Tag: Gardening

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2025 Garden Trends for the East Midlands

Gardening Services - Garden Trends 2025

Garden Trends 2025 | Discover 2025’s biggest garden trends with ASK Building & Repairs, Derby’s local experts in garden repair and landscaping. From smart gardens to colourful flower beds, we bring your outdoor space to life.

Garden Trends in 2025

At ASK Building & Repairs, we’re seeing more homeowners in Derby and across the East Midlands looking to refresh their outdoor spaces in a way that is both stylish and sustainable. Whether you’re planning a complete garden renovation or just need help bringing an outdoor area back to life, these 2025 garden trends are a great place to start.

Here’s what’s making an impact in gardens this year, according to expert insight and what we’re seeing first-hand in the gardens we repair and restore.

1. Climate-Forward Gardening

Eco-friendly choices are now at the heart of many garden designs. We’re helping more customers create spaces that support nature and withstand unpredictable weather. Think rainwater harvesting, native planting, and layouts that promote biodiversity.

2. Weather-Resilient Planting

The past few years have brought some extreme weather. To tackle this, homeowners are opting for drought-tolerant plants and installing improved drainage systems. If your garden needs fixing after flooding or prolonged dry spells, we can advise on hard-wearing plants and layouts.

3. Forest Gardening

Layered planting, which mimics woodland ecosystems, is trending. Even in smaller Derby gardens, this technique can work well. We’re happy to help install raised beds, tiered planters or sheltered spaces that encourage self-sustaining growth.

4. Wildlife-Friendly Spaces

There is a real push to make gardens more inviting for birds, bees, and insects. From installing ponds to repairing fences for added privacy and nesting spots, we can help you create a garden that supports local wildlife.

5. Smart Gardening Solutions

From innovative irrigation systems to robotic lawnmowers, technology is making garden maintenance easier. If your existing setup is outdated or damaged, we can integrate modern features as part of a repair or landscaping update.

6. Topiary and Shaped Planting

Clean lines and creative shapes are making a comeback. Whether it’s restoring overgrown hedges or shaping box plants, we can revive tired spaces and give them a contemporary twist.

7. Cottage-Style Planting

Cottagecore continues to charm. That wild, whimsical look is popular with homeowners who want a relaxing space. We can help with clearing overrun spaces and installing gravel paths, stone borders, and planting beds that match this traditional aesthetic.

8. Unusual and Exotic Vegetables

From chickpeas to horseradish, more people are experimenting with what they grow. If you’re looking to turn part of your garden into a productive patch but the soil or layout needs improvement, we can prepare it for planting.

9. Heirloom Seed Gardening

Gardeners are embracing heritage varieties that have been passed down through generations. If your raised beds or planters are looking tired, we can rebuild or refurbish them to help you get the most from your grow-your-own space.

10. Romantic Tulip Displays

Colourful spring bulb planting is in demand. For clients looking to enhance borders and flower beds, we’re often asked to clear old planting or reshape lawn edges to accommodate more formal floral displays.

11. Statement Indoor Greenery

Houseplants are still booming in popularity. While we don’t work indoors, we’re always happy to help make garden spaces an extension of your home. From patio repairs to pergola installation, we’ll help you frame views and create areas where your favourite plants can thrive.

Need a hand with your garden this year?

Whether you want to repair winter damage, improve drainage or rework your space to suit this year’s trends, ASK Building & Repairs is here to help. We cover Derby and the wider East Midlands with reliable, expert garden repairs and landscaping support.

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Choosing the Best Outdoor Furniture for Your Garden

Garden Services - ASK Outdoor furniture for garden

At ASK Building & Repairs, a well-designed outdoor space can transform your garden into a haven for relaxation, entertainment, and family gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a cosy morning coffee spot or a spacious summer barbecue setup, choosing the right garden furniture is key. Here’s how you can set up the best outdoor furniture for your garden.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Space

Every garden is different, and so are its furniture needs. Before making a purchase, consider:

  • Space & Layout: Do you have room for a large dining set, or would a compact bistro table better suit your patio?
  • Accessibility: Ensure your furniture fits through doorways and pathways for easy placement.
  • Storage & Weather Resistance: Will your furniture stay outdoors year-round, or do you need foldable options for easy storage?
  • Maintenance: Some materials require annual treatments, while others are virtually maintenance-free.

