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Summer Yard Maintenance Tips from Michigan Hardscape Professionals

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While the summer season comes with its fair share of exciting benefits, it’s also the time to take care of your yard and ensure it remains in perfect condition. Carrying out your yard care duties might seem daunting and tiresome at first, but these tasks will not only help protect your safety, but that of your family members and your property.

What’s more, taking great care of your yard during the summer will ultimately save a significant amount of cash in the long run. If you have realized that the same issues keep emerging every now and then, it’s high time you spring into action. And even if your yard has been in perfect shape, it’s still recommendable to continue enhancing its appearance. Below are proven tips on how to care for your yard during the summer season.

Ensure your retaining walls are well-maintained:

At the most basic level, retaining walls serve as protective barriers intended to either block water or prevent soil from shifting. On most occasions, retaining walls are installed on buildings that boast steep gradients or in places that are highly susceptible to landslides as well as flooding.

Over time, all retaining walls undergo normal wear and tear, ultimately failing to serve their intended purpose. Some telltale signs of compromised retaining walls include:

  • Crumbling.
  • Pulling and tiling.
  • Rotting.
  • Soil separation.
  • Pooling of water, particularly in areas closer to the base. Regardless of the type of structural issues your retaining walls might be experiencing, it is crucial to repair those problems as soon as possible. If left unchecked, these small issues could easily become bigger, and more expensive to repair.

Conduct metal fire pit replacement:

Metal fire pits gained lots of popularity a few years, thanks to the benefits they offer. And while they are generally great, they have a few defects. They are not only prone to rusting, but also tend to get damaged quite easily. Thankfully, you can tackle these problems by replacing them with brick paver fire pits. These pits are not only relatively easy to maintain, but highly durable as well.

What’s more, in the event of any damage, the affected area can easily be repaired by replacing the damaged brick pavers. Simply put, if there is a damaged metal fire pit, the best time to replace or repair it is during the summer.

Conduct repairs to your damaged brick paver patio:

As opposed to bricks set in concrete mortar, pavers are usually set on sand that is compacted. And while they are equally safe and secure, but tend to shift with time. And when this happens, pavers may sink, appear crooked or get loose. The major advantage offered by brick paver patios is that in case they get damaged, you won’t have to replace the entire structure. You just have to replace the compromised section.

It is also important to note that brick pavers are also susceptible to discoloration and staining. Thankfully, this particular issue can be tackled by either removing the discolored brick or adding more sealant.

The bottom line:

Your yard plays a crucial role in your home’s overall aesthetics. However, it’s vital that your yard is examined and maintained by professional Metro-Detroit contractors, especially during the summer!

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or brick paver lighting, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

How to Plan an Outdoor Fireplace

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Your garden should be one of the most important parts of your house, but it’s probably one of the most underused. One way of getting more use out of the outdoor space is to install an outdoor fireplace. A beautiful garden will increase the value of your home and make it much more enjoyable to live there.

An outdoor fireplace is a perfect addition to any garden. This will help you to get a bit more use out of your outdoor space when the weather starts to get colder. As well as being practical, a garden fireplace can add interest to your garden and should become a real focal point.

Throughout this post, we’re going to look at the things you need to think about when you are considering installing a fireplace in your garden.

What do you Want a Fireplace for?

The first thing you need to think about is the reason you want an outdoor fireplace. Do you just want it to look nice, or do you want it to provide heat? You will also need to think about the size of the fireplace depending on how much space you have available.

If you are planning a lot of big parties outdoors, then you will need to look at larger fireplaces. But if you are planing more intimate outdoor gatherings then you might be better off with a small or medium-sized fireplace. Choose a fireplace that fits in your garden and doesn’t look out of place.

Fuel Type

The two main types of fireplaces for gardens are gas and wood-burning fires. Both of these have different benefits. Gas is probably the most popular fuel for an outdoor fireplace. This is because they are clean and very easy to use. You can easily have them installed without having to apply for any permits. There’s also no ash to empty, and they can be lit at the push of a button.

The only thing about gas is that it doesn’t have the same feel as wood-burning fireplaces. Wood fireplaces crackle and glow to create a beautiful ambiance.

