The Benefits of Having a Garden Fence Professionally Installed

Is your garden starting to look a little dilapidated? Is it tired and starting to feel like there’s no one living there? Don’t despair, rather than trying to handle all of the things that need doing badly in your garden, you can leave some things for the professionals. We highly recommend the installation of garden fencing. If your garden looks like a fright fest from some Victorian gothic novel, then fencing should be high on your list of priorities. Containing the mess is at least feasible, and that’s at least you can do for now while you tackle the rest of it.

If it’s falling apart, your garden fence could really reflect badly on what’s inside your garden.

A badly installed garden fence, whether it’s wonky because of the weather, or hanging off it’s hinges due to wear and tear, does nothing for the rest of your garden. It also might make you feel that the whole garden is so gargantuan a task that you can’t handle any of it. However, manage it from the outside in and you may well start to feel better about it..

There’s nothing like a well-installed fence.

It’s not something easy to get right either because a fence is a beautiful thing when it’s been installed correctly, but an eyesore when it hasn’t. And unless you have a steady hand and an eye for detail, it’s easy to get wrong. Straighten the fence and have order and symmetry on the outer edges of your garden and everything you need to do within it is going to seem like more like a walk in the park – or in the garden. 

Creating beauty where there wasn’t any.

Walking in your garden may be close to impossible right now, the winter will have done its damage. You may have been ill, and merely looking at the wreck that was once your garden is not a pleasant experience. However, your garden fencing can make a lot of difference to the overall look, even if you can’t quite manage to clean up the rest of it right now. With the spring comes light and sun (hopefully) and with that everything that was unseen can be seen. By tackling some of it you can make it less easy to see the parts of it you can’t quite manage at the moment.

Lothian Decking and Fencing – for garden fence installation.

Is your garden starting to look the worse for wear? If you think you need your garden fencing repairing or completely replacing, then get in touch with us here at Lothian Decking and Fencing and we’d love to replace or repair your fencing for you. We can handle all the hard work while you relax, no more fencing worries, because we tackle small scale repairs or completely new garden fencing installations. So why not give us a call now to arrange?

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Decking

There’s never been a better time to invest in decking, whether it’s traditional wooden decking or composite decking, your garden will be uplifted to a higher level - in terms of style as well as the added height! If you’re looking to give your garden a well-earned facelift then garden decking may be the perfect answer. 

There are different materials used to create garden decking, that’s traditional decking, usually made of wood, and composite decking, which is made up of a variety of different materials. It is entirely up to you which one you decide to go with. 

What we’re going to be doing today is giving you tips and tricks so your decking can be as perfect as you want it to be. So, let’s start with the basics.

Planning permission

You may have some limitations on where you can position your decking. Keep to some simple rules and you shouldn’t go far wrong, to avoid permissions, think about how much space your decking will take up and how high it’s going to be. As a guide, it shouldn’t be more than 30cm high, and it mustn’t occupy more than half the space of your garden, especially if there are also sheds, gazebos or any other type of outbuilding, as well as extensions. 

Views, building and weather.

Also consider what kind of view you have, what will you see from your decking, could it do with being slightly to the left or right? Where will the sun fall at different times, is there enough protection from winds, walls or actual buildings, yours or your neighbours? Will it impact on your drains or even your vents? Consider building access into the design of your decking. 

How big do you want your decking?

You want it to fit in with the size and shape of your house, so this will need to be given some thought. You don’t want decking that’s really big on a small property or vice versa. What you want is for it to complement the house so it fits in seamlessly with its shape or size. 

Sloping gardens.

This is not a no-no to garden decking, you just need to think differently about how you’re going to make it. You could have different levels of decking to make it work and some balustrades to hold it up. This is a really fun option because it looks different and unique and certainly makes the garden look far more interesting. 

Timber decking or Composite decking?

If you don’t want to treat your decking, and with wooden decking you will indeed have to treat it regularly, then composite may be a more suitable alternative. Composite decking is non-slip - great if you have elderly relatives who have problems with their mobility. It’s durable and doesn’t need anywhere near as much maintenance as timber decking. Timber on the other hand is flexible and works well with sloping gardens.

Timber decking is extremely resilient

Decking also provides the space needed for your whole family for playing, dining, entertaining and relaxing. Your decking will make a great difference to your garden, and it can increase the value of your property should you decide to sell in the future. You can also do more in terms of having it split level or elevated (but not too high). Timber does fit in nicely with a country garden and is a highly sustainable material, providing a comfy surface for sitting, lying or walking throughout the seasons. We’d suggest you make a note of the shape and size of your garden, your budget, what you’re going to be using your garden for and who is in your family, are there children, elderly relatives, etc?

