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Ever wonder what a landscape design company does all winter? Well, apart from commercial snow removal, we do hardscapes. As long as we can dig the foundation before the ground freezes, we take advantage of days over 40 degrees to pour concrete, lay paver stones, construct decks, and build pools. We also do carpentry projects in the winter.
Ian celebrates finishing a paver stone driveway.
We build patios of all kinds during the winter. We specialize in using pavers and natural stone but also sometimes use concrete or even decomposed granite.
Pavers are concrete molded to form different shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. About 80% of our patios tend to be made with pavers. The advantages are the flexible pavement construction technique along with the endless variety of patterns and designs that can be used. Because each paver is set on a fine aggregate base, they can move more without cracking as the soil moves. Pavers can also be dug up and re-set or repaired without destroying them. The disadvantage is they do weather like solid concrete, so eventually they may fade in color or have aggregates that become exposed over time. The polymeric sand needs to be touched up and refreshed every 2-3 years to keep things looking tidy and prevent weeds from growing in the joints.
Natural stone is the most expensive option for a patio. It is also the most durable and it will never go out of style. Like pavers, natural stones can be cut into a variety of shapes. Natural stone floats on a bed of fine gravel, so it moves without breaking. A natural stone feature can be expanded or moved easier than concrete if you want to expand the hardscape later and we can also set stepping stones to match and lead to or from your new patio through the garden.
Concrete is the least expensive alternative for a patio. Concrete can also be poured into almost any shape. To install a concrete fixture, it needs to be above freezing for a few days. The disadvantage to concrete is that it is rigid. As the soil moves, concrete can’t, so eventually it will crack. Concrete is also the least permeable option, so it may not be as effective in certain situations where drainage is an issue.
Pool decks don’t have to be an expanse of white concrete.
Pool decks used to always be just a sea of white concrete around a pool. Now, we can use concrete with an integral mixed color instead and even add texture and saw cuts. We try to avoid stamped concrete as it can be slippery when wet. Our favorite material for around pools are pavers or natural stone. Just because this area has to be hard and solid for furniture and function, doesn’t mean it can’t be both pretty and safe.
Retaining walls are designed to make areas level and to keep soil from washing down slopes. Retaining walls can be made of natural stone or concrete blocks as long as the base is built well and the drainage behind the wall is adequate, you can have walls that last for decades. We often see retaining walls around patios and backyards to make level playing areas for the kids.
We do a lot of carpentry work during the winter as well. We will build decks and outdoor rooms in the winter. Once we have the piers in place for the posts we can build above ground even in the cold. We also finish the inside work for our outdoor living areas we have already built and sometimes they even have built in heaters to keep us warm.
We work with our customers designing all kinds of outdoor projects during the off season to be ready for installations when the weather breaks and plants become available. Sometimes we can start on the hardscape phases during the winter so that we can be ready for planting come spring.
Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping keeps very busy during the winter, and we only have a few openings left for hardscape and deck projects. Give us a call at (816) 825-2524 or schedule a consultation to get your project started.
Easy ideas to make your house look perfect for Thanksgiving.
Are you hosting parties this fall? Decorating for a festive Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. Here are some ideas for decorations inside and out for your home.
Decorating for fall holidays can be a bit overwhelming. Breaking down your plans into what colors to use, what theme to use, and the materials to choose from can help you decorate with less stress.
Thanksgiving has traditionally used the colors nature displays in the fall. Yellow, orange, and red are reflected in the foliage. While any decorations need to fit your home’s usual decor and colors, focusing on bright hues of red, orange, and yellow can bring the colors from outside into your house. Bold colors brighten and enhance rooms, especially when it is dark outside.
The usual themes for Thanksgiving are gratitude for events from the last year and bountiful harvests. Foods such as gourds and pumpkins reflect the bountiful harvest. Photographs or other memorabilia from pleasant events of the last year can be set up so guests can share in your gratitude. Infrequent visitors can see your display and catch up on what has happened in your life.