Think carefully about the type of fuel you want to use. This will come down to whether you want the convenience of instant heat from gas or the more classic feel from wood fires.

Looking Great

You should carefully consider the look of the fireplace you are installing in your garden. You want it to compliment your house, not look out of place. Take a look online at the many different styles of outdoor fireplaces you can have. Print off a few pictures and give yourself plenty of time to think about which design you want to go with.

What’s the Focal Point of Your Garden?

Before deciding on the fireplace, think about your garden as it is at the moment. You probably have several different focal points already, a pond, plant pots, trees, or water features. You can also use an attractive outdoor fireplace as a focal point if you put it in a prominent position. It’s important that you don’t just choose style over functionality though.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Simple Things to Keep in Mind When Getting a Fireplace for Your Home

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In Chesterfield, MI, more and more homeowners are deciding to invest in a fireplace. It makes sense too — after all, a fireplace is not a heavy investment. It is a low-cost addition that makes a huge difference to your home. However, in Chesterfield, MI, homeowners planning to include a fireplace in their homes must do their research before making final decisions. There are several factors to be considered while deciding which type of fireplace would be the right choice for you. In this article, we focus on these factors.

Decide Why Do You Want a Fireplace in the First Place

Before beginning your research and checking options, sit down and decide why do you even want a fireplace. Here are some common reasons:

  • In Chesterfield, MI, many homeowners choose to add a fireplace to enhance the value of their property. This is especially true of properties that are already on the market for sale.
  • Many Chesterfield, MI, homeowners choose to add an outdoor fireplace simply because they think it is an accessory capable of tying all the elements of their garden or yard together.
  • Some homeowners choose to get an outdoor fireplace because they want to use it to create a comfy atmosphere and a snug and warm place where they can sit with their friends and family members and enjoy a good chat.

Understanding your requirement is crucial. If you want to add a fireplace to create a cozy and comfortable sitting area, a small fireplace would do a good job. However, if you have a huge yard and want to use a fireplace to bring about all the elements of your yard together, you will need to invest in a big fireplace that can work as your home’s focal point. Thus, understanding your requirement is crucial.

Talk to an Interior Designer

Choosing the right fireplace is difficult than you think. This is because the right fireplace compliments your home’s outdoors and aesthetic charm. A contemporary fireplace will look odd if you have done outdoors the Victorian way. Similarly, a traditional fireplace will look odd in a traditional house. You must, therefore, take the help of a fireplace expert or an interior designer while deciding which fireplace will go well in your home.

Decide the Type of Fireplace You Want

Once you have taken care of the above-mentioned things, you must now decide the type of fireplace you want. While wood-burning fireplaces look ethereal, Chesterfield, MI, homeowners must know that they must seek approval from their local governing body before they can install such a fireplace. Gas-burning fireplaces are easier to maintain and environment-friendly too. Further, installing them does not require any prior approval. However, gas-burning fireplaces are ideal for small gatherings and cannot keep too many people warm at the same time. In simple words, choosing the type of fireplace takes some time and consideration — make sure you give your decision ample thought.

Final Thoughts

Fireplaces instantly add to the beauty of a home. However, they do so when chosen carefully. If you are confused about what type of fireplace would be the right choice for your Chesterfield, MI, home, do not hesitate to take the help of a professional.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Go Shopping for a Fireplace

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In Macomb, MI, fireplaces are quite a popular choice among homeowners. Many homeowners use these fireplaces as the centrepiece and add small beautiful pieces around them. On the other hand, other Macomb, MI, homeowners use fireplaces for the primary purpose of keeping their guests warm. Whatever purpose they are used for, the truth is fireplaces are a beautiful addition to any property and increase a property’s resale value. In this article, we give you a few things that you must keep in your mind while shopping for a fireplace in Macomb, MI.

Get Clear Answers to Important Questions

Before you go shopping for a fireplace, the first thing you must do is figure out why do you want to get a fireplace? Is it because you think it will act as a wonderful centrepiece and amplify the beauty of your home? Or, do you want to get something that will keep your guests warm on cold winter evenings? Also, how much space do you have available for a fireplace?

Once you are clear on the purpose of the fireplace, the next thing you must do is decide your budget. You must have a very clear idea of how much you can afford to spend as with so many options available in the market, one can easily go overboard and end up splurging more than they can afford.

