Are you looking to transform your patio into a cozy retreat? Adding a few simple additions can instantly elevate the ambiance and create a welcoming space where you can relax and unwind. Whether you enjoy hosting gatherings or prefer quiet evenings alone, these five additions will help you create a cozy patio that you'll love spending time in.

1. Outdoor Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Consider adding string lights, lanterns, or even a fire pit to your patio. The soft glow of the lights will create a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for cozy nights spent outdoors.

2. Comfortable Seating
No cozy patio is complete without comfortable seating options. Invest in plush outdoor furniture, such as lounge chairs or a sectional sofa, and add throw pillows and blankets for added comfort. With cozy seating, you'll have a comfortable spot to curl up with a book or enjoy a conversation with friends.

3. Outdoor Rugs
Add some warmth and style to your patio by incorporating outdoor rugs. Choose rugs with soft textures and patterns that complement your outdoor furniture. Not only will they provide a cozy feel to your patio, but they will also make it visually appealing.

4. Greenery
Bring nature to your patio by adding plants and flowers. Greenery not only adds a touch of color and life but also makes the space feel cozy and inviting. Place potted plants strategically around your patio, hang planters, or consider creating a vertical garden for a unique and cozy look.

5. Outdoor Curtains or Shades
Create privacy and block out excess sunlight by installing outdoor curtains or shades. They not only provide shade and protection from the elements but also add a touch of elegance and coziness to your patio. Choose curtains or shades in neutral or earthy tones to create a calming and inviting atmosphere.

In Conclusion
By incorporating these five additions, you can easily create a cozy patio that you'll love spending time in. So, go ahead and revamp your outdoor space into a welcoming haven where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Ready to transform your patio into a cozy retreat? Give us a call to help make the backyard of your dreams ​(864) 275-2039

With the arrival of spring just around the corner, it's time to start preparing for the change in seasons. Say goodbye to chilly days and make way for sunny skies and blooming flowers. To help you get ready for the arrival of this vibrant season, we have put together a comprehensive guide. From cleaning and organizing to outdoor activities, we've got you covered. Get ready to embrace all that spring has to offer!

Clean and Declutter
Spring is the perfect time to freshen up your living space. Start by decluttering your home and getting rid of any items that you no longer need. This will create a sense of space and make your surroundings feel lighter. Once you have decluttered, give your home a thorough cleaning. Dust surfaces, wash windows, and vacuum carpets. Don't forget to tackle those hard-to-reach areas that often get overlooked. A clean and organized home will not only lift your spirits but also provide a welcoming atmosphere for the new season.

Prepare Your Outdoor Space
As the weather warms up, you'll likely want to spend more time outdoors. Take the time to prepare your outdoor space for spring activities. Clean your patio furniture, remove any debris, and give your deck or patio a fresh coat of paint or stain if needed. If you have a backyard, it's a great time to start planning and prepping your garden. Clear out any dead plants, till the soil, and plant any early spring vegetables or flowers. Give us a call to help you prepare your space with a clean up, new plants, and just maybe building the backyard of your dreams. Creating a beautiful outdoor space will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of spring.

Plan Outdoor Activities
Spring is a great time to get out and explore nature. Research local hiking trails, parks, or nature reserves in your area. Pack a picnic and spend a day surrounded by the beauty of blooming flowers and singing birds. Take advantage of the pleasant weather by planning outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, or simply going for a walk in the park. Getting active outdoors will not only help improve your physical health but also boost your mood. So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to embrace the great outdoors!

Conclusion
As spring approaches, it's time to bid farewell to winter and welcome a new season filled with sunshine and growth. By following these simple steps, you can make sure you're fully prepared to embrace the beauty of spring. Clean and declutter your home, prepare your outdoor space, and plan fun activities that allow you to enjoy the great outdoors. Get ready to bask in the warmth and rejuvenation that spring brings. So, go ahead, put these tips into action, and make the most of the season ahead!