Many Thanksgiving decorations incorporate dried flowers, durable food items, and swaths of colorful cloth. The horn of plenty, filled with gourds or fruit, celebrates the harvest. Cut flowers that have been dried make colorful centerpieces on the table, mantel, and on tables in the foyer. Use a colorful scarf as an accent draped across the back of the sofa to tie your furniture into the decorations.
Some people want to blend their decorations into their existing decor. Others want to make a bold splash that really stands out.
Harvest-themed decorations don’t have to be the horn of plenty. You can make great centerpieces by using dried twigs with fruit on them, such as crabapples, wheat or barley stalks, and some fall-blooming flowers. Choose flowers that complement the colors you have decided on for your overarching theme. These arrangements can be placed on the entryway table, on the mantel and fireplace, or on an end table.
Harvests aren’t the only thing to celebrate. Set up an area, such as a table, and fill it with pictures and other things that represent what you are grateful for this year. Such a gratitude table allows friends and relatives you may not see frequently to catch up on your news quickly. You can choose to let these people add things they are grateful for to the table or keep it just for yourself.
Table decorations don’t have to be hard.
The Thanksgiving feast is usually an important part of Thanksgiving. Decorate the table where you will eat so it reflects the themes you choose for your decor. Fall produce and foliage make nice runners down the center of the table. Remember to use low candles and vases of flowers so people can see each other and visit over the meal.
Avoid busy tables, as they can be overwhelming. Avoid fragrant foliage to avoid triggering allergies. Mix your table decorations so they are different heights and materials to keep things interesting. Using multiples of decorations in odd-number clumps, such as three candles, helps pull the decor together.
Your outdoor decor is the first thing your guests see. Decorate the porch and front of the house to welcome your guests to the party. Decorate the back of your house to make the space cheerful and pleasant.
Planters flank this door and frame it for visitors.
Your porch and front door look best when they are a cohesive space. One way to do this is to take some small pictures and paint them white or gold. Place them on the porch steps with a planter that has coordinating plants with it. Chrysanthemums or daises will last quite a while in a flowerpot. Use the same colors and some cut plants from the pot to make a Thanksgiving wreath for the front door.
As an alternative to flowerpots, place two large planters with seasonal plants in them on either side of the door. Beautiful seasonal planters can frame the door and lead the eye to the wreath there. If you have a porch with columns, place two planters against the outermost columns, then two more on either side of the door to funnel people’s attention to the door.
Doormats provide an additional way to enhance your porch. Place a sturdy area rug under the doormat and place flowerpots or planters on the corners of the area rug. You can get a holiday doormat to use in place of your usual one and add extra cheer.
Outdoor lighting serves multiple purposes in the landscape. Use it to highlight a specimen plant or direct attention to a fountain. Path lights make sure no one stumbles and falls. Advanced lighting, such as FX Luxor lighting systems, allows you to adjust the intensity and color of your outdoor lights from your smartphone. For example, for a football-watching party, you can make the lights red and white. For Thanksgiving, you can make them shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Fire features are mesmerizing and keep the chill of autumn at bay. A fire pit is just right for making smores during a football-watching party. A fireplace with a big screen TV over it also works well. Guests can stay warm and still see the game in your outdoor living area.
Thanksgiving decor doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. We hope this article has given you some easy ideas to make your home shine for the holidays.
Instead of draping your outdoor space with cut garlands this winter, why not create a delightful winter-themed planter? Let’s dive into some fun tips to get your creativity flowing!
A cheerful holiday-themed wide planter.
When it comes to planters, think outside the box—literally! You can use just about anything as long as it has drainage holes. Large planters are your best friends; they’re more stable and won’t dry out as quickly as those petite ones. Whether it’s ceramic, clay, stone, or plastic, the options are endless! And if you’re feeling adventurous, we’ve even seen small horse troughs transformed into fabulous planters—just remember to drill some holes in the bottom for happy roots.