Lothian Decking and Fencing - are you thinking of investing in garden decking?

If you are thinking about investing in garden decking, come to us here at Lothian Decking and Fencing, and someone from our team of experts can help you decide on what’s right for your garden. We won’t force you into making choices that aren’t right for you, and we’ll take you through our versatile and stylish range of garden decking so you can see what we have. Give us a call, and we can start planning your greatest ever garden facelift.

Garden Tips This Summer

This week we’re looking at some gardening tips for your garden this summer. There’s still time and by getting it done now you’ll be able to spend most of the school summer holidays with your kids. This is better than spending it digging and gardening when you could be enjoying the time you have with them before they return to school in the summer.

Firstly, take care of any budding plants you may have.

Water and then mulch your plants twice a week during hot weather so the plants don’t dry out. If you don’t do something about it your flowers could lose their flowers and petals in the heat. Help the pots to stay nice and cool. They can overheat in the sun so again, mulch and then place them somewhere out of the sun. Stand them in saucers that are preferably filled with moist sand instead of water as this can encourage the roots to rot.

Weeds.

To help avoid them apply mulch and hoe them weekly when the surface is dry and on hot sunny days. You can also fertilise your garden in summer, ask a gardening expert at your local store, this will give added nutrients to your flowers and plants.

Summer vegetables.

You can plant vegetables in the warmer months such as beans, peppers, celery, squash and courgettes, the long nights and warm soil will help them grow during the summer months.

Artificial grass – a great alternative to a natural lawn.

In summer you might also consider artificial turf. The reasons for this is that it’s so low maintenance, you won’t have to tend to it as you would with natural grass and you won’t need to use a mower or buy chemicals to get rid of any insects or weeds, so you’ll save money after an initial investment.

Fencing – always make sure you tend to yours so its look good in summer.

Carry out any repairs and go over your garden fence with a lick of paint, you’ll increase your privacy and it’s going to give a fresh look to your garden, and it’ll look incredibly stylish.

Decking – A platform for social events or relaxing in isolation.

By installing decking you’ll be creating a beautiful platform where you can see the landscape and enjoy the views while entertaining friends. You can also go outside and enjoy the hard work you’ve carried out on your garden all summer with friends and family.

Lothian Decking & Fencing for the best in garden maintenance.

If you need any help with artificial grass, especially if you’re considering having it installed, we can advise you. We’ve had years of experience in this area, we’re trained to install it and we can help guide you on the right type of fake grass for you. We can also help with picking new garden fencing or help with repairs and install garden decking for you. Why not give us a call and a dedicated member of our team can give talk you through your options. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Artificial Turf in Sports

If you’re not aware of the amazing things you can do on artificial turf when it comes to sport, have we got some surprises for you. We’re not just talking about domestic properties either we’re talking about residential and commercial too.
We’ll go through some of the most popular and hopefully it’ll give you some great ideas.

Football.

Fake grass is great for football and it is far more sophisticated than it was when it was first used 20 years ago. Today, the synthetic grass they use is so much more authentic and durable, has a super resilient back that helps with drainage and non-slippage turf and better more improved ball control. The pile is longer on football pitches too and gives it a much more realistic look and feel. Studded boots can be worn which helps with grip, and it’s no wonder that more and more football clubs are having it installed. There’s a wide variety of choice when it comes to turf and you can have whichever pile length you think is suitable for your particular pitch. We can go over this together if you need help choosing.

Tennis.

Tennis has a lot of use for artificial grass and with the inclement British weather, it certainly helps to have it as a surface throughout tennis clubs in the UK. Artificial grass is a great alternative, with outdoor courts being used only after half an hour of rain because it dries so quickly, and of course indoor courts can be used all year round. You’ll be requiring a shorter pile for a tennis court, so you have good ball control, here at Lothian Decking and Fencing we have a range of options available.

Hockey.

You may be surprised to know that artificial grass is also used for hockey and alongside football was one of the first sports to embrace it. A lot of hockey is now played on an artificial grass pitch. Quality of play is always a priority, so a short pile is good for this type of game, so you’ll have the best in bounce, speed and control of the ball.

Bowling.

This game really has embraced synthetic grass, and it’s not surprising as it is so hard to maintain natural grass as a rule. There are savings in costs and time spent maintaining it, so it works out far more cost effective to use it. As with tennis it’s a popular indoor as well as outdoor surface to play on.

Lothian Fencing & DeckingThere are lots of other sports artificial grass is good for such as golf and cricket. Our main focus today has been on football, tennis, hockey and bowling. If you now think you’d like to invest in artificial grass for your sports venue, why not give us a call and we can talk you through your choices. On the other hand, you could be thinking about turning your back garden into a golf course – and why not? Just give us a call and we can talk you through it we’re always on hand to help.

