This is an exciting time of year for me personally.  I’m adequately refreshed and caught up on office tasks after the winter break, we’re gearing up full steam ahead with project work, and my favorite recreational distraction is also on the verge of kicking into full gear.  That’s right, I’m talking about baseball, and opening day is nearly here.

I’ll admit it.  I’m kind of a baseball geek.  Not necessarily the Bill James/Sabermetric statistics sort, but I love the history, its place in pop culture, the long slog of the season, the deliberate pace of the game.  Remember that old George Carlin football vs. baseball bit he used to do? Well in my book every point tipped the scale in favor of baseball.  (Not that football doesn’t have its place, but that’s a post for another time perhaps).

And maybe it’s just because I work in an industry where to create good things takes a fair amount of time, but one of the things I like best about baseball is that even when we celebrate an immediate result – a walk-off home run to win the game perhaps – the ultimate success won’t be judged until the full 162-game season is complete.

And even when a player has a break-out season, their place in history won’t be determined until we have the benefit of a complete career with which to judge it.

Other sports may be more tailor-made to the TV-generation, but for somebody who spends their days deliberately moving around rocks and positioning stones, I can appreciate the time it takes to methodically work towards becoming successful.  Just as many homeowners expect a landscaping project to be knocked out in just a weekend a la HGTV, I get that most people expect their sports to deliver shorter schedules, more action, set times.

When we build a patio, the results aren’t always immediately visible as we begin work.  There’s always a point – usually about ¼ way through the project – where the yard has been torn apart and it looks far worse than it did when we started.  But slowly the order returns as the base prep is installed and the stones are moved into place.  And the homeowner and neighbors soon begin to see what we’ve been creating.  And the excitement begins to mount as the client looks forward to using the finished product.

Likewise, in baseball there are certainly moments where it looks like nothing is going to happen. But all of a sudden the pitcher begins to tire.  A batter is walked.  An outfielder can’t chase down a fly ball.  A base is stolen.  Now the tension is mounting.  Every pitch means something.  Every look to first base has added consequences.  Every step the infielder takes in one direction or the other could have spectacular or drastic impact.

I often hear people say how boring they think baseball is.  I can’t argue with opinions, but to me it’s all of the subtlety that makes it such a fantastic game.  One of my favorite sayings is “The devil is in the details”, and baseball is ripe with details. 
 
As is a good landscape project.  Subtle plantings here.  An edge detail on the stone coping there.  A playful yard ornament there.  Those small details are ultimately what makes or break the interest level.

And baseball is not just a sport, it's a game.  Like chess.  Or poker.  Full of strategy, and small moves that could determine the outcome.  Other sports may be more action-packed, may exhibit more physical ability – John Kruk once famously told a fan that he was a ballplayer, not an athlete when she questioned him about his physique – but baseball is a game of moves and strategy.

When I think of some of my favorite outdoor places, I think of sites with large grand trees that have taken hundreds of years to grow.  I think of well-established gardens where the plants have pleasantly filled out the spaces they are
allotted.  I think of mossy stone walls that took time to be built by hand, slowly and laboriously, and have taken
even longer to get weathered and worn.  It’s that sense of knowing what it took to make things happen that makes
them such wonderful places at all.

And with baseball, when the playoff teams face off in October, and the TV networks roll out their “A”-list broadcasters and special effect packages to showcase to the casual viewer, I know many of the causal sportsfans will tune in, -- many not having watched a single regular season game all year, -- some out of sincere interest, some out of a sense of duty.

And when the patio is complete, I know the homeowners will invite over their friends and family to celebrate, and many will be unaware of the hard work that went into creating it.

I’ll just be the guy watching both processes unfold from the get-go.

Play Ball!  Happy Baseball Season everyone!  And Happy Spring!

First, let me be perfectly clear that the pictures you see that accompany this post are not our work. The fireplace you see is a community fireplace that’s located in our neighborhood park about a block from our house.

It’s a great little park with a few little creeks that converge, a network of paths and bridges that wind their way around the park,and a number of small gathering places for picnics and get-togethers, including a few with these nice stone fireplaces which you see in the picture.