Ready to Spring into Action?
Now that you have all the tips and tricks to get ready for spring, it's time to start putting them into action. Begin by decluttering your home, then move on to preparing your outdoor space. Finally, plan some exciting outdoor activities that will allow you to fully embrace the beauty of the season. Spring is a time for growth and renewal, so don't miss out on all the wonderful experiences it has to offer. Happy spring!

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on understanding the importance of retaining walls. Whether you are a homeowner looking to enhance your outdoor space, a landscaper seeking tips and tricks for a successful DIY project, or a construction professional navigating the legalities of retaining wall construction, this guide is here to provide you with all the information you need. Retaining walls play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion and can greatly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of any outdoor area. So, let's dive in and explore the world of retaining walls together!

The Importance of Retaining Walls in Preventing Soil Erosion
Soil erosion is a significant problem that can lead to the loss of valuable topsoil and damage to landscapes. One effective solution to prevent soil erosion is the use of retaining walls.

Retaining walls are structures specifically designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion. They play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion by providing support and stability to sloping terrains. These walls help distribute the pressure exerted by the soil and prevent it from sliding or collapsing.

Retaining walls can be made from a variety of materials, including concrete, stone, or timber, depending on the specific needs of the site. Proper design and construction of retaining walls are essential to effectively prevent soil erosion and maintain the integrity of the landscape.

In addition to their functional purpose, retaining walls can also enhance the aesthetics of an area. By creating terraced gardens or usable spaces on steep slopes, retaining walls can transform a landscape and create visually appealing outdoor spaces.

Regular maintenance and inspection of retaining walls are essential to ensure their long-term effectiveness in preventing soil erosion. It is important to consult with a professional engineer or contractor when planning and designing a retaining wall to ensure its stability and effectiveness.

Investing in retaining walls is a wise decision for property owners as it helps protect their landscapes, prevents soil erosion, and maintains the value of their properties. Whether it's a DIY project or one that requires expert assistance, retaining walls are an important tool in preserving the integrity of landscapes and preventing soil erosion.

DIY Retaining Wall: Tips and Tricks for a Successful Project
Now that you have a better understanding of the importance and benefits of retaining walls, let's dive into some tips and tricks for a successful DIY project.

Choosing the right materials is crucial for a strong and durable retaining wall. Concrete is a popular choice due to its durability and low maintenance. However, it can be expensive and challenging to work with. On the other hand, wood provides a natural look but may not be as durable as concrete. When selecting materials, consider the specific needs of your project, such as the desired aesthetic, budget, and longevity.

Proper planning and preparation are key to a successful retaining wall project. Before starting, make sure to check local building codes and obtain any necessary permits. Additionally, proper drainage is essential for the longevity of your retaining wall. Poor drainage can lead to water buildup and damage to the structure over time.

When building your retaining wall, use a level and string to ensure it is straight and level. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide stability. Consider adding reinforcement, such as geogrid, to further enhance the stability of your wall, especially for taller structures.

Regular maintenance is important to keep your retaining wall in good condition. Check for any cracks or signs of damage and repair them promptly. By addressing issues early on, you can prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of your retaining wall.

Enhancing Your Outdoor Space with Retaining Walls: Ideas and Inspiration
Retaining walls are not only a practical solution for dealing with soil erosion, poor curb appeal, and sloping terrain in outdoor spaces but also a great way to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your yard.

A retaining wall is a wall structure that is designed to retain the soil behind it. It can be built using various materials such as brick, stone, timber, or railroad ties, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your style and preferences.

In addition to their functional purpose, retaining walls can also be used to create stunning landscaping features. With retaining walls, you can protect your flower beds from erosion, keep critters away from your vegetables, and even add terracing or landscaping on a hill.

One popular choice for retaining walls is a natural stone wall, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment and offers a variety of textures and colors. By incorporating a natural stone retaining wall into your yard, you can create a visually appealing and well-maintained landscape that stands out in the neighborhood.