Getting your Garden Ready this Summer

We’re talking about getting your garden ready for summer this week, after all it’s nearly upon us and you want your garden looking the best it can. If you’re garden’s prepared, you’ll be ready for all that outside entertainment of guests and friends in the summer months. Not long ago we were thinking about winter and then spring – and now hey presto! Summer is almost here – and I know some of you will be relieved to hear it. If you have any queries regarding garden decking, fencing or artificial grass, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

De-Weeding and Planting Flowers.

Clean up your flower beds by removing dead heads and clearing away any weeds you find. This is a good time to plant new things, so get your flower, fruit or vegetable seeds and start planting. Also consider planting those which flowers in the summer so they’ll be ready in time for the hotter months. 

Getting your Grass in Shape.

Mow your lawn, but first aerate it with a gardening fork, this will encourage growth and help improve the drainage. It can even help the grass take in nutrients, so aeration is definitely a good idea! You only need to do this once a year, so it’s worth doing well. Try using some garden feed as your grass will be hungry and once it’s aerated and mowed, it’ll drink up those nutrients faster than you can say summer here we come!

Outdoor Lighting.

Lighting can add a real sense of ambience in a garden as well as adding a functional element. From simple tea lights in any bushes or trees on a barbecue night, to LED lights in the wall, or well concealed lights under your decking, it can really add a certain something. Of course, it’ll also give you peace of mind with that extra level of security when everything is well lit, and that goes for your front garden as well as the back. You can have lights over your front door, and in your back garden you can have lanterns, LED lights, lights hanging from trees or fences even – just go for it!

Putting Down Garden Decking.

If you’re thinking of laying down decking, do it now before the hotter weather arrives. Ideally, you should have had your decking laid down in the quieter months when your garden is least likely to be occupied. Always make sure you have a reputable expert put it together for you if you’ve left it late, rather than trying to do a rush job yourself.

If you already have garden decking, then you can simply give it a good clean. You can remove any debris and then once the area is clear, power wash it with a mild detergent and let it dry. Carry this job out when the weather is mild of course and then it’ll have time to dry off before people are walking on it, and it’ll prevent any slippages. 

Fencing.

Now is a great time for cleaning up and repairing your fences. They’ll be in need of freshening up, and you can do this by giving them a fresh lick of paint, carrying out any repairs that need doing (you should have spring-cleaned your gardening tools for just such a moment as this) and get them ready and upright for the summer months. If you require a completely new garden fence, don’t hesitate in getting in touch with us today.

Lothian Decking and Fencing.

Finally, if you’re done with natural grass and having to mow it in time for the summer each year, you could always stop, and have it replaced with artificial turf. at Lothian Decking & Fencing we offer supply and installation artificial grass service. Our team are more than happy to do carry out work for you. It looks great all year round and that would only give you the decking (if you have any) and flower planting and fencing to consider. Give us a call or contact us online if you’d like to talk it through, we’d love to fill you in on how we work and show you how our other customers have enjoyed artificial turf installation too!

Choosing the right paint for your fence

It may seem unimportant but choosing the right paint for your fence is important as it can really compliment the building. Colour can make a garden seem bigger or smaller, so the colour does have some impact. You can also use paint preservatives, so you don’t have to always use traditional paint. 

Traditional whites, blacks or greys.

There’s a lot to be said for white – a traditional colour for garden fencing. It can give such a crisp, fresh feel to your garden, giving it a sense of being bigger than it really is. You can also try charcoal, black or light grey, grey is really in right now and will give your garden a minimal feel that will show off your garden plants and foliage. 

Bright colours.

You could go for some really bright colours and give your garden a makeover you won’t forget in a hurry. You could give it a coastal feel with a beach shed look by using possibly more than one colour or sticking to one bright primary colour. You could match it with garden accessories and furniture that compliments the main colours, giving your garden a bright and summery feel. Match with pots and large plant holders in splashes of colour all over the garden.

Soft pastels.

You can also use soft pastels which work great on smaller gardens and uneven fencing giving it a quaint and rural feel. Use flowers and foliage that compliment the colours you’ve used and then again, match your garden furniture and accessories to the main colour.

You don’t have to use paint, as we’ve mentioned earlier you can also use paint preservatives.

Preserve the wood and give it some colour at the same time.

There are some good quality preservatives out there which serve two purposes to preserve the wood (of course) and to give your fencing a better long-lasting shade of timbre that brings real warmth to your fencing. There are two types, water based and solvent-based. The solvent based is much better at preserving and penetrating the wood and helping to extend its life. If you have a pressure-treated fence panel then it will already have been treated.

