The Benefits of a Composite Deck

Oh, the joy of the deck! The grill, lounge chairs, hopefully the view and in many cases, the most popular place at home to relax. This is where people retire to at the end of a long day, watch the sunrise and sunset, eat and extend the living space of the home dramatically. This is where friends often come for a fun Sunday brunch or informal gathering to celebrate a special day. If you are thinking about adding a deck or redoing an existing structure, you’ll find lots of choices on the market today. By The Blade Lawn & Landscape specializes in deck design and has won many awards for the outdoor luxury landscape and deck design features that have been built. One popular choice that many people choose today is that of a composite deck. There are so many advantages to using a composite deck and in particular with Kansas City (KC) residents, the KC seasons can be very dramatic in temperature swings, sun and heat, to wind, rain and snow, all which take their toll on the traditional deck. Homeowners will appreciate the fact that composite decking does not rot over the long term and is aesthetically pleasing. Homeowners love how the composite deck material looks like wood, easy to install and makes use of materials that are being recycled. 

Does Not Rot 

Putting a wood deck means that the wood is exposed to the elements. In as little as a few months, the brand-new deck may start to fade, break down coatings and the deterioration process begins. This will increase over time and overall cost of this kind of deck based on upkeep, maintenance, life cycle and replacement costs are much higher in the long run than the cost of composite decks. Using a composite deck does generally costs more initially, However, the composite deck costs when compared to traditional wood decks, are generally lower because once installed, the deck will not need to be replaced for a much longer life cycle compared to a wooden deck. 

Composite Deck Installation & Benefits

Another advantage of this kind of deck is that it is easy to install. These materials are much lighter than standard deck materials. This means the material can get it in place quickly and easier to handle and By The Blade Lawn & Landscape follows local standards of care, install and ordinances when installing composite decks.

The composite deck, while lighter and more durable, has the advantage of looking like wood. This kind of wood look can change the entire backyard look to a desirable, luxury outdoor living space and experience. Low maintenance of composite deck material comes to the rescue with all the beauty of wood without the high maintenance costs. 

Composite decks are easy on the environment and made from recycled materials such as sawdust and plastic bags and other items that would ordinarily end up in landfills. 

So what are you waiting for? By The Blade Lawn & Landscape is a premiere deck material vendor, KC deck designer and composite deck builder ready to meet with you about your dream deck.

Lawn Fertilization 101

The method and timeline for your lawn fertilization can depend on quite a few different things. Your goals and needs for your lawn, budget, and physical ability to do it yourself are just a few to name. Here we will address when you should fertilize your lawn, seasonal fertilization, and how to hire a professional to take care of all of this for you!

When To Fertilize

To begin, here is a typical fertilizing schedule over the course of a four-season year:

1. First treatment is applied in early spring,
2. The second is applied at the end of the spring season.
3. The third is applied in mid-summer
4. A fourth treatment occurs in early fall,
5. And a fifth and final treatment is usually applied in late fall.
6. Occasionally, a winter application is also recommended.

Spring Fertilization

The first two treatments of the year are arguably the most important. These applications will boost the growth of your lawn more than any other treatment throughout the year. Both post-emergent and pre-emergent weed treatment should be included. The post-emergent will take care of any weeds that may have already germinated while the pre-emergent is more of a preventative measure for those that may come during the summer months.

Summer Fertilization

In most cases, a lighter application is recommended for the summer months. This treatment will serve to encourage color and growth throughout the hot, dry season.

Fall Fertilization

Depending on the health of your lawn, the fall treatment will often be applied in combination with seed to promote germination and also to address any weeds that may appear during the fall.

Winter Fertilization

During winter, many people choose to apply an additional fertilization treatment. A winter treatment will serve to maintain color and health during the cold season and help to prepare it for a healthy coming spring.

If you are going to try and tackle your fertilizing schedule on your own, here is a helpful tip: use your local CO-OP or locally owned lawn and garden shops. These resources often much more knowledgeable staff than your average big lawn and hardware department store.

Why hiring help will make your life 10x easier:

One of the biggest challenges of DIY fertilization is taking care of the weeds that have already germinated. To get rid of these, you’ll most likely have to use a granular weed and feed which won’t be effective unless applied first thing in the morning when the grass is still wet with dew. This is because the particles need to stick to the leaves on the weeds in order to work its magic. But the pro’s make it much easier with their giant tanks of chemical, getting the job done in one fell swoop.

To learn more about the best care for your lawn during this season, call your local Kansas City Lawn Care company, By the Blade KC!

