The Midwest Report | Tips, News, and Project Insights

Boat in covered boat hoist in a boat dock

When Should You Remove Your Boat Dock & Boat Hoist?

September 30, 2025

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

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

September 15, 2025

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

Man in work boots leveling concrete as its poured

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

August 30, 2025

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

zero turn riding lawn mower on healthy grass lawn

Common Summer Lawn Diseases & What to Do About Them

August 15, 2025

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

Hand pulling debris from a home's gutter

Why You Need to Keep Your Home’s Gutters Clean

July 31, 2025

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

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

July 15, 2025

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

Why Spray Foam Is the Way to Go for Home Insulation

June 30, 2025

Spray foam insulation is both innovative and practical, which is how it’s transforming the way we think about home insulation and energy efficiency. Imagine a home free from drafts, cold spots, and sky-high energy bills. This is the reality that spray foam insulation offers, providing an airtight seal that keeps your home comfortable year-round. Discover the many benefits of this advanced insulation method, from significant energy savings to enhanced indoor air quality. See for yourself why spray foam is the way to go for your home insulation needs. Call or contact us online today for a free, no-obligation estimate and let our team find the best solution for your project! Understanding spray foam: What makes it unique To appreciate the

Summer Watering Tips for a Healthy, Green Lawn

June 15, 2025

There’s a science—and perhaps a bit of an art—to nurturing a lush, green lawn, and it all begins with understanding the basics of summer lawn care. As temperatures rise, summer grass watering becomes a critical task that can make or break the health and appearance of your yard. Proper grass watering not only keeps your lawn vibrant but also strengthens its roots, making it more resilient against the heat. In this guide, we’ll share essential lawn watering tips to help you maintain a beautiful lawn throughout the summer, including how to determine how often to water your lawn for optimal results. Does your lawn need a professional makeover? Let Midwest Landscape & Design turn your yard into your own personal

home patio with trees, shrubs and flowers near table, chairs and umbrella

Landscaping Tips for a Vibrant, Healthy Yard That Lasts All Summer

May 28, 2025

As spring transitions to summer, transforming gardens into vibrant oases, it’s the perfect time to dive into the realm of landscaping and summer yard care. Maintaining a lush, summer lawn care routine can be challenging, but with the right strategies, your yard can thrive despite the heat. From choosing the right plants to mastering the art of mulching, this article offers essential landscaping tips to keep your outdoor space looking its best. Even with these yard care insights, professional guidance can make all the difference. At Midwest Landscape & Design, we design outdoor spaces that build lasting impressions. Contact us today to discover how our team can turn your property’s landscaping into a true Midwest oasis this summer. Choose the

How Gutters Divert Water Away from Your Home and Why It’s Important

May 15, 2025

Few elements play as vital a role in home maintenance as gutters. These unassuming channels are more than just aesthetic additions. They are essential for water diversion, ensuring that rainwater is efficiently directed away from your home’s foundation and roof edges. Without gutters, water can cause a myriad of issues, from basement flooding to wood rot and paint damage. Understanding how gutters protect your home can help you recognize when gutter repair or gutter replacement is necessary. If you’re noticing any of these problems, don’t wait to determine if it’s time to repair or replace your home’s gutters. Contact Guarantee Gutter, your local, reliable solution in Spirit Lake, Iowa for protecting your home. The mechanics of water flow: How gutters