Make sure your fence is in good condition before you paint it.

You want it to enhance the overall look of your garden to make the fence the main feature. Also, make sure your fence is in good condition because all the preservative in the world won’t make much difference if it’s dilapidated – and that goes for paint as well.

Green, blues or grey for your garden fencing.

Greens are great but can really kill the colour of the green of your plants, trees and foliage camouflaging it and giving it a dull appearance. Bright colours, again like paint, will give your garden a seaside, beach feel while strong darker colours such as blue or gunship metal may work well on one panel but on the entire garden might make it look overpowering and dark, and make your garden feel like it’s closing in on you.

Lothian Fencing and Decking – for quality-built fencing.

Designed and constructed by expert craftsmen, our fences are ideal for any home. Always spend time choosing your fencing and don’t rush buy. If you have any questions about what colours to choose, call us and one of our team will be more than happy to talk you through your choices.

Getting Your Garden Spring Ready

As the warmer approaches with spring, it’s only natural you’ll want to go out in it. While you’re out there you’ll probably want to pluck away at those fallen branches and clean up the debris you find lying around. Although the winter has been fairly mild, there’s still been some wind and rain that will have blown all sorts of rubbish into your garden. 

Removing dead plants, debris and old branches.

It’s good to get out there as it’s the perfect time to remove any dead plants for composting that have hung on until winter was over. You can also use this time to prune back any perennials you didn’t get around to pruning before autumn. Once you start to see new growth, which you will in spring, you can then prune them down and remove any mulch left over from winter.

Shrubs and ornamental grasses.

Shrub plants can be cut back at this time of year, this will give them some encouragement to grow new flowers, but make sure there’s not danger of any more frost. You know what they say, never cast a cloud till May is out. If you have any ornamental grasses, cut them back too. This is one plant where you won’t need to wait for a new growth first.

Cleaning gardening tools, cleaning and treating wooden furniture.

This is also a great time to wash and clean any tools and go over your furniture before you put it out, especially if you didn’t do it before the autumn. Wooden furniture may need treating first so it’ll last throughout spring and summer. You’ll need to do this when the weather’s dry and it has time to settle and dry properly before people start using it. Your garden fencing will probably need looking over too, any repairs can be carried out while the weather’s dry and preferably not too windy. 

Painting or staining your fence.

Painting will also need to be done in dry weather where it can dry slowly and then and take a second coat if needed, make sure you check the weather forecast first. It’s often cheaper to paint than it is to stain because you need more of it to complete your fence. Some stains however may absorb better than paint, so it’s up to you which one you prefer. Also, unlike paint, stain doesn’t chip and peel, it will simply fade over time. 

Lothian Decking and Fencing – Garden decking and Fencing.

For the best in garden decking and fencing there is throughout West Lothian choose Lothian Decking & Fencing. Now that you have an idea of how to get your garden into shape as spring approaches. Garden fencing is equally important and hopefully you’ll be able to get that ready for spring too. We hope you enjoy your garden now spring is here and that there are many warm nights for you spend out in it. In the meantime, if you have any further questions on what we’ve discussed today, or you have questions on any other relevant topic, such as fencing, decking or gardening in general, why not give us a call and one of our team will be more than happy to help.

Artificial Turf - 5 Key Benefits

Still on the fence about artificial turf?  Well, here you are and here we are, ready to convince you of the clear benefits so you’ll have a better understanding of what it is and what it can do for you. Artificial turf goes by a lot of different names, artificial grass, synthetic grass or fake grass, but it’s all the same thing. It’s a synthetic layer of materials made to look and feel as authentic as real grass.
It’s been around for many years and the reason why it’s increased in popularity is because it takes away all the hard work out of lawn maintenance and hard work that goes with having a natural lawn. For many people a natural lawn is enough and they’re great if you’re happy with the physical activity and maintenance that entails.

For others, a natural lawn is too much hard work, and this can be for a number of different reasons. Sometimes it’s because the owners of the property are elderly and need to cut back on physical work as it’s become too much for them, or it could be that they’ve suffered an injury and it’s no longer an option to have a natural lawn. 

What about you, what are your reason for considering artificial grass? Is it because you’re so busy you simply don’t have the time?
If you do make the switch to synthetic grass then there are some distinct benefits and we’ve chosen 5 of them for you today.

1 – No more maintenance.

We’ve already touched on this, but the lack of maintenance is wonderful. Yes, you’ll need to brush it occasionally, pick up solids and other debris if you have pets, and every now and again you’ll need to give it a gentle clean with soap and water, but that’s it. Otherwise it’s lush, green and clean all year round. No lawn mowing, minimal maintenance just a beautiful lawn.

2 – Yes, no lawn mowing.

