by dulando-admin | Nov 28, 2016 | patio contractor
When space in your backyard is limited, you need to use it wisely, and a well-designed small backyard patio can be an excellent choice. Since not all configurations will work for patio designs in a small backyard, there only leaves one question to consider. How can you achieve the most impact for a patio design with a small backyard?
Here is our list of the top 5 Elements to consider when creating a patio design for a small backyard:
- A Defining Feature
A backyard patio defines a space that becomes an outdoor room that is ripe with possibilities. When selecting a location for your patio, choose an appealing spot where you’ll enjoy spending time and think about how you want to use as well as traffic flow into your home. This will help you visualize details of your patio design. - Appearance Matters
With so many patio pavers and concrete options to choose from, there’s no excuse for a boring patio. For a truly unique look, consider adding a pattern onto your patio’s surface. Do you want to make your space look a little larger? Incorporating curves makes a patio seem bigger and allows it to flow beautifully into your landscaping. A border is another option that can have a major impact on your patio’s appearance. Whether it is the same color as the primary area or a contrasting color, a border creates crisp, clean line that frames your patio. - Multitasking Functionality
How do you intend to use your patio? When space is an issue, you’ll need to plan carefully and look for places where you can include features that will do double duty. For example, if you intend to enjoy cooking and entertaining on your new patio, you might want to set up a small outdoor kitchen that revolves around an outdoor bar that can serve as a space for prep, cooking, serving food and even dining. Are you a dedicated gardener who believes planters are a must for the ideal patio? Consider using patio pavers to frame the planters and provide additional seating for those enjoying the patio. You might the additional seating when the word gets out you have an amazing backyard patio. - Going Up
Smaller yards often limit your ability to spread out, so get creative with your use of space by thinking vertically. Embracing vertical design options allows you to do more with the look and function of your patio. You can use the exterior wall of your home to attach a pergola to generate usable vertical space. Pergolas are also a fantastic way to gain the perfect amount of shade if you’re worried about getting too much sun while using your patio. Pergolas become a focal point of any patio design while creating an open atmosphere for guests to enjoy. See FAQs When Building a Pergola in Your Backyard - A Professional Touch
With any backyard patio project, it’s easy to understand why the size and scope of the work demand professional oversight. However, a professional touch is just as important when you are designing a patio for a small backyard. You need to make every inch count, and an experienced professional can point out features and products that will help you achieve the look that you want and the functionality that you need.
Dulando Screen & Awning has been helping homeowners in Orlando, Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and the surrounding areas transform their backyards since 1968. Our team delights in creating a patio design to match backyards of all shapes and sizes. We are experts at maximizing patio space in small backyards. To explore the possibilities, contact us today at 407-426-0246 to schedule a free design consultation.
by dulando-admin | Nov 9, 2016 | patio contractor
When you close your eyes, you can see the perfect patio. When considering installing patio pavers laid out in a specific design with your special touch of backyard landscaping, should you hire a professional or do it yourself? While the final product is crystal clear, the paver installation process is a little foggy.
There are countless television shows and websites devoted to the joys of doing it yourself, but that doesn’t mean that it’s always the best strategy. If you hire a reputable contractor specializing in patio pavers, you’ll know what the project will cost before any work begins and can be confident that the final result will be professional.
However, if you decide to do it yourself, it means you’ll need to think about several things, including:
Saving on Labor Costs.
Saving on labor costs is one of the major selling points for the do-it-yourself approach. While you may not have to pay anyone, there will still be labor costs. After all, your time and effort have value. You’ll also want to consider the matter of muscle. One patio paver may not be that heavy, but handling the number needed to complete even a small patio will require a fair amount of strength. Be sure that you are physically capable of installing patio pavers. The constant up and down is extremely strenuous on your back and legs.
Implementing a Patio Design.
Envisioning the final result is only part of completing a patio design plan. Do you know how to transform your patio design idea into a reality? Can you create accurate sketches, determine types and quantities of materials, and make sure that the patio idea is both feasible and affordable? Are you confident that you can adapt your patio design if something unexpected appears when you begin the project? Remember, any mistakes during the design phase can leave you facing a price tag that is higher than you expected, so if you decide to take a do-it-yourself approach, don’t skimp on the patio design process.
Ability to Stay on Budget.
Putting a price on a do-it-yourself patio project can be unexpectedly tricky. While figuring out how many stone pavers you’ll need and what they will cost is pretty straightforward, you’ll also need to consider the cost of the sand that goes under them, leveling string, piping and wood for any framing. In addition, you’ll want to budget for delivery costs and the expense of purchasing or renting the necessary tools.
