Tag: lake homes

Let It Snow: Eco-friendly ice and snow removal tips to protect your lake habitat

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Snowfall brings a sense of serenity to lake homes across the U.S., but it also introduces environmental challenges. Traditional salt-based deicers and gas-powered snow removal tools can harm nearby waterways—especially around lakes, where runoff quickly enters the ecosystem. Excess sodium and chloride can alter water chemistry, harm fish habitats, and degrade shorelines. For lake homeowners who prioritize sustainability, the goal is to manage snow effectively while preserving water quality and the surrounding landscape. Across diverse lake regions—from the snow-heavy Northern states to the milder climates of the Southeast and California—innovative methods and materials are reshaping how snow is managed. The following six eco-friendly approaches reduce environmental impact. These methods extend the longevity of outdoor materials and align with the mindful stewardship lake living requires.

Brine Solutions Made from Sugar Beet Byproducts

Brine Solutions Made from Sugar Beet Byproducts
Photo courtesy of Ninja De-Icer

In the Upper East and Northern lake regions, where heavy snowfalls are routine, pet-friendly brine solutions made from sugar beet byproducts are a sustainable way to reduce ice buildup. When mixed with salt brine, beet-based deicers like Beet-It Ice Melter lower the freezing point of water. This allows homeowners to use less salt overall, dramatically decreasing chloride runoff into lakes. Thus, it minimizes harm to fish and aquatic vegetation. While beet brine can sometimes stain light-colored concrete, homeowners can use diluted blends and apply them before snowfall. This option offers strong melting power at a lower ecological cost, making it ideal for colder lake climates.

Heated Walkway Systems and Driveway Mats

Heated Driveway Mats and Walkway Systems
Photo Courtesy of HeatTrak

Electric snow-melting mats are an excellent choice for the Mid-Atlantic, Pacific Northwest, and Northern lake regions. They are ideal for homeowners who want to avoid chemical runoff altogether. Products such as HeatTrak Heated Snow Melting Mats lay directly on walkways, decks, or stairs to prevent snow accumulation using low-voltage heat. These mats are energy-efficient and easy to deploy. They eliminate the need for salt or mechanical scraping, which can damage concrete and decking materials. They’re particularly effective for small, high-traffic areas like front steps or docks, providing safety and convenience while keeping nearby soil and water free from chemical contamination.

Cordless Snow Shovels and Electric Snow Blowers

Cordless Snow Shovel
Photo courtesy of Best Buy

Gas-powered snow blowers release carbon emissions and oil residues that can wash into lake basins during thaws. For homeowners in Upper East, Northern, and Mid-Atlantic lake regions, switching to electric snow blowers like the EGO Power+ 56V model offers a quieter, cleaner alternative. Cordless models are ideal for driveways and walkways, producing zero direct emissions and significantly reducing maintenance. Even in California and the Pacific Northwest, where snowfall is sporadic, compact cordless snow shovels offer an efficient, battery-powered option for smaller clearings. This is achieved without the environmental toll of gasoline exhaust or fuel spills.

Gravel, Sand, or Alfalfa Meal for Traction

Gravel, Sand, or Alfalfa Meal for Traction
Photo courtesy of Farmers’ Almanac

For Gulf lake regions or Southeastern areas where snow is rare but slippery ice can occur, traction materials like pea gravel or coarse sand are practical, eco-friendly solutions. These materials provide grip without contributing to chemical runoff or harming vegetation. Alfalfa meal, a natural fertilizer, can also add traction while enriching the soil as it breaks down. Because these materials are biodegradable and non-toxic, they are especially useful near garden borders, lakeshores, and flagstone paths. The key is to sweep up excess material after the thaw to prevent sediment from entering the lake water.

Snow Fences and Strategic Windbreaks

Snow Fences and Strategic Windbreaks
Photo courtesy of Standish Milling

For lake properties in Northern and Upper East regions, where drifting snow can block driveways or bury docks, installing temporary snow fences or natural windbreaks can reduce accumulation. By controlling how snow drifts form, these structures limit the need for mechanical clearing or deicing agents. Homeowners can pair fencing with strategically planted evergreen shrubs or windbreak trees suited to their region. This further reduces snow buildup. This passive method uses nature’s own patterns to manage winter weather while protecting the shoreline ecosystem from chemical exposure.

