Outdoor Living

November 6, 2025

Protecting Outdoor Structures During Snow Season

Jenna Composite Decking, General, Landscape Design, Outdoor Living, Patio, Snow & Ice Management awning snow load prevention, deck winter maintenance, eco-friendly ice melt, Greater Toronto Area winter property care, gutter and downspout cleaning, pergola and fence protection, winterizing outdoor structures, wood sealing and waterproofing

Winter in the Greater Toronto Area brings heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and icy winds. For homeowners and businesses, outdoor structures like decks, pergolas, fences, sheds, and awnings are at risk of damage if not properly prepared for the season. Taking the right steps to protect these structures can save you time, money, and headaches later.

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Why Outdoor Structures Are at Risk

Snow and ice are heavy. When they accumulate on roofs, decks, or awnings, they can cause sagging, cracking, or even collapse. Freezing and thawing cycles can also weaken wood, metal, and concrete, leading to long-term damage. Structures that are not well-maintained may also create safety hazards for people using the property.

Key Steps to Protect Outdoor Structures

Remove Snow Regularly

Don’t let snow sit on decks, pergolas, or flat-roofed structures for long periods. Use a roof rake or a soft broom to carefully remove snow, working from the top down. Avoid using sharp tools that can damage surfaces.

Inspect and Repair

Before snow falls, check structures for loose boards, broken supports, or weak joints. Repairing small issues now prevents bigger problems when snow accumulates.

Clear Gutters and Drains

Ice buildup can damage gutters and roofs. Ensure gutters, downspouts, and drainage paths are clear so melting snow can flow away from structures.

Protect Wood and Metal

Apply sealant to wooden decks or structures to prevent water penetration. For metal components, check for rust and apply protective coatings if needed. This simple step reduces corrosion and prolongs the life of your structures.

Secure Loose Items

Outdoor furniture, planters, and decorative items should be moved or secured. Heavy snow and wind can turn unsecured items into hazards that damage structures or cause injury.

Use Caution with Ice

Avoid applying salt or chemicals near wooden or painted surfaces, as this can cause damage. Sand or environmentally safe ice melt products are safer alternatives.

Plan for Heavy Snow Loads

If your property is prone to heavy snowfall, consider temporary supports for vulnerable structures or consult a professional to assess risk areas.

Conclusion

Protecting outdoor structures during the snow season is essential to maintain safety and prevent costly repairs. Simple steps like removing snow, inspecting for damage, and preparing materials can make a big difference.

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Aerial view of elevated composite deck with frosted glass railings and staircase above a patio and hot tub

October 7, 2025

Composite Decking vs Wood: What’s Best for Your Home?

Jenna Composite Decking, Outdoor Living, Patio composite decking benefits, composite decking vs wood, deck cost comparison, deck design and installation, deck durability, eco-friendly decking, low-maintenance decking, wood deck maintenance

When planning a new deck, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with traditional wood or opt for composite decking. Both have their strengths, but depending on your priorities—whether it’s durability, aesthetics, maintenance, or cost one may be a better fit for your lifestyle and budget.

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Let’s break it down so you can make a confident, informed choice.

Durability: Built to Last

Wood has been the go-to material for decks for generations. It offers natural beauty and a classic feel, but it comes with a catch, wood is vulnerable to moisture, insects, rot, and warping over time. Even treated lumber needs regular sealing and can still succumb to the elements.

Composite decking, on the other hand, is engineered to withstand the harshest conditions. Made from a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastics, composite boards won’t rot, splinter, or attract termites. If you want something that holds up through years of rain, sun, and backyard barbecues, composite decking takes the edge on durability.

Low maintenance composite deck with wide steps, glass railing, and outdoor sectional at a modern home

Maintenance: How Much Time Do You Have?

Ask yourself this: how much time do you want to spend maintaining your deck?

Wood requires seasonal attention, staining, sealing, and inspecting for rot or damage. For some homeowners, that’s part of the charm. For others, it’s a chore that never ends.

Composite decking is virtually maintenance-free. A simple soap-and-water rinse a couple of times a year is usually all it needs. No staining. No sanding. Just more time for relaxing.

Aesthetics: The Look You Love

There’s no denying the timeless appeal of real wood. Its warmth, grain, and natural imperfections create a unique, rustic charm. For purists or those in historic homes, nothing else quite compares.

