Nature Bridges Blog

Eco-Friendly Materials for Outdoor Structures

Posted on February 20, 2025 (February 20, 2025) by Jake Aull

With the growing awareness of environmental concerns, the demand for eco-friendly construction materials has also increased. Sustainable building reduces the carbon footprint and enhances the longevity of structures. It also helps keep those structures in harmony with their natural surroundings. There are several reasons to use sustainable materials in your structures. Reducing the environmental impact associated with raw material extraction and processing is important to habitats. Sustainable materials usually have a lower carbon footprint, contribute less to deforestation, and minimize any disturbance of local habitats. Depending on the specific material you use, waste is reduced through recycling and repurposing. When […]

Navigating Frosty Paths: Winter Boardwalk Safety

Posted on February 10, 2025 (February 10, 2025) by Jake Aull

Icy is a common concern in winter months, especially on boardwalks where slippery surfaces can be a hazard for walkers, joggers, and nature watchers. You can help to ensure visitor safety on these frosty paths with a combination of proper maintenance and integrating key safety features. The Key is Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance is the first step in winter boardwalk safety. Snow and ice accumulation can create hazardous conditions, so it’s essential to clear these as quickly as possible. If you live in an area where snow is common, inspect and treat the boardwalk regularly with ice-melting products or sand. […]

Before We Start: What Your Bridge Constructor Needs to Know

Posted on January 20, 2025 (January 13, 2025) by Jake Aull

Starting a bridge – or other outdoor structure – project is exciting! When you have a vision, you want it to become reality as soon as possible. But, it requires meticulous preparation. Before you reach out to a bridge constructor like Nature Bridges, you should get several pieces of information that can help streamline the bridge designer’s consultation with you and ensure that the project kicks off smoothly. Type of Structure First, identify the type of structure you need. Are you looking for a vehicular access bridge, pedestrian bridge, or a golf cart path? When we understand the primary function […]

Winter Wildlife on Your Walkways

Posted on January 13, 2025 (January 13, 2025) by Jake Aull

You can still explore nature when the temperatures drop. Winter offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in a seemingly new environment – through the cold and sometimes even snow. Boardwalks and bridges can enhance accessibility to natural areas and serve as an excellent platform for winter wildlife observation. In addition, these structures help protect the creatures you encounter on chilly outdoor adventures. Discovering Wildlife in Winter In the winter, the cold weather strips the landscape bare, especially deciduous trees and other plants that may otherwise help hide wild creatures. With less foliage, you can catch a clearer glimpse of […]

Trails and the Materials to Create Them

Posted on December 20, 2024 (December 20, 2024) by Jake Aull

Trail design must combine many factors, but a major one is material choice. Materials should be chosen for the longevity and maintenance of the trail as well as its environmental impact and usability. Different materials like asphalt, concrete, gravel, mulch, and wood offer unique benefits and challenges. When you understand the differences, you can make an informed choice based on the specific needs of the area and its users. Asphalt Trails Asphalt is a popular trail material for urban and suburban trails. It is durable and requires relatively low maintenance. Its smooth, hard surface is ideal for accessibility because it […]

Thinking Bigger with Vehicular Bridges

Posted on December 12, 2024 (December 12, 2024) by Jake Aull

Many factors go into building any bridge, but vehicular bridges require even more consideration, even when the bridge will be built on private property. The design and construction require meticulous planning to ensure they can handle the weight of vehicles crossing as well as the volume of traffic. Structural Integrity and Load Capacity When building a vehicular bridge, one of the primary concerns is weight – ensuring that the structure can handle the substantial load of vehicles over time. This involves careful calculations, including the load-bearing capacity of the structure. In the end, robust engineering is required so that the […]

Considering Details: Handrails

Posted on November 20, 2024 (November 5, 2024) by Jake Aull

Bridges, boardwalks, pavilions, decks, and docks have one important safety feature in common: handrails. Handrails and guardrails are often seen purely as functional safety features, but they’re incredibly important features for both accessibility and design. Rails provide support and prevent falls, but they also make significant contributions to the style and architectural expression of a space. Handrail design is critical for ensuring that the rails are effective and compliant with accessibility standards while also enhancing the visual appeal of your property. Why Are Handrails Important? Handrails serve a dual function in any structure: ensuring safety and enhancing accessibility. These features […]

Why Outdoor Accessibility is Important

Posted on November 10, 2024 (November 5, 2024) by Jake Aull

Everyone, regardless of ability, should be able to enjoy nature and participate in community events. Accessibility in outdoor environments like parks, trails, and recreation areas is essential to make this happen. Promoting inclusivity enhances the quality of life for people with disabilities, families with young children, the elderly, and others who may benefit from equal access. In addition, making outdoor structures like bridges and boardwalks accessible fulfills legal requirements in many areas. Creating Accessible Pathways A key aspect of outdoor accessibility is thoughtfully designed pathways. Replacing stairs with ramps – or adding ramps in addition to stairs – is a […]

Beyond Bridges: Outdoor Structures

Posted on October 22, 2024 (October 22, 2024) by Jake Aull

Bridges are a significant part of Nature Bridges’ portfolio, but we excel in the design and construction of a variety of other outdoor projects. These varied structures enhance landscapes and provide functional spaces for both public and private use. We craft pavilions, decks, and docks with the same attention to detail, commitment to sustainability, and passion for building. Centers of Community Gathering Pavilions are versatile structures. Whether they function as a retreat from the hustle of everyday life or a focal point for community gatherings, events, and recreation, Nature Bridges designs them to blend seamlessly with their surroundings. Every pavilion […]

More Than Design: Maintenance and Repair

Posted on October 11, 2024 (October 11, 2024) by Jake Aull

Bridges are boardwalks are functional walkways. When designed well, they add beauty to a landscape. Maintaining their structural integrity and appearance is crucial for both aesthetic reasons as well as safety and longevity. The frequency of maintenance depends on the task, and there are advantages to having professional help completing them. Cleaning and Debris Removal Seasonal cleaning includes the removal of debris and clearing any drainage systems on your outdoor structures. This is important because water accumulation can lead to wood rot or structural damage. Most property owners can perform these tasks for themselves; however, for extensive cleaning or in […]

Nature Bridges Blog

When planning your next project, plan with Nature Bridges: (850) 997-8585