Radiant Systems and Permeable Paving for Long-Term Solutions

Permeable Paving and Radiant Systems for Long-Term snow removal Solutions
Photo courtesy of Snow Melt, Inc.

In regions such as the Pacific Northwest and California lake areas, where snowfall is lighter, but freeze-thaw cycles can still cause surface damage, permeable pavers and radiant heating systems offer long-term sustainability. Porous surfaces allow snowmelt to drain naturally into the ground, filtering out impurities before they reach the lake. When combined with low-voltage radiant heating systems beneath driveways or patios, they create efficient melt zones. Consequently, they prevent ice buildup without the need for salt or mechanical clearing. Though these systems require an initial investment, they reduce annual maintenance costs, protect water quality, and enhance the architectural appeal of modern lake properties.

Across every U.S. lake region, the move toward sustainable snow removal reflects a broader environmental consciousness among homeowners. By shifting away from salt-heavy or fuel-dependent methods, lake property owners not only preserve the natural beauty of their surroundings but also extend the life of their driveways, decks, and landscapes. Whether through organic brine blends, renewable power tools, or passive solutions like windbreaks, each of these methods demonstrates how practical innovation can align with ecological stewardship. Snow management no longer has to come at the cost of water purity or shoreline health—it can be part of a balanced approach to sustainable lake living. For more home improvement ideas to live your best lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Timeless Style: Classic design that’s meant to last.

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Classic Adirondack-style lake home with shingled cladding, white gables and trim, and a line of white Adirondack chairs lining the shore.
Photo courtesy of Gibeon Photography, Tahoe Quarterly

Seasons change and design trends evolve, yet some interior details seem to anchor our sense of home no matter the decade. They bridge generations, balancing comfort and craftsmanship in a way that outlasts passing fads. For lake homeowners—whether along the pine-edged waters of Maine, the glassy coves of the Great Lakes, or the rugged shores of the Pacific Northwest—these enduring elements evoke both sophistication and relaxation. A timeless interior doesn’t chase trends—it curates them. It blends character, quality materials, and practical beauty suited to both daily living and weekend retreats. We looked to enduring classics and the wisdom of iconic designers to identify ten design features that never fall out of favor. From plush upholstery to glossy subway tile, these are the building blocks of timeless style that can be tailored to any lake region across the country and beyond.

Comfy Upholstered Seating

Comfy Upholstered Seating pieces in a grand lake home living room with a stone fireplace wall and arched ceilings, splendid lake view
Photo courtesy of Edward George

Generously upholstered seating has been a mainstay of American interiors since the 19th century, prized for its comfort and durability. Deep sofas and armchairs, often wrapped in linen, cotton, or performance fabrics, define spaces for conversation and lake views. In Northern lake regions, opt for hearty weaves and plaids; in the Southeast and Texas Gulf, lighter linen slipcovers offer a breezier touch. The key is proportion—pieces that invite lounging without overwhelming the room.

Pristine White Bedding

Pristine White Bedding in a rustic knotty-pine clad lake home bedroom overlooking lake
Photo courtesy of Edward George

Crisp white bedding remains an unspoken symbol of serenity. Its origins trace back to early European estates and later, fine hotels that valued the look of cleanliness and simplicity. For lake homes, white bedding works across all regions—from airy cotton duvets in California to heavier matelassé coverlets in the Upper East. It’s versatile, easy to launder, and instantly refreshes any bedroom, especially when layered with textured throws or neutral accent pillows.