Having clear answers to the above questions will help you find the right fireplace within your budget. For instance, if you are looking for a fireplace only for decorative purposes, you can go with even a small fireplace. On the other hand, if you are getting a fireplace to keep your guests warm, you will need a big one. If you entertain large gatherings, you will need at least a two-sided big fireplace. In simple words, getting all the answers you will need will help you make the smart choice.

Decide Between Wood-Burning and Gas-Burning Fireplace

Wood-burning fireplaces have been a favourite of most homeowners, primarily due to the rustic charm they add to the space where they are added. When we talk of fireplaces, we automatically think of carved wood fireplaces. However, of late, gas-burning fireplaces have also emerged as a popular alternative to wood-burning fireplaces. So, which one is the right choice for you?

If you are someone who likes to keep things simple and fuss-free, a gas-burning fireplace would make a lot of sense for you since you won’t have to go through the hassle of arranging logs and building the fire in the fireplace. More importantly, even though some of the wood-burning fireplaces are beautiful to look at, they are not environmentally sustainable. On the other hand, gas-burning fireplaces are easy to use. Most of them come with a remote, which one can use to burn and maintain the fire. Thus, in today’s day and age, a gas-burning fireplace makes a lot of sense but if you are someone who loves the old-world charm, going for a wood-burning fireplace would be a good idea too.

Concluding Thoughts

Adding a fireplace to your Macomb, MI, home is one of the easiest ways to amplify the beauty of your home. Fireplaces lift the whole mood of a place besides making it comfortable and cosy. The good news is with so many different options available in the market, one can easily find one that suits their budget and style. We hope the suggestions offered in this article will help you make the right choice.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

All You Need to Know Before Installing an Outdoor Fireplace in Utica, MI

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An outdoor fireplace, bowl, or any other similar feature is a wonderful addition to any home. It brings comfort and coziness, especially during evenings and colder months. These features offer a great space for a family get-together. Gather in a circle, enjoy a few drinks, roast a few marshmallows, and bask in the warmth coming from your newly added stylish heating feature. Doesn’t it sound great?

There is an array of fireplace options available and we have described them all in detail in this article. But before elaborating on each type, let’s take a look at the essential factors you need to consider before choosing a fireplace.

Factors to Consider Before Installing a Fireplace

The function of the fireplace

An outdoor fireplace can serve multiple purposes. If you plan to sell off your home, adding an outdoor fireplace can increase the resale value of the property. If you have a relatively small outdoor space, opt for a smaller fireplace. Some Utica, MI homeowners want to use a fireplace to create a focal point for their outdoor design. If you want a fireplace to only provide warmth when your guests come over, you can consider a portable fireplace.

Size and the safety factor

The area and space where you will install the fireplace matter a lot. An outdoor fireplace should be proportional to your home. You would not wish to burden your home with a fireplace that is too tiny or too big for a family gathering. If your guests usually arrive in large groups, consider a space that can accommodate a double-sided fireplace.

If you have a toddler at home, the safety features are essential to consider. If you get a heater without properly checking, it may turn over and fall due to strong wind. To reduce the risk, get one that has safety features like a cool-to-the-touch surface. Some heaters have advanced features like automatic switches that shut off power if the heater gets an accidental knock or touch.

Types of outdoor fireplace

Most homeowners in Utica, MI install either a gas or a wood-burning fireplace. While there are other fuel options like ethanol and propane, we chose to discuss the most preferred ones.

● Wood-burning fireplaces bring a simple yet rustic feel to the outdoor space. They provide ample heat to accommodate the needs of large gatherings.

● Gas is a safer and low-maintenance alternative to a wood fireplace. With a gas fireplace, you will not need a permit to build it. This type of fireplace does not burn as hot as wood. For best results, we recommend you do some research and evaluate each type of fireplace.

Matching the style of your home and fireplace

Whether you add the fireplace to set the mood or just keep you warm, the design will remain an important aspect. Homeowners often forget to match the fireplaces with their homes’ outdoor design. In most cases, contrasting styles compromise aesthetics. If this sounds too complicated, work with a home improvement professional to determine the ideal fireplace that suits your home.