That said, composite decking has come a long way. Today’s products closely mimic the look of wood and come in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes. Some brands even offer grain patterns and variegated tones that are nearly indistinguishable from the real thing. If you’re after a high-end look with less upkeep, composite could be your winner.

Natural wood backyard deck with wide steps, privacy screen, string lights, red umbrella dining set, and built in BBQ beside a modern home

Cost: Short-Term vs Long-Term

At first glance, wood is often cheaper to install than composite decking. But there’s a catch, those maintenance costs add up. Between stains, sealants, repairs, and replacement boards, wood decks can become more expensive over time.

Composite decking has a higher upfront cost, but the long-term savings are significant. Fewer repairs, less maintenance, and a longer lifespan mean you’ll likely spend less overall in the coming years.

Ready to Decide?

Choosing the right decking material isn’t just about today, it’s about how you want to live tomorrow. Think about your lifestyle, your budget, and how much time you want to spend maintaining your outdoor space.

Still Unsure?

Let MPS help. We specialize in designing and installing decks that are built to last, whether you prefer the natural charm of wood or the modern performance of composite. Contact MPS today for a free consultation and let’s turn your backyard into your new favorite place.

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Commercial fall cleanup team with leaf blowers and a rake collecting leaves at a business property

September 19, 2025

The Complete Guide to Fall Garden Cleanup

Jenna Commercial Landscaping, Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Patio commercial grounds maintenance, fall garden cleanup, fall lawn care, fall pruning and trimming, irrigation winterization, leaf and debris removal, mulch installation, snow and ice management

Fall is one of the most important seasons for garden and landscape maintenance. Whether you have a residential yard or manage commercial property grounds, preparing your outdoor spaces before winter helps protect plants, keeps your property safe, and makes spring upkeep much easier.

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This guide breaks down the essential steps for a thorough fall garden cleanup—plus a reminder about our services for commercial properties.

Why Fall Cleanup Matters

Leaves, branches, and dead plant material may seem harmless, but if left over winter, they can cause problems:

– Disease and pests:

Decaying leaves and debris create a perfect home for insects and plant diseases.

– Winter damage:

Untrimmed plants can break under the weight of snow and ice.

– Curb appeal:

Clean, well-kept grounds leave a positive impression, especially for businesses.

Commercial fall cleanup crew mowing turf along a sidewalk with a zero turn mower at a business park

Step-by-Step Fall Garden Cleanup

1. Clear Leaves and Debris

Rake or blow leaves from lawns, gardens, and walkways. Leaves left on grass can trap moisture, leading to mold and bare patches. In commercial areas, keep walkways clear to prevent slips and maintain accessibility.

2. Prune and Trim

Cut back perennials that have died back for the season, remove dead or damaged branches from shrubs and trees, and shape hedges. This keeps plants healthy and prevents breakage in winter storms.

3. Weed and Edge Beds

Pull any remaining weeds before the ground freezes. Edging garden beds now gives them a crisp look through winter and makes spring planting easier.

4. Mulch and Protect Plants

Add mulch around the base of trees and shrubs to protect roots from temperature swings. For delicate plants, consider burlap wraps or protective covers to guard against harsh winds and frost.

5. Remove Annuals and Prepare Planters

Pull out dead annuals from garden beds and pots. Empty and clean planters to prevent cracking in freezing temperatures.

6. Lawn Care

Give your lawn a final cut, keeping grass about 2–2.5 inches high. If possible, aerate and apply a fall fertilizer to strengthen roots before dormancy.

7. Check Irrigation and Outdoor Fixtures

Shut down and drain irrigation systems to prevent frozen pipes. Inspect outdoor lighting for safety and visibility during shorter days.

Special Considerations for Commercial Properties

For businesses, fall cleanup is about more than just appearance—it’s about safety and protecting your investment. Clear walkways, well-lit entrances, and hazard-free parking areas keep employees and customers safe. Plus, maintaining healthy landscaping now reduces costly repairs or replacements in the spring.

Commercial properties also often have larger landscapes, meaning more debris to remove, more trees to prune, and bigger lawns to prepare. Professional crews have the equipment, manpower, and expertise to handle these jobs efficiently and without disruption to daily operations.