Well-Worn Patinas

Well-Worn Patinas and rustic woods incorporated into the entrance staircase of lake home with wide-plank stained floors and wood detailing
Photo courtesy of iDesignArch

Wide-plank flooring—once a colonial necessity due to fewer sawmills—has become a hallmark of craftsmanship and character. Their broad surfaces showcase the natural grain of the wood, instantly warming interiors. In Northern lake regions, white oak or reclaimed pine emphasizes rustic authenticity, while California and Gulf lake homes benefit from lighter stains that reflect sunlight. These floors age gracefully, their subtle patina telling the story of each season spent lakeside.

Stylish Subway Tile

Stylish Subway Tile cladding a lake home bathroom backsplash and shower
Photo courtesy of Tile Club

First used in New York City’s subway stations in 1904, this classic tile endures because of its clean geometry and adaptability. Its glossy rectangular shape reflects light, making kitchens and baths feel larger and brighter—ideal for smaller lake cottages or basement-level guest suites. In the Pacific Northwest, try pairing white subway tile with dark grout for contrast; along the Gulf and California coasts, soft sea-glass hues offer a modern update that still honors tradition.

Woven Naturals

woven natural fibers including rattan, wicker, and sisal applied to breezy enclosed porch overlooking the lake
Photo courtesy of Alex Lukey, House & Home

Timeless and textural, these natural fibers have cycled through every design era—from Victorian sunrooms to midcentury patios—and continue to thrive in lake homes for their tactile warmth. They connect interiors with the outdoors, evoking breezy porches and dockside relaxation. A rattan accent chair or sisal rug grounds a space with texture, particularly in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic lake regions where humid conditions favor breathable, organic materials. Mix them sparingly to maintain sophistication.

Pattern Charm

Pattern Charm, demonstrated with toile, chintz, and plaid fabrics layered in a lake home sitting room illustrating English country charm
Photo courtesy of Sweet Magnolia

Few fabrics carry as much history as chintz and toile—layered with classic plaid, of course Emerging in 18th-century France and later popularized in English country houses, these printed patterns of checks, florals, and pastoral scenes continue to add elegance and charm. In Upper East and Mid-Atlantic lake homes, toile drapes or a chintz-upholstered bench feel right at home. In more rustic Northern or Pacific Northwest cabins, try pairing one patterned piece with wood tones to soften the look without overdoing nostalgia.

Scintillating Sconces

A selection of sconce styles you can incorporate into your lake home.
Photo courtesy of House & Home

Wall sconces have illuminated interiors for centuries—from candlelit brass fixtures to modern LED designs. They endure because they balance practicality and atmosphere, freeing tabletops while providing flattering light. For a Texas Gulf lake home, brass or iron sconces can enhance a rustic-modern bar area or kitchen. In California, minimalist uplighting highlights artwork and lake-facing windows. The key is to layer lighting, as sconces add depth and definition that overhead fixtures cannot.

Brilliant Built-Ins

Built-in bookshelves scaling an entire arched wall in a lake home with a ladder
Photo courtesy of Robbie Caponetto, Southern Living

Custom built-ins anchor rooms with both function and form. From early 20th-century Craftsman homes to modern coastal retreats, they signal permanence and design intention. For Mid-Atlantic and Pacific Northwest homes, built-ins frame views and display collections—books, art, or lake memorabilia—without clutter. Painted finishes or natural wood tones can match the home’s architecture, creating a timeless focal point that feels both curated and lived-in.

The Wet Bar

Rustic-style wet bar incorporated into a lake home with rustic woods, open shelves, stone countertop, and refrigeration and storage below.
Photo courtesy of Summer House Style, Decoist

Once a midcentury symbol of entertaining, the wet bar has reemerged as a practical luxury. It embodies hospitality—a hallmark of lake living. Today’s versions blend seamlessly into open layouts or cozy corners with marble countertops, vintage glassware, and a compact sink. In Upper East and Northern lake regions, opt for walnut cabinetry and polished brass accents. In warmer climates, lighter woods and glass shelving keep the look relaxed. Whether it’s for cocktails or lemonade, a wet bar never loses its charm.