Proper Tools.
If you decide to install your own square or interlocking pavers, you’ll need to do more with tools than just rent or purchase them. Once you obtain the required tools, you’ll have to be able to use them safely and effectively. At the very least, you’ll need to be capable of using a compactor and a cutter. If you think video tutorials are sufficient, then by all means, go for it. If you find the idea intimidating, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
It can certainly be satisfying to build something with your own hands; it is also undeniably frustrating when a project doesn’t come out quite right. With more than 50 years of patio design and installation experience, Dulando Screen & Awning has built a reputation for excellent customer service, outstanding reliability and superior craftsmanship. If you’re ready to enrich your outdoor living space with patio pavers, contact us today to schedule a free in-home design consultation.
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by dulando-admin | Sep 20, 2016 | patio contractor
A small backyard area can feel like a deficit in a home, but using some creativity when planning your outdoor living space can transform an area that feels ordinary and too small into a place that friends and family instantly gravitate towards. Luckily, there is no shortage of small backyard patio ideas out there that can transform a space and make it incredibly inviting. Here are a few of our favorite small backyard patio ideas.
Install patio pavers to create a unique space in your backyard.
Today there are fantastic styles available in concrete pavers, and they come in a wide variety of shapes, colors and styles. Curved concrete stones are available today and concrete pavers are cut into squares and rectangles. Concrete pavers can also be stamped or stenciled to give them the look of stones at a fraction of the price. Be sure to allow enough space (about 20 to 25 square feet) for patio furniture to fit and for people to walk around when planning the area for the patio pavers.
Create a particular area by installing an aluminum pergola.
A pergola is a charming structure that can add an incredibly inviting feel to a small patio space. Gorgeous pergolas available from home and garden stores will transform a small space into something truly spectacular. Pergolas look great decorated with the garden pots and outdoor furniture you’ve acquired for your new space, and they look fantastic with climbing vines growing up and around the structure. Because of the humid climate in Florida, we do recommend Perma-Wood when building a pergola. You won’t regret it.
Small Backyard Patio Ideas that are Easy to Decorate
Plan a potted garden area.
Beautiful pots are available today in garden and specialty stores, and pots can be an easy way to create a lush garden with a minimum of hassle, even for those with a very “brown thumb.” Pots with classical detailing can add a natural feeling of elegance to a small patio, while flowers, grasses and fresh herbs in pots add an irresistible appeal.
Add fresh looks with outdoor furniture.
Carefully selected outdoor furniture can add a very appealing and inviting look to a small outdoor area. Furniture that can be assembled at home is very affordable these days, and by adding some colorful new outdoor pillows, you can have a designer look in a hurry.
Use outdoor lights for added sparkle.
An attractive outdoor patio can work as a sort of “outdoor living room,” when lights are added that make it seem like its own defined space. Sparkly little fairy lights are also an attractive detail for entertaining, and solar lights (which can be placed inside large pots) are a great way to light up the evenings while saving on power.
These are just a few small patio ideas to try for creating a very welcoming patio, even if it’s a smaller size. The truth is that any idea can be attractive and enjoyable, as long as you work with the space and stay open to creative inspiration.
by dulando-admin | Mar 11, 2015 | patio contractor
Do you have the perfect idea for a screen enclosure and need a patio contractor to do the job? You may think it’s as simple as picking up the phone and hiring the first contractor who answers your call. To make choosing the right patio contractor just a little bit easier, we’ve created 7 1/2 questions for you to ask when talking to a contractor about installing a new patio enclosure.
1. Do you specialize in constructing patio screen enclosures?
Saying you can build something is different than actually producing a completed project. Look for a contractor who specializes in designing and building patio enclosures. An experienced contractor will deliver exactly what you want without hassle.
2. Are you licensed, bonded and insured?
A professional screen enclosure contractor takes their work seriously and pursues licenses and insurance to show their credibility and knowledge. By making sure you are working with a licensed contractor, you can rest assured that they are more likely to follow state rules and building codes. Thereby making sure that your project finishes in a timely manner.
3. What will you provide when you bid on this job?
Ask each patio contractor for a set of plans and specifications for comparison. You can use this information to see if everyone offers the same or similar plans and how the bids differ from one to another. The more detail you receive, the better. Your estimate is a set of plans that tells you what you will receive for the money you pay.
