Habitus South Melbourne Landscaping
SouthSouth Melbourne Landscaping for Habitus Apartments are located in the heart of South MelbourneMelbourne on 10-16 Boundary Street, South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3205.
South Melbourne Lifestyle
One of the great elements about this location is that it is only a ten-minute stroll to the iconic South Melbourne Market. This market has been going since 1867, when it was established on a license of land in what was then known as Emerald Hill. This marks the market as the oldest and continuously running market in the whole of Melbourne. The original 10 acres of land for the market was in the area bounded by the St Kilda Railway line and Cecil, York and Coventry Street. Having the market nearby was convenient when ordering lunch for the landscapers.
In a historically under-used corner of South Melbourne, yet offering a location with brilliant proximity to the Bay and CBD, Habitus offers a new form of urbanism for the area, leading the way in an accelerating gentrification and offering residents a unique, visionary presents lifestyle opportunity.
Habitus invites one to experience the finest inner city living with exceptional quality townhouses in prime locations. Offering a resolutely local neighborhood character and unparalleled access to Melbourne's most treasured landmarks and cultural attractions, Habitus sets a whole new standard in contemporary residential architecture.
The ultimate contemporary lifestyle. Habitus Townhomes showcases handcrafted forms to create a rich, fulfilling and integrated living experience for its residents. A big part of the lifestyle for these residents was our South Melbourne Landscaping.
DKO Architecture has built the Habitus Apartments in South Melbourne to deliver quality-crafted contemporary apartments. These apartments are conveniently placed, with just a short stroll to Montague Tram station. This provides effortless access to the Melbourne CBD and tram connections to St Kilda’s Fitzroy St. The rooftop balconies provide views of the Melbourne CBD. The location in South Melbourne is also just an easy walk to the now very fashionable Bay Street in Port Melbourne. The apartments, more precisely known as "townhomes", are available in three different styles, each with their own architectural character. The architects envisage a rich and fully integrated lifestyle for the new residents.
South Melbourne Lifestyle
The name Habitus is in fact Latin for "character,” which is something these apartments truly possess, as well as showcasing a determined commitment to quality. Lifestyle in South.
DKO was founded in 2000. Founding partners Koos de Keijzer and Zvonko Orsanic wanted to independently implement their own vision: creating ingenious spaces that are equally appreciated by the eyes, mind and soul. In the space of a decade, the office – with Koos de Keijzer as director – has grown from its humble beginnings into a design powerhouse in the Asia-Pacific region. DKO is a multidisciplinary team of more than 200 professionals working from six offices in Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia.
One of the great things about this location is that it is only a ten minute walk to the iconic South Melbourne Market. The Market has been going since 1867 when it was established on a grant of land in was was then known as Emerald Hill. This makes the market the oldest continuously running market in the whole of Melbourne. The original 10 acres of the market was in the area bounded by the St Kilda Railway line and Cecil, York and Coventry Street. Having the market nearby was handy when ordering lunch for the landscapers.
Red’s Landscaping and Civil has been contracted to provide extensive landscaping, paving and integrated green spaces. Included in this will be the construction of the people friendly spaces between the buildings. The video below shows the very early stages of landscape construction of the rooftop gardens. We will post some more photos later in the Melbourne Spring. Habitus South Melbourne
Landscaping the Rooftop Gardens
You may have read or seen our recent projects, whether they were about swimming pools or gardens, for which we have received a lot of admiration and respect. Our recent project was something different because it included rooftop gardening, which is getting popular nowadays.
Our Distinctive landscape. South Melbourne Landscaping at Habitus
Rooftop gardening is especially popular in cities, where available ground-level space is limited, heat buildup is a concern, and water overflow is an issue. Gardens can really reduce a building's overall heat absorption, lowering energy use and helping to combat smog. But that's not all these tiny environmental superheroes can achieve. They also provide an area for cultivating low-cost, long-term crops, relaxation, and animal migration routes.
Modern rooftop gardening may make a difference in our own future, just as ancient rooftop gardens did for human existence. Roof farming, according to Red's landscape service proponents, might be the answer to urban food insecurity, and environmentalists hope that these green spaces will have a positive impact on climate change and adaptation.
Rooftop gardens, also known as living roofs or green roofs, provide a number of advantages, including increased room for agriculture, aesthetic appeal, and improved air quality. Plants extract carbon dioxide from the air and release oxygen that we need to inhale during photosynthesis.
Rooftop gardens may help keep buildings cooler on hot summer days than standard roofs, especially larger buildings with tar and gravel roof surfaces. Traditional rooftops' temperatures tend to increase above the actual air temperature since they remain in direct sunlight for long periods of time. Because this heat radiates back into the environment, metropolitan regions are significantly warmer than rural and suburban locations. You may have noticed the temperature difference if you reside in a big city or have visited a shopping mall with a lot of concrete and buildings during the summer. When heat is reflected back into the environment from rooftops, a region with many buildings, such as a city, can experience a 5 to 7-degree Fahrenheit spike in local air temperatures! The urban heat island effect is the name for this occurrence.
Our South Melbourne Landscaping of Rooftop gardens take plant appreciation to new heights. On the streets below, cars speed by, while gardeners on rooftops and terraces take advantage of the setting's unique perspectives. These gardens have their own distinct atmosphere. Because they are so much smaller than the ordinary backyard, they force gardeners to consider what is truly important, and the results can be surprising and eye-catching.
Plants in rooftop gardens are exposed to more harsh conditions than plants in the ground, but if you choose and care for them wisely, they will thrive. Although a watering can or hose may suffice, drip irrigation should be considered, especially for big rooftop gardens.
Landscaping the Rooftop Gardens at Habitus. South Melbourne Landscaping
https://youtu.be/cu0N4ocPxbU
More information about Habitus in South Melbourne
https://youtu.be/ITdFPHSn62A
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Romsey Ecotherapy Park landscaping
Romsey Ecotherapy Park
Romsey is a town in Victoria, Australia, that is part of the Shire of Macedon Ranges local government region. It is 61 kilometres north of the Melbourne CBD. The population estimate for Romsey, as of June 30th, 2021, is 4,380.
The Romsey Ecotherapy Park is located in Romsey, Melbourne, on the corner of Main and Palmer streets.
Establishment
The Romsey Ecotherapy Park Inc. committee (REP) initiated a community-led campaign to create a welcoming and freely available recreational open space for local residents and regional visitors. The design focuses on offering a unique sensory and rehabilitative experience to people of all ages and abilities through interaction with nature.
The City of Romsey Council purchased the former Romsey Primary School site from the Department of Early Childhood and Education and Training in September 2015 in support of local community efforts to create an all-abilities park.
The Department of Early Childhood and Education and Training sold the former Romsey Primary School land to the Council in September 2015 in support of local community efforts to develop an all-abilities park.
Importance to the community
Romsey Ecotherapy Park was created to provide a variety of active contact and physical challenges for both children and adults. The Romsey Ecotherapy Park's mission is to develop a sense of community while also encouraging a connection to the environment as a means of improving health and well-being.
A community space and park that serves as a key meeting point for inhabitants and visitors to the region who want to engage with nature. This one-of-a-kind all-inclusive nature environment is designed for people of all ages and abilities to explore, play, and discover.
Romsey Ecotherapy Park landscaping
The Romsey Ecotherapy Park landscaping was completed in 2019. It was completed for the Macedon Ranges Shire Council. The experience we had at this facility was simply amazing, and this is why we are highly excited for the second stage.
"The Romsey Ecotherapy Park is a different all-inclusive nature space for people of all ages and physical abilities to explore, engage and play with and discover nature.
It is a unique, nature-based healing space located in the Macedon Ranges which is almost an hour from Melbourne. It is just a stone’s throw from Spa and Daylesford.
The Park is constructed not only to excite and entertain children and people of all ages but also to provide sensory incitement and healing space for relaxation and reflection for all ages.