Let’s talk dirt; while it might be tempting to scoop up some soil from your yard, that’s a no-go for our plant pals. Garden soil can become a compacted mess, making it tough for water and nutrients to get through. Instead, opt for potting soil or a soilless mix, which keeps the soil airy and ready to drink up that water. A general potting mix works wonders in outdoor planters, but if you’re pampering succulents, treat them to a mix tailored to their needs with extra gravel and sand to help with drainage for the arid-loving plants.
A tall winter-themed planter beside a door.
Get ready to put your designer hat on. Most planters look stunning with the “thriller, spiller, and filler” formula. Picture this: a standout plant in the center (the thriller) to grab attention, surrounded by some charming filler plants and a trailing beauty (the spiller) that cascades over the edge. Just remember to group your plants by their water and sunlight needs, so your planter stays lush and lovely all season long. Use colors that fit your theme. Whether it is a single color or complementary varieties, make sure to blend color choices to go together with the overall vision.
Let’s face it: container plants are thirsty little things. They can dry out faster than those in the ground, so keep an eye on them as the soil dries. If you already have an irrigation system, why not run an extra line straight to your planter? A drip system can keep your green friends happy and hydrated without you having to remember to water them—now that’s a win-win!
Planters flank this door and frame it for visitors.
Planters look fabulous just about anywhere. Many folks love to place matching planters on either side of their door, creating a warm and inviting entrance that greets guests with a burst of beauty. Imagine approaching a home surrounded by stunning plants—it’s a fantastic first impression. Others opt for a planter on their patio or deck, bringing a splash of cheer to outdoor gatherings. As long as your planter is stable and not too heavy for a balcony or patio, it’s sure to brighten up the space and make it feel extra welcoming.
Choices for our seasonal color planters.
Designing a stunning planter takes a bit of time and skill, but if you’re short on either, don’t worry! Let Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping work our magic! We’ll fill your planter with the perfect soil and plants, all in a customized design just for you. Ready to elevate your outdoor space? Simply call our office at (816) 825-2524 to sign up for our seasonal planter subscription. Don’t wait—our subscriptions are flying off the shelves.
As we’ve chatted about winterizing your landscape over the past few weeks, let’s not forget about your trees—they need some extra love before the snowflakes start falling. Think of it as tucking them in for a cozy winter nap! Here are some fun tips to keep your trees happy and healthy all winter long.
Trees need winterizing, too.
Got dead, broken, or diseased branches? Time to prune them away! It’s like giving your tree a little haircut. Cutting off these troublemakers not only keeps your tree looking sharp, but it also prevents broken branches from ripping bark off the trunk. And remember, diseased branches should go straight to the trash, not the compost—no spreading that bad vibe.
Once the ground turns into a frozen wonderland, any water trapped in the soil becomes a solid block of ice. If you haven’t watered adequately, the roots below won’t be able to sip any hydration. So, before winter truly settles in, give your soil a deep drink. Turn on your hose until it starts to trickle, then place it about three feet from the trunk and let it soak for about an hour. You may need to move the hose around every 10-15 minutes as it starts to pool up, so you can spread the love. Repeat this until the soil under the entire dripline is saturated—your tree’s roots will thank you for the winter spa treatment!
Deciduous trees are in hibernation mode during winter, but they still need a little love—water them about once a month on those warm, sunny days.
Evergreen trees, on the other hand, are like those energetic kids who never stop! They don’t fully go dormant, even in the coldest weather, and they need more water than their deciduous friends. So, whenever it’s above 40 degrees, do a quick soil check. If it feels dry, give those evergreens a drink to keep them happy come the spring growing season and prevent winter burn.
Winter burn on an evergreen tree.