That means you’ll save on energy bills, and you’ll also help the environment. As well as that you’ll save on water too because you won’t need to use a hose anymore, and that’ll not only help cut down on water bills it’ll also help the environment and you can stop worrying about hose pipe bans. 

3 – Allergies.

If you have any allergies and of course that might include family and any pets, then going outside in summer can be hellish. However, if you have artificial turf then this is almost eliminated. It won’t rid you completely if you suffer with tree pollen, however it will help with grass, and by removing it and replacing it with an artificial one you’re giving yourself and everyone else who suffers with it a respite. And then of course you’ll be able to go outside and enjoy the sun.

4 – No more mess.

We’ve already seen that if you have artificial grass you won’t have to worry about maintenance, but another nice little advantage is that you won’t have to worry about anyone dragging in mud and grass, and that includes pets too. No more of the dog dragging in mud and grass on his paws, and no more scrubbing the kitchen floor as you try to get rid of it. And of course, your lawn will look pristine and picture perfect all year round, bright green and beautifully manicured without you having had to do a stroke of work.

5 – No more chemicals.

Yes, that’s right, when you no longer have a natural grass lawn you won’t need to treat it with chemicals including pesticides, fungicides and herbicides. This may kill off pests and weeds, but it’s also harmful to the environment. With artificial grass that’s a thing of the past.

So, do we have you convinced?

Then get in touch with us here at Lothian Decking & Fencing and we can talk you through our wide range of quality artificial grasses. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Composite Decking - What is it?

If you’re at a loss as to what composite decking is then today’s post should help clarify a few things. Once you have a better understanding of what it is, you can you decide whether you want this as an alternative to wooden garden decking. 

What is composite decking made of?

Composite decking is made up of a variety of different materials as opposed to wood. It’s made of man-made building items mostly, such as plastics, fibres and bonding agents, sometimes there are some wooden fibres in there too. This recipe of ingredients is heated and then shaped into board shapes and left to cool. These boards will need less maintenance than wooden decking and look every bit as authentic, it will also look far superior to plastic alternatives. 

What are the benefits of composite decking?

The benefits of composite decking are that unlike traditional wooden decking it will need much less maintenance. It will also be extremely resistant to insects, damp and rot. You won’t have to seal or treat the boards as you would with wood, and you won’t have to paint or stain it either. When it’s in direct sunlight it won’t crack or warp like timbre would. It’s splinter free so your feet are safe, and if you have some additional plastic capping it will be fade and stain resistant too.

Water absorption slip resistance and longevity.

Composite decking offers minimal water absorption, and this makes them resistant to slippage. They can be used around pools and any wet areas as well. Because of this increased durability composite decking will naturally last much longer. Here at Lothian Decking our composite decking lasts for many years and we offer our customers value for money guarantees – please ask about this when asking about composite decking. 

Uncapped and capped composite decking.

There are different types of composite decking, the two favourites are uncapped and capped decking. The uncapped variety are cheaper but still hard wearing and resistant. However, it is prone to fading and staining. The capped variety comes with a plastic coating and this gives the boards adequate protection against fading and staining. They also wipe easy and keep their original colour even when exposed to the elements. 

Has that whet your appetite?

We certainly hope so, we love composite decking and we sell a lot of it, we also sell a lot of wooden garden decking too, and at the end of the day, it is entirely up to our customers which one they prefer. You can either go with more traditional wooden decking, or you can dip your toe in something new and go with composite decking – you’ll certainly get your money’s worth. 

Lothian Decking – for the best in composite decking that lasts.

Why not give us a call to discuss your requirements and we can help you decide which type of decking is best for you. We’re here to help and we come with plenty of experience, we can’t wait to hear from you!

5 Ways to Enjoy your Deck this Winter

When it’s cold, windy and wet outside what can you do to make the most of your decking this winter? That’s what we’re going to be talking about today and we hope you find it useful. Garden decking in winter can be utilised effectively just like you would in spring and summer. How? Read on to find out. 

Yes, you can spend time out on your decking, even in winter. It’s such a waste to not use the outdoor space decking provides – even when it’s cold. There are different ways you can utilise your garden decking, and we’re going to show you how. 

Heating.

Yes, you can use space heaters, or even heat lamps or fire pits which will give you much needed heat when you need it – meaning you can spend some time outside on your garden decking. If you’re about to have garden decking installed, you could even have a fire pit built into it. You could even have wind screens installed too, so you won’t get the gusts of it in your face when you sit out. 

Also, why not install a cover or jacuzzi?

This would give you the advantage of being able to sit out on the decking regardless of the weather and your patio furniture won’t get damaged at all. You could also do something more permanent and have a roof built on to the decking that juts out from the main house, so it covers the main decking area. 