By The Blade Kansas City Chosen as a Top Landscaper

By The Blade Parkville was recently chosen by Expertise.com as one of the top 11 landscape companies in Kansas City! After looking at over 100, Expertise saw what our customers see – a high-quality, family-owned company working hard each day to serve the Parkville and Kansas City areas. We’re honored to accept this award and look forward to many more years of success and serving our community!

Check out the full article here.

An organic approach: By the Blade Lawn and Landscape starts from the ground up

It’s finally patio season — where are you sitting right now?

Are you waiting in line to soak up the sun at yet another crowded restaurant or busy pool or are you lounging in your backyard oasis? Patrick Vogt, founder and owner of By The Blade Lawn and Landscape, thinks that you should be able to escape without ever leaving your yard. With his holistic approach to landscaping, he finds ways to enjoy the outdoors all year long.

The business, which has served the Kansas City area for 23 years, is focused on creating outdoor spaces that keep people in their homes.

“A lot of the people that we work with say that once we are done, they don’t need to take as many vacations. They are so relaxed enjoying their own outdoor space that they don’t feel the need to escape. Being able to spend time outside and enjoy your home is an incredible value,” says Vogt.

While By the Blade has a wide range of experience creating outdoor kitchens, living rooms, water features and landscaping, Vogt says that currently composite decks are gaining popularity. Using composite materials means that there’s little to no upkeep and plenty of time to enjoy that spacious deck that leads into an in-ground pool, outdoor kitchen or fire pit, rather than staining and sealing wood every year.

As pool season approaches, Vogt and his team look forward to creating new aquascapes and pool spaces. Unlike many landscaping companies, they handle pool design and installation as well.

“We take a holistic approach. Because the pool is the major focal point of the backyard, sometimes there are things that can get missed as far as flow, atmosphere and the ambiance that’s created. By controlling that in house, we can make sure that the project works outside but also from inside the home. We design projects with all age groups in mind — kids, grandparents, parents — and we try to make sure that everyone has their own area while not feeling separated from each other,” says Vogt.

Creating that ambiance means using the best that the industry has to offer from automated lighting to easy to use gas fire pits. Managing and entire backyard project also means that nothing is missed like the optimum placement of seating areas, stairs and green space in order to ensure a great flow to your yard.

This attention to the flow and feeling of each project means that your pool is more than just a place to swim; it’s where you make memories. Vogt says that when it comes to adding value to a home, there’s no real way to price outdoor living space. It’s where memories are made — birthday parties, relaxed evenings after an al fresco dinner, and the raucous splash-filled afternoons with the kids or grandkids.

With the right outdoor room or pool project, you can enjoy the outdoors in Kansas City for three seasons each year. Let By The Blade explore how to make the best of your outdoor space this year!

It’s Time to Schedule Your Sprinkler System Winterization

It’s time to prepare irrigation systems for Old Man Winter. Long periods of freezing
temperatures can cause the soil to freeze at the same depth as underground pipes. To avoid
costly repairs come spring, it’s important to shut off the main valve and disable the controller,
drain the pipes and insulate the backflow preventer.

Even when a system has been turned off at the controller, water still remains in the pipe, valves
and heads, especially at low-lying areas, until compressed air is used to blow it out. Our shut-
down service includes a compressed air blow-out.

Now is the time to protect and prepare. A sprinkler system winterized by a professional is
relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of freeze repairs. We’ll be reaching out to schedule
this preventative maintenance service, but if you have a preferred date/time in mind, please
give us a call: 816.505.0444.

Kansas City Autumn Landscaping – Prepare for the Winter and Thrive in the Spring

The first day of winter, 2019 will be Saturday December 21, and even though that seems like a long way off, now is the time to plan and schedule some gardening and landscaping projects that will make life easier in the spring, and keep your home more beautiful.

Some things to put on your autumn landscaping checklist right now:

• Cut back dead tree limbs and hedges. Winter storms will blow hollow, dead tree limbs into windows and power lines, causing all kinds of problems. Cold wind blowing into your house while having no electricity is not a nice way to spend the holidays.
• Get rid of tired annuals, as well as the snails and slugs breed in the fall and feed on your plants.
• Clear out the flower beds and make room for new spring growth.
• Aerate Your Lawn. This is a good thing to prepare your lawn for the long, cold winter. You’ll be sure to get nutrients down there before it gets too cold to reach the roots.
• Many grasses need to be fertilized in the fall. They will be far more lush and healthy next summer.
• Mulching will protect areas that are expecting bulbs to sprout in the spring.
• Plant trees. Many trees can be planted in the fall and are strong enough to endure the cold winter. They’ll have a head start in the spring and grow strong during the summer.
• Protect plants and trees from rodents. Remember that many animals will be getting ready for winter so they may make meals out of some vegetation you want to preserve.
• Protect roses. If you’re a rose grower, get ready to protect your bushes for the winter.