Being Located on the old Romsey Primary School site, the fascinating school building and grand old oak tree remain, honoring Romsey’s heritage. The site reinforces the Park as a place to assemble and strengthen community links." – Romsey Ecotherapy Park Website.
Park landscaping
Landscape design not only improves the appearance of your yard but also increases the value of your home. Landscape design and maintenance, on the other hand, is not an easy undertaking for homeowners. This is especially true if you lack the necessary time or experience. Let Red’s Landscaping company take care of the dirty work. We are a landscape contractor. We provide a number of services that will undoubtedly improve the curb appeal of your home, park, or garden.
Landscape Architecture
Red’s Landscaping company creates your landscape based on the present look, lifestyle, and preferences of your home. We collaborate closely with you to design a yard with plants, hardscape, and other features that highlight your home’s natural beauty.
Maintaining Your Lawn To keep a lawn looking clean and healthy, it must be maintained on a regular basis. For your grass and soil, our commercial lawn and landscaping service uses high-quality equipment and fertilizer. Throughout the year, we ensure that your lawn is thick, homogeneous, and disease-free.
Exterior Lighting
After a long day, do you want to relax and take in the beauty of your surroundings? Are you interested in hosting regular nocturnal gatherings at your home? Outdoor lighting must be both attractive and functional. Even at night, we design our solutions to bring out the best features of your landscape!
Sprinkler Installation and Repair Sprinklers are a quick and easy way to keep your grass moist. Sprinklers are strategically placed throughout your yard by our crew to provide optimal coverage. Give us a call if your irrigation system isn’t working properly, and we’ll fix it as quickly as possible.
Removal of trees
Even if you wish to retain a tree that has been growing in your yard for years, if it is diseased or damaged beyond repair, it will be an eyesore. You can enlist our assistance in safely and efficiently removing the tree from your property.
Tree Pruning and Care Allow our tree care staff to take care of your tree if you don’t have the time or capacity to keep it healthy and safe. We utilize high-quality tools and supplies to keep your tree disease-free and away from your roof and power lines all year.
Project founded by freemasons_official
Plants supplied by thenursery. co
Media Release from Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
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Mill Park Aquatic Center Redevelopment
Mill Park is a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 11 miles northeast of Melbourne's CBD. Its local government is the City of Whittlesea. As of the 2016 census, Mill Park had a population of 29,710.
The area is named for the corn mill that George and Francis Coulstock built on the Plenty River in the 1840s. The property was sold to Henry "Money" Miller (1809-1888). He bred racehorses and conducted a range of dairy and grazing activities sufficient to employ 65 people who were housed in a village on the property. The Findon Hounds and the Findon Harriers Hunt Club - a name associated with Miller's residence - Findon in Kew - were based in Mill Park.
In 1980s, Mill Park experienced rapid residential development with state and church elementary schools (Mill Park Primary School, Saint Francis Primary School). The Mill Park Post Office opened on August 1, 1983.
Why did it need redevelopment?
Mill Park Leisure is modern watersports and recreation facility in Mill Park, in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. Known for its diverse range of programs and services, Mill Park Leisure is an inclusive center catering to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
With over 680,000 annual visits, families from across the city of Whittlesea choose this facility for its quality service, world-class programs, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Commercial landscaping is just part of Mill Park Leisure's $25 million redevelopment. The fully landscaped outdoor area for this project includes play equipment, BBQ grills, and outdoor exercise equipment.
The much-anticipated redevelopment of Mill Park Leisure was scheduled to begin in mid-2018 and provide $25 million for a full upgrade of the fitness and aquatic areas.
Just a few minutes walk from South Morang train and bus stations, the new development meets community feedback which showed there was significant community demand for it.
Mill Park Leisure
At Mill Park Leisure, Red’s Landscape Design and civil is part of the crew transforming the Mill Park Leisure Centre into a state-of-the-art, recreation, aquatic and wellbeing hub.
This redevelopment is definitely a significant investment into the community and the Red’s team is proud to work with the City of Whittlesea and landscape architects ‘Land Design Partnership’.
Mill Park Leisure Commercial Landscaping
The landscape design is an open and free-flowing space with;
- Artificial turf
- Plenty of landscaped gardens
- Rubber soft floor
- Coloured exposed aggregate concrete
- Rain gardens, water retention via rock, fabric, and soil
- Class two in-situ concrete
- Raised planter beds
- About the Mill Park
- Aquatic Centre Redevelopment
Building facilities by CICG
The redevelopment of the facilities is being conducted by CICG Pty ltd. The improvements to the facilities include group fitness rooms, weight training, cardio areas, and three new swimming pools.
Swimming Pool Facilities by CICG
The existing swimming pool has been improved by including an all-abilities ramp and retiling. In a nutshell; upgraded 25-meter pool which includes complete re-tiling and the installation of all abilities ramp
Three new pools, including:
- One for recreation, with water play equipment
- One for swimming lessons
- A new warm water pool with access to the ramp
- Hard Landscaping by Red’s Landscaping Melbourne
The commercial hardscaping part of this project includes in-situ concrete stairs and retaining walls and outdoor gym exercise equipment as well as soft wet pour rubber sports surfaces.
Soft Landscaping by Red’s Landscaping Melbourne
The commercial softscaping part of this project includes the planting of thousands of autochthonous and Australian native trees.
Also included;
- Lawn areas of Village Green Kikuyu
- Mill Park Leisure Progress Photos and detailed information on the Melbourne landscaping project.
Red’s Landscaping company believes that landscaping is the basis to transform public spaces and houses for a wonderful impression. To maintain or glorify your parks and gardens and simply boost the aesthetic charm of your space. It’s associated with the promising impression of your property on others.
It is undeniable that the landscaping service for proprietors or newly created property should be delivered by professional landscapers because experimenting with the property might lead to unexpected outcomes which can degrade the value of the space and when it comes to parks which are the center of attention, experimenting might lead to the unpredictable scene.
Red’s Landscaping Company provides a team of professional architects and landscaping experts holding ample acquired experience and assembled customer support team, that will definitely make your experience free of annoyance.
The team will correspond with the property owner about their perspective and budget for the project and recommendation the list of options with the provision to promote in the future. We guarantee you satisfying services.
Red’s Landscaping Company plan helps to provide the service of maintenance, improvement, and restoration for your parks and other landscape.
Mill Park Leisure Project Funding
The Mill Park Leisure Centre redevelopment has been together funded by the local government and the State Government of Victoria. For the entire project, funding of $25 million has been invested, and the State Government of Victoria has contributed $5 million to this project. The Growing suburbs fund has contributed $2 million, and $3 million has been contributed by the Community Sport Infrastructure Fund.
About the Growing suburbs fund
Growing Suburbs Fund
The Growing Suburbs Fund supports investment in significant local infrastructure in Melbourne’s diverse and fast-growing interface councils.
Victorian Government Growing Suburbs fund
About the Community Sport Infrastructure Fund.
Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program
The Victorian Government is investing about $68 million to build and upgrade the community sports facilities across the state. The investment will not only support local sporting clubs, but it will also create jobs and boost Victoria’s economic recovery.
Victorian Government Community Sports Infrastructure Fund
We thank the City of Whittlesea and the landscape architects ‘Land Design Partnerships’ for their support and business.
Landscaping Balwyn Community Centre
Balwyn Community Centre Commercial Landscaping Project
The Balwyn Community Centre at 412 Whitehorse Road Surrey Hills was upgraded to ensure it would continue to support the needs of the local Balwyn Community. As well as the upgrades to the buildings, there were landscaping works for the parkland, natural wetlands, exposed aggregate concrete pathways and tennis courts. For this project we were able to showcase all of our commercial landscaping services.
The site of Balwyn Community Centre
The main building overlooks eucalyptus trees, green grass, and wetlands. Several rooms are available for rent at Balwyn Community Centre including small rooms, medium and large multipurpose rooms, a demonstration kitchen, a workshop, and art studios. The rooms are ample spacious and neat, temperature-controlled, and provide the latest audio and visual equipment.