Winter burn is like a cold injury for evergreens, showing up when new growth starts in spring. You might notice brown needles or leaf edges, and it can range from a few sad needles to a whole tree looking a bit worse for wear.
Because evergreens keep a few pores open on their needles, they can lose moisture if the wind whips through. It’s like they’re out there shivering in the cold! To help them out, we recommend using an anti-desiccant spray, such as Wilt-Pruf, on your evergreen friends. This magical potion, made from a chemical found in pine pitch, creates a protective layer on the needles, preventing moisture loss. Just make sure to cover every nook and cranny, and give it a few hours to cure in the sunlight to be fully protected. You can re-apply if needed after 60-90 days if needed depending on how harsh the weather conditions are.
Most de-icing solutions contain salt, which is like a big “no-no” for your trees. If salt seeps into the soil around them, it can be toxic. So, when the snow and ice start to melt, keep an eye out to make sure that salty slush doesn’t drain under the dripline of your trees. A little temporary berm can help channel that slush straight into the street—think of it as a mini snow moat!
Too much snow on branches is like putting a heavy blanket on a sleeping child—there’s a good chance something might snap. After a snowstorm, gently shake off the snow to prevent breakage. Just be careful; we don’t want to wake the sleeping giants. This can also be a fun family activity—get the kids involved and let them help out while burning off some energy!
Our snowplows are ready for the snow to come.
Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping provides snow/ice prevention and removal services for our commercial partners. We can give your landscape the Royal treatment to protect your investment and make winter more pleasant. Give us a call at (816) 825-2524 to get on our schedule. Hurry, we are filling our schedule quickly.
Take care of outdoor furniture this off -season, so that you can enjoy it in the spring.
Taking care of your outdoor furniture during the off-season means you can kick back and enjoy it come spring! As you winterize your lawn and landscape beds, don’t forget about your beloved furniture. Here are some tips to keep it safe and sound all winter long.
Don’t forget to clean the bottom of your furniture.
First things first—cleaning is key. The techniques will vary depending on the type of furniture you have:
While you’re at it, take the opportunity to address any issues. Maybe your dog had a little too much fun with a cushion, or perhaps you’ve spotted insect damage or loose screws. If a piece seems beyond repair, don’t hesitate to let it go and find a replacement that’ll make you smile😊
Before tucking your furniture away for winter, consider adding or renewing a sealant. Just make sure the furniture is completely dry to prevent trapping moisture, which can lead to rot.
Renew the sealant on your furniture before storing it for the winter.
The ideal storage spot is safe and dry. If your outdoor area is covered, consider placing your furniture in the center where it’s shielded from rain and snow. Your garage is also a great option. Store cushions, drapes, and pillows in plastic bags inside animal-proof containers to keep them safe from curious critters.
If your furniture is too heavy or cumbersome to move, invest in a quality outdoor furniture cover. Make sure to cover your cleaned and repaired items, including grills, to prevent rust. There are plenty of covers available—just measure your furniture and find a good fit. In a pinch, a heavy-duty UV-resistant and waterproof tarp can work, but be sure to anchor it down to prevent it from flapping away in the wind.
While Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping doesn’t handle furniture, we’re here to help you winterize your lawns, irrigation systems, and landscape beds. Give us a call at (816) 825-2524 to schedule your winterization service. Spots are filling up fast, so don’t wait!
Ah, fall in Kansas City. The air is crisp, the leaves are about to turn into a beautiful tapestry of reds and gold, and your outdoor space is begging for a little TLC. With the holidays right around the corner, let’s get your outdoor living area looking spectacular. Here are some fun and exciting activities you can dive into this season.
Let us plant bulbs for you.
Want to be the envy of your neighborhood come spring? It all starts now! Planting bulbs is like burying little treasures that will bloom into vibrant flowers, signaling that winter is on its way out. Just remember: pointy tip up for the best blooms! We’ve got a few hundred bulbs ready for planting, and if you’d like to leave the dirty work to us, we’re here to help.