Final Tip

Don’t wait until the first frost—starting your fall cleanup early ensures plants are protected and your property stays in great shape all winter long.

For Commercial Grounds Maintenance Only

If you manage a commercial property and want a worry-free, professional fall cleanup, our team can help. We provide full-service grounds maintenance for businesses, including seasonal cleanups, turf care, pruning, and snow and ice management.

Residential homeowners—sorry! We don’t offer residential fall or spring cleanups, snow plowing, or ongoing grounds maintenance.

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Commercial fall cleanup technicians raking leaves and debris from shrub beds at an office property

September 4, 2025

Commercial Landscaping: Why First Impressions Matter

Jenna Commercial Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Patio church and institution landscaping, commercial grounds maintenance, commercial landscaping services, curb appeal for businesses, industrial facility landscaping, medical center landscaping, office building landscaping, professional landscaping crews, snow and ice management

When a client, customer, patient, or visitor arrives at your property, the first thing they see isn’t your reception desk—it’s the outside. The lawn, gardens, walkways, and parking lot set the tone before they even step inside.

For office buildings, medical centers, industrial or shipping facilities, churches, and institutions, landscaping is more than decoration—it’s a silent introduction to your business.

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Here’s why it matters and how to make sure your property sends the right message.

The Power of Curb Appeal

Well-kept grounds send a clear message: you take pride in your property, you pay attention to details, and you value the people who visit. Overgrown grass, cracked walkways, and untrimmed shrubs can leave the opposite impression, making your business look neglected or unprofessional.

For businesses that rely on client visits—like office buildings or medical centers—this can impact trust and credibility. Even for industrial sites or institutions — neat, safe grounds improve morale for employees and reassure visitors that operations are well managed.

Power of Curb Appeal in Commercial Properties

Safety Comes First

Commercial landscaping is not only about beauty—it’s about safety. Trip hazards from uneven pavement, icy walkways, or low-hanging branches can cause accidents and liability issues.

Regular grounds maintenance helps:

Keep pathways, entrances, and parking lots clear of debris.
Ensure proper lighting for early mornings or evenings.
Reduce ice buildup in winter with proactive snow and ice management.

For medical centers or public institutions, where accessibility is crucial, a safe, well-maintained exterior is non-negotiable.

Protecting Your Investment

Landscaping is an asset, and like any asset, it needs care to retain value. Healthy turf, pruned trees, and seasonal planting keep your property looking good year-round and reduces costly repairs later.

Ignoring maintenance can lead to:

Dead or diseased trees that require expensive removal.
Damaged irrigation systems from freezing or neglect.
Worn-out lawns that need complete replacement instead of seasonal repair.

Creating a Welcoming Experience

Think about the feeling you want visitors to have when they arrive. A church may want peaceful, inviting gardens. A corporate office might aim for sharp, professional-looking grounds. An industrial facility might prioritize a clean, organized appearance to show operational discipline.

Landscaping design and upkeep can be tailored to reflect your brand and the experience you want people to remember.

Why Professional Maintenance Matters

Commercial properties are larger and more complex than residential yards. They require:

Skilled crews who know how to maintain different plant varieties.
Specialized equipment for large lawns, tree care, and hardscaping.
Consistent schedules to keep the property in top shape year-round.

Professional crews can handle everything from weekly mowing to seasonal cleanups, pruning, irrigation care, and winter snow management—without disrupting your daily operations.

Final Thought

Your landscaping works for you 24/7, making a statement long before you say a word. Investing in professional commercial landscaping ensures that statement is positive, professional, and lasting.

For Commercial Grounds Maintenance Only

We provide full-service landscaping and grounds maintenance for commercial properties—office buildings, medical centers, industrial and shipping facilities, churches, and institutions. Our services include turf care, planting, pruning, seasonal cleanups, and snow and ice management.

Residential homeowners—sorry! We don’t offer residential fall or spring cleanups, snow plowing, or ongoing grounds maintenance.