4. How quickly can you show me a detailed contract before work begins?
You’ll definitely want a detailed contract before any work takes place. The contract should cover the cost of a patio enclosure as well as all the installation items, project specifications and any warranty information if it’s applicable. Read the contract carefully, and make sure that both parties agree on everything before work begins.
5. What hours do you plan to work, and how many staff members will be present on the job?
Workers may show up at your home around 7 a.m., but you would prefer it if they came an hour later. If you have a specific work schedule in mind, tell the contractor before the project starts.
6. Do you need me to do anything during the construction phase?
Find out if you need to move your car out of the way or clear certain items off the patio before work begins. If you’re not at home during construction, you may have to leave the gate unlocked or move the family pet indoors.
Here is also a checklist for preparing your backyard for a screen enclosure.
7. Will inclement weather delay the project?
If rain is in the forecast during your job, it might cause a delay in production. The goal should be to finish a project as well as provide a safe working environment for the installers. Reputable contractors will make sure to do both.
So, what about the 1/2 question? Well, this is the easiest question of all: Ask the contractors to show off their previous work. A qualified and experienced contractor has dozens of great pictures and testimonials for you to look through and read to make your final decision.
Dulando Screen & Awning has been in business since 1968. We have served the central Florida areas we well as the coastal regions since that time and are very familiar with the lifestyle residents want. Whether you live in Orlando, New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach or the surrounding areas, give us the opportunity to earn your business. Call us at 407-862-6060 or fill out our online form for an in-home design consultation. Put our experience to work for you.
by dulando-admin | Feb 16, 2015 | patio contractor
You’ve probably envisioned a pool screen enclosure for your backyard and know all about its benefits. However, did you know it’s equally important to consider all aspects of hiring a screen enclosure contractor? We’re not talking about hiring a screening contractor who builds decks or has installed fencing in a yard. We’re talking about finding the right local screen enclosure contractor who understands everything it takes to create the pool enclosure from start to finish.
Dulando Screen & Awning has been in business for over 50 years. We’ve built pool screen enclosures that were simple in nature to some very extravagant lifestyle enclosures. With both spectrums, the client got exactly what they wanted. Before hiring a screen enclosure contractor, spend some time researching the pool or patio enclosure process in order to make an informed decision.
We understand that by educating you, our customer, about outdoor screen enclosures and what it takes to make the decision, that when you meeting with quality screen enclosure contractors, you will already be one step ahead. Isn’t it nice to be in the driver’s seat?
3 things to know before hiring a screen enclosure contractor.
1. Know Your Budget
Though you’d probably rather think about designs and styles, your budget plays an important role in the type of enclosure you choose.
Imagine getting exactly what you want AND staying within your budget.
A simple privacy screen on a backyard patio not only keeps out UV rays and pests but does so at an affordable price. However, a large pool set farther away from your home may require a specially designed standalone enclosure that costs a bit more. Many different factors determine the final cost of your screen enclosure, such as the overall pool and patio size.
Read more about Factors in Determining Cost of Pool Screen Enclosure
2. Choose an Enclosure Design
Once you have your budget worked out, you’ll have to answer a few questions. Would you like a standalone pool enclosure or one that extends from your house? Are there trees or other obstacles that interfere with the surrounding space?
Essentially, you need to:
- Evaluate your space – size & location of the pool
- Choose your materials – upgrade decking or style of enclosure and type of screen
- Remove any obstacles to the new enclosure – trees or other landscaping
You can get a custom-designed screen patio enclosure that looks like an extension of your house or one that simply screens in a small space. Talking to a professional contractor can help you choose the right design and answer any questions you may have.
Additional Reading: Roof Types of Screen Enclosures For Your Swimming Pool
3. Selecting a Professional Contractor
With your budget determined and a design in mind, you’ll want to hire an experienced screen enclosure contractor for the job. Some contractors may build quality decks while others probably construct excellent patios. However, do these contractors specialize in installing patio and pool enclosures? That’s a question you’ll need to ask.
Additional Reading: Buyer Beware – Quality Pool Enclosures at the Lowest Price!
So, why choose Dulando? For one, we’ve specialized in planning, designing and installing pool and patio screen enclosures since 1968. We also use high-quality parts that require little to no maintenance. We tackle residential and commercial jobs of any size and handle the entire process from top to bottom.
Be careful of pool enclosure companies that promote the lowest price.
With full-coverage insurance and a passion to see your dream come to fruition, Dulando Screen & Awning provides peace of mind when constructing your new pool screen enclosure with the detail, quality and attention it deserves. Call us today at 407-862-6060 for a free no-obligation in-home design consultation.
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