Blog

LED-Low Voltage Lighting

To some people the best invention since the light bulb is the LED light bulb.  In the low voltage landscape lighting world LED's have changed the industry.  LED fixtures provide 2 major lighting improvements in the areas installers and homeowners have been struggling with.

     1.  LED bulbs last much longer.  LED bulbs have a life expectancy of 20,000-30,000 hours.  Traditional bulbs last 1500-2000 hours which often required bulbs to be changed once a year.  The yearly hassle of finding the right bulb and replacing it, only to find it rusted to the socket is now over.  On average LED bulbs will last over 10 years before any maintenance is needed.

     2.  LED bulbs use much less power.  This is very important in the  low voltage design world because the runs can now be much longer.  Drop and resistance must be factored into the lighting design.  Less wattage on a line equals less drop, making the design layout easier.  In addition, transformers do not need to be as powerful because LED lights use a small fraction of the wattage of traditional low voltage lights.

More good news about low voltage outdoor LED lighting is that the prices have dropped over the last few years making the bulbs and fixtures more affordable.  Today low voltage LED landscape lighting is only about 15% more than traditional low voltage landscape lighting.  At Squeals Landscaping Inc. we offer complete design and installation of all your outdoor low voltage lighting needs. 

 

 

Mosquito Repelling Plants

Spring is here and summer is right around the corner.  With warmer temperatures come those pesky mosquitos. While using commercial bug sprays can help keep mosquitos away they have chemicals that can be harmful to people and the...

Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses are used for aesthetic purposes to enhance a landscape.  They range in size from 3 inches to 10 feet tall. The colors they display are quite a site to see.  During the winter months, the leaves poke through the snow...

Digital Payments

A new trend in the financial world is using digital payments.  Popular types of these payments are Zelle, Venmo, and Cashapp.  While these are an easier way to transfer money for payment, buyer beware!  If there is a problem with the...

Downspouts

Today most home owners have gutters to catch roof run off water.  That water then travels into horizontal downspouts and discharges along the foundation of the house.  Often landscapers extend the downspouts underground to get the...

Hot Tub to Accent Your Landscaping

Many times we think of landscaping as a way to accent your home.  What can we add to accent our landscaping?  One option is a hot tub.  Hot tubs have become very popular during COVID.  They come is  wide variety of sizes,...

Invasive Species: Hemlock Woolly Adelgid

Please be on the lookout! According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) anyone who has eastern hemlock trees on their property should look for signs of hemlock woolly adelgid. In...

Keep Your Leaves Clear

Now that the weather has turned colder the leaves are falling.  It is important to keep fallen leaves off your lawn. While raking your lawn is a tedious task, it's important to maintain a healthy lawn.  Keeping leaves off the lawn...

Spotted Lanternfly-Invasive Species

In August, The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the detection of spotted laternfly in Pontiac, Michigan.  Early detection allows containment which is vital to prevent the spread. What to look for: Eggs of the spotted laternfly...

Invasive Beech Leaf Disease

Recently the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has confirmed a case of invasive beech leaf disease in St. Clair County. The disease has not been present in Michigan before.  It is associated with the microscopic worm,...

Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass

There is a new trend for homeowners.  Installing synthetic grass at their homes instead of natural grass.  There are pros and cons to consider when making this decision. Pros: Pet Friendly Good for water conservation. Free of...

It's Time to Turn On Your Irrigation System

It looks like warmer weather is finally here!  With sunny days, warm temperatures, and drier air you need to make sure your sprinkler system is turned on and working properly.  Irrigation companies are busy so be sure to call...

Buying at Big Box Stores

Bulk trees and plants at low prices, so tempting but buyer beware.  Finally, the temps are rising and the sun is shining!  It's time to get your yard in order.  While out shopping at some of the big box stores you'll often see...

Hardscape Design Trends

Over the last few years we have seen a strong shift in brick paving and hardscape design trends.  In the past, curves and radiuses were often the focal point and highlight of patios and walkways.  The construction process was fairly simple...

Sprinkler Winterization

A friendly reminder that this is the time to begin winterizing your sprinkler system!  This is standard maintenance and needs to be done to protect your sprinkler system during the freezing temperatures in the winter months.  This...

When To Use Landscape Fabric

Customers often request to have landscape fabric installed under mulch to help prevent weeds.  This is not an acceptable industry weed prevention method for mulch beds. Mulch is a wood product that will deteriorate and decompose. ...

Knockout Roses

Knockout Roses are one of the easiest plants to grow and provide color to your landscape.  Their bloom cycle is approximately every 5-6 weeks.  You can almost plant them and forget them. They are known as the self-cleaning rose, so there...

Plant Terminology & Definitions

When choosing a new landscape project that includes plant material, there are many common terms that sound similar but have different meanings.  Here is a list of the most common words you'll likely hear while planning your...

Proper Mulching Techniques

When creating a new landscape project mulch is commonly used to complete the look around trees and in beds.  Mulch is beneficial because when placed over soil it maintains moisture and improves soil conditions.  It is important to install...

COVID-19 Update

It's hard to believe that we are all still experiencing restrictions from COVID-19.  Thankfully, all of us here at Squeals Landscaping Inc. are healthy and production is in full swing!  We are taking all recommended precautions to...
Page: 123 - All
Flawless, Healthy Landscapes. Guaranteed.
Five Star Rating!
Squeals does exemplary work. We hired them to do pavers for our driveway and we continue to admire the exquisite work. The owner, David Biel, has honor and integrity. He stands behind his work, and his pride in his company is always apparent. Since our driveway was completed, I have hired Squeals for two additional jobs, and referred them to several of our friends. Nobody is disappointed. They demonstrate excellent workmanship and they stand behind their work - customer service is unparalleled.* Gigi W. | Read More Testimonials
*Results May Vary.