Building a retaining wall in your yard is a significant project. As such, you’ll want to ensure that you select the best building materials for the job from the get-go. In this post, we’ll help you make that decision by covering two of the most widespread retaining wall material options – blocks and railroad ties. 

Block Retaining Walls
Using blocks to build your retaining wall is certainly an excellent idea. Block retaining walls are incredibly long-lasting. In fact, if your block retaining wall is built properly, it won’t need to be replace during your lifetime. The durability of block retaining walls also allows them to be built taller than walls that consist of other materials. 
In addition to that phenomenal longevity, block retaining walls are also very affordable and come in many different options. As you search for the perfect block material for your wall, you’ll find plenty of colors, textures, and shapes to choose from. 
Admittedly, some people do not feel that block retaining walls are as ornamentally intriguing as other retaining wall material options. However, this by no means implies that all block walls are ugly. Instead, block retaining walls can be quite tasteful while also remaining structurally sound for the foreseeable future.  

Railroad Tie Retaining Walls
Railroad tie retaining walls are also incredibly popular for small-scale projects. What people often love about these walls is that they have a very natural look that can complement nearly any landscape. However, there are a few downsides to railroad tie retaining walls that you should understand before you build one. 
Since wood will naturally decompose over time, railroad tie retaining walls are not as long-lasting as other types of retaining walls. In many cases, railroad tie walls will last just one to two decades. Railroad tie walls can also be prone to structural failures if you build them too tall. In general, it’s best to keep these walls below four feet tall to give them the best chance of remaining intact. 
To combat the natural decomposition of wood, many railroad ties are treated with chemical wood preservatives. Unfortunately, those chemicals can be harmful to you and the plants in your landscape. With that said, for those who want a retaining wall with a natural look for a reasonable cost, using railroad ties may be a reasonable way to go.

A Few Other Retaining Wall Material Options
Although both blocks and railroad ties are both legitimate options for your retaining wall, there are plenty of other materials you can use. To help you better understand the options at your disposal, we’ve listed a few other retaining wall materials for your consideration:

• Natural stone
• Poured concrete
• Gabions
• Brick and mortar

If you find that neither blocks nor railroad ties are right for you, know that there are plenty of other choices, and those in the list above are some of the best ones. 

Block or Railroad Ties – The Choice is Up to You
Overall, the choice between block and railroad tie retaining walls is largely a matter of personal preference. The sections in the article above should give you a good idea of which option you prefer. If you are ready to build your retaining wall or need further insights to help you decide, contact the expert team at All Outdoors by calling 864.275.2039.

Concrete patios can last for decades. Homeowners may choose them for their lower cost and easy maintenance cleaning. However, there are several issues that can occur. Let’s break them down. 


Cracking
This is probably the most common issue that arises with concrete. It can crack for several different reasons. Cracks can be caused by settling in the sub level, heavy loads, contraction due to change in temperatures or improperly laid concrete. 


Surface Scaling (can also be referred to as spalling)
Scaling happens when a thin layer of the concrete’s surface begins to flake or “scales.” This could be cause by freezing temperatures, unsuitable concrete mix, excessive use of chemicals and/or poor finishing. 


Discoloration
While this may not be a huge deal breaker since discoloration isn’t a structural issue, it can still be an issue in it’s own right. Regular wear & tear and exposure to the elements can cause an unattractive discoloration. 


Blisters
Concrete blisters are small bumps on the surface. They are caused by air trapped beneath the sealant. Again, this isn’t quite a serious structural issue, but can be unappealing to the eye. 


If you have questions about concrete patios or other patio options, we are always here to help! Give us a call at (864) 275-2039!


By: Hannah Raines
Copyright ALL Outdoors 2022

When you look at homes across the South, you’ll see a common theme, from large homes to quaint little homes—all have a front porch. Many people are moving to Greenville, SC as well as other southern states and modern remodeled homes are making their appearance while the more traditional make an exit. With this design and the team at ALL Outdoors Landscaping, a modern front porch patio design that still brings accents of the traditional elements, gives a fresh, new modern approach to southern charm was created.