Ah, the beauty of fallen leaves… and the chore they bring! A tidy outdoor space not only looks good but also keeps pests at bay. Plus, those pesky leaves can stain your hardscapes. Make leaf clean-up a breeze by letting our leaf removal service save you time and energy, so you can enjoy those colorful autumn views.
One way to use planters to welcome people into your home.
Use planters to decorate your porch, too.
You can layer planters for a different effect.
Holiday Decorating: Set the Stage for Festivities
Fall and winter are the ultimate seasons for hosting. Wow your guests with stunning seasonal planters at your doorstep. If your planter is looking a little sad, don’t fret. Enroll in our garden planter program, and we’ll fill it with fresh soil and delightful arrangements. From spooky Halloween to merry Christmas, we’ll make sure your planters are ready to impress all season long.
Cooking For Friends: Tailgate with Taste
Is it just us, or does everything taste better in the fall? With the Chiefs playing, why not throw a watch party? Gather your friends and fire up the grill! Here’s a quick and tasty Simple Pasta Salad recipe that pairs perfectly with your BBQ spread:
Ingredients
1 cup uncooked rotini pasta
1 ½ cups cubed cooked chicken breast
1 ½ cups fall vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers cut into bite sized pieces (can substitute whatever you have on hand)
¼ cup of your favorite salad dressing
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
While pasta is cooking, mix vegetables, chicken, and salad dressing in a bowl.
Drain pasta and add to the bowl.
Stir well.
Cover and refrigerate until serving.
Your friends will love it!
Invest In Your Landscape: Build Your Dream Outdoor Space
Thinking ahead? Winter is the perfect time to plan for your dream outdoor space. We specialize in designing and installing stunning hardscapes, and as long as we get the foundation dug before the ground freezes, the possibilities are endless! Imagine a beautiful patio or deck ready for you to enjoy come springtime.
Let Us Get Your Garden Ready for the Holidays
At Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping we’re all about making your holidays bright! From bulb planting to leaf removal and gorgeous planter designs, we’ve got you covered. And don’t forget, we can help you build hardscapes all winter long. If you’re ready to enroll in one of our maintenance subscriptions or schedule a consultation for a new build, give us a call at (816) 825-2524.
Let’s make this fall unforgettable together!
Time to plant almost anything.
Fall is the ideal time to plant almost everything! With the leaves turning vibrant shades of orange and gold, now’s the perfect moment to give your plants a head start. Planting in the fall gives your greenery an edge come spring, when they burst forth with fresh foliage and colorful blooms!
Autumn is not just for pumpkin spice lattes; it’s also a fantastic time to evaluate your landscape! Take a stroll through your garden and see what survived the summer’s heat. If any plants need replacing, there’s no time like the present. Nurseries are bursting with beautiful options, just waiting to add some seasonal charm to your space.
If you don’t have good roots, your plant won’t survive.
Planting in the fall lets roots cozy up to their new home before winter’s chill or summer’s heat sets in. Most plants are letting go of their foliage for the season and can focus their energy on growing strong, healthy roots. By spring, those roots will be ready to take in all the nutrients and moisture your plants need to flourish!
Let’s face it—transplanting can be stressful for our plant pals. But fear not! Fall rains and cooler temperatures mean fewer stressors for our green friends. Instead of scrambling to survive, your plants can put their energy into establishing a solid root system and making themselves at home.
As the days get shorter, weeds are going dormant, and pests are preparing for their winter nap. Now your plants can bask in the sun without having to compete for nutrients and space. Less competition means healthier plants—talk about a win-win!
Now is a good time to plant your bulbs.
With the heat of summer behind us, gardening in the fall becomes a delightful experience. There’s nothing quite like digging in the dirt with a cool breeze on your back and leaves crunching underfoot. Who wants to plant in 100-degree weather? Not us!
