The Midwest Report

Insights, News, and Expertise from Midwest Companies

winter landscaping lighting

Creative Ideas to Make Your Landscaping Stand Out This Winter

Transforming your outdoor space this winter from drab to fab requires a touch of creativity, warmth, and a bit of frosty magic. While many homes retreat into hibernation, your home landscaping can become a winter wonderland with the right winter landscaping ideas.  From the warm glow of outdoor lighting to cozy outdoor fireplaces, there are countless ways to enhance your yard’s beauty and functionality during the colder months.  Whether you’re looking to create a serene, snow-lit path or add a burst of color with winter blooms, the possibilities are endless. The team at Midwest Landscape & Design would love to help you make your landscaping stand out this winter. Contact us to discuss all the possibilities. Warm up your gardens:

Read More
Person installing spray foam in home wall

Spray Foam 101: Top Benefits for Homes

As we step into the world of home improvement, let’s first explore how making your abode more energy-efficient can lead to both savings and sustainability. One of the most crucial aspects of enhancing your home’s energy performance is home insulation with spray foam.  Traditional insulation methods can leave gaps and drafts, but spray foam offers a revolutionary solution. This advanced material expands to fill every nook and cranny, creating an airtight seal that not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces your carbon footprint and enhances comfort.  Discover the spray foam benefits that make it a top choice for modern homeowners, and insulate your home the better way—with spray foam. Contact Midwest Spray Foam and Insulation today for a quote.

Read More
hot tub on a deck overlooking wooded area

Why Hot Tubs Are So Great in Winter

As the frost blankets the landscape, one warm haven stands invitingly in the backyard, ready to transform your winter nights: the hot tub.  While the cold air nips at your nose, the thought of a hot tub in winter can be the perfect antidote to the season’s chill. Imagine sinking into the soothing warmth, steam rising around you as you relax with a good book or your favorite playlist. Not only does a hot tub provide a cozy escape, but it also offers a host of health benefits, from easing joint pain to boosting circulation.  From the hot tub to the landscaping that makes your yard an outdoor oasis, Midwest Companies can get you ready for hot tubbing in winter.

Read More
home gutter with leaves

When Should You Clean Your Home’s Gutters?

Maintaining your home’s gutters is a task that can sometimes slip under the radar, but its impact on your home’s health is undeniable. Home gutter cleaning is essential for preventing water damage to your foundation, walls, and roof, especially as we approach the fall season. When to clean gutters is a common question, and the answer is clear: regular gutter cleaning in autumn can save you from costly repairs and protect your property from the elements. Whether you tackle the job yourself or opt for gutter cleaning tips from professionals, ensuring your gutters are clear is a must.  Guarantee Gutter offers professional, local gutter cleaning, and now, as we enter fall, is one of the best times to have your

Read More
Boat in covered boat hoist in a boat dock

When Should You Remove Your Boat Dock & Boat Hoist?

It’s about that time of year again. Boat dock and boat hoist owners in the Iowa Great Lakes area are preparing to pull boat docks and boat hoists from the water ahead of freezing temperatures.  As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, knowing when to remove your boat dock for winter can mean the difference between a smooth start to the next boating season and costly repairs.  Similarly, your boat hoist requires special attention to avoid damage from ice and corrosion. Proper boat dock winterization and hoist care are essential to protect your valuable assets and ensure they remain in top condition. To make this process as stress-free as possible, Midwest Lake Service focuses on making life on

Read More
Fall leaves in a home's gutters

When’s the Best Time of Year to Replace Home Gutters?

Understanding the silent yet crucial role of gutters in protecting your home is the first step to recognizing when they need an upgrade. Now that fall has arrived, it’s time to consider repairs and replacements. Why? Because fall is arguably the best time of year to replace home gutters.  The best time of year to replace gutters is often a topic of debate, but fall stands out for several reasons. Not only do moderate temperatures and mostly fallen leaves make for a smoother installation process, but replacing your gutters before winter can safeguard your home from ice dams and water damage.  Now may be a good time to replace your house’s gutters before the weather shifts, temperatures plummet, and winter

Read More
Man in work boots leveling concrete as its poured

How to Find a Reliable, Local Cement Company for Any Project

Embarking on a home improvement project can be both exciting and daunting, but finding the right cement company is your first step to a successful transformation.  When it comes to concrete work, choosing a cement company that is both reliable and local can make all the difference. With so many options available, knowing how to find a cement company that meets your needs can feel overwhelming.  However, by following a few key steps, you can ensure that you select a cement company near you that delivers high-quality results and exceptional service.  To get started on the right foot, for any cement pouring project, contact Midwest Concrete & Excavating. We’re fully insured experts that provide fast and reliable service to the

Read More
zero turn riding lawn mower on healthy grass lawn

Common Summer Lawn Diseases & What to Do About Them

As the sun climbs higher and the days grow longer, the challenges for your lawn shift from winter’s chill to summer’s unique threats. While you enjoy the warm weather, your grass might be battling summer lawn diseases that can quickly turn a lush, green yard into a patchy, brown eyesore.  Recognizing these diseases early and taking the right steps can save your landscaping from significant damage. In this article, we’ll explore common lawn diseases that thrive in the summer and provide effective summer lawn care tips to keep your yard healthy and vibrant.  If you see any signs of disease affecting your lawn, contact Midwest Landscape & Design today to help resolve the issue and repair any damage. Identifying common

Read More
Hand pulling debris from a home's gutter

Why You Need to Keep Your Home’s Gutters Clean

Proper gutter maintenance might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s certainly one of the most essential for any homeowner. Neglecting your home gutters can lead to a host of problems, from water damage and leaks to pest infestations and structural issues.  By keeping your home’s gutters clean, you can prevent these costly and time-consuming problems. If the thought of how to clean house gutters seems overwhelming, don’t worry—there are safe and effective methods to get the job done.  For those who prefer to leave it to the experts, whether it’s time to clean, repair, or replace your home’s gutters, Guarantee Gutter should be your go-to. Our team has served northwest Iowa for over 40 years with a commitment

Read More
woman in hot tub

Hot Tubs & Health: The Benefits of Soaking in Spas This Summer

Embrace the warmth of the season with an introduction to the multifaceted benefits of having a swim spa or hot tub in your backyard this summer. Beyond the luxury of lounging in warm water, these personal oases offer significant hot tub health benefits and swim spa health benefits, from soothing aches and pains to boosting mental well-being.  Whether you’re looking to enhance your fitness routine or create a serene space for socializing, a hot tub or swim spa can transform your summer experience.  Begin or cap off your own personal backyard oasis with a swim spa or hot tub from Midwest Spas & More. Relax, unwind, and enjoy more. Schedule a call today. Soothing aches and pains with warm water

Read More