A gentleman's gallery wall highlighting artwork, and framed photographs in a sitting room with a Jack Russell sitting on a herringbone sofa.
Photo courtesy of Greg Salvatori, Elle Decor

Gallery walls have evolved from grand salons to approachable displays of personality. The concept—mixing art, photography, and mementos—has remained timeless because it allows design to grow with the homeowner. In lake homes across all regions, gallery walls can balance rustic textures with refined frames, pulling in local photography, vintage lake maps, or family portraits. They’re a living design element, easily refreshed as tastes and experiences evolve.

The mark of timeless interior design lies in its quiet confidence—spaces that feel collected rather than constructed, evolved rather than invented. These enduring design elements offer more than visual appeal; they connect lake homeowners to tradition, craft, and comfort in equal measure. Whether you favor the weathered charm of wood floors, the crispness of white bedding, or the inviting ease of upholstered seating, these choices hold their own year after year. In the rhythm of lake life—where seasons, guests, and moods shift—these design classics remind us that some things are meant to last. For more design tips to enhance your lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Sky Phenomenon to View from Your Lake House

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo by Visit Greenland

There’s something magical about the night sky. Valerie Stimeck, the author of the book Dark Skies, refers to the stars as “one of the few unifying features of human history.” 

Unfortunately, modern skies, shrouded in city lights, don’t allow for proper stargazing. It’s reported that 83% of the world’s population cannot see the stars at night, whereas over 90% of the European and United States populations live with significant light pollution. Given the pervasiveness of artificial lights, you’re probably missing out on more stars than you realize. 

If your lake house is in a rural area, you might be part of the lucky few. On the next clear night, venture to your boat dock and see if you can spot these five sky phenomena from your lake house. 

Constellations

By Roberto Mura – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Constellations are perhaps the most famous sky phenomenon — and they have been for a long time. Of the 88 constellations recognized by astronomers today, 48 of them date back to the Ancient Greek and Babylonian times. Each night since the dawn of time, these patterns of stars have returned to their places, and their predictability is part of why stargazers love them. 

The prominence of constellations differs based on seasonality. During the summer, the Big Dipper is easiest to spot in the Northern Hemisphere. As fall approaches, be on the lookout for Pegasus and Andromeda. Need help finding constellations in the night sky? An app can help with that. With Sky Guide, point your phone to the sky above, and it will outline constellations for you.

Planets

Photo courtesy of Sky & Telescope.

Constellations are perhaps the most famous sky phenomenon — and they have been for a long time. Of the 88 constellations recognized by astronomers today, 48 of them date back to the Ancient Greek and Babylonian times. Each night since the dawn of time, these patterns of stars have returned to their places, and their predictability is part of why stargazers love them. 

However, their prominence differs based on seasonality. During the summer, the Big Dipper is easiest to spot in the Northern Hemisphere. As fall approaches, be on the lookout for Pegasus and Andromeda. Need help finding constellations in the night sky? An app can help with that. With Sky Guide, simply point your phone to the sky above, and it will outline constellations for you.

Milky Way

By CUIZIANG – Own work, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

At one point in time, the Milky Way was always visible on every moonless night. However, due to light pollution, its appearance isn’t as consistent. It’s brightest in the southern hemisphere of the modern sky, but you can still view this sky phenomenon from your lake house. You’ll see dust lanes, nebulae, and star clusters within the constellation Sagittarius, making up the brightest part of the galaxy. Between June and August, our galaxy appears most brilliant, while December through February is when it’s invisible and too close to the sun. Right now, it’s a perfect time of year to look for the Milky Way on a clear night!

Comets

Photo courtesy of @alisonleedham via Twenty20.

According to NASA, comets are “cosmic snowballs of frozen gases.” As they travel close to the sun, they spew gas and dust, forming a tail that stretches millions of miles. On rare occasions, you may be lucky enough to spot a comet at your lake house. Typically, they appear just around sunrise or sunset. 

Although comets are rare to witness, some reliably appear in the night sky. You may have recently heard of Comet Neowise, which came closest to the Earth in late July 2020. Famously, Halley’s Comet reappears every 75 years, so it’s possible to see it twice in one average lifetime. Mark Twain was born in a year when Halley’s Comet was visible, and he died the year it was visible again. Other well-known comets include Comet Hale-Bopp and Comet Encke. Regardless of which comet you’ve set out to see, owning a lake home in a less light-polluted area increases your chances of witnessing this sky phenomenon.