Balwyn Community Centre is a hidden oasis in the Surrey Hills. The community centre offers an extensive range of services for the Balwyn/Surrey Hills area including courses for adults and children in creative arts, crafts, languages, and more.
A communal garden is a welcoming place. People of all ages, as well as families and couples, enjoy being part of the beautiful garden community.
Our Part
The Balwyn Community Centre is set in a glorious bush setting, it is a vibrant place to be inspired, grow, meet, and escape. The Balwyn Community Centre has always been a beautiful peaceful place for the Surrey Hills community.
When the chance came to work with the Boroondara City Council and Angelo Carrafa Landscape Architects (ACLA) on its landscaping reconstruction, the team at Red could not wait to be part of it.
Balwyn Community Centre Landscape Architecture
ACLA are real visionaries and working with them on taking the project to life has been one of our most memorable projects till now. The Red’s Landscaping Civil and Design team observed the project thoroughly from beginning to end, starting with foundations and footings, right through to the maintenance and final details. We made it all.
- Footings and foundations
- In-situ class one white concrete walls
- Black and White exposed aggregate concrete pavement.
- Restoration and installation of a synthetic clay tennis court
- Public play spaces include specialized gym equipment and custom-made painted ping-pong tables.
- Supply and install; storage buildings, amenities, feature fencing, rubber soft fall surfaces, kids' bike track with Laykold surface, street or outdoor furniture, and artificial turf with stainless steel edging.
- Reconstruction of natural urban wetlands, comprising bulk excavation and earthworks. Draining the existing wetlands with water removal falls in line with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA). naturally filled back up with rainfall.
- 7,500 native Australian plants.
- Revitalizing the wonderful Balwyn community garden
Pictures tell a thousand words, so you are requested to see below for images of the project. We thank the Boroondara City Council and Angelo Carrafa Landscape Architects (ACLA) for their support and business.
Melbourne Landscaping
We welcome you to Melbourne Landscaping. We are proud to have a professional team of landscape designers and horticulturists. Reds Landscaping Melbourne Company shares a great amount of experience, proficiency, and creativity to give you the result you yearn for. Whether you are thinking of designing something modern or simply tidying up your existing garden, Red’s Landscaping Melbourne is available to work with you right from the introductory consultation till the end outcome, guaranteeing to transcend your expectations. Working with some of Melbourne's best architects, builders, and interior designers, we are competent enough to undertake almost any project. Using our closely linked network, we will endeavour to create the ideal outdoor living experience for all-sized projects, whether great or small. Red's Landscaping Melbourne is a completely licensed and insured company that is confident in its ability to always meet deadlines. We have an outstanding history. We wish you to rejoice in our project pages, holding and headlining clients' testimonials.
We provide a wide range of landscaping services depending upon your needs, whether they are commercial landscaping or commercial maintenance.
Commercial Landscaping
The purpose of the commercial landscaping design of public spaces is to make the public area a welcoming and broad place for the pleasure of people of all ages. It is critical that landscape architects and urban planners keep the users as the primary focus of the design. We have been lucky enough to work with some of Melbourne's best landscape designers on projects like the Balwyn Community Centre
Commercial Maintenance
Business maintenance is also provided by the same crew of Melbourne that specializes in the art of commercial landscaping. Our commercial maintenance crew is managed by horticulturists with extensive knowledge of plant health and identification. Experts in horticulture irrigation systems, concrete restorations, and other elements of commercial gardening make up our commercial maintenance team.
First impressions matter and the garden areas surrounding a business's facilities are frequently where those first impressions are made. We can make sure that your business's healthy landscape makes a good impression on both clients and staff.
Hume Global Learning Centre - Sunbury
The Hume Global Learning Centre is located very close to the Sunbury Central Activity District and nearby retail stores, as well as a handy public transportation hub. It is easily accessible through the Tullamarine freeway from Melbourne Airport and the Melbourne CBD.
The Hume Global Learning Centre is designed to make a significant and memorable contribution to the Sunbury region. The facility is dynamic, progressive and considered, and this will act as a powerful signifier of community values and aspirations at the gateway to the Sunbury town centre.
Around 30,000 people currently use the centre each month to participate in several community and business learning programs and activities.
The three-level development is based on the plan for a lifelong learning centre that the City of Hume has successfully implemented on three other sites.
In addition to offering conventional library facilities, the building contributes to the delivery of both academic and vocational education programmes. The centre includes:
- A library.
- A teaching space.
- A business hub.
- Flexible multi-use meeting and activity rooms.
- Conference/events spaces.
- A gallery/museum/exhibition space.
- A customer service centre.
- A visiting/hot desk.
- Staff offices.
Public Spaces and Commercial Landscaping
Commercial landscaping of public spaces offers high-quality open green spaces that are easily accessible to the community. From walking down shady streets to commercial landscaping around libraries, museums, and community centres, landscaped spaces are local communities' hearts.
Through these places, a large number of community members connect, play, stroll, and bicycle. In this manner, commercial landscaping contributes to the health and well-being of local inhabitants. The landscape design of Hume Global Learning Centre Sunbury, by ACLA Consultants, certainly meets all of these aims.
Quality commercial landscape design also provides essential habitats for native species. The landscape design of commercial buildings also greatly affects the success of these public spaces.
Public places such as the Hume Global Learning Centre-Sunbury contribute to a high level of public amenity, particularly when linked with effective landscape design. The result is an accessible public place for the people of Sunbury.
Contribution of Red Landscaping In Constructing The Hume Global Learning Centre - Sunbury
Red's landscaping was proud to be part of this significant place making project for the community of Sunbury. Our tasks included the following;
- The construction and framework of a large staircase are finished in black.
- Black and white exposed concrete.
- Earthmoving and excavation.
- Large turf area in which a fully controlled Wi-Fi irrigation system installed for all new softscaping.
- Concrete sleepers retaining walls.
- Mass planting of native trees and shrubs on green lands.
- Soil pumping for rooftop planting.
The Red's landscaping team was excited to work on this project with the Hume City Council and acknowledged the continued support and business with the council and contractors to make areas like this possible.
Landscaping Of Hume Global Learning Centre Sunbury
The staff of red’s landscaping and civil worked on softscaping (living component) and hardscaping (non-living component) of landscaping. They worked hard to complete this project.
SOFTSCAPING
Softscaping (the plant component of landscaping) is one of the many specialties of Red's Landscaping and Design. Years of study, research, and experience in Australia's diverse climates have resulted in expert horticultural methods.
The team has been working on sustainable softscapes that can resist the subtropical climate produced by the harsh weather of Melbourne. Our creative softscaping methods may build fertile gardens that are not only environmentally beneficial but also produce fruit, vegetables, and cut flowers.
During the landscape design of Hume Global Learning Centre, we focused on drought-resistant native trees, shrubs, grasses, and groundcovers, which are easy to maintain and attract birds, insects, and mammals. But the question is, why native plants? Because
The Australian climate is harsh, hot, and dry. Most foreign plants are not well adjusted to our conditions and may struggle. Australian natives have all the features that make them ideal low-maintenance garden plants. They are always resistant to drought, tolerant to harsh conditions, and not harmed by various native insects that might damage typical garden plants. Here are some of the native plants we include in our landscape designs.
EUCALYPTUS TREE
Eucalyptus is a dominant Australian tree genus with over 800 species inhabiting many diverse ecosystems throughout Australia. Eucalyptus is generally well adapted to drought. Eucalyptus from the drier environment is also often inherently more drought tolerant. Eucalyptus trees are appreciated for their landscaping uses. Many eucalyptus species have beautiful forms and textures. Some of the flowers are striking in shape and brilliant colours. For these reasons, eucalyptus trees are often used widely in commercial landscaping. This was also the case for the landscaping of Hume Global Learning Centre-Sunbury. Eucalyptus trees planted include "euky dwarf", "leucoxylon rosea", and "eucalyptus scentuous" (lemon scented gum).