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Stone steps with glass railing surrounded by landscaping

August 19, 2025

Combining Stonework and Decking for a Multi-Level Yard

Jenna Composite Decking, Outdoor Living, Patio backyard transformation ideas, combining decking and stonework, deck and patio combination, landscape design for uneven terrain, multi-level yard design, outdoor entertaining zones, retaining walls and tiered steps, sloped yard landscaping

If your yard isn’t perfectly flat, you might see a challenge, but we see an opportunity. Sloped or uneven terrain often gets overlooked, but with a bit of creativity, it can become one of the most dynamic parts of your home. By combining stonework and decking, you can turn a tricky backyard into a stunning, multi-level retreat with purpose-built spaces and incredible visual appeal.

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Let’s look at how thoughtful design and smart material choices can turn elevation into inspiration.

Using the Slope to Your Advantage

Most homeowners see a slope and think “problem.” But with the right layout, your yard’s natural incline can actually become one of its best features. By strategically combining stone and deck levels, you can make the most of the terrain rather than working against it.

Decking allows you to create elevated platforms that level out your outdoor living space without the need for major excavation. Stonework, like retaining walls or tiered steps, provides support and structure while adding natural texture and beauty. Together, they let you build up and out, creating usable square footage where there was none before.

Large elevated deck above pool with stairs

Create Entertaining Zones

Multi-level yards are perfect for creating distinct entertaining zones, and the combo of decking and stone is a natural fit. For example, the top level might serve as a cozy dining area on a wood or composite deck, while a mid-level patio with stone pavers could house a firepit or lounge space.

This setup keeps everything organized and gives your guests the feeling that they’re moving through different “rooms” in your yard, without actual walls. Want a built-in grill station? Add it to the stone patio. Need a quiet reading corner? Tuck it onto a small deck landing beneath a tree. The options are endless.

Achieve Visual Separation Without Fences or Walls

One of the major design benefits of layering decking and stonework is the natural visual separation it creates. Instead of building fences or putting up dividers, changes in elevation and material create a sense of separation between spaces while maintaining flow and openness.

This is especially useful in urban or narrow yards where space is limited. Rather than cramming everything onto one flat surface, elevating a section with a deck and bordering it with stone gives the illusion of more space and more purpose.

Tie It All Together

For your multi-level yard to really work, transitions matter. Use stone steps or curved retaining walls to connect spaces gracefully. Choose complementary materials and colors between the wood and stone so it feels cohesive rather than patched together.

Lighting, railings, and plantings also help unify the look. Even small additions like a low stone border around your deck or planter boxes built into the retaining wall can make a big impact.

Patio with stone pavers, BBQ, and composite steps

Let MPS Help Build Your Perfect Outdoor Space

Turning a sloped yard into a multi-level masterpiece doesn’t happen by accident. It takes thoughtful design, experience, and attention to detail. At MPS, we specialize in combining decking and stonework to transform outdoor spaces into functional, beautiful extensions of your home.

Whether you want to create better flow, build out entertaining zones, or make the most of your slope, we’re here to help. Contact MPS today for a free consultation and let’s build a yard you’ll actually use and love.

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September 16, 2024

What’s the Difference Between Spring, Summer, and Fall Planters in Ontario?

MPS Team Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Residential News Begonias, Colors, Daffodils, fall planters, frost-tolerant, Gardening, Hyacinths, Lantanas, ontario, Pansies and Violas, Seasonal Planters, Spring planters, summer planters, Tulips, types of plants

Gardening in Ontario offers unique opportunities with each season, from the types of plants to growing conditions and colors. Understanding the distinctions between spring, summer, and fall planters helps create vibrant displays throughout the year.

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Pots containing spring flowers on a patio

Spring Planters

Plants for Spring: Spring planters in Ontario are all about celebrating the end of winter and welcoming new growth. The focus is on hardy, early-blooming plants that can withstand the cool temperatures of early spring. Key choices include:

Tulips: Bright, cheerful blooms in various colors.
Daffodils: Early bloomers with vibrant yellow and white petals.
Pansies and Violas: Frost-resistant flowers in deep purples and bright yellows.
Hyacinths: Fragrant, colorful spikes adding height and dimension to planters.

Growing Conditions for Spring: Spring in Ontario can be unpredictable, with fluctuating temperatures and the risk of frost. Select plants that are frost-tolerant and adapt well to changing conditions. Choose well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots from spring rain. Position planters in sunny spots to maximize growth since spring plants require plenty of sunlight.