The park in general, and more specifically the fireplaces get a fair amount use.  It’s a go-to spot for kids’ birthday parties, scouting events, church functions, community environmental groups and anybody else who wants to enjoy the outdoors but may not personally have the space.

The problem I’d like to address in this week’s post is that the fireplaces are starting to lean.  In some cases significantly.

I don’t know when these fireplaces were first constructed.  My guess is 40 to 50 years ago, but in all honesty it could have been even longer ago.  We’ve been in our house for nearly eight years, and the fireplaces have been there since well before we arrived.

And to be perfectly honest, I don’t recall these fireplaces ever having been perfectly plumb.  But I have noticed that just in the past few years the lean has become even more significant.  My concern is that at the present rate of leaning, these fireplaces may not be around much longer.

So what causes this lean? Well that is the point of this week’s post.

The lean can pretty much be the result of one of two things– either the footing or subgrade work was not done properly, or the location of the fireplaces was a poor choice.  Or it could be a combination of both.

Not having been around during the construction, I can’t speak to exactly how deep the footings go, or what was used as a base.  But it’s quite clear as you can see that something wasn’t done well enough.

As I mentioned there are several creeks in the park that converge and meander through the park. And wherever there are creeks, there is going to be erosion.  And most likely a series of subterranean springs as well.

The fireplace you see is a good 30 to 40 from the edge of the creek, so erosion shouldn’t be the issue. At least not from the main creek. What is more likely happening is that the small underground springs have softened the surrounding earth, and the weight of the fireplaces has settled unevenly as result.

 If the footing was done properly, it should consist of at least a 3’ deep hole with a concrete base (depth may vary based on geographic region), frost walls around the perimeter of the base, clean gravel fill with more concrete on the surface to build the stonework upon.  There are a few different techniques that will all work fine, but the key is getting that depth so the structure won’t be affected by moving or heaving earth.

So lets just assume the base was done properly – why could this be happening?  
 
As mentioned above, the proximity to the creek and the likelihood of underground springs most likely had something to do with it.  Lets just say there was a small underground spring 5’ to 6’ below the surface.  That never would have been evident with only 3’ worth of excavation.  Once the fireplace was built, that spring would be doing its thing – underneath the fireplace.  
 
And as the spring flows, the area becomes wet, possibly eroding out some more sub-soil, and before you know it you have a big wet cavity under the structure.  Not good.

So what can be done to ensure this doesn’t happen on your next project?  Well to begin with make sure the footer is deep enough to withstand the frostline of the surrounding grade.  Every area of the country is different, but if you’re not sure check your local building codes to see what’s required.  And then just to be safe add an extra 6”.  If you ever have to ask if you’re deep enough, then you’re probably not.

As for the springs, unfortunately there really are no guarantees here.  First, if possible try not to build in an area that may be too close to a creek, or situated in a low flat area that could be prone to occasional flooding.  Some sites don’t offer a whole lot of flexibility, but a good rule of thumb is the higher the ground the better.

If you are in a situation where you have some concerns, the footer can be constructed in a wider footprint than the actual structure.  This will give the entire structure some more stability even if the surrounding sub-grade settles or shifts.  
 
An extra little exploratory digging is another option.  Dig your footing a bit deeper than you had already, and see what you can find.  And if you don’t mind spending a bit more money, some geologic and engineering firms may be able to determine whats going on below the site.  An extra cost?  Sure, but if it ensures the longevity of the structure then its worth it in my opinion.

Built-in fireplaces and other structures are an awesome add-on to any outdoor living spaces.  Spend the time and money to make sure they’ll be around for years to come.  I hope the ones in our local park can be saved.

If you follow us on Facebook then you know that we kicked off our season a few weeks ago with our first install of the season.  If you don’t follow us on Facebook, A) You should.  And B) Now you know as well.

February 27 was our official start day, diving into the 2013 season with a nice hardscaping project involving a dryset flagstone walkway and bluestone steppers.

