Privacy is a valuable commodity, especially in suburban areas like the west side of Cleveland. Instead of installing fences, consider using natural privacy barriers made from trees and shrubs. These not only provide privacy but also add beauty and environmental benefits to your yard.
Understanding Privacy Landscaping
Privacy landscaping involves using plants to create natural barriers between your property and the outside world. Trees and shrubs can block unwanted views, reduce noise, and offer a sense of seclusion. Plus, they enhance your garden’s aesthetic appeal and contribute to local ecology.
Using trees and shrubs for privacy has several advantages:
Aesthetic Appeal: Natural barriers can be more visually appealing than artificial structures. They add color, texture, and seasonal interest to your landscape.
Environmental Benefits: Plants absorb carbon dioxide, provide oxygen, and support local wildlife. Trees and shrubs can also improve air quality and reduce stormwater runoff.
Noise Reduction: Dense plantings can help muffle sounds from nearby streets or neighbors, creating a quieter outdoor space.
Property Value: A well-landscaped yard can increase your home’s curb appeal and potentially raise its market value.
When it comes to enhancing the beauty and functionality of your outdoor spaces, hiring a professional landscaping company can make all the difference. Premier Landscaping of Lakewood stands out as a top choice for residents looking to transform their yards into stunning landscapes.
Here are the key reasons why you should consider hiring Premier Landscaping for your next outdoor project.
Premier has the knowledge; the president of the company is a graduate of Xavier University in Landscape Management.
We are a local landscaper; our company is based in Lakewood, with roots in Fairview Park and Rocky River.
The best staff: Our on-site foreman and carpenter can build or create just about anything you can dream up.
Premier Landscaping is a four-season maintenance company featuring lawn care, mulch, clean-ups, lighting, and winter services.
Expertise and Experience
Premier Landscaping of Lakewood has been serving the community for over 15 years, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project. Their team of skilled professionals is well-versed in the latest landscaping techniques and trends, ensuring your outdoor space looks modern and well-maintained.
Customized Landscaping Solutions
Every property is unique, and Premier Landscaping understands this. They offer personalized landscaping solutions tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of each client. Whether you want a lush garden, a functional patio, or a serene water feature, they will work with you to design and implement the perfect outdoor space.
High-Quality Materials and Equipment
Using only the best materials and state-of-the-art equipment, Premier Landscaping ensures that every project is built to last. Their commitment to quality means you can trust that your landscaping will stand up to the elements and look great for years to come.
Comprehensive Services
Premier Landscaping of Lakewood offers a wide range of services to cover all your landscaping needs. From design and installation to maintenance and seasonal cleanups, they have you covered. Their comprehensive services ensure that your outdoor space remains beautiful and functional throughout the year.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Sustainability is a priority for Premier Landscaping. They incorporate eco-friendly practices into their projects, such as using native plants, efficient irrigation systems, and organic fertilizers. By choosing Premier Landscaping, you are not only enhancing your property but also contributing to a healthier environment.
Excellent Customer Service
Customer satisfaction is at the heart of Premier Landscaping’s business. They pride themselves on providing exceptional customer service, from the initial consultation to the final walk-through. Their team is always available to answer questions, address concerns, and ensure that you are completely satisfied with the results.
Competitive Pricing
Premier Landscaping of Lakewood offers high-quality services at competitive prices. They provide transparent quotes with no hidden fees, ensuring you get the best value for your investment. Their affordability, combined with top-notch service, makes them a smart choice for any landscaping project.
Your favorite flowers will look great behind this charming picket fence planter.
1. Measure your windowsill to determine the appropriate length for your window box. Once you decide on the length, cut the back piece of the box from a 1-inch x 8-inch board. Then rip the piece to a width of 6-3/4 inches.
2. Cut the floor of the box from 1-inch x 8-inch board to a length 3 inches longer than the back and bottom rip it to a width of 6 inches.
3. Cut the ends of the box. Rip a 2-inch x 8-inch board that is 13 inches long to 6 inches wide. Then cut two pieces 6 inches long, using the table saws miter gauge.
4. Cut the ends of the box. Rip a 2-inch x 8 –inch board that is 13 inches long to 6 inches wide. Then cut two pieces 6 inches long, using the table saw’s miter gauge.
5. Assemble the box. Start by attaching the back to the end pieces, using 2-inch deck screws (make sure the grain runs horizontally on the end pieces and that the tops are flush), It’s important to predrill and countersink the holes.
Next, fasten the floor to the end pieces with 2-inch deck screws. Then screw the back pieces to the floor with the deck screws. Again, predrill and countersink the holes.
6. Center and fasten the front of the window box to the floor and ends the same way as in the previous step. The piece will extend 1-1/2 inches beyond both ends.
7. Determine the number of pickets needed based on the length of your box. (Select a style that works well with your house. We’ve provided a few examples at right, or you can design your own.)
The pickets measure 3-1/2 inches wide x 11-3/4 inches tall. They’ll be spaced evenly along the face of the box and overhang the bottom by 1 ¼ inches.
Here’s What You’ll Need…
One 13-inch 2-inch x 8-inch cedar board
1-inch x 8-inch cedar boards (length determined by window width and number of pickets needed)
2-1/2 – inch, 2 inch and 1-1/4 –inch galvanized deck screws
1-1/4 – inch galvanized finishing nails
Waterproof construction adhesive
8. Cut the pickets from a 1-inch x 8 inch board. Use a saber saw to cut the tops (or a table saw for the dog-ear style).
If you want to paint the pickets a different color from the box (like in the photo at left), now is the best time to do it.
9. With the window box resting on its back, lay out the pickets across the front. Space them evenly and square to the box. (The end pickets on the box pictured above align with the end pieces of the box.) When set, mark their positions with a pencil line on the same side of each picket.
10. Set a combination square for 1-1/4 inch and position the pickets so they hang below the bottom of the box. Attach the pickets with construction adhesive and 1-1/4 –inch finishing nails.
11. Flip the box over and drill ¼ -inch drainage holes in the floor.
12. Rip the window box mounting board 4-1/2 inches wide from a 1-inch x 8-inch board. It should be the same length as the back of the box. Rip the board in half with a 30” cut down the middle making two pieces.
Fasten one piece with the angle pointing down. Flush with the top of the back piece. Use constructions adhesive and 1-1/4-inch deck screws. Don’t forget to predrill holes in the mounting bard so it doesn’t split.
13. The other half of the mounting board will be attached to the house of window frame with the appropriate-size screws. Predrill the holes and hang eth board using a level to make sure the box sits straight.
Now all you have to do is fill your window box with potting soil that drains well and plant some attractive flowers. (If your spouse has been “impatiently” waiting, you might want to plant some impatiens!) Before long, you windowsill will be blooming behind the nice, cozy “picket fence” that you put up yourself.
*You can find this great idea and more in the book Birds & Blooms Books Backyard Projects