And why not have a tub installed and that way, the weather won’t bother you too much at all. It won’t matter what the temperature is if you’re in a hot tub and that’s something you can enjoy all year round and not just during the colder months. Also think about where you’re going to place your hot tub if you decide to go ahead, and that it’s not exposed to the sun and wind with plenty of shade where needed. 

Lighting

Why not provide some lighting and that way you’ll be able to sit out in it even when the days get shorter and shorter? Just imagine how romantic that is when all around is subtle lighting, giving you just the right amount of ambience for you to see your partner. All you need is a glass of prosecco and the right frame of mind and you have an evening planned. 

Cooking

Yes, just because its winter doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the winter weather because we know how much you enjoy eating outside in the summer, which is why you have a small dedicated area for barbecues and such like. Why not use it in winter too? With the heating system sorted, the lighting switched on and the patio roof overhead, you have no excuse but to get the food out and start entertaining friends and family.

Lothian Decking and Fencing – for quality garden decking in winter.

Yes, you can have quality garden decking in winter and use it too. If you want to enjoy your recently purchased decking, or you’ve had garden decking for a while and you’re now looking to use it in the winter months, then now you have no excuse. Just a few adjustments are all it takes for you to turn your garden into a winter wonderland – complete with food, lights and warmth. 

If you have any questions about what we’ve discussed today, or you’re thinking of having garden decking installed this winter - and why not? It’ll be easier to call us out at this time of year, and you won’t have to stand in line behind customers ahead of you waiting for installation, now’s the time to do it. Pick up the phone today and speak to one of our dedicated team members.

Making the most of your garden this winter

If you thought that once winter approached it was time to set down your tools and leave the garden till spring, you couldn’t be more wrong. There’s always something you can be doing to keep your garden in good condition, so that when spring comes there’s less to do. 

There’s plenty to keep you busy as we’ve already mentioned, such as pruning, soil prep, repairs to both the landscape of your garden and to general gardening tools and equipment, garden furniture as well as fencing and wooden garden decking. There’re repairs to be done following serious weather conditions such as storms or excessive rain, naturally after the bad weather has subsided, and of course the obligatory weeding. 

Fencing/decking.

If you have wooden fencing and decking there’ll be the usual repairs from last year and any you need to do presently throughout the winter months following bad weather. And of course you have to treat them, preferably before bad weather sets in, so they survive the rain and all that moisture. You’ll need your fencing to be pretty robust over the winter months, so any repairs are worth doing now to strengthen them and make them sturdy enough to withstand the wind, rain and snow that winter will inevitably bring. 

Wooden accessories, garden decking and fencing.

Garden decking can also be treated, debris removed and brushed before leaving it for the winter. You could also either remove any furniture on it or treat any wooden pieces you’re leaving out there. Again, any repairs to your decking should be done now and then you can keep on top of it throughout the winter. Jump on any repairs you see needed after a storm, do it now and don’t leave it till spring.

Weeds, plants, and cutting back.

Plants can be cut back, and any dead ones cut away to allow room for the healthy ones to flourish. Then remove the weeds and make sure you place them somewhere where they can be used as compost or placed in the bin for collection specifically for garden waste. Don’t leave them in another part of the garden where they can take root. 

Leaves, debris, pruning.

Leaves will have fallen from any trees from either your garden or next doors. Remove them now and also any plants you no longer want. We’ve already mentioned pruning them back and once you’ve cleared some space, you’ll have a better view of what else is going on in the back of your garden to see if there’s anything else that needs doing.

Lawns – keep it simple.

Your lawn can be mowed just the once and then left for the winter, of course a general tidy up is always welcome and this can amount to little more than removing any debris and other times such as anything that’s blown from trees and bushes, either from your own garden or from neighbouring ones. 

Seasonal prune.

In late autumn winter, some plants will need pruning, so they avoid damage in the bad weather. Some may need pruning even when dormant, and they can be really difficult to prune when they’re in full foliage so it’s a perfect time to do it. By pruning and cutting back you help make way for new shoots in the warmer months.

Lothian Decking and Fencing. – the garden experts.

We hope you found this useful. We’re always here to help. We know how hard it can be managing your garden and making sure it survives what winter is likely to throw at it. We’re experts in garden decking and garden fencing too, so if you have any questions on these topics or if you need to purchase some and you’re unsure as to what’s right for your garden, get in touch. We can also advise on all landscaping issues as we come with a lot of experience with a team of experienced experts. Give us a call.

The benefits of artificial grass during winter

Autumn brings with it the rain and wind, but when winter arrives on the scene it brings with it frost and snow. If you’ve had artificial grass installed recently, you may be concerned as to how you’re going to make it through those frosty days. Don’t worry we’re here to reassure you of the benefits of artificial grass in winter, and help you realise that your annual high maintenance garden timetable is now at an end. 

