: 8 DIY Home Projects to Spruce up an Outdoor Space

June 20, 2019 by Mandy

In 2000, the DIY market worldwide reached an astonishing $377 billion.

Tackling your own home projects is a great way to save money while improving appeal and functionality. Whilst many of us are happy to take on a DIY project indoors, there’s plenty to be said for taking your DIY skills outside too.

There are some fairly simple DIY home projects that you can take on which will help to spruce up your outdoor space. With a little investment and your DIY know-how, you’ll have your exterior looking like new.

Read on as we look at eight outdoor DIY projects you should consider.

1. Creative Lighting

If you want to get the most out of your outdoor space then you need to be sure you can use it morning, noon, and night.

Adding some lighting to your outdoor area is an incredibly simple DIY project, but one that can have a huge impact on the curb appeal of your home. A string of lights can be particularly effective; you get all the impact of downlighting without a ceiling in sight.

You could also consider installing some solar-powered lamps. You can find these types of lights relatively cheaply and they’re extremely simple to install. Once in place, you don’t have to worry about providing power; you can just enjoy watching them light up as the sun goes down.

2. Perfect Your Planters

Plants and flowers are a perfect way to give your outdoor areas a splash of color. Whether you’ve got decking, lawn, or a paver patio, planters are a great choice for fuss-free foliage.

Instead of just buying some planters, however, consider building some of your own. Constructing your own planter is a fairly simple job, and you can let your imagination go wild. Try being creative with ideas such as tiered planters or even planters that you can hang up.

You can also turn pretty much anything into a makeshift planter, from old toolboxes to mason jars.

3. Ring of Fire

There’s nothing like the beauty of a real fire. Why should that gorgeous glow be confined to the indoors?

Building a firepit is a great DIY project to take on. There are plenty of guides online to take you through the whole process step by step. And there’s nothing quite like basking in the glow of fire pit that you’ve built with your own two hands.

Once completed, you’ll have a real talking point as well a way to enjoy your outdoor space all year round.

4. Refinish Your Fencing

This is a simple job, but one that can make a huge difference to the look of your outdoor area.

Fencing that hasn’t been treated for some time can look old and weary. Clean it off with a stiff brush, then apply a waterproof stain. You’ll soon have fencing that looks as good as new.

If you have wooden decking, be sure that you give it the same treatment. You can buy a dedicated deck cleaner to help you with the first phase of the job.

5. Hone Your House Number

When people visit your home, one of the first things they’ll see is your house number.

If you want to up the curb appeal, try creating a stylish house number that will help you to stand out from the crowd. One popular idea is to use the first initial of your family’s name as a background onto which you can fix the numbers. You can then add any additional decorative features that you want.

Not only will it look great, but will also ensure that you don’t end up getting your neighbor’s mail by mistake.

6. Gazebo For Your Grill

What’s the point of a gazebo? Well, how about to keep you covered when you’re fulfilling the important tasking of tending the grill?

A gazebo over your grill means that you’re protected from the elements as you work on cooking the perfect burger. There are plenty of DIY construction kits for building a gazebo, or if you’re really feeling adventurous you could try building one from scratch.

The beauty is that you can leave your grill where it is, safe in the knowledge that it’s protected from rain or snow.

7. Cut a Rug

If you’ve got a paver patio, try sprucing it up by adding an outdoor rug.

You could buy a rug specifically designed for this purpose. But if you’re feeling in the DIY mood then why take one of your old indoor rugs and apply some waterproof paint? You can create your own designs; you’re only limited by your imagination.

If you don’t have a paver patio, then getting one is definitely something to consider if you want to spruce up an outdoor space. Check out this article to help you decide which types of pavers to choose.

8. Put Up a Pergola

If you love the idea of enjoying the sun surround by beautiful vines, then a pergola could be just the job.

If you have a paver patio, it’s the perfect base to construct your pergola on. This is a more challenging DIY job, but once it’s complete you’ll love watching the vines slowly growing over your handiwork.

It can also provide a nice amount of shade to make your afternoons in the sun even more pleasant.

Looking for More Tips for Your DIY Home Projects?

If you want more tips and advice for your DIY home projects then we’re here to help.

We have a wide range of articles covering all things DIY. If you’re looking for inspiration then our articles can help you find your new favorite DIY project. We also have articles on many other subjects, including education, fashion, finance, travel, wellness, and more.

Feel free to take a look around.

Buying the Right Tree for Your Garden

February 24, 2018 by Mandy

If you are lucky enough to have a large garden you can turn it into a really special place, an oasis for you and your local wildlife. One way to quickly fill up some space and greatly improve the ambiance of a big garden is to plant a tree. If you choose a fast-growing variety and buy something that is already a few feet high you will have a lovely large tree to enjoy after just a couple of years.

The right tree for your growing conditions

However, it is important to do your research and buy the right tree for your garden. You can easily purchase trees for your state from The Tree Center. They really are experts. This firm knows the US well, so can help you to find a tree that will thrive where you live. It feels good to plant something that will still be there for people to enjoy many decades later.

The look you are after

Once you understand which varieties of tree will thrive in your garden you are halfway there. Now, is the time to think about how it will look. You want any trees that you plant to fit in with the style of your home and neighborhood.

It is important to think about how the tree will look during each season. A bare poplar looks very different from one that is covered in leaves. If you do not like bare branches you may be better off planting an evergreen variety instead.

Ease of maintenance

That brings me nicely to another important point. You also need to consider how easy the tree that you are planning to buy will be to look after. If you do not like raking leaves that last thing you need is a couple of large deciduous trees to look after.

Can you afford to take care of it?

The other consideration is the cost of maintaining your trees. If you choose a large variety, every few years, you may have to pay a tree surgeon to trim it back hard. This can cost a lot of money, so it is an important consideration.

Do you really have enough space?

When buying a tree you need to understand how big it will be once it reaches maturity. It is all too easy to choose a tree which you enjoy for the first few decades but eventually end up hating because it has practically taken over your entire garden. You need to think about the spread of both the branches and the roots when working out how big a tree your yard can accommodate. You can learn a bit more about how to do this by reading this excellent PDF.

Can you legally plant it in your area?

It is also important to check whether there are any restrictions on the size of tree you can plant in your neighborhood. In some places, the planting of certain varieties is banned. You really must not skip over this part of your research. If you plant the wrong thing you can end up being fined. Plus, you will usually face a hefty bill for the removal of the tree and stump.