Northern Lights

Photo courtesy of SUOMI PHOTOGRAPHY via Pexels

This one is for lake homeowners in the northern U.S. You likely won’t see the Northern Lights directly from your patio, but many of our markets with listings are close to parks where this sky phenomenon is visible. For instance, stargazers have witnessed the aurora borealis in the Panhandle National Forest in Idaho, Acadia National Park in Maine, and Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Michigan. If you’re lucky enough to witness this beautiful sky phenomenon, in which Earth’s gases collide with sun particles, your photos won’t do justice to its magnificence.

If you can’t see every sky phenomenon at your lake house, no need to worry. There are plenty of ways to tackle light pollution in your own home to increase visibility. So grab a pair of binoculars and start stargazing! 

This article was originally published on November 16, 2020.

[CandysDirt.com] First Look: Emerald Bay at Cedar Creek Lake Hosts Launch Celebration

Posted on Linda Thach

Lake enthusiasts and homebuyers now have a new destination to explore — Emerald Bay at Cedar Creek Lake, which will host its first on-site launch celebration on Friday, October 10. The gated, 44-acre community by 821 Investments, led by North Texas developer David Craig, features 71 exclusive homesites, with nine already sold.

Just over an hour from Dallas, Emerald Bay blends modern infrastructure and lakeside living. The development features concrete streets, underground utilities, public water and sewer systems, and even a golf cart path connecting residents to nearby marinas.

Designed for everyday enjoyment, the community will feature a pool, pickleball and basketball courts, fire pit, playground, and landscaped trails. Short-term rentals are prohibited, keeping the focus on permanent and second-home owners.

A Fall 2025 LakeHomes.com report saw Cedar Creek move up to the sixth-largest lake market in Texas, with more than 1,200 active listings and $13.1 billion in total statewide lake property value. – Candy’s Dirt

As Cedar Creek Lake continues to surge in popularity, Emerald Bay’s debut offers buyers a timely opportunity to secure new, buildable lakefront property in one of the state’s most in-demand markets.

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[AL.com] Stunning $4.9M mansion on 26 acres on Smith Lake is ‘one of a kind’

Posted on Linda Thach

Nestled on 26 private acres along Smith Lake, this breathtaking 8,805-square-foot mansion is listed for $4.995 million. Beyond its stunning design, the estate offers an astounding collection of amenities, including a gourmet chef’s kitchen, a private boat dock, a game room, and a 1,216-square-foot RV shop, all with incredible lake views.

“The home is a rare balance of grandeur and comfort equally suited for family living, large gatherings or quiet retreats,” said listing agent Justin Dyar of Lake Homes Realty.  – AL.com

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[CandysDirt.com] You Can Still Get a $6K Lot at Cedar Creek Lake — or a $19M Retreat With Room for 30

Posted on Linda Thach

Texas lakefront property is booming! Cedar Creek Lake, just an hour southeast of Dallas, is one of the state’s hottest markets, with prices ranging from $6,000 for undeveloped lots to nearly $19 million for sprawling compounds. The total value of Texas lake property has skyrocketed to $12.38 billion, a significant increase from last year. With over 1,100 active listings, Cedar Creek Lake is now the seventh-largest lake market in Texas.

While listing activity is up, the pace and psychology of lake-home buying have shifted since the pandemic, says Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty.

Lake-home purchases can now take up to two years, compared to the 90-day turnaround typical of primary residences. “Buyers aren’t thinking of this as a real estate investment. Buying a lake home is a lifestyle choice.” – Candy’s Dirt

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Lake Living – What Homeowners Love Most

Posted on Staff

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Lake living is the best, at least we’re inclined to think so. But who can blame us? We are the lake people.

But before you decide whether the lake life’s right for you, take a look at some of the things lake homeowners love most about the lake lifestyle.