Summer Planters

Plants for Summer: Summer planters thrive with heat-loving, sun-loving plants that bring bold, vibrant colors to your garden. Consider these options:

Geraniums, Petunias, and Calibrachoas: A classic combination that thrives in full sun, offering continuous blooms in shades of red, pink, white, orange, and purple.
Lantanas, Verbenas, and Salvias: These attract pollinators and add vibrant clusters of flowers in various colors. Salvias also provide height with their spiky blooms.
Zinnias, Marigolds, and Ornamental Grasses: Heat-tolerant and pest-resistant, these plants bring bright hues and a soft, airy look to your planters.
Begonias, Impatiens, and Sweet Potato Vines: Ideal for shaded areas, these plants offer a range of colors and a lush, trailing effect.
Cannas, Coleus, and Elephant Ears: For a tropical feel, mix these plants with striking foliage and bold colors that thrive in summer heat.

Growing Conditions for Summer: Summer planters need plenty of sunlight and regular watering to combat the hot weather. Check soil moisture daily and water deeply to maintain root health. Fertilize regularly to support continuous blooming. Deadheading spent flowers helps encourage new growth and prolongs the blooming season.

Fall produce arranged on a display during Thanksgiving season

Fall Planters

Plants for Fall: As temperatures cool, fall planters offer a chance to play with rich colors and textures. Hardier plants that can withstand cooler nights and shorter days are ideal:

Mums (Chrysanthemums): Dense, colorful blooms in shades of yellow, red, orange, and purple.
Asters: Daisy-like flowers in blue, purple, and pink.
Ornamental Cabbages and Kales: Frilly leaves in purple and green add texture.
Heucheras (Coral Bells): Striking foliage in colors from lime green to deep burgundy.
Sedum (Stonecrop): Succulents with fleshy textures and pink or red blooms.

Growing Conditions for Fall: Fall brings shorter days and cooler nights, meaning less frequent watering is needed. Plants for fall planters are usually drought-resistant and can handle light frost. The cooler weather helps retain soil moisture, so overwatering should be avoided. Position planters to receive full to partial sun for optimal plant health.

Colors and Themes for Seasonal Planters

Spring Colors: Soft, bright, and cheerful, with pastel pinks, purples, whites, and yellows that evoke a sense of renewal and freshness.
Summer Colors: Bold, vibrant, and lively with hot pinks, reds, deep purples, sunny yellows, and bright oranges. The season is about making a colorful statement with a mix of plant textures.
Fall Colors: Rich, warm hues like deep oranges, fiery reds, and golden yellows, reflecting Ontario’s changing foliage. You can also experiment with purples, browns, and blues for dynamic contrasts against autumn colors.

Conclusion

Each season offers unique opportunities to bring color and life to your outdoor space. Spring planters celebrate new beginnings with frost-resistant blooms, while summer planters thrive in the heat with vibrant, sun-loving plants. Fall planters provide warmth and depth with hardy plants suited for cooler weather. By selecting the right plants and understanding their specific growing conditions, you can enjoy beautiful planters throughout the year, each reflecting the charm of its season. Embrace the seasonal changes and let your planters tell a story all year round!

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July 22, 2024

Hardscape vs. Softscape Landscaping – What’s the difference?

MPS Team Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Residential News brick, color, concrete, decks, flowers, hardscape, living components, non-living elements, pathways, patios, plants, regulations, shrubs, softscape, stone, texture, trees, walls, wood

When designing a landscape, it’s important to understand the difference between hardscape and softscape.

Hardscape

Hardscape refers to the non-living elements of a landscape design. This includes structures like patios, decks, pathways, retaining walls, and other built environments. These elements are permanent and often constructed using materials like stone, brick, concrete, or wood. Hardscaping plays a critical role in defining spaces, providing functional areas, and managing slopes and soil erosion.

Softscape

Softscape, on the other hand, includes the living components of a landscape, such as plants, trees, shrubs, flowers, and sod. These elements are dynamic and change with the seasons and growth. Softscaping adds color, texture, and life to a landscape, contributing to its aesthetic appeal and ecological balance. It also helps manage water, absorbing rainwater and reducing runoff.

Municipal bylaws often require that a certain percentage of front and backyard areas be allocated to softscape. This ensures an environmental balance and efficient water management. These regulations make sure that while homeowners can enjoy the structural benefits of hardscaping, enough green space is preserved to support local ecosystems and natural water infiltration.