The eucalyptus leaves are the main source of a koala’s diet. Koalas also rely on the moisture in eucalyptus leaves for most of their hydration needs. They also sleep in the eucalyptus tree. Therefore eucalyptus trees are very important for conserving koalas in the urban environment. Due to these qualities, eucalyptus is always on the favourite list of landscape designers.
The eucalyptus trees were planted in the planter pots and vases, which helped to soften the new brick walls of the Hume Global Learning centre.
WESTRINGIA
Westringia is a perennial shrub with dense blue-grey foliage that resembles rosemary. It is an easy care plant with a tidy habit. It has masses of vivid bluish purple flowers. It flowers profusely in spring and regularly at other times of the year. It is a heat-, humidity-, and highly frost tolerant shrub and is well suited to the native flower garden.
Westringia blue gem has a naturally attractive bushy growth habit and responds well to pruning. It is fast growing and does well in a wide range of conditions. It is used for hedging and bordering. It is also suited for containers.
ANIGOZANTHOS BUSH DIAMOND
Anigozanthos bush diamond, commonly known as Kangaroo Paws, is a flower native to Australia. Bush diamond is a compact, off-white flowered kangaroo paw that acts as a great colour contrast in multiple plantings.
This native plant is naturally heat and drought tolerant and enjoys full sun in well-drained soil. However, extra irrigation during flower bud formation will benefit flowering performance.
Anigozanthos are extensively used in commercial landscapes and home gardens. It flourishes best in warm and sunny places, such as balconies, terraces, and courtyards. This plant will be conspicuous and enjoyable in decorative pots, jars, and freely planted in beds in the garden. It will attract the native birds and bees to feed on the nectar.
LOMANDRA
Lomandra, more popularly known as mat rushes, is an Australian perennial herbaceous plant genus. They spread in big, open, spherical tufts, resembling green fountains or fireworks. This spherical, symmetrical form makes them perfect for solitary plantings, such as in the centre of a bed or lawn as a display plant. The clean shape of Lomandra is also maintained without the need for trimming or clipping. They make an impressive impact when used in mass plantings for extremely low-maintenance gardening.
You can place Lomandra pretty much anywhere in your garden. They will grow in wet areas like the garden pond's damp edge and dry ones like a dry herbaceous border. We plant the drought tolerant lomandra along the walls of the Global Learning Centre. This plant provides a fascinating green space between the exposed aggregate footpaths and the walls.
Banksia Birthday Candles
Banksia birthday candles are a dwarf cultivar of Banksia spinulosa and are the highest-selling native plant in Australia. It is a tough, evergreen, low-spreading small shrub with dense, dark green foliage and spectacular golden yellow flowers in autumn and winter that resemble upright candles.
Its mounded shape makes it a great border plant or a miniature hedge. It is also well suited for general landscaping, mass planting, and pots. This plant is also drought and frost tolerant once established. The flowers are outstanding and can attract native wildlife like bees and nectar-eating birds and butterflies into the garden. We used this plant as the ground cover plant in designing the Hume Global Learning Centre.
GREVILLEA BRONZE RAMBLER
Grevilleas are stunning floral Australian species that thrive freely as groundcovers in huge and dry areas. The Grevillea bronze rambler has a dense, spreading habit with thin, smooth, reddish-brown stems decorated with divided bronze-green leaves. It features deep purple-red nectar-rich toothbrush flowers that bloom all year.
It is generally fast-growing, which helps to prevent weed growth and makes for low-maintenance landscaping. It works as a ground cover in large gardens and is well-suited for slopes. It provides an excellent habitat for wildlife, such as small birds. It was also used as a ground cover in the Hume Global Learning Centre landscape design, giving a stunning and pleasing appearance.
HARDSCAPING
The design, planning, and implementation stages of any hardscape project require careful attention. At the same time, there are several important things to consider, and space utilisation is the most important. At Red's Landscaping and Design, hardscaping optimises usable space while creating an attractive garden. Red's Landscaping and Design Gardening uses only licensed and qualified tradespeople to design durable hardscapes that can be enjoyed for decades. Here are some hardscaping areas where we worked in the Hume Global Learning Centre.
CONCRETE STEPS
Concrete steps are usually the focal point of most entryways of homes and public buildings. Elevating concrete steps from bland to grand makes them the dramatic focal point of any front entrance. The concrete steps in exposed aggregate create a stunning feature in the landscape.
Concrete is a very stable construction material, which means it will not decompose or emit any toxic fumes, gases, or harmful components. This makes concrete steps ideal for hot and cold climates, as they will not quickly erode. The concrete steps are cost-efficient, use fewer labour resources, and give the construction worker several custom options. The Red's Landscaping crew in Melbourne used concrete formwork to handle the challenges of constructing long flights of stairs.
EXPOSED AGGREGATE PATHS
Exposed aggregate concrete is a great design solution for public spaces. The attractive, durable, non-slip surface makes it an ideal choice for a landscape architect. High traffic areas around public buildings often use this type of concrete path. The aggregate concrete is available in various colours to suit the landscape design. The aggregate paths are just as durable as any plain concrete surface and handle heavy traffic better than natural stone.
The Red’s Landscaping crew installed the exposed aggregate paths at the entrance and all around the Hume Global Learning Centre, which look outstanding compared to old concrete footpaths. We use alternative colours of concrete in the exposed aggregate pathway. The mulched garden bed also softens the appearance with the planting of native grasses, which increases the aesthetic appeal of the building.
More Information on Hume Global Learning Centre - Sunbury.
Landscape Designer ACLA Consultants.
Cantilever Floating Concrete Steps
Concrete Cantilever steps, also known as Concrete Floating Steps, are blocks of concrete in your yard that appear as if they are floating and not touching the ground. They give the illusion of floating concrete. They give a rugged feeling of concrete floating to justify technical advancement in the field of construction. They are now a favourite design feature amongst modern landscape designers. One might be wondering if concrete blocks can float. Well, simply speaking, 'yes'. But the answer isn’t that simple.
How to make floating concrete steps
We shall be discussing how to build cantilevered concrete steps in this article.
To start with, the concrete slab or block can be supported in different ways.
- The simplest is being supported by the ground, as in usual cases where a reinforced cement concrete block can easily be put on stable soil and that’s it.
- Following the first one, is the case where we use beams to support the concrete slab.
- Then comes the portion which overhangs and is technically called "cantilever".
We are interested in slabs or blocks that have a certain overhanging length. This look can be created using multiple techniques.
The first and most difficult method would be to create an actual cantilever slab having a fixed support. This means the step or slab should be supported from one side only.
Cantilever Concrete Slab Schematic.
This is usually difficult to achieve in the case of steps for commercial landscaping since this requires a beam like support which should be strong enough to resist torsion and bending moments generated due to the loads of the overhanging slab. Not only would it be difficult to achieve from a technical point of view, but it would also cost more since it requires more steel.
When designing this kind of cantilever, the steps should be properly designed to take the loads, which would end up being thicker and might ruin the look of the steps.
Although this would be an actual Cantilever, a similar look can be created with an easy technique where the step would technically be supported by a strong soil. Most of the slab/ step shall be supported by the ground with a part of slab overhanging.
The concrete used in this scenario shall be of good strength and the step shall be reinforced as per the design to support the bending moments created by the load.
Concrete floating steps formwork
Figure 2 Formwork for floating concrete steps [2]
The floating effect of cantilever steps can be achieved using the formwork where an extra flat is laid – 50mm x 100mm in this specific case. The flat shall actually be over the other step, which creates the floating effect after removing the formwork.
The concrete steps in this specific case are 1 metre x 1 metre, which is a nominal size. However, bigger steps can be created using the same technique. If the overhanging part is to be more than 100 mm, more steel should be provided on the top of the overhanging portion to resist the negative bending moment; this results in a hogging curve.
Another simple method is to build a foundation using concrete and put pre-cast concrete slabs on top of them. The pre-cast concrete slabs should be of good strength to ensure longevity.
What concrete should be used?