It’s always good to hit the ground running with a nice project, and even nicer to get some of those cobwebs out and work out the kinks after a few months of office work.  I have to be honest, as excited as I am at the end of each season looking forward to winter break, I’m nearly just as excited to be back at it after a layoff.

We’re fresh, we’re ready, and we’ve got a lot of pent-up enthusiasm for tackling new projects.  Day 1 of this project involved hand-digging out the location on the hillside for the five bluestone steppers, and the remainder of the 225 square-foot pathway.  After only two days the digging was complete, the dumpster was nearly full, and we were already moving gravel in to begin setting the steps. Nothing like being fresh!

Not that early spring work isn’t without its challenges.  Once the steps were set and the base prep was complete, the forecast began calling for snow.  Significant snow in the form of 6 to 10 inches.  We got to a good stopping point, buttoned up the site and prepared for the worst.  
 
Thankfully, the forecast was wrong, and the temperatures were just warm enough that the precipitation was all rain.  Nasty cold windy rain for sure, but at least we didn’t have to deal with 10 inches of snow!

We were back at it the next day, picking up right where we left off, and then another surprise storm hit, leaving us with about an inch or two of wet slushy snow.  By the weekend temperatures were nearly 60, and everything was all-systems-go.

Spring just wouldn’t be spring without a little bit of precipitation in just about any form, and a very moody attitude in general from the weather.  But it’s nothing we haven’t dealt with before.  We carry on.  And after just a few more days of work, the project was completed and the client thrilled to get their project finished in time for spring.

And the 1st project of the season is now under the belt.  We’re now off to start a composite deck construction, and then a fence, and then a patio, and then …well there’s a whole bunch more projects in the works.  Game on 2013!

A few weeks ago as the offseason was winding down and I was making my final preparations for the 2013 season, I went in to visit my friends at Galantino Supply Company, my primary hardscaping material supplier.

It's always fun to catch up with acquaintances after a few months off, but my primary reason for stopping in was to see what was new for the coming season.

Vince, Anthony, and Carl quickly loaded me up with an ample supply of updated product catalogues, new pricing sheets, and walked me through some of the new product offerings for the year.

As they listed some of the new products they are carrying, one thing in particular caught my ear -- "fire boulders".  Admittedly I wasn't familiar with this term, but the combination of the words "fire" and "boulder" were enough to pique my interest.  "What's a fire boulder?" I quickly asked.

Fire boulders are natural, rustic fieldstone boulders, in which a firepit has been carved out in the top surface, and a hole has been drilled through to the base of the boulder to allow a gas line to extend to the carved-out bowl.  The boulders are sold complete with a flex-pipe gas line, stainless steel burner plate, and child-resistant gas shut-off valve.

The boulders and accompanying hardware are designed to run off a gas line connected to your home's gas supply lines, or if your home doesn't have an easy-to-access gas supply, the boulders can also be fueled via a connection to a stand-alone propane tank.

There is something about fire and the outdoors that cuts to the very core of our DNA.  What camping trip or outdoor gathering isn't complete with a warm mesmerizing fire.  It fosters warmth, good company, engaging conversation, and unforgettable times.

And to be able to enjoy a beautiful fire in a natural boulder in the sactuary of your own backyard on your own patio is now easily available, at a cost well within reason.

Installation costs vary based on the size of the fire boulder and the location and access to where the boulder will be installed.  But it is reasonable to ballpark the labor and material cost somewhere in the $2000 to $3500 range, based on a variety of factors.  Clark Kent Creations will handle the boulder installation and setting in place.  The gas line extension and/or propane installation will need to be handled separately by a licensed plumber or gas contractor.

There's always a few products out there every year that I have to put on my personal wish list, and I gotta admit, this one qualifies.  I'd love a chance to install this as part of a hardscaping project, whether its in my yard or yours.  To see more samples of fire boulders or to inquire about more specific pricing, or to ask about other firepit options, drop us a line and we'll see what we can do for you.