Balancing hardscape and softscape is essential for creating a cohesive and functional outdoor space. Proper planning ensures that hard elements provide structure and usability, while soft elements offer beauty and environmental benefits. Whether you’re planning a new garden or renovating an existing one, integrating both aspects thoughtfully will result in a harmonious and sustainable landscape design.

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June 24, 2024

Should I Install Artificial Turf or Natural Grass for My Backyard Putting Green?

MPS Team General, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Residential News artificial turf, backyard landscape, Backyard putting greens, benefits, cost, environmental benefits, Environmental Impact, golf, maintenance, Markham, materials, Performance, pet owners, pros and cons, putting greens, real grass, Residential putting greens, synthetic materials, Toronto, turf, Versatility

Backyard putting greens are quickly becoming a very popular backyard landscape feature we’re seeing being requested in the Markham and greater Toronto area. Residential putting greens look great, provide a fun outdoor activity and might even help with your golf game! When contacting a landscape contractor to design and build your backyard putting green, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether artificial turf or real grass is a better choice for you. There are pros and cons to both materials, so we’ve broken it down to make your decision easier!

Cost

Either option will run you about $10-20 per sq ft depending on the choice of turf and size. Artificial turf will have a larger upfront cost, but it is essentially maintenance-free. While the initial investment for artificial turf can be steep, the long-term savings on maintenance costs might make it more economical in the long run.

Maintenance

Artificial turf is low maintenance. It doesn’t require watering, cutting, fertilizing, or weeding. A quick sweep or power wash is all it needs to stay in top condition. This makes artificial turf an attractive option for those who prefer a hassle-free solution.

On the other hand, real grass requires a significant commitment to upkeep. You’ll need to invest in a special lawn mower and dedicate time to everyday maintenance for your putting green. This includes regular watering, mowing, fertilizing, and weeding. The everyday maintenance can be time-consuming and may require professional help to keep the grass in optimal condition for putting.

Performance

When it comes to performance, both artificial turf and real grass have their own benefits. Artificial turf provides a consistently smooth and fast playing surface, which is ideal for practicing your golf game. It remains green and playable year-round, regardless of weather conditions.

Real grass, particularly the Creeping bentgrass, is widely considered the best for premium putting greens. Its finely textured blades allow balls to roll easily, with less resistance, for smooth, fast play. However, maintaining this high-quality surface requires diligent care and attention.

Versatility

Artificial turf is highly versatile and can be installed in areas where natural grass might struggle to grow, such as shaded spots or areas with poor soil quality. It’s also an excellent option for smaller backyards and dog runs, where constant use might damage real grass.

Real grass offers a natural look and feel that many homeowners prefer. It also contributes to a healthier environment by producing oxygen, filtering pollutants, and providing a habitat for wildlife. However, achieving a lush, healthy lawn requires favorable growing conditions and regular maintenance.

Ease of Cleaning

Artificial turf is easy to clean. A quick sweep or hose down is usually enough to keep it looking pristine. For pet owners, artificial turf is particularly advantageous as it can be easily sanitized to remove pet waste.

Maintaining the cleanliness of real grass can be more challenging, especially if you have pets. Pet waste can damage the grass and create unsightly spots. Additionally, fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris require regular removal to keep the grass looking neat.

Environmental Impact

Artificial turf does not require water, which is a significant advantage in regions with water restrictions or during drought periods. However, it is made from synthetic materials, which may not be as environmentally friendly as natural grass. Additionally, artificial turf can become very hot in direct sunlight, potentially affecting the usability during summer months.

Real grass, while requiring substantial water and chemical inputs, offers environmental benefits such as carbon sequestration, natural cooling, and supporting biodiversity. The choice between the two often comes down to weighing these environmental impacts against each other.

Learn about our commitment to the environment.

Conclusion

Choosing between artificial turf and real grass for your backyard putting green depends on your priorities and lifestyle. If you prefer a low-maintenance, consistently high-performing surface, artificial turf might be the best option for you. It’s particularly suitable for those with smaller backyards, dog runs, or areas where natural grass struggles to thrive.

