Everyone is on a budget these days so we have to think of ways to make our home remodeling and decorating projects come to life. Consider hiring a student who is studying architecture, interior design, landscape design or majoring in art.

Asphalt driveways have always been popular and economical for home owners. Their cost may go up since oil is a key ingredient of asphalt. To keep prices down, asphalt is being recycled and Chip Sealing is an alternative.

Low voltage outdoor lighting can really improve your landscape. It is especially useful to keep your friends and visitors out of harm's way and lead them safely to your front door.This is a do it yourself project requiring intermediate skill level.

Traditional products like black asphalt are responding to consumer demand for style and good looks. We look into stamped asphalt, which like stamped concrete, is now available.

Gravel driveways are being considered more by home owners now that porous pavers provide the support for cars and are good for the environment.

Our Trex deck is fine. However, the deck is subject to staining and discoloration from nearly pine trees. We have not tried removing the stains yet and would welcome suggestions.

Milorganite was found to successfully repel deer in Washington DC and protect flowers and plants. Plus it is a great organic fertilizer and will not harm the environment.

Your landscape extends well beyond your property line. It's what people see in adjacent homes and your backyard. Take photos of your home to uncover eye sores and highlight areas to improve.

Concrete driveways should last you many years if they are properly installed and spec'd. Here are some recommendations about what to put in the contract and what to avoid.

This week I came across a free e-book that tells you how to create a yard that is ideal for your dog or puppy. Now your dogs don't have to get sick or bored, nor do you have to get upset when they dig up your garden.

If you are willing to wait, then younger, well spaced plants can dramatically reduce your landscaping costs. Get multiple written bids on all hardscaping projects.

Tips on selecting shrubs, trees and walks for privacy and to conceal objectionable views, comfort and for safety.

Don't just focus on when plants and trees are blooming. Consider what they'll look like in other parts of the year to get the most value out of your landscape.

Landscaping your home not only increases its value but all provides health benefits. If you're selling your home, buyers will pay for landscaping too.

Installing rain gutters and downspouts without factoring in the roof line, aesthetics and the roof's area and gutters will create problems for home owners later on. These include overflowing gutters, damage to facia and leaks in your basement.

Homeowners usually follow their landscape designs to the letter. However, if the design does not envision the what the plants will look like in 5 years you may not be pleased. With a few simple changes you can have a great garden.

This is the second of two articles that illustrates why it is very important to work with a good masonry contractor who specializes with flagstone.

We discuss laying flagstone on a 48-foot long S-shaped front path in the Washington DC area.

This is the first of two articles that illustrates why it is important to work with your concrete and masonry contractors to implement a landscape plan.