It is better to surround the steps with gravel after the construction to ensure stability. Additionally, concrete of around 25 to 30 MPa should be used to achieve a strong concrete step that will be strong and long-lasting. Steel reinforcement can be skipped if the overhang is not significant. However, steel reinforcement works against shrinkage cracks, and therefore it is recommended.
https://youtu.be/VpSOQXAodTY
If the cantilever steps are surrounded by a garden where the soil might be susceptible to sulphates, SRC (Sulphate Resisting Cement) should be used in concrete to avoid sulphate attack, which might cause spalling and cracking in concrete in later stages.
Floating Concrete Step Design
The floating steps can be designed in multiple ways to create a stunning entrance to your house.
The floating concrete steps, or cantilevered concrete steps, can be combined with other landscape design features to create a perfect landscape around your home. Concrete Floating steps can be combined with exposed aggregate concrete – i.e., floating steps with exposed concrete – to give a rugged yet state-of-the-art look to your house. Concrete floating steps – either with exposed aggregate concrete or not – can ditch the traditional concrete pathway landscape.
Our 3D design package will allow you to visualise your concrete floating step design when you work with one of our senior landscape designers. Using some advanced software and hardware, we can create immediate 3D renders. This allows visual assessment of the design from every viewpoint.
The 3D design package will let you see and understand how all the elements, including features like floating concrete steps, are integrated into the landscape design.
Our software can create an artificial sun and project light and heat on any given day or time. This ability to replicate the exact angle and temperature of the sun rays projecting on the building prior to construction is why this package is the people's favourite. With this amount of influence and control over your future outdoor space, it's easy to see how this package will drive confidence, clarity, and transparency into the build and assure all trades and parties are moving towards the same goal.
Related landscaping information from Red's landscaping Melbourne
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© 2022 Reds Landscaping and Civil Melbourne
Landscaping References and Further Reading on Concrete Cantilever Steps
[1] “Beam under torsion|www.BuildingHow.com.” https://debug.pi.gr/default.aspx?ch=58 (accessed Nov. 05, 2021).
[2] “How to Make Floating Concrete Steps — Mid Century Modern Interior Designer - Portfolio.” https://www.destinationeichler.com How the steps are made (accessed Nov. 05, 2021).
[3] “What are sagging and hogging Bending Moments? Give its sign convention.” https://www.ques10.com/p/8873/what-are-sagging-and-hogging-bending-moments-give-/ (accessed Nov. 05, 2021).
[4] “Floating Concrete Steps – How to DIY, Design & Build.” (accessed Nov. 05, 2021).
Commercial Curb Construction Techniques
Commercial Curb Construction Techniques are a vital part of commercial landscaping.
Before even starting to discuss the construction techniques of commercial curbs, it is pertinent to ask a simple yet important question: what is a curb?
What is a curb? What is curbing?
A curb is a short wall or a barrier constructed of bluestone, concrete, or asphalt. Technically speaking, a curb along with a gutter is provided to strengthen the pavement of the road, as this holds the pavement from either side. However, there are multiple advantages that come along with it. It separates the yard and/or footpaths from the road; it guides water for the proper drainage through gutter; it increases the runoff, preventing the water seepages which might affect the road itself [1]–[3].
Now that we understand what a curb is, let’s get into its types and the materials they use. Most curbs are constructed with concrete and asphalt – concrete being the most commonly used material. Concrete curbs can be
- Vertical Curb
- Flush Curb
- Mountable Curb [3].
Different types of concrete curbs
Figure 1 Types of Concrete Curbs [3]
Cast In-situ Curb Design details.
https://youtu.be/UWk9BsxmS6I
How are curbs made?
Curb Construction techniques
Concrete curbing can be done using two techniques:
- Traditional Way – i.e., using stationary forms
- Slipforming – i.e., using a Slipforming machine
The traditional way of constructing a concrete curb is no different to any other concrete structure's construction. The forms of steel, wood, or any other material (depending on where you live) are placed and tightened before the pouring of the concrete.
The concrete formwork is later removed the next day after the concrete hardens and is ready for curing.
Slipforming, however, is a new method of concrete curbing. The concrete is placed using a machine that has set the dimensions of a curb. The concrete is then placed and the machine moves to form the second part of the curb.
This type of concrete curbing depends on the setting time of the cement used in the concrete. Additional admixtures such as accelerators are usually used in the concrete to achieve a speedy construction process.
https://youtu.be/UCgma2_u_E8
Video 1 Slipforming [4]
Decorative Concrete Curb
Decorative concrete curbing is no different; it can be done using both traditional and Slipforming techniques—what changes is the type of aggregate in the concrete.
Avoiding stress and cracks in the curb
There are some additional things to take care of when constructing the curbs. The curbs, since they are made of concrete, require joints in order to avoid stresses caused by thermal expansion. Steel reinforcement can usually be avoided if proper expansion joints are provided at suitable intervals. Curing is another important thing to consider for a good quality concrete curb. Concrete tends to gain its strength over the course of years. However, most of its strength is gained during the first 28 days, and therefore proper curing should be provided. The curing time can be shortened if an accelerator or curing agent is used.
Different types of concrete curbs
Now that we are done with construction techniques and important things to consider when constructing a concrete curb, let’s talk a little about the application of different types of curbs.
Vertical Curbs
Vertical Curbs serve as barriers in addition to their basic purpose of strengthening and holding the pavement from either sides. The vertical curbs are usually constructed with monolithic gutters which drain off the storm water in order to prevent the pavement from any damage.
Flush Curbing
The flushed curb usually serves its main purpose of holding the pavement without affecting the drainage of storm water. It is flush, so it doesn’t stop the storm water from making its way to the yard and/or footpath where the drainage is usually taken care of.
Mountable Curbs
Mountable curbs are designed so that they not only hold the pavement and guide the storm water but also allow cars to drive over them. They are usually constructed with vehicle crossovers to allow the vehicles to access private properties, which later connect to driveways.
We have already come across vehicle crossovers. Let’s take some time to understand what a vehicle crossover actually is and what goes into its construction.
Vehicle Crossover
The vehicle crossover, as the Town of Cambridge describes it, is a part of the space between your private property and the road kerb [5]. The vehicle cross over is usually designed in order to provide support to the pavement and at the same time allow the passage of vehicles from the road to the private property without hurting the people walking or cycling on the footpath.
Figure 2: A typical vehicle crossover [6]
The vehicle crossover has a trapezoidal plan with splays on each side to allow the vehicles to mount from the sides. Vehicle crossovers, very similar to driveways, can be constructed using decorative aggregates. Multiple methods which can be used to construct decorative concrete driveways can be used for vehicle cross over construction as well.
Similar to the driveway, the base of the vehicle crossover should be strong enough to take the loads of vehicles without any damage. A compressive strength of 30 MPa should be able to sustain the loads. Additionally, the concrete provided shall be impermeable so as to allow the runoff of storm water. The drainage of the road should not be hindered by the construction of a crossover, and therefore, a proper drainage system should be provided. In order to avoid the skidding of cars, an exposed aggregate concrete driveway should be preferred — exposed aggregate concrete provides better skid resistance with reduced traffic noise.
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Blogs to Follow @RedsLandscaping
https://medium.com/@redslandscaping/
https://redslandscapingau.wordpress.com/
https://redslandscapingau.blogspot.com/
https://redslandscaping.edublogs.org/
References
[1] “What Are Curb and Gutter | Types of Curb and Gutter| Advantages & Disadvantages of Curb and Gutter.” Civil Jungle (accessed Oct. 31, 2021).
[2] “What is the Purpose of Curb & Gutter? - Asphalt Paving Company: Uniform Paving & Sealcoating.” Uniform Paving (accessed Oct. 31, 2021).
[3] “Multi-modal Handbook.” Multimodal Handbook (accessed Oct. 31, 2021).
[4] “GOMACO GT-3600 Concrete Curb & Gutter Slipform Machine, Tight-Radii Island Paving With 3D Guidance - YouTube.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCgma2_u_E8 (accessed Oct. 31, 2021).
