Showing posts with label Construction and Maintenance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Construction and Maintenance. Show all posts

Friday, March 6, 2009

Travertine Pavers

Travertine pavers have been increasing in popularity in recent years, although the use of this kind of stone has been going on for thousands of years. Historical structures, such as the Colosseum in Rome and a 1000 year old Burghausen castle in Europe are made out of travertine and have withstood the test of time.

In modern times, travertine has been used extensively for pool paving, building structures such as fireplaces and walkways, and tiling bathrooms and kitchens. The natural color and beauty of travertine makes it a timeless material that will continue to impress those that invest in it.

There are benefits to using travertine pavers, besides the great look it provides. Travertine stays cool to the touch, even in heat and sunlight. This makes it a perfect material for paving around an outdoor pool. It also is a non-skid surface, even when wet, which is important for safety around a pool.

Travertine is easy to install, and can usually be done by those with experience in laying regular pavers. Because travertine is a natural stone, it is made to uphold through time, and will not fade or scuff. It is also a great choice in a variety of climates, because it can withstand freezing and thawing without cracking.

Travertine can be cut to different sizes, and is usually offered as tile or pavers. Travertine pavers are thicker than tile, and are a good choice for paving outdoor areas. The extra thickness makes them stronger and allows them to be placed in many areas without mortar.

Friday, February 27, 2009

Landscape Architects

As you look to improve your yard and property, you might want to make it easy on yourself and hire a landscape architect. These licensed professionals can provide homeowners with great expertise when it comes to designing the perfect plan for their space.

After formal schooling and years of experience, a good landscape architect will find work easily at places such as public parks or golf courses, working in the actual design of the area. Many others own nurseries where they sell many different types of plants and spend their days helping customers plan out their yards. Still others work full-time at clients’ homes, designing their yards and coming up with a complete plan for landscaping.

It is possible to plan out your yard on your own, but a landscape architect will have a broad base of knowledge about things like what plants would look good together in a certain bed, or how to use things like brick, pebbles, marble or travertine pavers to create a walkway. These professionals might also suggest you try something you might not have considered, such as adding a cap rock waterfall, or a dry bed of recycled glass mulch. Landscape architects should know what things will work well in your area, and will know other things, such as coral rocks should only be used in very warm climates, or else they will crack.

You may be able to get this information on your own by doing your research, but a landscape architect will simplify the process for you.