Front porches have long been a staple, or have at least been known as a prime architecturally feature seen in many eras. From the 1800s to present day, porches have been showing off the skills of builders and millworking. They have even been found in classical Greek architecture with large verandas with columns and stone porches (Old House). This simple, yet charming, feature adds shelter from the rain, an inviting entrance, a place to entertain and simply a place to rest. Front porch living is as charming as it comes. Adding a modern approach to a southern front porch is what I will show you in this design, as well as how to bring the same charming feel to a modern design.

Instead of using wood that decays or adding a roof, I chose to use Techo-Bloc Blue stone in the design to bring out the cool tones in the concrete driveway and wall. The patio porch is larger on the left side to enlarge the yard with the installation a Techo-Bloc Graphix wall. This features two tones of nickel gray and onyx black to accent the home. The 18 Ft. Graphix wall has built-in drainage. The wall also wraps to the front-facing wall where you’ll find a fireplace that I custom designed with a Warming Trends custom burner. (ps. A later blog will reveal the full project transformation with fireplace, lighting and all elements finished…Stay Tuned).

The patio porch extends in both directions and is large on the left side behind the fireplace. Then, extends in front of the home to the driveway. To give the appearance of a front porch, a 7 foot wide and 30 inch tall planter box will be installed in front of the patio, centered with the windows on the front right of the home. The planter box is custom and is treated to mimic Core tin metal. There will be a powder coated horizontal slated fence front plate that will be placed 3 inches in front of the planter and back lit. The address will also be laser cut in the front plate and lit up as well. This will be installed as one of the last elements in the design. To add a little more charm, a teak bench will be installed, along with Luxor Colored lighting, new synthetic turf from Landscapers Supply in Greenville and Techo-Bloc paver apron for the end of the driveway. To top it off, new low maintenance plants will be installed. Stay tuned to my blog for the reveal of the full project!

*1.3: This is the Before and Progress Photo: (exceptions: plants and core tin planter box missing)​




By: Danielle Collins
Copyright ALL Outdoors 2022

Works cited:

1. Old House:  http://oldhouseonline.com/gardens-and-exteriors/porch-details-for-evey-era/

As summer rolls in, you’ll likely spend much more time outdoors. However, if your landscape looks a little lackluster after a long winter, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make your outdoor space fit for entertaining. Simple additions or upgrades can help create a space where you can relax with friends and family. All Outdoors offers a few ways to revitalize the landscape without having to work overtime to afford it.

Start by Shopping Smart
If your deck or patio furniture has seen better days, replacing these large pieces is one of the fastest ways to revamp your space. Retailers like Overstock and Walmart likely have everything you need, including tables, chairs, loungers, umbrellas and all-weather rugs at a fraction of the price of a specialty shop. If you don’t mind some internet sleuthing ahead of time, you should be able to find online promotions or cashback offers from sites such as Retail Me Not to stretch your outdoor dollars even further.

Another idea is to shop at flea markets and thrift shops. Although this relies largely on luck, you can often find a great deal at mom-and-pop shops in the outlying areas of town.

DIY Your Decor
Just as important as your patio furniture, new outdoor decor can really update your space. If you’re crafty, you can probably think of 1,000 things that you would do if you only had time. Well, now is the perfect time to set aside a few hours on the weekend so you can get to work. One great idea is to create a tree stump planter. A drive through your neighborhood, especially after a storm, is an excellent way to gather the wood necessary. Most homeowners will be happy to let you haul away what you want for free once a tree has been cut down. For additional relaxation spaces, you can also make a decorative hammock out of an oversized beach towel.