Seeking Professional Advice in Utica, MI

If you find it challenging to make a choice, speak to a home improvement expert. Our team of experts can help find an outdoor fireplace that meets your style, purpose, budget, and other requirements.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Utica, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

 

What You Need To Know Before Buying A New Outdoor Fireplace For Your Waterford, MI Home

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Many Waterford, MI homeowners use fireplaces to accentuate the aesthetics of their accommodations. Some of them are fond of using a fireplace as a centerpiece while others use it to keep guests warm during an outdoor dinner under the stars. Fireplaces also increase the resale value of a house. In Waterford, MI properties with a fantastic outdoor area are sold at a better price. Here’s a guide on which fireplace to choose and why.

Decide On The Primary Purpose Of The Fireplace

Do you want a fireplace for the simple pleasure it brings? Or do you need it because you want to keep your guests warm during those winter house parties? Moreover, you must also be clear about how much you can afford to allocate to the fireplace. Having answers to such questions will help pick the ideal fireplace for the outdoor living area.

If you intend to keep several guests warm, do not opt for a medium-sized or small fireplace. You are likely to need a larger, two-sided fireplace. Here’s another thing you need to keep in mind: the amount of space that is there matters. The size of your fireplace must be determined by the space you already have.

Choosing The Right Fireplace: Wood-Burning Vs Gas-Burning Fireplaces

Wood-burning fireplaces hold a special position in our hearts. When we imagine a cozy night by the fire with loved ones, the scene that typically comes to our mind is the sound of wood crackling in the firebox coupled with the gentle glow of the fire.

Several factors differentiate wood and gas fireplaces. When deciding whether to choose a wood or a gas fireplace, you’d want to consider which is more suited to satisfy your needs. Here’s one of the key deciding factors:

Despite the nostalgic charm, you can experience while sitting in front of a wood fireplace, gas fireplaces are now capable of giving the same gentle blaze. It is just as inviting and warm. What is even better is that it does not require the added effort or hassle.

In terms of energy savings when discussing a wood-burning versus a gas fireplace, the important factor to consider is wood management. In the case of the former, you will need to ensure that the wood is positioned well to start the flame. You will also need to keep manipulating the logs to maintain a gentle blaze.

With a gas fireplace, you will need to switch on the gas and bask in the warmth. If you operate your gas fireplace with remote control, it gets as easy as switching on the television.

Concluding Thoughts

Adding an outdoor fireplace to your Waterford, MI house can make it feel like a home. It is inviting and cozy and also adds warmth when the temperature outside starts dipping. Even if you are on a limited budget, you will be able to find an outdoor fireplace that suits your style and needs. Our guide will help you make the right decision when choosing an outdoor fireplace for your home.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding outdoor fireplaces, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Waterford, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Things to Know Before You Go Shopping for an Outdoor Fireplace

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If you are planning to sell your estate or property, know that the outdoor space is the first thing visitors notice about any property. Smart homeowners, therefore, spend time and effort to beautify the exteriors to enhance a property’s value.

One of the easiest ways to accentuate the appeal of any outdoor space is to add a fireplace. More importantly, fireplaces also offer functionality and utility — they are the perfect addition to homes located in cold-weather areas. They also often become the focal point of parties and gatherings. In conclusion, it is safe to say that a fireplace is one of the safe and low-investment options that always give returns.

However, designing an appealing and functional outdoor fireplace design is not easy. This article aims to equip its readers with all the information they need at their disposal while devising an outdoor fireplace.

Think About for What Purposes Do You Want to Use Your Fireplace

Before you decide to go shopping for a fireplace, sit down and think about what do you want this fireplace to do? Do you want it to serve as a showpiece or a focus point in your outdoors? Or, do you also seek some use of it? If you plan to use your fireplace as your outdoor focal point, make sure there is ample area around the fireplace and the whole space is functional. It is also critical that you have answers to other important questions, such as where do you think the fireplace will go? How much area or space will it need? The answers to these questions will allow you to make the right choice while shopping for a fireplace. You don’t want to realize that the fireplace you have bought is too small for outdoor gatherings and find yourself regretting the purchase a few days after.