Once you’ve got your new plants in the ground, here are a few festive tips to help them thrive:
Water your new plants daily for the first two weeks. Think of it as a hydration party for their roots! After two weeks, you can start stretching out the time between watering until you’re at a comfy once or twice a week. Most plants need about an inch of water a week under their drip line for optimal growing conditions.
Apply three inches of mulch to give your plants a warm, protective cover. Mulch helps keep soil temperatures steady, retains moisture, and prevents weeds from crashing the party. Plus, it keeps soil-borne diseases at bay, so your plants can stay healthy and happy!
While it’s tempting to give your plants a little extra love with fertilizer, hold off during their first fall in the ground. Fertilizer can burn those delicate root hairs and encourage tender foliage that might not handle frost well. It’s better to wait until the spring growing season to feed your garden.
At Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping, we’re here to help you celebrate the season! Whether you need to replace some sad plants or you’re dreaming of a whole new garden design, we’ve got your back. Schedule a consultation soon—before our calendar fills up faster than a pumpkin patch on a Saturday!
As the weather cools down, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors in Kansas City. While we can’t cover everything, here are some of our favorite spots to spend time outdoors.
Address: 909 N Highway 7, Olathe, KS 66061
Website: Ernie Miller Nature Center
The Ernie Miller Nature Center features a new gallery showcasing live plants and animals, highlighting the botanical history of the Kansas City area. The center is open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. You can even host a birthday party there! Ernie Miller Park offers nature trails and a family-friendly scavenger hunt to explore local wildlife. Remember: take only pictures and leave only footprints. Admission is free.
Lakeside Nature Center Display Hall and Viewing Gallery © A. Zahner Company
Address: Swope Park, 4701 E Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64132
Phone: (816) 513-8960
Website: Lakeside Nature Center
Located in Swope Park, Lakeside Nature Center features the Fox Hollow Trail, a nature center, and Missouri’s largest wildlife rehabilitation center. Enjoy native plant gardens adjacent to the center. Admission is free, and while the center is closed on Mondays, it is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The trails are accessible from dawn to dusk.
Terra Luna by Quixotic at the OP Arboretum
Address: 8909 W. 179th Street, Overland Park, KS 66013
Website: Overland Park Arboretum
Covering 300 acres, the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens primarily features plants native to the region. The arboretum includes themed spaces such as the Monet Garden, Children’s Garden, and Sculpture Garden. Various events are hosted throughout the year, including wine tastings, movie nights, and immersive performances like Terra Luna. Admission is free on the first Tuesday of each month; otherwise, children five and under are free, children aged 6-17 are $2, and adults are $5. Tickets can be purchased at the Longhouse Visitors Center or online.
Water Gardens at OP Arboretum
Website: Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area encompasses 1,071.4 acres of diverse landscapes, including steep hills, prairies, and restored woodlands. The nature center is open Tuesday to Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, while the trails are accessible from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. To reach Burr Oak Woods, take Highway 7 north of I-70 for 1.1 miles, then west on Park Road for 1 mile. Admission is free.
Park Layout Map – Powell Gardens
Address: 1609 N.W. U.S. Highway 50, Kingsville, MO 64061
Website: Powell Gardens
Powell Gardens features 970 acres of managed gardens and trails, with various themed areas such as The Heartland Harvest Garden and The Fountain Garden. The garden hosts numerous events, including pumpkin painting and immersive performances like “Dark Forest.” Currently, the Gardens are open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours may vary seasonally. Admission fees vary; please check their website for the latest information and events.
Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping specializes in designing and installing beautiful outdoor spaces, from natural retreats to outdoor kitchens and everything in between. Schedule a consultation today to get started!
Shade trees are dropping their leaves everywhere.
Ah, fall—the season of cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and a glorious shower of leaves from those majestic deciduous trees. But before you dive into that leaf pile like a kid on Thanksgiving break, let’s talk about why those leaves shouldn’t just sit around!