Innumerable Beautiful Sunsets

Photo courtesy of Clark Van Der Beken on Unsplash

Sunsets may be one of the universe’s most mesmerizing creations. They turn the skies from beautiful blue into vibrant pinks, oranges, and reds, smears of purple streaked with elongated tendrils of sunbeams.

After a long day of swimming, boating, fishing, and grilling, there’s nothing more captivating or more calming than the sun setting over a glass-smooth lake. And no matter how many days you spend staring out toward the horizon from your lake home, each day brings a sunset completely unlike the day before.

Fourth of July

Photo courtesy of KADM Creations on Unsplash

Hundreds of lakes across the country roll out the red carpets for out-of-this-world Fourth of July festivities.

Family-friendly activities include spectacular fireworks displays, poker runs, boat parades, and concerts by local artists.

Even if your lake doesn’t put on a grand show, most permit lake homeowners to privately shoot fireworks from their docks, decks, and backyards. Plus, no matter the degree to which you party for patriotism, at the lake, you can always count on there being good ol’ home-cooked food for the soul.

Family Time

Photo courtesy of Cybèle and Bevan on Unsplash

We all lead busy lives, and sometimes it’s hard to find time for quality family bonding. 

That’s not the case at the lake. In fact, all the time you spend at the lake can be time spent with family, be it with those related to you by blood or the family members you choose to share the lake with. 

At the lake, family time isn’t necessarily characterized by sharing stories around the dinner table, though that’s certainly one option. No, for most lake homeowners, family moments shared at the lake take place around fire pits and grills, on floaties and rope swings, and in the kitchen while the summer showers roll through. 

Outdoor Activities

Photo courtesy of Skoolie Project on Unsplash

Life on the lake is a nature lover’s paradise.

From boating to paddleboarding to fishing, there are plenty of things to do on the lake. However, if you need a break from water activities, going on a picnic or lounging lakeside in your backyard is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the picturesque lake views.

If staying active is more your style, hiking or taking a stroll around the lake is a great option. Additionally, it’s a fantastic opportunity to observe wildlife while taking in the natural landscape.

The Memories Made

Photo courtesy of Mariia Horobets on Unsplash

Ask any lake homeowner, or any lake lover for that matter, what their favorite memories are, and you’re guaranteed to hear a litany of wonderful things that happened at the lake. That’s because life’s best moments are made at the lake.

The lake is where grandfathers teach their grandkids to fish, where favorite uncles grill the best hamburgers, and where sons and daughters learn to swim.

It’s the perfect place to gather in celebration of birthdays, holidays, and milestones, like graduations and baby showers.

And the lake is where s’mores are shared, where minnows are turned into pets, and where some of life’s important lessons are learned.

Memories made at the lake are more than special; they are priceless.

It’s all these things and more that make lake living so worthwhile. They are why buying a lake home is more than a real estate transaction; it’s about attaining a lifestyle—the lake experience. 

If you’re ready to invest in your best future, let us — the lake people — help make your dream a reality.

This article was originally published on July 31, 2019.

[CandysDirt.com] You Can Enjoy Lake Life and Wine Country Less Than Two Hours From Dallas

Posted on Linda Thach

Lake houses are perfect for creating lasting family memories and delivering pure relaxation. Life feels slower, stress fades, and some even say it adds years to your life. That’s part of why my friend Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty in Birmingham, Alabama, notes that purchasing a lake home often takes around two years—much longer than the average homebuying timeline.

But once the keys are in hand, vacation home owners embrace every moment of that laid-back lake lifestyle.

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[CandysDirt.com] What Buyers Want in 2025: From Dog Parks to Downsizing, Amenities and Affordability Are Key

Posted on Linda Thach

According to housing insiders, homebuyers in today’s market are opting for smaller homes that are packed with amenities, such as dog parks and park-inspired trail systems. It’s all about the lifestyle, especially when it comes to lake real estate.

“They’re not buying it because they think it’ll make them money,” he (Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty) said. “It’s a lifestyle choice.” – CandysDirt.com

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