Easy to install, easy to love

Artificial grass is easy to install and although this involves an investment on your part, you’ll find that you easily get your money back over the years. There’ll be no mowing, you can forget the use of harmful chemicals, and allergies will be a thing of the past. What’s more, in winter taking care of your artificial grass is a doddle. 

Forget the prep, bring in the warm evenings inside

When you had a natural lawn, you’d need to do a certain degree of prep, this would include weeding, mowing and raking to ensure your lawn made it through the winter relatively unscathed. However, with artificial grass all you need do is brush it in readiness with a soft brush and that’s it. You leave it until the weather perks up and then you can go outside and enjoy your garden again. Naturally, you’ll still need to check your plants and give them a pruning and general tidy up, but that’s it. 

Easy does it and let your garden sit the winter out

Artificial grass in winter is easier because there’s nothing you really need to do in preparation. Natural grass on the other-hand can be hard work. And once the frost goes away, there’ll be more hard work. There’ll be mud, bald patches and a sickly shade to the grass that’ll take weeks to heal and make right. Artificial grass? Well, it’ll stay green and lush all year round, even in winter and beyond. You’ll have a crisp bright lawn at the start of winter, and you’ll have a crisp bright lawn when it ends. 

Want to cover your artificial grass lawn?

If you’re expecting a particularly bad snowstorm with freezing temperatures that are more extreme than usual, you may find that covering your artificial grass lawn with a light tarpaulin sheet gives you that extra bit of protection and peace of mind. Having said this, your artificial grass should be fine right through to the spring uncovered.  Always make sure you pick a good quality retailer and choose a sturdy, hard-wearing grass that will see you through the bad times and everything that winter can throw at it. 

Invest in artificial grass now and reap the rewards over the next few years

By investing in artificial grass this winter you’ll be investing in your garden and giving yourself time out from endless garden maintenance. When preparing for winter, all you’ll have to think about is the borders of your garden, any trees you may have in it, and any garden furniture and decking or patios. Otherwise, it’s bye bye hard work and hello snug and comfy sofa this winter. 

Lothian Decking and Fencing - Artificial grass benefits for winter and beyond

Do you think you’re now interested in investing in artificial now you realise how amazing it is? Why not give us a call and we can help you decide on the best type of artificial grass for your lawn and install it for you too. Give us a call today. 

Hints and Tips For Creating a Stylish Garden

If you’re looking to give your garden a makeover and make it look as stylish as possible with the onset of autumn, we’ve got good news for you. We’re going to giving you some hints and tips on producing clever additions to your garden such as focal points, landscape views and what garden products might be of value in your garden style arsenal, so read on and find out how to make your garden the best it’s ever been.

Colour Scheme

Choose a colour scheme before you start and try to stick to it. It could be one or two, or even three colours. Use paler versions on the pathways to complement a stronger colour for your accessories, or vice versa. Paint walls and fences any colour you want, but the paler it is will help make your plants and accessories stand out.

Planting Structure

Plants should be uniform in pattern, so it holds the whole thing together. A row of smaller plants can be placed in intervals giving a beautiful order to their arrangement. You can clash shapes and order by turning your lawns and pathways into crazy geometric shapes in opposition to the flower beds. Straight lines for pathways even, if that’s what you prefer, with less uniformity surrounding it.

Focal Points

You don’t have to have a focal point, but it’s a nice addition if you do. Its job is to bring your garden into focus in the best way possible. Simply grouping your plants in a certain way or placing something in a specific area such as a bench or a chair, or even a large plant container can work in bringing the attention to this item and to the rest of what it is you want people to focus on. The object might lead to a long pathway that leads to a landscape view or a wall of beautifully arranged climbing plants.

Accessories

We mentioned accessories earlier, and by that we meant furniture and ornaments. These can add some finesse and some beautiful finishing touches. Think about how they can match the plant patterns and the straight or geometric lines of the pathways. You can also seek out vintage, or just simply unusual pots and containers that come in all shapes and sizes. Use your colour scheme and go for bright shades or more muted ones. 

Light Up

Lighting is one other finishing touch that can add some serious style to your garden. Think of focus spotlights, ambient lighting, wall lights or even simple lanterns, it can add mood and depth at night completing your stylish garden beautifully. 

Lothian Decking & Fencing - Gardening Experts

If you’re looking to make improvements in your garden and you’re a bit confused, lost and feel you need a little help, then give us a call here at Lothian Decking & Fencing and we’ll be more than happy to help. We have an expert team of landscapers who are knowledgeable, friendly and trained and they’ll be able to come up with answers to all your most pressing queries. Whether you need garden decking, garden fencing, or a full garden makeover, get in touch today.