[5] “Vehicle Crossover Specification.” https://www.cambridge.wa.gov.au/files/assets/public/documents-and-files/infrastructure/engineering/vehicle_crossover_specification.pdf (accessed Oct. 31, 2021).
[6] “Vehicular Crossing | Hornsby Shire Council.” https://www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/property/build/permits-and-certification/apply-for-a-permit/vehicular-crossing-permit (accessed Oct. 31, 2021).
© 2022 Reds Landscaping and Civil – Quality landscaping Melbourne
Soft and Hard Landscaping, Residential Home and Civil projects across Australia by Reds Landscaping and Design
5 Best Commercial Irrigation Systems
Commercial irrigation is the method of watering plants, crops, and pastures by using water. This water is supplied in several ways, such as sprinklers, canals, pipes, pumps, sprays, and other artificial methods instead of only depending on rainwater. It can also be defined as the technique of an advanced watering system for helping plants grow because it is practised as an alternative to rain-fed farming.
Irrigation is the method used to fulfil the water requirements of the plant or crop because water is essential for their growth. Additionally, irrigation water also provides vital nutrients to the plants, which are dissolved in this water, resulting in plants remaining green and producing a maximum and better quality yield.
Commercial Irrigation Systems
Commercial irrigation systems are designed for a broader scope. This type of irrigation system is usually used at schools, apartments, complexes, etc. Often, commercial systems irrigate those lawns and landscapes that experience heavy traffic and need more water. The commercial irrigation system is particularly prominent on sports complexes and golf courses.
Why is commercial irrigation necessary?
Your lawn is a reflection of your property. It would be attractive, like a green carpet. With the help of irrigation, you can keep your landscape alive throughout the year. Fixing an irrigation system confirms that your lawn is green, attractive, and healthy. A proper irrigation system makes it possible to irrigate your lawn without overwatering or watering concrete footpaths.
Additionally, there are several other advantages to commercial irrigation systems. Due to this, we conserve water and save money in the long run because manual irrigation wastes a tremendous amount of water and increases the water bill. Commercial irrigation systems like the drip irrigation system can prevent weed growth because they water the root systems of flowers, trees, and other plants. With drip irrigation, you can also decrease the number of weeds popping up on your commercial lawn.
With the help of commercial irrigation systems, we can save time because running a business is time-consuming. If you irrigate your lawn yourself, it will be more time-consuming and a headache for you. The benefit of having a programmed irrigation system is appropriate. It allows you to set the irrigation schedule daily or weekly, depending on the season. Due to irrigation programming, you can only guess how much water your commercial landscape requires.
The five best commercial irrigation systems
The design of the landscape was incomplete without a proper irrigation plan. Because depending on rainwater is impossible, specifically in Australia where the rainfall is insufficient and unreliable. There are a lot of options for commercial irrigation systems, and each has its benefits. In all these systems, which method is better? The answer to this question depends on numerous aspects such as soil, planting, climate, and exposure. Planning your irrigation needs is a critical part of landscape design. These are the five best commercial irrigation systems that can fulfil your lawn's water requirements and keep it healthy.
1) Sprinkler Irrigation System
It is the application of water in a spray formed from water flow under pressure through small nozzles and openings. The flexibility of present-day sprinkler equipment and its efficient control of water application make this method more useful for commercial lawns and landscapes, agronomic crops, and vegetable production.
The most common method of sprinkler irrigation is to put water uniformly on the soil surface to replace the water extracted by plants. The pressure is generally obtained by pumping, even though gravity might obtain it if the water source is high enough above the irrigated area.
Advantages of sprinkler irrigation systems
Some of the essential advantages of the sprinkler irrigation system are
- It is reasonable and completely set up. You would not have to spend much on labour costs for setting it up.
- There is no necessity to use many areas of your field for setting up sprinkler irrigation.
- The intervention with cultivation for setting up the sprinkler irrigation is pointedly less. So, you will not face a huge loss.
- Frequent applications of water can be provided to the plants. You do not need to do it yourself.
- The dispersion will consistently be equivalent.
- The amount of water being provided can be controlled, so you will also be able to save water subjected to the necessity and requirement of plants.
- Sprinkler irrigation is appropriate for setting up in all types of soil.
- This system can be used for different purposes, as well as cooling during high temperatures.
Disadvantages of sprinkler irrigation systems
The following are the disadvantages of sprinkler irrigation systems:
- The investment cost required for buying the apparatus for the sprinkler irrigation system is high.
- When spraying water droplets uniformly, there is a requirement for a constant water supply.
- A nonstop power supply is essential for operating sprinkler irrigation systems.
- The chance of evaporation is greatest if the environment is windy.
- Due to the presence of debris and other deposits in the nozzles, they can get clogged.
2) Drip Irrigation System
In this irrigation system, a network of pipes is laid in the area you want to irrigate. The tubes have emitters or holes at intervals that help deliver water to the roots of the plants. Drip irrigation is best for gardens and commercial lawns. It can also be used in high-value crops, including vineyards and orchards.
The pipes for drip irrigation can be buried or placed above ground. Because it uses 30 to 50 percent less water than other irrigation systems, drip irrigation is popular. The water drips gradually and only reaches the plant roots.
Advantages of a drip irrigation system
The following are some advantages of a drip irrigation system:
- Water is used as efficiently as possible in this irrigation system.
- Leaching is decreased as a result of local application of water, and nutrient leaching is also decreased.
- Water will be unavailable for weeds, so their growth is limited because they cannot absorb moisture.
- The yield of the crop will be maximum because of maximum water and nutrient use efficiency.
- It also prevents the erosion of soil.
- The energy cost is minimal as it is operated at a lower pressure than other irrigation systems.
- In uneven terrain, the drip irrigation method can provide balanced irrigation.
Disadvantages of drip irrigation systems
Following are some demerits of drip irrigation systems:
- It may be expensive.
- It needs extraordinary practical knowledge for a successful operation.
- In heavy soils, it causes difficulties with movement and water blockages.
- Plants can obtain essential nutrients in a small space.
- Maximum attention has to be paid to holes in drippers since the soil may come along with water at any time, which will prevent water from dripping smoothly from holes.
3) Surface Irrigation System
In a surface irrigation system, water is applied and distributed over the soil surface by gravity. It is the most common form of irrigation throughout the world and has been practised in many areas virtually unchanged for thousands of years. In this type of irrigation, water is supplied to the top end of the lawn, and it will flow or advance above the field size. After the water spreads to the end of the field, it will run off or start towards the pond. Surface irrigation is also known as flood irrigation. Surface irrigation comes in three major types, such as level basin, furrow, and border strip.
Basin irrigation: irrigation of land by surrounding it with barriers to form a basin and flooding it with water.
Furrow irrigation is a method of laying out the water channels in such a way that gravity provides just enough water for suitable plants.
Border strip irrigation is a type of surface irrigation where the field is divided into strips separated by border ridges, and the area between the ridges is flooded during irrigation.
Advantages of a surface irrigation system
Following are the advantages of a surface irrigation system:
- The management of surface irrigation systems is relatively easy, and you do not need any recent machinery. If you have limited traditional information, you can do it.
- You do not need the proper economic support. You can be advantageous with small lands too.
- If you have short-term water supplies, then this is the best process for you.
- You need longer tubes if the drainage system is far from you.
- The surface irrigation system is nature friendly. Due to surface irrigation, you can also use rainwater.
- The surface irrigation system can also work efficiently at the minimum rate of filtration.
- You can use this type of irrigation process on sloping lands and long commercial landscapes.
- Gravity provides the necessary energy for surface irrigation systems. It is a significant advantage in today’s economy to use negligible energy.
Disadvantages of surface irrigation
The following are the disadvantages of surface irrigation:
- Level lands require high accuracy, and you cannot use them there.
- not appropriate for soil with a great rate of filtration.
- Plants are continuously enclosed with water, even when they do not need it.