Popular Garden Furniture Options

Garden Dining Sets

Our dining sets, perfect for al fresco dining, come in various sizes, from intimate four-seaters to spacious nine-seater setups.

Bistro Sets

Ideal for smaller spaces, bistro sets create a charming, functional corner for two. Many options fold away for easy storage.

Outdoor Coffee Sets

For a relaxed, lounge-like feel, our coffee sets include armchairs, sofas, and stylish tables that bring a touch of luxury to your garden.

Garden Benches

A timeless addition to any outdoor space, benches provide a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy your surroundings. Choose from classic wooden designs, modern metal frames, or stone options.

Sun Loungers

If you want to soak up the sun, a comfortable sun lounger is necessary. Adjustable backs and foldable designs make them both practical and stylish.

The Finishing Touches

To make the most of your garden furniture, consider adding:

  • Parasols & Bases: Essential for shaded comfort on sunny days.
  • Cushions & Rugs: Enhance comfort and style with weather-resistant textiles.
  • Outdoor Bars, Hammocks & Hot Tubs: Create a standout space for entertaining and relaxation.

Speak to us about Outdoor Furniture for your Garden

At ASK Building & Repairs, we help with furniture selection and offer expert repairs and maintenance to keep your outdoor space looking its best. Whether it’s restoring a weathered bench or fixing a wobbly table, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch today to discuss how we can help refresh your garden!

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8 Ways to Save Money on Your Garden This Spring

Money-saving gardening ideas with ASK Building & Repairs

With rising household costs, many homeowners are looking for ways to cut expenses while keeping their outdoor spaces looking great. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a beautiful and productive garden this year. Here are some brilliant, money-saving gardening ideas to help you make the most of your garden without breaking the bank.

1) Grow Fast-Flowering Plants from Seed

Instead of buying expensive plants, grow easy-to-care-for annuals like cosmos, marigolds, sunflowers, and zinnias from seed in April and May. These fast-growing flowers add vibrant colour to your garden and help fill gaps in your flower beds at a fraction of the cost of buying mature plants. Climbing plants like sweet peas and morning glories are also a budget-friendly way to add height and interest to your garden.

2) Get Creative with Seed Sowing

Rather than buying new pots and trays, repurpose household items like newspapers, egg cartons, or plastic food containers to start your seedlings. If you have a sunny, well-drained area in your garden, you can sow many seeds directly into the soil from mid-April onwards. This method eliminates the need for pots altogether, saving you money while using what you already have.

3) Make the Most of Natural Growth

Some weeds, such as hawkbit and green alkanet, are attractive additions to your garden. Instead of pulling them out immediately, consider letting them grow in controlled areas for a more natural look. Any weeds that grow too aggressively can be composted, creating a free and nutrient-rich material for your garden.

4) Plant from Your Kitchen

You don’t always need to buy new plants; some kitchen scraps can become lush garden additions. Sweet potatoes, for example, can be sprouted in a warm spot indoors before planting outside for a beautiful leafy display. Onions left to sprout can be planted in the ground and will produce attractive flowers that are great for pollinators. Even leftover carrot tops can grow into decorative greenery.

5) Buy Small and Let Them Grow

Instead of purchasing fully grown plants, opt for smaller, much cheaper plug plants. They need extra care indoors or in a greenhouse until the weather warms up. Once planted outside, they will grow quickly and fill your garden with colour without costing you a fortune. Good choices include petunias, penstemon, and nicotiana.

6) Use Smaller Plants for Cuttings

Maximise your plant collection by taking cuttings from smaller, tender plants. For example, you can take soft cuttings and grow additional plants for free if you buy a small fuchsia or Argyranthemum plant. The same method works with tomato plant side shoots, giving you extra plants at no cost.

7) Make Your Plant Feed

Fertiliser prices have risen, but you can make your liquid feed at no cost. Collect fast-growing plants like borage, nettles, and grass clippings, then soak them in a covered bucket of water for a couple of weeks. The resulting nutrient-rich liquid can be diluted and used to feed your plants for free.