However, if you value the natural aesthetic and environmental benefits of real grass and are willing to invest the time and effort required for maintenance, a real grass putting green could be the perfect choice. Creeping bentgrass, with its smooth, fast-playing surface, is an excellent option for those who want a premium golf experience at home.

Ultimately, both artificial turf and real grass have their own set of advantages and challenges. Consider your budget, maintenance preferences, and environmental impact when making your decision. Whatever you choose, a backyard putting green can be a beautiful and enjoyable addition to your home.

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March 31, 2022

Should I Get A Backyard Fire Pit – Pros & Cons of Fire Features At Your Home

MPS Team Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Patio

Backyard fire pits are a great way to extend the enjoyment of your landscape. Through chilly spring days, cool summer nights and crisp fall days, a backyard fire pit adds warmth, light and a place to gather. So whether you’re warming up after a swim or making smores with the kids, fire features give you an added activity in your backyard, especially once the sun has gone down.

If you’re wondering ‘should I get a backyard fire pit?’, here is our list of pros and cons

Pros:

Fire pits emit heat, increasing comfortability outside
Visually appealing
Allows you to enjoy your landscape longer throughout the year
Added outdoor activity

Cons:

Certain types of fire pits require more maintenance and upkeep
Local authorities may have regulations around the type of fire pits you can have
Burn hazard for children
Fire hazard

Once you’ve decided to get a backyard fire feature – The first question you’ll want to ask yourself is what you’ll be using the fire pit for, do you need it to be portable or are you planning to invest in a permanent landscape fire feature? There are multiple different types of backyard fire pits, from permanent fire features to portable fire tables and chimeneas.

Type: Permanent wood-burning fire pit

Type: Portable wood-burning fire pit

Type: Gas burning fire table

Once you’ve decided on the general purpose of your fire pit, it’s important to consider what source of fuel you’d prefer. Fire pits typically use the following fuel sources.

Wood – inexpensive, requires work to keep the fire stoked, classic bonfire esthetic and smell, ashes can make a mess, smokey
Propane – most expensive, easy to light and turn off the fire, no smoke, adjustable flame, portable
Natural Gas – expensive, easy to light and turn off, needs permanent gas hook-up, adjustable flame, no smoke

The landscape designers at MPS love to include fire features into+ their landscape designs. If you’re interested in creating a landscape design with a backyard fire pit, contact us today!

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June 24, 2021

Designing and Building an Outdoor Kitchen

MPS Team Landscape Design, Outdoor Living

As Canadians, we don’t want to waste a second of the short-lived summer weather we receive. The desire to entertain and spend time outside became even more important during the COVID-19 pandemic. This has led to an increase in requests for backyard landscape designs which include outdoor kitchens or BBQ stations. Designing and building an outdoor kitchen or BBQ station is a great way to make summer entertaining easier and more inclusive for the cook! Not to mention that on those hot summer days, cooking outside is enjoyable and helps keep your house cool.

The most important part about designing an outdoor kitchen is defining the intended function of the space; are you looking for a simple BBQ station or extravagant fully functioning outdoor kitchen? As the complexity of the design increases, so will the cost and the number of contractors required to install your cooking area (think electricians and plumbers). Choosing the location of your outdoor kitchen or BBQ station is important too, it should be somewhere convenient, close to the house, fits into the flow of your outdoor space, and be in a protected area. Designing and building an outdoor kitchen in Ontario is a lot different than somewhere with year-round warm weather. In Ontario you will need to factor the extreme seasonal weather changes into your design, and be realistic towards how many months you’ll be able to use this cooking space.

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Outdoor kitchens and BBQ stations in Canada will require winterization, this is important to remember when you’re planning the design. The more complex your kitchen is, the more work it will require to open/close for the season.

Once you’ve decided what function your outdoor kitchen or BBQ stand is going to serve, you can start choosing the design materials and appliances. Due to the harsh elements, choosing durable materials, that are specifically designed for Canada’s climate, are imperative. Choosing outdoor cabinetry and outdoor countertops to withstand stains, heat, scratches & abrasions, UV light, and additional weight of snow in the winters is also an important factor in your decision. Fortunately, there are lots of products on the market to choose from!

Here are some appliances to consider for your outdoor Kitchen or BBQ Station:

BBQs and Grills
Refrigeration
Side burners
Outdoor oven
Beverage center
Warming units
Ice Machine
Dishwasher