Last week I posted about some unique patio design ideas with the idea of fueling the imagination as homeowners start thinking about possible outdoor projects for their little slice of Planet Earth.

I’m going to continue that theme this week, but instead of patio designs I thought I’d expand it a bit, looking at some of my all-time favorite gardens I’ve visited.

There are tons of great gardens across the country, across the world for that matter.  Whether it’s your neighbors’ bedding areas, your local community park, or a larger horticultural showcase, you really don’t have to go far.

I’m keeping this list to five, but I could probably go on with dozens and dozens more.  But these five each struck me in various compelling ways.

Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA. 
Nearly every major metropolitan area has at least one great world-class public garden, and Philly’s certainly no exception.  There are a number of great gardens throughout Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley, and Longwood Gardens has to be one of the finest.  Dating back to the original land grant of William Penn, the land was eventually acquired by Pierre DuPont of the famous family (Yes, that Dupont) who used his fortune to create the gardens.

The gardens are situated on more than 1000 acres of land about 25 miles southwest of Philadelphia. There are a number of great display gardens throughout the park, but one of the more popular (and perhaps my favorite) is the amazing water lilly collection on display every summer.  Some of these platters reach a diameter of 6’! The insect-catching plant display and bonsai gardens are some other cool ones to check out.  Whatever your taste, it’s a great place to get inspired.

Japanese Tea Garden, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA. 
When we lived in San Francisco, Golden Gate Park was just a quick 5-minute walk from our apartment.  And while the entire park has all sorts of fun stuff to do and explore, the Japanese Tea Garden is one of the more popular.  And understandably so.  If you ever want to see what careful cultivation of plants can achieve, you needn’t look any further than the Mt. Fuji-shaped or Dragon hedges near the garden entrance. And they also have one of the largest most established Wisterias I’ve ever seen, checking in at more than 100 years old!  Be sure to check out the waterfall display and koi ponds as well.  As far as peaceful tranquil gardens go, this one has to be near the top of any list.

Native Plant Garden, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA. 
While we’re out on the West Coast we might as well as swing down south and check out the native plant garden in Balboa Park in San Diego.  This is an awesome urban park, with many gardens (and other attractions) throughout.  I’m picking the native plant garden just because it reminds me of my California days and the unique plants that grow on the west coast.  But you really can’t go wrong anywhere in the park.  Plus you’ll be in beautiful and nearly always perfect weather San Diego. Can’t really complain about anything out there.

Ithaca Childrens Garden, Ithaca, NY. 
There are many childrens’ gardens located throughout the country, but I have a soft spot for this one in the Finger Lakes Region of upsate New York.  Maybe because it’s just a few miles from 215’ high Taughannock Falls.  Maybe because its nearly impossible not to be inspired by all the amazing gorges and rock formations throughout the area.  Or maybe its because of their awesomely stated goal of inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.  Whatever the reason, in my opinion this is exactly what a garden should be.  Inviting. Interactive.  Fun.  None of that “stay on the path, don’t touch” mentality.  Nope.  Just kids playing in the dirt, exploring, getting involved, and most importantly having fun.  Grown-ups too.  And oh yeah, they’re host to International Mud Day events, where kids (of all ages) are actually ENCOURAGED to play in the mud.  Imagine that.  Cool indeed.

Scott Amphitheater/Arboretum, Swarthmore PA. 
Just to show you that you don’t need to be a world-class traveler to
enjoy world-class gardens, I’m including this one located less than a mile from my house.  I wrote about Scott Arboretum in more detail in an earlier post last year, but its worth mentioning again, if for no other reason than just to illustrate that great gardens can be located anywhere and everywhere.  But there are plenty of other reasons to include it on this list as well, like the world-class holly, magnolia and oak collections, idyllic Crum Creek, and the absolutely amazing amphitheater, with its masterfully created stone bench walls and majestic tulip tree canopy.

Admittedly this is just a sampling, but hopefully it’ll provide a bit more inspiration to anybody thinking about an outdoor project this year.  And even if you’re not, these are still great places to visit.  Go out and get inspired!