- Sometimes a limited space gets more water than required.
- No drainage outlet
4) Centre Pivot Irrigation System
A centre pivot irrigation system refers to a mechanical irrigation system that can help irrigate crops by maintaining a circular pattern around a centre pivot. It essentially consists of a long radial pipe that is supported by sprinkler towers. These towers pivot around the centre of the whole mechanism. The tubes consist of equally spaced nozzles to supply water to the surroundings. As the lines rotate, the water is uniformly released from the nozzles.
The centre-pivot irrigation system is the most popular globally because of its high efficiency, high uniformity, ability to irrigate uneven terrain, and low capital, maintenance, and management costs.
Advantages of a centre pivot irrigation system
The pivot irrigation system has many advantages, including
- To meet crop water needs, the system can apply the prescribed amount of water. It lessens the likelihood of deep percolation or surface runoff.
- It has been reported that the efficiency of the new design machine is 80-95% compared to 50-90% for the surface irrigation system.
- The requirement for labourers is generally low as compared to the surface irrigation system.
- Herbicides and pesticides can also be applied using this irrigation system.
- It may operate at a lower pressure, thus conserving energy.
- No need to level the land means significant financial and environmental savings.
Disadvantages of the centre pivot irrigation system
There is no perfect irrigation system. Every type has advantages and disadvantages. The negatives associated with the centre pivot include the following:
- high initial cost
- high maintenance costs
- The field surface should be flat.
- Not suitable for irrigation in windy conditions. Uneven water application may occur, and applied fertilisers may be carried away.
5) Subsurface Commercial Irrigation Systems
In this irrigation system, water is applied beneath the land's surface through a network of buried perforated or open jointed pipes. As water is passed under pressure in these pipes, it comes through open joints. The depth of the pipes should not be less than 40 cm so that these do not cause any interference with the cultivation. The water used in this type of irrigation should be of good quality, so the perforations do not get clogged. The subsurface irrigation system is growing in importance today. It provides numerous opportunities for large-scale and small growers alike.
Advantages of subsurface commercial irrigation systems
Some advantages of subsurface irrigation systems include
- There is an immediate reduction in cost simply because there is no need for a worker to water plants since the subsurface irrigates the field automatically.
- It costs less to water plants more fully. In the process, less water is lost, and there is no runoff or evaporation.
- Excellent performance in the windy and arid location
- Plants grown in these conditions may grow more uniformly. The water is evenly distributed across all plants, improving the overall growth level.
- Frequent irrigation allows for optimum soil moisture content in the root zone.
Disadvantages of subsurface commercial irrigation systems
Some disadvantages of the subsurface irrigation system are given below.
- Driving vehicles over a subsurface irrigation system will likely damage the piping.
- Bacterial slime and algae growing on the interior walls of the laterals and emitters, combined with clay particles in the water, can block the emitters.
- A lot of repair work is caused by rodents chewing the tubes.
- Storage facilities for effluent must exist for extended periods when the ground for subsurface irrigation systems is wet or frozen.
Reds Landscaping and Design offers comprehensive irrigation plan design services to meet the needs of any project, big or small. With over 25 years of experience, our team of certified irrigation designers will work closely with you to create a customised plan that meets your specific goals.
Whether you're looking to install a new system or upgrade an existing one, we have the experience and expertise to get the job done right. We use the latest technology and software to create highly efficient and effective irrigation plans that will save you time and money. Contact us today to learn more about our irrigation plan design services.
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Soft and Hard Landscaping, Residential Home and Civil projects across Australia by Reds Landscaping and Design
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Irrigation References and Further Information
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Driveways
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Driveways are made from one of the most versatile construction material available. Researchers and scientists from all around the world have been studying and experimenting to make concrete a better and more sustainable material.
The Durability of Concrete
Its durability and ease of construction make concrete a first choice for designers and constructors alike in an array of projects. The construction of exposed aggregate concrete driveways is no different. Gone are the days when the driveways were only bituminous, i.e., flexible, which required a very good base to transfer the loads to the soil. Concrete driveways and pavements are rigid, which use the slab action to transfer the loads and therefore work fine even if the base has flaws.
With time, concrete driveways have evolved to exposed aggregate concrete driveways, which are now pretty standard in a number of countries due to the benefits they provide. Exposed aggregate concrete driveways and/or pavements are, simply speaking, concrete pavements having aggregates exposed on the top layer. This brings a beautiful yet rugged feeling to the pavement along with the required friction that a driveway needs.
A plethora of research studies suggest that exposed aggregate concrete driveways offer better skid resistance with less traffic noise (What Is Exposed Aggregate? Exposed Aggregate Concrete Explained, n.d.; Zhang et al., 2014). Although there are multiple other reasons to choose an exposed aggregate concrete driveway over the conventional ones, the two mentioned above set this kind of driveway apart because it deals with noise pollution and provides more safety than its counterparts. Not only has it been used in driveways at private properties, but also on highways all around the world. Some countries, like Australia and the UK, have even gone as far as creating highways and studying their benefits over years long research projects.
Figure 2 Skid Marks (What You Should Do When Tire Skid Marks Appear in Your Street, n.d.)
7 reasons to choose an exposed aggregate concrete driveway over a conventional concrete driveway.
- Skid Resistance – a safer choice.
- Less Vehicular Noise—environmentally sustainable.
- Reduced Glaring
- Versatile – can be produced in different colours with different aggregate textures
- Durable – it is as durable as conventional concrete and can last for around four decades
- Cost Effective - Although a little more expensive than conventional concrete, it offers a cost effective package considering the benefits it brings along with it.
- Ease of construction - It is easier to construct as compared to other options which offer an aesthetic value to the driveway.
As noted above, exposed aggregate concrete offers a more aesthetic yet safer alternative to a conventional concrete driveway. It brings in the option of multiple textures and colours that one can get with the usage of different kinds of aggregates to be exposed on the top layer. Further, variation in colour can be achieved using pigmented cement to create a contrast between the construction and the driveway.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete, although first utilised in the 1990s in Australia and the UK, is still a recent trend for many residences and in commercial landscaping.
Q: How is an exposed aggregate concrete driveway constructed.
Different exposed aggregate concrete installers will have slightly different construction techniques. Technically speaking, there are four methods to achieve an exposed aggregate concrete finish for your driveway.
- Brushing and Washing: The oldest yet simplest method. After some time, the surface of concrete is washed and brushed using a broom to a desirable depth where the aggregates are exposed.
- Using Chemicals: Chemicals – retarders to be specific – are sprayed on the top surface, which slows the setting and hardening time of the upper layer, which later becomes easy to remove.
- Seeding the decorative aggregate: This is rather easy and provides the finishing of one’s own choice. Right after placing the concrete, one can seed the decorative aggregate on the top layer.
- Topping: This method is used when an existing conventional concrete is upgraded to an exposed aggregate concrete driveway. A small layer of exposed aggregate concrete is poured over the already existing slab.
- Mixing the decorative aggregate: Mixing the aggregate to be exposed in the concrete would be an expensive but less labour intensive task.
Q: Is exposed aggregate concrete expensive?
Yes, but not by a huge percentage. Decorative aggregates are usually required in this case, which costs a little higher than conventional aggregate. So, too, is the case with retarding agents – if used!
Q: Is exposed aggregate concrete strong?
Exposed Aggregate Concrete is as strong as conventional concrete. It is no different than conventional concrete except for its surface. It can take vehicular loads just as well as conventional concrete, even during extreme weather conditions.
Q: Should you seal exposed aggregate concrete driveway?
Yes, the exposed aggregate concrete driveway – very similar to a conventional concrete driveway – requires sealing every 4 to 5 years.
Related Concrete Information from Red's Landscaping Melbourne
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© Red’s Landscaping Melbourne - Quality Landscapers Melbourne
References
5 Incredible Advantages of Having Exposed Aggregate Concrete in Your Home - TechSling Weblog. (n.d.). Retrieved October 16, 2021, from https://www.techsling.com/5-incredible-advantages-exposed-aggregate-concrete-home/
Exposed Aggregate Concrete - Decorative Pebble Finish - Concrete Network. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/exposedaggregate/
Nakhi, A. Ben, & Alhumoud, J. M. (2019). Effects of Recycled Aggregate on Concrete Mix and Exposure to Chloride.