Relax in the Sunshine on Garden Decking

This beautiful weather means you can take real advantage of your garden decking. Naturally, you’ll be wanting to spend more time in your garden as a result, after all, why wouldn’t you?

Yes, go and relax in the sun….but stay safe!

So, yes, we definitely encourage you to spend time relaxing in the sunshine, while at the same time, we’d like you to stay safe. If you have garden decking, you’ll enjoy our tips on how to relax in your garden and stay cool. 

Hot weather is inviting, but don’t let yourself get over-exposed

What you need to consider in hot weather, especially if you’re going to be spending some time in the sun on your garden decking is that you’ll need a certain degree of shade. There’ll be periods during the day when the sun is at its hottest, and you’ll need to take yourself out of the sun’s glare. How? Well, rather than retreat into the house, you can create some shade on your decking. 

Make sure your garden decking has some shade

It can be anything, from a simple umbrella or parasol to a pergoda. Consider a pergola, awnings or canopies. Match colours and materials to fit in with your decking or the entrance to the decking, in otherwords the part of the house that meets your decking. Look for fusion of colours and a smooth transition into your garden. You could even create a gazebo on the other side of your garden opposite your decking so you have more than one place to sit during the hot sun. 

Stay hydrated

Yes, stay cool, when you’re out on your garden decking, hopefully, you’ll have some garden furniture. Make sure that if you intend spending a certain amount of time sitting out in it that you’ve made some cool drinks beforehand, or there’s plenty of water to hand. Also if you’re going to be doing some gardening while you’re out there in the thick of it, a) wear a hat that offers protection from the sun and b) drink plenty of water. Take plenty of breaks, and take yourself away from it and on to the decking for a cool drink and a rest. Don’t over do it. 

Lothian Decking & Fencing – Garden Decking Experts

So, if you have garden decking you’r very lucky and you’ll be able to spend ample time out in your garden where you can relax with friends and family. However, as we’ve already pointed out, make sure you drink plenty of water, wear a hat if you’re in an exposed area and when you’re on the garden decking – make sure you’ve got plenty of shade.

If you don’t have garden decking and you’re interested in having some installed get in touch. Once you’ve had it installed you can enjoy what’s left of this summer and have it ready for the next. Give us a call!

Garden Fencing Buying Guide

We’re talking about garden fences and more importantly about how to buy the one that’s right for you. So it’s a buyers guide and we’re hoping that you’ll find all you need to know here that will help you get it right first time, save money and have the right fence for your garden. 

Why are you having fencing installed?

Before you go out and buy your fence ask yourself what the fence is going to be for. If you have that worked out the rest is a little easier. You might want a fence that helps give you adequate privacy and security. Perhaps you live in an area of high crime or you get lots of foot traffic, if that’s the case then you’ll want a fence that isn’t too open and so people can see through it. You may want to open up your garden a little and have a more open, decorated fence in which case you’ll choose a fence with the right materials to facilitate this.

You need to determine the right height for your fence before choosing

You’ll need to think about whether you want to be able to see over it and in turn remember that they’ll be able to see in to yours. You can add extra height to your fence and that can be done with gravel or a trellis boards, and you can also add climbing plants to one with a trellis. 

You can often get fencing ready made, and this helps enormously if you’re only replacing one panel or you’re building a completely new fence. Wooden fencing in-particular come in timber slats and these come in a range of different designs. 

These include lap panels, and this type of design includes timber boards horizontally overlapping each other. Closeboard is the opposite with vertical panels overlapping. You can either buy them ready made or use single panels. 

Edging

The edges of your wooden fencing can be finished off with a fine edge known as feather edging or waney edge, which are timber boards that come with a straight and rough edge, and an uneven one that has been cut straight from a tree. 

Metal fencing

Metal fencing is normally a railing design and can look classic while also giving your garden a more minimalist contemporary look. The top shapes and edging can be in spears, swirls or balls and the height is usually around the standard 1.8m, much like most wooden fencing.

Aluminum or composite fencing

You can also have more modern composite or aluminum fencing which can give your property a sleek, modern look - if that’s what you’re looking for. You’ll probably need to take into consideration the overall look of your property as well as any other considerations, some of which we’ve touched on today. 

Lothian Decking and Fencing - for the very best in garden fencing

We hope you’ve found our guide on garden fencing useful. Here at Lothian Decking and Fencing we pride ourselves on our versatile range of quality garden fencing, so if you’re looking to replace single panel or build a whole new fence from scratch, we can help you choose the right fence for you. Get in touch today.