8) Reuse and Recycle Compost

Bagged Compost can be expensive, especially when filling large containers. Mix used Compost with fresh material to cut costs and add homemade Compost or leaf mould to improve its quality. If you have shrubs or trees in containers, adding a mix of bark and recycled Compost will keep the soil in top condition for longer, reducing the need for constant replacements.

Money-saving Gardening Ideas

Following these simple money-saving gardening ideas can keep your outdoor space looking fantastic while keeping costs low. Whether you’re using what you already have or growing your own plants from scratch, small changes can add up to big savings!

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Choosing the perfect colour to paint your garden fence

Fence painting - choosing the right colour for your garden fence

When painting the garden fence, choosing the perfect fence colour can be tricky. Between the thousands of different colours of paint on the market, it can be hard to know what will suit your garden the best. Find out from ASK Building & Repairs the best colours to paint your garden fence.

Colours that make your garden look bigger  

Choosing a lighter colour of paint like white or beige can make your garden appear bigger. Using a lighter colour is particularly useful for making smaller gardens look larger, however, it can help any sized garden to appear bigger and brighter. 

White fence panels in your garden

A white fence provides a classic and timeless look that can transform the look of any garden. White fence panels are the perfect background to show off your plants. As the high levels of contrast in the white fence will bring out and complement any of the colours in your garden.

Grey fencing

Grey is a popular choice of paint for a modern-style garden, being a versatile colour that can either be cool or warm. Grey fencing will pair well with almost any colour that you decide to introduce into your garden. However, it is important to consider that if you have chosen a warm tone of grey, it might pair better with other warmer-toned colours.

Green garden fence

Green shades work well in a garden as they tie in with the natural colours around your garden. Sage green is a modern and trendy shade of green to use in both your home and garden. 

Natural wood stains  

Using a natural wood stain lets you transform your fencing. This is useful if you are on a budget as you can get the look of a more expensive type of wood without the added price tag.

What colours you should avoid when painting the garden fence

While some fence colours can make your garden look bigger, some colours can make your garden look smaller. These are typically darker shades, such as black and deep browns, that can make your garden feel small and enclosed. It is best to avoid these colours if you are trying to make your garden appear larger. 

Choosing your perfect colour depends on your garden goals

When choosing what colour to paint your fence, it is important to consider both your garden size and your vision for the finished look. The colour of your fencing can impact how large your garden looks, so choosing the right colour for your garden is crucial.

No matter what colour you choose to paint the garden fence, ASK Building & Repairs offers fence installation in the Derby area, transforming your vision into your garden.

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Discover the Ultimate Lawn Care with ASK Building & Repairs

Gardening maintenance

Whether it’s your private garden, a commercial property, a school, or a public park, a well-maintained large lawn is not only visually stunning but also offers numerous environmental benefits. However, maintaining a large lawn can be a time-consuming and laborious task. It is likely that you will need a gardening service local to you. Based in Derby, ASK Building & Repairs offers a gardening service in Derbyshire and the East Midlands. So, what’s the best way to achieve a beautifully mowed large lawn without the hassle?

The Perfect Solution for Mowing Large Lawns

Achieving a flawless large lawn requires the right equipment. A mower with a grass collector and a built-in roller is ideal for creating those perfect stripes while avoiding unsightly clumps of clippings. For extensive lawns, petrol-driven mowers are the best choice. Options include self-propelled push mowers or ride-on mowers equipped with special striping attachments.

Gardening Service in Derby

However, the most efficient and cost-effective way to maintain a large lawn is to utilise professional grass-cutting and gardening services like those offered by Derby-based ASK Building & Repairs. Our team uses top-of-the-line equipment, so you don’t need to worry about purchasing or maintaining a mower. Plus, there’s no need to store or fuel the mower, eliminating security concerns since high-quality mowers are often targeted by thieves.

Optimal Lawn Mowing Frequency

To keep your lawn looking its best, regular mowing during the growing season is essential. Mowing not only keeps the lawn tidy but also stimulates grass growth from the base, encouraging a thick, velvety texture. Avoid letting the grass grow too long, as this weakens the plants and makes them susceptible to disease.

Here’s our recommended mowing schedule:

  • March to Mid-April: Mow at least once a week.
  • Late April to June: Mow every 3-4 days.
  • July and August: Growth slows; a light mow once a week is sufficient.
  • September and October: Weekly mowing is typically enough.
  • November to February: Mow as needed, depending on soil temperature (avoid mowing in frosty conditions).