Sure, leaving fallen leaves can seem like a no-brainer, but here are a pile of reasons to grab that rake instead:
Raking leaves is hard work.
Once you’ve raked up those leaves, here are a few playful ideas for what to do next:
Pets love leaf piles.
If the thought of raking leaves sounds as appealing as watching paint dry, let Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping come to your rescue! We’ll take care of that leaf clean-up for you, whether it’s the front yard, back yard, or both. We’ll even tidy up those perennial beds for you. Once we’re done, we’ll haul all the leaves and debris and dispose of them for you, so you are left with a clean and manicured landscape.
For more information or to sign up for our services, give our office a call at (816) 825-2524. Let’s make this fall a little less messy and a lot more fun!
Nightime lighting is important for safety as well as to show off your landscape.
As fall and the holiday season approaches, the temperatures are beginning to cool off, so it is more pleasant to be outside. As the night lengthens, landscape lighting becomes more important. Now is a good time to check your lights to ensure the system is working properly. Here are the steps we take to check and maintain landscape lighting.
We recommend doing maintenance on the entire system. This includes the wiring, lamps, transformer, fixtures, and timer/photocells. You will first need to turn on the lighting to do this. Usually this can be done in the transformer with an on switch on the timer.
Check each light to make sure it is on. If not, use a tester light you know works and put it in the fixture. If that works, then you will need to replace the LED light. LED lights last thousands of hours of operation, but even they eventually will burn out.
If the tester light doesn’t work, you may have a problem with the power to that light fixture. You can use a volt meter to check if you have power. If not, you can run a new wire from the nearest connection to see if that fixes the problem. If you still have no power, you will have to go back to the last connection that works and fix the system from that point forward.
Fixtures get dirty and don’t shine as brightly.
Use a damp cloth for this step so you do not damage the fixture. Clean the outside housing of the fixture. Use glass cleaner and clean the fixture lens. You may need to do this step 3-4 times a year to make sure dirt and debris don’t cover the light and prevent it from showing.
Animals, people, and lawn equipment can bump the light fixtures and move them. That means the fixtures are no longer lighting what you want to be lighted. Check the aim of each fixture and adjust as needed to showcase your landscape or illuminate dark spaces.
The transformer takes house current and reduces it to the lower voltage that these LED lights require. Too much current can burn out a fixture or reduce its life. Check the terminal blocks and tighten them. Check the internal components and make sure they are clean, do not show excessive wear, and do not show any burn spots. Replace anything that has a problem.
A clock turns on the lights at a set time.
Set the clock or timer for fall so the lights come on at the proper time. If you use photocells to turn on the lights in the evening and turn them off in the morning, clean them with a damp cloth so dirt and dust don’t make them come on and off at the wrong time. We like to use astronomical timers that will adjust automatically for daylight savings based on zip code.
Check any wires you can see for nicks and cuts. If you find any, splice in a section of wire to replace the damaged spots. It is best to run a complete splice from light to light to limit additional connection points. If you must splice in the middle of a run, we suggest installing a box over this splice to easily find it later in case of any issues. Re-bury any wiring that has become exposed over the year. Bury it far enough underground so that it won’t be damaged by equipment in the yard.
Cut back plants blocking lights.
Plants can grow during the year and block lights. Now is a good time to trim those plants back so they do not block the light from showing. Be careful not to remove more than one-third of a plant within two months, or you will damage the plant. You can also move the light slightly if needed. This is one reason why we leave long leads of wire on each light to be adjusted later if needed.
Have you planted a new specimen plant that needs lighting? Has a plant died, so the light is no longer needed there? New and better lights are always coming on the market. Has something new come out that fits your situation better? Don’t be afraid to make changes to keep up with technology.
Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping can do your lighting maintenance for you. We will check everything and repair and renew it as needed. Call the office at (816) 825-2524 to sign up. Hurry, the schedule is filling up fast.
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