Perth’s Best Exposed Aggregate Driveways - Decorative Concrete WA. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://www.decorativeconcretewa.com.au/exposed-aggregate/
Understanding the Meaning of Exposed Aggregate Concrete. (n.d.). Retrieved October 16, 2021, from http://www.cedarlinecontracting.ca/understanding-meaning-exposed-aggregate-concrete/
What Is Exposed Aggregate? Exposed Aggregate Concrete Explained. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://www.absolutescapes.com.au/faq/what-is-exposed-aggregate/
What You Should Do When Tyre Skid Marks Appear in Your Street. (n.d.). Retrieved October 16, 2021, from https://www.staineaters.com.au/burnout-mark-removal/
Zhang, J. P., Liu, G. Q., & Wang, P. Z. (2014). Skid-Resistance and Noise-Reducing Characteristics of Exposed-Aggregate Cement Concrete Pavement. Advanced Materials Research, 1052, 352–357. https://doi.org/10.4028/WWW.SCIENTIFIC.NET/AMR.1052.352
7 Reasons to Choose Concrete Pavement
Concrete pavement is the most durable, strongest, and cost effective road surfaces readily available. It also has an important niche in commercial landscaping. Technically speaking, is one of two major pavement types: flexible pavements and rigid pavements. In this news article, we shall talk about seven reasons why concrete pavements are a better choice, especially when it comes to commercial landscaping.
Bituminous, or asphalt, pavements and roads have layers of material that transfer the load directly to the sub-grade. They are called flexible pavements since the pavement structure bends and deflects when under traffic loads, thereby providing a load tolerance as compared to concrete pavements.
Rigid pavements, like concrete pavements, are usually reinforced with steel. They are stiffer when compared to asphalt roads due to the comparatively high modulus of elasticity of reinforced concrete. It is for this reason that the pavement will transfer the load over a wide area of the sub-grade. This results in much lower stress levels in the sub-grade and increases the road's durability.
Concrete pavements usually act as concrete slabs and therefore transfer the load to a larger area, creating a lower stress. Concrete pavements, therefore, are usually thinner as compared to asphalt pavements [1]. This can be a great advantage when there is infrastructure under the road that the commercial road maker needs to avoid.
1. Longevity of Concrete Pavement
Concrete pavements usually last longer. On average, concrete pavements can last for 20–40 years, as compared to 10-15 years of flexible pavements. These numbers are estimated for pavements under high traffic loads. With commercial landscaping pavement, the lifetime of the road can be even higher [1].
2. Ease of Construction of Concrete Pavement
As discussed earlier, concrete pavements distribute the load directly to the sub-grade or base course, in some cases, as compared to multiple layers of asphalt pavements. Such layers are difficult to prepare since special types of construction materials and machines are required.
The construction of concrete pavements is comparatively easy. No heavy road roller machines are required, and the concrete material can be pumped in. This makes concrete pavement the ideal solution for the construction of roads over basement car parks.
Additionally, concrete pavements are designed using scientific approaches and equations rather than empirical ones, which are still used for certain asphalt pavements. Bitumen, required for asphalt pavements, comes in different grades depending on the weather conditions, which can be a hectic process. Concrete comes in different grades based on its strength but is easily available due to its vast usage in the construction industry [3].
1. Low Maintenance concrete pavements
A concrete pavement hardly requires any maintenance and/or repair unless subjected to loads higher than it is designed for. In the case of commercial landscaping, the concrete pavements are not subjected to any high loads and therefore require almost no repair or maintenance as compared to their counterparts. Asphalt pavements, on the other hand, are prone to damage not only when subjected to higher loads but also when they are in contact with oil and/or other chemicals, unlike concrete pavements [4].
2. Lower Reliance on Pavement Sub-grade
Concrete pavements, unlike asphalt pavements, rely less on the subgrade material and more on the flexural strength of the concrete. The subgrade, if it fails or is weak at certain parts of the pavement, does not affect the concrete pavement since it works as a slab. It can ignore certain imperfections in the subgrade without affecting the quality of the pavement. Asphalt pavements, as compared to their contenders, would require repair in such cases due to their high reliance on subgrade. Therefore, the subgrade should be of high quality in the case of asphalt pavement [4].
3. Surface Characteristics
A good concrete surface is free from potholes, rutting, and/or corrugations. These problems do come in localized failures, which are avoidable in concrete due to its slab nature. The aforesaid problems are commonly faced when dealing with asphalt pavements [5].
4. Impervious Layer
Concrete pavements are impervious and provide better sealing as compared to asphalt. Water tends to penetrate and affect the lower layers of the asphalt [5]. This is another great reason to use concrete construction over subterranean basements.
5. Innovative
With concrete being the most used construction material, a lot of research is conducted which deals with making concrete better. Innovations like self-healing of concrete, permeable concrete (aka pervious concrete), etc. prove that concrete is the construction material from the past that is going to stay with us in the future [6]. Commercial landscaping can be the first industry to try out such innovative concrete types since the pavements in this industry are exposed to very high loads and such innovative concrete types can perform better in such conditions.
Additionally, concrete tends to provide better visibility as compared to asphalt pavements, which are black in colour and provide poor visibility, especially in the dark. Concrete is also easily available in bags which require mixing with water only or available from concrete plants which can pour concrete in a small time frame. Admixtures can be added to achieve special requirements such as air-entraining agents can be used to avoid freeze and thaw damage in areas where the temperatures can drop to a freezing point.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wm4H65EDbE
Innovative concrete pavement decorative finishes
One of the greatest advantages over asphalt is the enormous range of modern decorative finishes available. One of the most widely used decorative concrete finishes in both residential and commercial landscaping is exposed aggregate concrete. The aggregates are available in a wide range of colours to suit your landscape design. The available colours include red, brown, dark grey basalt, green quarts, as well as black and white. In combination with this selection, the fine grain aggregates or sands are also available in a wide range of selections. The colour of this fine aggregate will also be more dominant when the surface is lightly abraded.
Contact us for your next concrete pavement project.
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Concrete Pavement References
[1] “Pavement Types – Pavement Interactive.” https://pavementinteractive.org/reference-desk/pavement-types-and-history/pavement-types/ (accessed Oct. 01, 2021).
[2] “Difference Between Flexible And Rigid Pavement | Engineering Discoveries.” https://www.engineeringdiscoveries.net/2019/07/difference-between-flexible-and-rigid.html (accessed Oct. 01, 2021).
[3] Neenu S K, “Difference Between Reinforced Concrete (RC) and Steel Structures.” https://theconstructor.org/building/difference-between-reinforced-concrete-rc-steel-structures/35075/ (accessed Apr. 23, 2021).
[4] “Difference Between Flexible Pavement And Rigid Pavement.” https://dailycivil.com/difference-flexible-pavements-rigid-pavements/ (accessed Oct. 01, 2021).
[5] “Difference Between Flexible Pavement and Rigid Pavement | What is Pavement | Types of Pavement -.” https://civiljungle.com/difference-between-flexible-pavement-rigid-pavement/ (accessed Oct. 01, 2021).
[6] J. Yang and G. Jiang, “Experimental study on properties of pervious materials,” Cem. Concr. Res., vol. 33, no. 3, pp. 381–386, 2003, doi: 10.1016/S0008-8846(02)00966-3.
[7] S. R. Tabiyar, D. V. R. Patel, and K. Nair, “A Review on Experimental Study of Bacterial based Self-Healing Concrete,” 2018.
[8] “Carbon Fiber Reinforces Pervious Concrete | Fluence.” https://www.fluencecorp.com/pervious-concrete-with-recycled-carbon-fiber/ (accessed Oct. 01, 2021).