Alternative Mowing Regimes for Wildlife Support

In recent years, there has been a shift towards less frequent mowing to save money and create wildlife habitats. Allowing grass to grow longer, especially with wildflowers, supports birds, insects, amphibians, and other wildlife. Transform parts of your lawn into mini wildflower meadows by adjusting the mowing regime. Cut paths through these areas to maintain a manicured appearance.

If you wish to further support wildlife, dedicate sections of your lawn to wildflowers by mowing less frequently or laying wildflower turf. Additionally, planting spring flowering bulbs like daffodils, fritillaria, crocuses, and native bluebells can attract bees and add beauty.

Personalised Grass Cutting Services

At ASK Building & Repairs, we tailor our grass cutting services to your specific needs and preferences. Our team will discuss your lawn care goals and budget, ensuring your lawn looks exactly the way you envision. We will arrive on scheduled days, mow your lawn to your liking, clean up, and leave without disturbing you. You don’t even need to be home—our staff are highly trustworthy, giving you peace of mind while we care for your lawn.

Experience the difference with ASK Building & Repairs. Contact us today to schedule your own gardening service in Derby. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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Tackle Garden Weeds, Pests, and Plant Diseases with ASK Building & Repairs

Tackling garden weeds with ASK

Weeds, pests, and plant diseases can quickly mar a stunning garden. At ASK Building & Repairs, we offer expert solutions to control these issues responsibly and safely, ensuring your garden remains a beautiful oasis. Contact ASK Building & Repairs for all your garden maintenance and tackling garden weeds (Get it?). Enjoy a beautiful garden without the hassle!

Why Choose Professional Help Over Chemicals?

Every gardener faces the challenge of dealing with pests, diseases, and weeds. The quick fix is a trip to the garden centre for chemical solutions. However, before you resort to chemicals, consider:

  • Environmental Impact: How will chemicals affect your garden’s ecosystem?
  • Wildlife Safety: Are the sprays harmful to beneficial wildlife?
  • Pet Safety: Could your pets be at risk from garden chemicals?
  • Safe Application: Do you know how to apply chemicals correctly?
  • Proper Disposal: Are you equipped to dispose of chemical packaging responsibly?
  • Alternative Solutions: Is there a safer, non-chemical method?
  • Professional Expertise: Is this a job better suited for a trained professional?

Prevent Problems with Proper Plant Care

Healthy plants are less susceptible to pests and diseases. Ensure your garden thrives by:

  • Regular Feeding: Use appropriate plant feeds.
  • Adequate Watering: Install an automatic irrigation system for consistent watering.
  • Air Circulation: Prune trees and hedges to improve airflow.
  • Weed Control: Apply mulch to suppress weed growth.

Investigate the issue at the first sign of trouble to prevent pests or diseases from spreading. Quick action minimises potential damage.

Choosing the Right Chemical Control

When chemical intervention is necessary, it’s crucial to:

  1. Identify the Problem: Know the specific weed, pest, or disease.
  2. Select the Correct Product: Use specialized chemicals designed for the issue.
  3. Apply Correctly: Follow the recommended application rates and timings. Overuse or incorrect application can lead to resistant pests and diseases.

Professional Application Advantages

Garden centre chemicals are often pre-diluted and less effective. Trained professionals, like those at ASK Building & Repairs, have access to more potent and specific chemicals. Our expertise ensures that:

  • Chemicals are applied safely and effectively.
  • The proper concentrations are used.
  • Risk assessments and risk management are thoroughly conducted.

Environmentally Friendly Practices

Professionals follow strict guidelines to protect sensitive areas, avoiding watercourses and livestock when spraying. Proper storage, disposal, and equipment cleaning are critical to prevent environmental contamination.

Protect Yourself When Tackling Garden Weeds

Handling garden chemicals requires proper protective gear:

  • Protective Clothing: Wear a white boiler suit with a hood to spot spills.
  • Mask and Goggles: Protect against inhalation and splashes.
  • Gloves: Essential for hand protection.