When will the leaves be at their peak for autumn viewing? The Missouri Department of Conservation has some good info here.

Kansas City Autumn Landscaping

As with most things in life, a little preparation goes a long way, and a little work today will reap big benefits in the future. We cannot stress enough how some autumn landscaping and maintenance will pay off in the spring. In the long run it will save you time and money.

Not sure about what you should be doing, or do you need some professional assistance? We’re here to help! Call us at 816-505-0444 and we’ll take a look at your property. Our goal is to enhance the look and the value of your property with tender loving care while keeping your budget in mind.

Outdoor Residential and Commercial Lighting in Kansas City

Smart Lighting will Beautify and Boost Security for Your Home or Business


People entertain and spend more time outdoors in the summer and fall, but it’s unnerving to gather friends and family together for drinks or a barbecue outside and then stand there in the dark because your lights don’t work.

Energy-saving, state-of-the-art outside lighting systems will add a delightful ambiance to any night-time experience or simply beautify your home or business. Smart lighting systems can be controlled remotely from a smart phone or tablet and are great features that help boost the appearance and value of your home.

Lighting your landscaping, pool area, sauna, deck & patio, and other areas makes sense in many ways.

Study after study proves that outdoor lighting deters crime, but you don’t have to spend a fortune on a new lighting system and low-energy options are not only available, we encourage them. Long-lasting bulbs and quality fixtures will provide light when you flip the switch and not disappointing darkness.

It’s important to remember that well-lit entrances, walkways, and stairs are much safer for people and less likely to be the scene of a stumble and fall. Inadequate lighting causes thousands of people to trip and fall every year and the cost of injuries and lawsuits is extremely high. Every homeowner and business owner or property manager should be aware of “premises liability” which is the responsibility to maintain a safe environment for people.

Commercial properties are often not given priority for outdoor lighting systems, but they should. People who drive or walk by your business even when it’s closed can be impressed by the appearance. Security for businesses is an issue as well, since burglars figure most businesses are unoccupied at night. People with evil intentions, however, don’t want to be spotted and will likely choose a dark area to carry out their break-ins.

Kansas City Landscape Design

Outdoor lighting is a part of By the Blade’s landscaping service. Electricians with years of outdoor experience conduct all the work and our products are superior in quality and value. We will be happy to take a look at your home or business and design a lighting plan that fits your budget. Call 816-505-0444 to speak with us about brightening up your world today.

TimberTech Composite Decks in Kansas City

Beauty and Durability Combine for a Valuable Addition to Your Home

Summer is just heating up and people are spending more time cooking, relaxing, and enjoying life outdoors. Having a steady, sturdy, and attractive deck enhances the experience and also adds value to your home.

Composite deck materials have been developed to outlast wood decks and By the Blade is proud to offer deck systems from TimberTech, the leading manufacturer of composite decks in the nation:

As the outdoor living division of AZEK Building Products, TimberTech is going against the grain by being innovative to our core, relentless about quality and ever focused on making the best products without harming our planet. Expertly designed to replace wood, metal and other building materials, our products are revolutionary without sacrificing style or quality.

What are some of the advantages of an outdoor composite deck?

Durability – Composite decks last long, resist fading, cracking, mold, and they will not rot. No splinters means it’s safer for everyone, especially kids.

Low Maintenance – No sanding, staining, or painting, just a soap and water cleaning every now and then will keep your deck in beautiful shape. Ask us about a 25-year Fade and Stain Warranty on Trex decking.

Appearance – With a wide range of colors, you can find the look that compliments the look that fits you and your home. We can even help you design a deck with different shades that combine to make a unique and appealing surface.

Sustainability – Composite decks look like wood but they’re not. No trees are destroyed, in fact recycled products go into the manufacturing of composite deck materials.

Value – The initial cost of a composite deck may be more than wood, but in the long run it usually saves the homeowner money.

In a National Association of Realtors/National Association of Landscape Professionals study, a new deck will recover 106% of its original cost when the home is sold.

TimberTech Decks in Kansas City

If you’re not sure about investing in a new deck for your home, we’re here to answer your questions. We can help with planning, designing, and even financing a new deck and if you decide to move forward we make the construction process as smooth and seamless as possible. 816-505-0444 is the number to call if you’d like to speak with a deck expert on our staff.

Employee Spotlight: Chris Keedy

Meet Chris Keedy, Account Manager, 3 months

Chris started his lawn and landscaping career in 2000 for Miller’s Nursery & Lawn Care. In 2007, Chris became self-employed and has run his own lawn and landscaping company in Parkville, MO. Chris joined By The Blade as the Lawn Care Manager in 2019. Chris serves and worships at Real.KC Church in Lenexa, KS.