Choose a Few Splurge-Worthy Items
Consider also investing in one or two pieces that will significantly add to your space. You don’t have to go overboard if you shop with specifics in mind. If you like to entertain regularly, an outdoor fridge or a wine chiller can be great additions. If you have a covered area, a wall-mounted TV can be perfect for watching games or an affordable soundbar can be an excellent choice if you don’t want to spring for an outdoor speaker system setup. 

Skip the Expensive, Colored Mulch
There is no denying that a fresh layer of brightly colored mulch can add a pop of color to your lawn. However, it can get expensive fast if you have a large area that needs some attention. Instead, stick with simple pine straw mulch. While it’s not as flashy, pine straw is an exceptionally affordable alternative. If you only need enough for a small flower bed, All Outdoors installs pine straw bales for only $11 per bale. 

Utilize Nature in Your Design
One of the least expensive ways to spruce up spaces of all sizes is to add flowers or privacy plants. Always check your local nurseries before the big box stores. Many will significantly mark down plants that don’t look as healthy as they could. You can even start many gorgeous, fast-growing plants from seeds to help cover things like an an outdated fence. Morning glories are a great example and will quickly climb a trellis or fence just in time for your midsummer barbecue. If you want beautiful flowers, but would rather have help planting, All Outdoors can provide seasonal flowers and planting with a package to fit anyone’s budget. 

A little creativity and an eye for good deals will help you out this summer. You don’t have to toss your vacation fund away to create the perfect staycation-worthy area right in your own backyard.

Image via Pixabay

​

If you’re like most people across the country, you’re spending more time at home than you were a year ago. And with the future of the COVID-19 pandemic still uncertain, there’s no telling how much longer social distancing will be the norm. So, why not make the most of it?

All Outdoors specializes in helping their customers create the outdoor living space of their dreams. That’s why we’ve provided some practical information and tips for building an outdoor kitchen that will keep you, your family, and your friends happy:

Why Create an Outdoor Kitchen? 
You may be wondering what the hype around outdoor kitchens is all about. Maybe it sounds like it’s more trouble than it’s worth. However, there are several benefits that an outdoor kitchen can add to your everyday life. For example, it provides a place to entertain your family and friends; after all, people often end up congregating around the kitchen inside a home, so an outdoor kitchen can serve as a wonderful, safe place for groups of people. 

Using an outdoor kitchen also conserves energy compared to an indoor kitchen. This is because most of the appliances you will use for your outdoor kitchen run off of propane instead of gas or electricity. And cleaning your outdoor kitchen is easier than cleaning your indoor kitchen because you can take a hose to the floors, countertops, furniture, and appliances.

Another benefit of creating an outdoor kitchen is that it can boost your home’s appraisal value, especially if you already have a nice dining area. Needless to say, this can pay off if you ever choose to sell your home. To quantify the added value, take plenty of before-and-after photos and keep a record of all improvements made.

The Location 
Where you put your outdoor kitchen is critical. In most cases, building it on an existing patio or deck, or near the pool, is best because there is already electricity there. However, you want to make sure smoke doesn’t enter your home when you're cooking. So, you’ll need to account for wind direction when deciding where to put your outdoor kitchen or put in a ventilation system. A qualified contractor should be able to guide you through this decision. 

The Flooring
As far as flooring is concerned, you want it to be as low-maintenance and durable as possible. You also want it to look good and not be too slippery. For these reasons, concrete, tile, brick and stone are all great flooring options. 

The Equipment 
You can go in many different ways when it comes to the equipment you choose for your outdoor kitchen. Whatever way you go, it’s safe to say that your grill will be the primary concern. If you want something simple, go with a portable grill. If you want something of higher quality that will last longer and provide more versatility for cooking, get a built-in grill for the countertops. 

You’ll also need to consider whether or not you want additional cooking appliances, such as a smoker or pizza oven. And you’ll want to plan other essential appliances into your design, such as a refrigerator and sink. When it comes to countertops, it’s essential to choose a weather-resistant material that is easy to clean, and you want to ensure you have plenty of counter space for your needs. 