Maximise Chemical Control Efficiency

  • Use the Correct Chemical: Specific problems require specific solutions.
  • Handle with Care: Always wear protective clothing.
  • Avoid Mixing Chemicals: Prevent unexpected reactions.
  • Follow Application Rates: Stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Clean Spills Promptly: Use sand or cat litter to absorb spills.
  • Work with the Weather: Avoid spraying on windy days.
  • Spot Treat Weeds: Target specific areas instead of blanket spraying.
  • Explore Alternatives: Consider biological controls or tolerate minor infestations.

Why Choose ASK Building & Repairs?

Opting for professional services is often more cost-effective and safer than DIY solutions. With our expertise, protective measures, and access to potent chemicals, ASK Building & Repairs provides:

  • Safe and effective garden care.
  • Expert advice and tailored solutions.
  • Peace of mind knowing your garden is in professional hands.

Contact ASK Building & Repairs today for all your garden maintenance needs and help with tackling garden weeds. Enjoy a healthy, beautiful garden without the hassle!

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In need of building repairs after the floods?

Building repairs from floods - ASK Building Repairs

If your business is in need of building repairs as a result of the floods that have affected Derbyshire recently, ASK Building & Repairs can help you. Our team works around the clock to provide quotes and repairs for any homeowners or business premises that are in need of repair. As a local Derby business, we know what impact the floods can have on the local area and how businesses can be affected. It is soul-destroying and often expensive. That’s why we, as Derby-based builders, will help you if you are in need of building repairs after the floods.

In need of building repairs after floods?

Whilst a flood can impact your car, it can also destroy your home or building. A car can often be repaired after drying out, and we know there are always alternative modes of transport. However, with a house or business premises, things are slightly different. If floods ruin your home, then you can be without warm water, electricity, heating and all the essentials that you need to live.

You would struggle to have a home-cooked meal as well, meaning your quality of life would not be great. Therefore it would be vital to get back up and running as soon as possible. ASK Building & Repairs has experience in getting houses and offices back to a liveable standard in no time. All we need from you is to get in contact with our team, and we’ll come out and give you a quote.

Local repairs in Derby

At ASK, we’ve been around for years. Just ASK our loyal customers who have been using our building repair services around Derby for what seems like forever. Our reviews speak for themselves, and our socials are always producing the goods, letting you know how we can help. We are also able to showcase how we have helped people in the Derby area, particularly those who have been affected by the floods.

But what repairs are needed after a flood? Well, sometimes it can just be a paint job to get the building looking back up to scratch. Whilst this sounds simple, it can be time-consuming. That’s why our painting professionals are on hand to help you.

What else do we do?

Other aspects of our work include roofing repairs. Could a flood really affect your roof? The flood might not, but it might damage the construction of the building. Additionally, the horrendous weather that usually leads to a flood would have more of an impact on the roof. It can result in leaks or it caving in. That’s when our roofing repair service would be able to help you.

Additionally, there could be a case where you might need a garden repair service. If your garden has been destroyed then a gardening service would certainly help you get your garden back on track for the summer. Everybody needs a garden in the summer, and there is no time like the present to get it sorted. One of our recommendations, if you are looking to get garden or building repairs after flooding, is simply to get in contact with our team.

Building repairs from floods – Get in touch

Get in touch with ASK Building & Repairs today. We’re here to help you with whatever you need. Speak to us at ASK and we’ll get back to you when we can.

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I need help with my garden

ASK Building & Repairs help with garden repairs.

Despite starting out as a property repair company, one of the most common phrases we’d hear from customers is, ‘I need help with my garden.’ Sometimes people would get in touch because they’d brought a house to renovate and found the garden needed attention too. On other occasions, customers wanted their garden to reflect their lifestyle, so it was easier to maintain. And often, gardens would need gutting and clearing to get rid of dead plants and other debris. In the end, the demand for garden work was so high we decided to add it to the range of home and repair services that ASK Building & Repair provides. Here we look at some of the most frequent requests we receive about gardens and how we can help you.

‘I need help with my garden – when should I book the work in?’

Although we provide garden maintenance services all year round, if you’re after big changes, it’s best to book the work during the cooler months. Not only is it easier to get the materials we need, but our contractors also have better availability. Booking early also means your garden will look its best in time for summer.

Garden makeover

No one wants to be sat outside on a warm evening with their garden in disarray because it’s in the middle of having a makeover. So, by getting the project started in winter or spring, it will be finished when you want to get the most use out of it. If you’re interested in making some smaller changes to your garden, there is a better chance of availability during the summer months, but larger projects are best booked in towards the beginning of the year.