Favorite Winter Activity: Being with family 
When Traveling I Escape to: St. John, US Virgin Islands
I Caffeinate With: Coffee and Dr. Pepper 
Favorite Holiday: Christmas 
My Radio is Always Tuned to: 97.3 K-Love 
Best Part of My Job: Creating beautiful lawns 
Favorite Way to Spend Time Away from Work: Family and church, serving in the Ministry Tres Dias 
People Would Be Surprised to Learn: I have 6 kids: Payton, 16; Paige, 14; Colton, 12; Lauren, 7; Easton and Aubrey (twins), 3. 
Three Words That Best Describe Me: Outgoing. Motivated. Caring. 
Anything else you’d like to add: As for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:15

Advantages of Owning an In Ground Pool

Good Health and Increased Property Value Lead the List of Positive Benefits

If you had a pool growing up and your other neighbors didn’t you were probably one of the most popular kids in town because everyone loves a swimming pool. A pool is like a magnet on a hot day when the best way to cool off is to immerse yourself in fresh, cool water.

Many people don’t even look into the possibility of owning their own pool because they have a mental block that tells them “it’s too expensive,” but that is very often not the case.

People sometimes put up barriers when considering a new in-ground pool, but there is a positive flip for each one of them:

1. It costs too much to maintain. This will vary according to the size of the pool and whether you hire a pro to clean and add chemicals as needed to your pool, but costs can run from $30 per month to $250 per month. A new pool will have very few, if any issues and will likely have a guarantee if something breaks.
2. It’s not worth the investment. There are several issues which will determine the return on investment (ROI) from new in-ground pool. If you are wondering if a $30,000 pool will add $30,000 value to your home, the answer is maybe. Location is a big part the answer to that question, and a licensed appraiser or Realtor can help you with that information. The benefits to your lifestyle will be large.
3. No one will use the pool. This one is up to you. Swimming pools provide a perfect setting for outdoor entertainment and they add a peaceful setting for fun and relaxation.
4. It’s too expensive. Financing is available, and our team of in-ground swimming pool experts can design a pool that’s right for your home, right for your lifestyle, and right for your budget. Often you can structure financing to cover a new pool as part of a re-finance of an existing home loan and come away with lower payments that you are currently paying.

The benefits of swimming are remarkable. A low-impact, natural cardio-exercise that works on virtually every muscle in the body, swimming is considered by physiologists to be the “perfect” way to stay in shape. You’ll add years to your life and life to your years.

In Ground Pools in Kansas City

There is absolutely no obligation to call us and discuss fulfilling your dream of an in-ground pool to your home in the Kansas City area. We can answer every question you have and some you haven’t thought of so you’re completely at ease with the whole process.

Call our pool team at 816-505-0444 for a consultation today!

In-Ground Pools in Kansas City

A Well-Designed Pool and Landscaping Will Enhance Your Quality of Life; add Appeal and Value to Your Home.

For thousands of years people have settled and built cities and civilizations by the water. Cities and towns have been founded along rivers, at the edge of lakes, or by the ocean because water is necessary for life, health, and peace of mind.

It is well established that working and living environments have a profound effect on health, and water has a known calming effect. The term “green space” (landscaping) refers to vegetation while “blue spaces” 
(pools and spas) are all the visible waters in a place: lakes, rivers, coastal waters, and pools.

By The Blade works with homeowners and property managers to combine green spaces with blue spaces to create beautiful spaces that will provide a space for relaxing, entertaining, and exercising.

The health benefits of swimming are incredible, and many fitness experts consider working out in water to be the perfect exercise.

1. Swimming builds endurance and improves the lungs.
2. You get a workout without the sweat.
3. Swimming is another form of strength training.
4. Swimming builds bone mass.
5. Swimming burns tons of calories.
6. It’s a very low impact exercise.

A well-designed living and entertaining space around your new pool will open up a whole new way to live in your home. People are naturally drawn to sit by the water, eat, read, meditate, and practice yoga by water. You and your family will be breathing more fresh air outside, which is always desirable.

By The Blade begins any outdoor landscape project by speaking with you about your tastes and preferences in color, design, and textures. We build decks and patios based on your personal choice of wood, stone, or natural plants and grasses.

Of course budget is an integral issue when designing a new pool area, and By The Blade is most diligently conscientious of your budget.

In-Ground Pools – Kansas City

It is always free to call us and ask for our team of pool design experts to prepare a proposal for you to consider. Reach out to us by calling 816-505-0444.