For the dining area, it matters what kind of furniture you choose. If space won’t be an issue, then traditional patio furniture might be your best option. But if you're building in a small space, or if you need extra space for appliances and tools, consider incorporating an island with barstools. Moreover, for the colder months, you might consider investing in a retractable shade, outdoor space heaters, and any other upgrades that can help keep you and your guests warm.
Among many other benefits, creating an outdoor kitchen can make your days and evenings much more enjoyable at home. Be sure to carefully choose the location, flooring, and equipment for your outdoor kitchen. And just watch—your home might become the talk of the town!

Are you looking for top-notch lawn and landscaping services? Visit alloutdoors-sc.com today to see what they offer!

Clara Beaufort reached out from Gardener Gigs to write this wonderful guest blog for us. Clara is a retired business owner, who is currently working in community gardening. Gardener Gigs aims to connect local gardeners with those who need them.

​Thank you, Clara!

It’s that time again to start making resolutions! If you’re like me, you’ve probably resolved to eat healthier and exercise more, but again, if you’re like me, those resolutions won’t last long. How about creating some resolutions that we can stick to? Resolve to make 2021 the year that you get the landscape you’ve been wanting for years! It could be easier than you think! Check out some projects that you can make your goal to complete this year!

Add a fire pit
We can’t stress this enough, a fire pit is the perfect outdoor living addition to your back yard. It is such a great center piece to have everyone gathered round. Some use it for warmth, some use it for ambiance, but it is perfect for both. It is especially fun to gather round with the family and toast marshmallows to make s’mores!

Landscaping Package
Spend more time with your family and let us do the work for you. We have several different package options, but we can keep your lawn looking great all year long. Check out our packages on the home page of our website!

Plant Shrubs
Shrubs are a wonderful addition to any landscape. They add great personality to any home landscape. They also make great border plants!

Plant Flowers
Who doesn’t love flowers? They add the perfect pop of color to any area. You can also always have fresh flowers in the house when you have a fresh supply out in your yard!

Grow a Garden
Nothing is better than fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs out of the garden. While you can get the most output in the summer, gardens can be grown all year round! There is always something to grow and harvest and I can guarantee it will taste better than anything you can find at the store!

Add a Patio
Patios are a wonderful addition to spruce up the back yard. It is the best investment because you will use it more than you know. We are lucky enough to live in a place where we don’t have too harsh of a winter, so you are sure to use a patio space all year long!

Many of these projects you might feel like you can tackle on your own, but for others you may want our help! We would love to assist you in helping you meet these resolutions in 2021 and beyond. Give us a call today at (864)275-2039!

By: Hannah Raines
Copyright ALL Outdoors 2021

With Christmas coming up next week, you might be looking for some last minute gifts. Is one of those people on your list a lover of all things outdoor living? Below you will find 5 gift ideas that are sure to excite anyone!

Grill
If you don’t have an outdoor kitchen, a grill is a great option. It’s so nice to be able to cook outside and keep your home free of always smelling like what you’re cooking. And nothing tastes better than a steak right off the grill!

​Accessories
Accessories are always an appreciated gift! Spatulas for the grill, candles, outdoor speakers, pillows and potted plants are just a few options of accessories. Any of these could be useful in an outdoor living space and are sure to please!

Lawn Care Package
Give the gift of a lawn care package! Whichever family member is in charge of taking care of the lawn will be so happy to receive this gift. It saves them some work, but also gives them more time with family! Check out all packages that we offer on our website. 

Swings & Hammocks
I don’t know about you, but I love a good swing or hammock. There is nothing like sitting outside and swinging and relaxing. This gift will be very appreciated!

Yard Games
These are fun for the whole family! It is an easy way to get the whole family outdoors. There are so many options available. From corn hole, to putt putt or even bocce ball!

We are always here to help with your landscaping and outdoor living needs! Just give us a call at (864) 275- 2039.

By: Hannah Raines
Copyright ALL Outdoors 2020