‘I need help with making my garden easier to look after.’

Gardening is a hobby that a lot of people enjoy, but fitting it in can be difficult, especially if you have a large garden that needs attention. Over the last few months, we’ve seen an increase in demand for gardens that are easy to look after without compromising on presentation. The whole point of having a nice area outside is to enjoy and make the most of it, which is difficult to do if it’s overgrown and requires a lot of work.

Make changes to your garden

ASK Building & Repairs can help by making changes to your garden so it’s easier to look after. Adding shale, bark or paved areas all help to reduce general upkeep, and rockeries are self-sufficient but still a great way to display plants and flowers. Whether you have an idea in mind that you want to execute or would like some advice on ways to make your garden easier to look after, we can help.

‘I need help with clearing my garden.’

It’s very easy for gardens to become overgrown and need stripping back. This doesn’t necessarily mean that all plants and hedges need to be ripped out and taken away. Instead, it’s a great opportunity to remove any dead overgrowth and past its best so other things have more room to flourish.

Garden clearance is a common request we receive

Garden clearance is a common request if a house has been purchased and the outside needs some attention or if a customer cannot keep on top of their garden and requires more than a quick tidy-up. We can also dismantle and remove any old or unsafe structures, such as sheds and decking and organise skips to remove the debris. It’s brilliant to see a garden transform, and removing waste is the first step to take if you want to start afresh.

Need help with your garden?

If you need help with your garden and would like us to visit your property to take a look, please phone Guy on 07773 019 410 or email info@askbuildingandrepairs.com. We’re happy to help with small garden jobs and more significant projects, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.

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Tips on getting your garden summer ready

Utilise builders in Derby

In light of the RHS Chelsea Show that’s being held in London this week, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to discuss all things green with Guy, our director. Alongside running ASK Building and Repairs, Guy is a keen gardener with an allotment where he grows plants, fruit, and vegetables. In this blog, he discusses what you can do to make the most of your garden, current trends and why people looking for builders in Derby could also speak to Guy about getting their garden ready for summer.

Guy, what is your favourite flower and why?

I love sweet peas and carnations because they were my Grandad’s favourite flowers and he used to have them in his garden. They’re quite easy to grow and smell beautiful. My wife also loved those, and I used to pick them for her.

Do you have any tips for people who are quite new to gardening?

Wildflowers are a great choice if you want some colour in your garden and are good for the environment because they attract bees and other insects. You can buy a packet of wildflower seeds from garden centres, and they tend to come back year after year. Sunflowers, cornflowers and sweet peas could also be planted now and are fast-growing so you still have time to enjoy them in your garden over the summer.

What can people do that will make a big difference to the look of their garden?

If you want to give your garden a bit of a facelift, painting your fence a new colour can make an outdoor space look very different. Adding shale or slate is also great for a garden makeover, as it can be used for making borders or pathways. You can dig down through the shale and plant into the soil so your flowers grow but are self-contained.

Use your local builders in Derby to help

It can also be used to keep weeds under control, so it’s a great way to make your garden look neat but with very little maintenance. We cover both fence painting and garden maintenance as part of our services and always enjoy transforming outdoor spaces for our customers.

Are there any gardening services that have experienced an increase in popularity?

Since the pandemic, we’ve noticed that patio areas are more popular because people want somewhere to relax or entertain so they can make the most of their gardens. We’re also getting a lot of requests for rockeries, which are great if you want a low-maintenance garden because the plants in them tend to spread out. They also look great year after year, so they’re a real investment. Artificial grass is another popular choice for those who want their garden to look good but don’t have a lot of time to spend on it. We can help with all of these types of projects so our customers can enjoy a space with very little upkeep.

What sort of plants are good to purchase at this time of year?

If you want to invest in some new plants, check their labels or packets to make sure they’ll survive the frost so you can enjoy them year after year. Lavender is a good choice because it’s quite hardy and won’t get damaged in frosty weather. The bees love it too!

Use builders in Derby to build your roses

Roses, especially climbing or rambling roses, are also lovely and spread up the fence, which looks really pretty. If you plant them now, you should still get some colour this year if you buy a decent-sized plant and look after it properly.

