1. Clear the garden. Organise a family working bee and spend a weekend out there clearing garden beds of old leaves and twigs, tip pruning shrubs and plants that will benefit, revitalising lawns, cleaning down paved areas with a high pressure hose, and generally clearing up. This is the time to create that new feature […]

These tips can help with your outdoor planning: 1. Have a look at your outdoor space If you already have a pergola or covered terrace, will it fit the number of friends and family you are anticipating? 2. No existing covered space? Have a look at the area where you’ll sit. Is there enough shelter […]

1. Start with a good clean and clearing of cobwebs. Patios and pergola areas have lots of nooks and crannies that can be hiding spots for spiders, so make sure you get into every possible corner and remove them, and then use an appropriate barrier agent to deter reinfestation. 2. You may want to consider […]

Your patio or outdoor room may already have lighting installed if you have a solid cover such as colorbond roofing. But if you want a bit more atmosphere than regular overhead lights, you need to think creatively to create mood. Here are a few lighting ideas for your next outdoor party. Fairy lights These are old […]

Given the need to have protection from the harsh Australian summer sun, a covered deck or pergola is generally a cost effective option for outdoor living space, and it can be achieved relatively simply. One of the things you’ll need to consider is what style of roof will work best – whether pitched or flat. Factors to take […]

The type of structure that you decide on will, of course, depend on your requirements and budget. One of the simplest and most cost effective additions can be a patio attached to the house. You may have a hankering for a free-standing gazebo, or have the space (and budget!) that enables you to add a full outdoor room. But […]

Quick tips for outdoor rooms You don’t have to go all out and break the bank to give outdoor rooms a refresh for spring. Some of these quick, low cost ideas might be all you need: Clear all the things that shouldn’t be there and find places for them – you’d be surprised how much difference a […]

The BBQ What can be said about the trusty traditional BBQ? Plenty, according to the marketing coming from the big retailers! The wonky home-built brick number is rarely seen these days. In its place are grand stainless steel behemoths on wheels that have wok burners and rotisseries incorporated. Ovens Pizza ovens are also firmly on the ‘want’ list […]

These days, there is a large range of patio roof panels on offer. There are options that will fit just about any purpose and/or style you have in mind. Here are some things to consider when you’re choosing your patio roofing options. Which side of the house is the patio located? North-facing patios will be much more comfortable […]