Side yard project – Before
Posted on 04 May 2009
We have a narrow side yard between the house and garage where Frank built a big planter box and fenced off a utility area for my potting bench, composters, etc., 20 years ago. The wooden planter has begun to lean ominously the past few years and, worse, the brick paving has gotten more and more mossy. In the winter when it’s wet, it’s so slippery it’s like walking on butter.
So today, finally, the guys are here to start reconstructing the whole area. The old brick will go, because it’s just too dangerous, to be replaced by hand-seeded plum creek aggregate concrete with brick spacers, the same as our front porch and back patio.
The weathered old fence where I displayed an evergrowing bunch of “stuff” mostly acquired on our travels (my favorite is the stone sundial from Provence, even if it isn’t situated properly to tell time) will be replaced by a stucco wall painted to match the house. Frank promises me we’ll be able to re-hang the stuff on the new wall.
The old wood planter will be replaced with a new brick-faced one, and my potting bench in the back will be re-built on the back of the stucco wall.
I hate the mess and disruption of this kind of project, but this one should go quickly. The guys doing it did our driveway and front porch a few years ago, so I know I can count on them to do it quickly and well.
3 responses to Side yard project – Before
Chris I love hearing about successful home improvements, working with good contractors and having things done right and for a good price with reliable workers. Your experience sounds like you’ve found people that are great. I wish I lived closer so that I could use them too. I love reading about your planning, thought process. It’s a big challenge as you say to make the improvements and afterall you spend in time and money you want the outcome to be lovely. Your project is turning out beautifully! Love seeing the evolution of your new yard. Please keep the photos and reports on progress coming. Love it and envy you!
I’m looking forward to seeing your changes. I agree with Colleen. It looks great now. But I totally understand about slippery surfaces in the garden. We deal with algae buildup every winter on the deck, concrete and brick. We usually take care of it with a good brush washing after it warms up but it is a pain.
It looks like a nice little area now – can’t wait to see it after the makeover.
It must be reassuring that you’ve worked with the crew before, and know you can count on them to do a good job!