Decide Which Fireplace Type Is the Right Choice for You

When it comes to fireplaces, wood and gas fireplaces are the two most popular options currently available in the market. Homeowners often find it difficult to choose between the two, as both have their advantages. While gas fireplaces are safer, more convenient to use, and require no prior permit, wood fireplaces give properties a rustic charm that is hard to emulate. They also create the perfect setting for a romantic evening as well as large gatherings. Homeowners must do some research and choose a fireplace that fits their requirements and budget.

The Fireplace Must Compliment the Outdoors

Fireplaces are an excellent choice to beautify any property’s outdoor landscape. However, when chosen wrong, they can also diminish its aesthetic appeal. The fireplace you select for your home must complement the exteriors of the property. For instance, if your outdoor landscape pays homage to minimal aesthetics, choose a traditional place with a classic and elegant design. In the case, you want to use contrast to build interest; we recommend seeking the opinion of an expert. A home improvement contractor will be able to help you make the right choice.

The Final Word

Outdoor fireplaces have enjoyed immense popularity for decades now and for all the right reasons. However, buying an outdoor fireplace is harder than it looks. We hope these tips will come handy when you go shopping for a fireplace for your outdoors.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

Give JJW Brick a call today to learn more about retaining walls and other hardscape options we offer at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Metro Detroit Brick Paver Gives Paver Patio Design Ideas

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Having a brick paver patio installed this summer?  You may have noticed that the colors and patterns of brick pavers are almost endless. And there are several hardscape features you can add to your patio as well such as fireplaces or outdoor seating.

Need some inspiration for the design of your new patio? Keep reading to learn more about brick paver design ideas.

Mix Colors and Patterns

Metro Detroit Brick Paver Gives Paver Patio Design Ideas   With all of the patterns and colors to choose from, why should you just pick one? There are several designs that will really compliment each other when  placed together.

For example, below is a patio with a Herringbone pattern and a contrasting border.

Additionally you can even mix different types of material such as natural stone and brick.  Show your brick paver contractor any photos that inspire you. Or, if you need help coming up with a new design your Metro Detroit brick paver professional can create a design for you that is not only functional but will complement your home’s exterior and other features in your yard.

 

Incorporate Landscaping FeaturesMetro Detroit Brick Paver Gives Paver Patio Design Ideas

Although brick pavers have enough beauty of their own, adding flowers or shrubs can really take your curb appeal to a whole new level. Consider installing a retaining wall that borders the outside your patio to make room for landscaping features.

 

Install an Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit

Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits will ensure warm and cozy summer nights, even after the sun has gone down.

If you are having trouble deciding between these 2 different hearths, you may want to consider the following as they do provide different ambiances.Metro Detroit Brick Paver Gives Paver Patio Design Ideas

A fire pit provides more of a campfire feel as seating is available around the entire structure. This is perfect for gatherings large and small and really creates a social atmosphere.

An outdoor fireplace will provide more of an intimate setting as there is only room for seating directly in front of it. However an outdoor fireplace will provide more privacy due to it’s height and is typically installed on the edge of your patio.

Add a Seat Wall to Your Patio

A seat wall is just what it sounds like. It is a brick wall that borders your patio that can also be used for seating.

If you plan on doing a lot of entertaining on your patio this summer, seat walls not only look spectacular but they can Metro Detroit Brick Paver Gives Paver Patio Design Ideasprovide additional room for you and your guests.

If you are planning on installing a fire pit, a seat wall is commonly installed around the fire pit.

I’m Ready for a FREE QUOTE for my Metro Detroit Brick Paver Patio

If you are looking for a Metro Detroit brick paver to install a brick paver patio in your yard this summer, contact JJW Brick today at: 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.

Since 1993, JJW Brick has been perfecting brick paver design and installation techniques that has given us a reputation for providing quality work.

Call Today! 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.

Brick Paver Patio & Fireplace Design – Troy, MI

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Brick Paver Patio & Fireplace Design – Troy, MI

Two level brick paver patio design for homeowner in Troy, MI. This design includes a custom built outdoor fireplace and accent seating walls for guests. The upper level brick patio includes additional brick seating walls for dining outside with family. Brick pillars and darker paver accents complete this elegant and functional paver patio design. [Read more…]

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