Is it too late to get gardens ready for summer?

We generally advise people to get big garden projects booked in early to avoid disappointment, but we can still help with getting the outside of your home ready for summer. If you don’t want a complete overhaul of your garden but want it to have a bit of a makeover, decking is a great choice and installing steps can add interest or make it more accessible.

As builders in Derby – we can assist you

Regarding planting flowers, bedding plants will be available for another month or so in garden centres, so it’s worth looking and seeing what’s there. Although we’re builders based in Derby, we will always happily assist with any garden projects you have in mind or want to pursue. Gardening is a real passion of mine, and it’s lovely when customers want to discuss their plans with me.

Contact your local builders in derby – ASK Building & Repairs

If you’d like to learn more about the gardening or maintenance services ASK Building and Repairs provides in Derby, please call Guy on 07773 019 410 or email info@askbuildingandrepairs.com.

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What’s the difference between a gazebo and a pergola?

What’s the difference between a gazebo and a pergola?

If you fancy adding some shade and functionality to your garden, the idea of investing in a gazebo or pergola has probably crossed your mind. Although they’re both similar when it comes to their purpose, they do have important differences that should be considered before you decide to make a purchase.

Because we provide garden services in Derby, people often speak to us for advice on choosing the right structure for their outdoor space. In this blog, we look at the difference between a gazebo and a pergola to help you pick the proper structure and design for your garden.

What are the characteristics of a pergola?

  • A pergola is simple in design, with a slatted, rectangular roof supported by four columns or pillars.
  • Because they have open sides and let in light, pergolas are great for creating a living or dining space where you want to stay bright and sunny.
  • Pergolas can be standalone structures or extend from the side of your property for a more seamless look.
  • They come in varied shapes and sizes to suit the size of your garden and can be made from a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, stone or even aluminium.  
  • Pergolas tend to be secured onto the ground, which is why you see them attached to a patio or decking.
  • Because pergolas are open structures, you must add furniture underneath to make it a functional space. The seating isn’t attached or built-in.
  • Pergolas are more versatile than gazebos and easier to customise to your own taste. They’re also very easy to decorate with hanging lights, plants, or vines placed over the top.

What are the characteristics of a pergola and a gazebo?

  • A gazebo is a freestanding, rounded structure with a covered roof, providing complete shade.
  • Gazebos tend to have a more intricate design than a pergola and are more enclosed. They usually have one open entrance and half-walls on the remaining sides, so they offer more shelter from the elements.
  • Because they’re freestanding, gazebos have their own foundation and are usually raised from the ground with a step that takes you inside.
  • Unlike pergolas, gazebos stand-alone and are placed further away from the property. They are best for creating a shaded centrepiece in the garden.
  • Gazebos often come with built-in benches along the sides, so you don’t need to purchase other furniture to sit on.
  • Because they have more structure than pergolas, gazebos tend to be more decorative. Their railings, arches and spindles can be quite ornate, especially compared to a pergola’s four posts.
  • A gazebo is typically made from wood, and it’s very rare to see them made from other materials such as metal and stone.

How do you know whether a gazebo or a pergola is the right choice for your garden?

The main difference between a pergola and a gazebo is that pergolas define a space and help you to make the most of it, whereas gazebos create a space because they’re set apart from your property.

Make the correct choice for your home

To make the correct choice for your home, it’s important to think about your needs and what you want to use your outdoor structure for. If you want a more shaded design and a separate space that you can use for entertaining and relaxing, a gazebo is a good choice. However, a pergola is the better option if you want a structure that provides partial shade, more light and an obstructed view.

The other thing to consider before making an investment is the size of your garden. If you have a big lawn, a gazebo is ideal for creating extra living space. But if you have a limited surface area outside, a pergola can act as an extension of your home without requiring as much room.

Speak to ASK Building and Repairs for advice on making the most of your garden and home

If you’re considering purchasing a structure for your garden but would like some advice on the right option, ASK Building & Repairs can help. Whether you’d like a pergola or gazebo installed or you’d like to give your outdoor space a complete makeover, you can contact us at 07773 019 410 or email info@askbuildingandrepairs.co.uk. We’ll answer any questions that you have about the project you have in mind and provide you with a no-obligation quote if you’d like one.

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