Faux Shrubs That Perfectly Conceal Unsightly Utility Boxes
Outdoor utility boxes can be an eyesore. Though essential, their bland metal exteriors clash with manicured gardens and disrupt gorgeous backyard views. But you needn't settle for ugly metal boxes marring your landscape. Faux shrub utility covers allow you to conceal boxes in plain sight through crafty camouflage. These false shrubs blend seamlessly into outdoor spaces for a polished, peaceful aesthetic year-round.
Read on to discover how artificial foliage can transform your exterior by hiding electrical boxes, cable boxes and more without compromising function.
What Are Faux Shrub Utility Covers?
Faux shrub utility covers disguise outdoor utility boxes as lush greenery. They resemble realistic bushes or shrubs built not from plants, but durable all-weather materials shaped around a metal frame.
Materials That Withstand The Elements
Premium faux shrubs use steel or aluminum framing with weather-resistant polyethylene foliage. Cheaper variants may use plastic, PVC or fabric leaves. All provide a permanent green facade, unlike living shrubs which wilt and shed.
Key Benefits Over Real Shrubs
Faux shrubs solve issues that plague natural plants for hiding utilities. As artificial foliage, they require no watering, pruning or maintenance to stay lush. They don't grow uncontrolled or lose leaves, offering reliable concealment year-round. And with no roots, they won't interfere with underground utility lines.
Ideal Settings For Faux Shrub Covers
Due to their durable build, faux shrubs suit virtually any outdoor spot needing hidden utilities. Use them to beautify residential yards, commercial properties, roadsides and more by veiling eyesores like:
- Electrical boxes
- Gas meters
- Cable boxes
- Junction boxes
Check your local ordinances to ensure utility boxes can be safely covered without violating codes.
Weathering The Elements
Properly installed faux shrub covers stand up to sun, rain, snow and wind. Steel-framed models with dense polyethylene leaves best weather punishing conditions without fraying or degrading. Use breathable covers to prevent internal overheating.
Allowing Access
While concealing boxes, faux shrub covers still allow easy access for meter readings or repairs. Lift-off panels or hinged sides keep boxes reachable by technicians.
Choosing The Right Faux Shrub Cover
When buying a faux shrub cover, consider:
- Realistic appearance - The most convincing covers boast dense, lifelike foliage.
- Durability - Seek weather-resistant steel frames and fade-proof polyethylene leaves.
- Customization - Order custom sizes or shapes to perfectly fit boxes.
- Added features - Some include conveniences like solar pathway lights or device chargers.
Budget-Friendly Camouflage
Affordable online retailers like AliExpress offer faux shrub covers costing under $100. Ordered custom from designers, high-end models with premium materials can cost around $500. Either option delivers an improved landscape for less than continual replacement of real plants.
Installing Faux Shrub Covers
Installing a faux shrub cover to conceal a utility box only takes a few simple steps:
- Clear away any debris or plants from the box site.
- Optional - Paint the box to match faux shrub colors.
- Position the cover base securely around the box.
- For gapless coverage, use sealant/adhesive between base edges and wall.
- Check that box doors fully open without catching.
Blend Into The Surroundings
Ideally, the faux shrub matches other real landscaping. Place multiple covers together to conceal large utility banks. Stacked stone or custom surrounds also help them mix into the area.
Get Creative With Alternative Coverings
For more originality, build a full custom enclosure like a stacked stone facade or wood frame around the box. Or try vertically mounting a hydroponic plant wall panel on the wall itself to partially or fully obscure the box.
Why Choose A Faux Shrub Cover?
Faux shrub covers make smart, simple replacements for high-maintenance live plants for hiding outdoor utilities. Benefits include:
- Permanent all-weather protection
- Seamless landscape integration
- No upkeep required
- Affordable vs continual plant replacement
With the eyesores out of sight, you can better enjoy your beautiful outdoor haven.
Don't settle for unsightly utility boxes marring your property's landscape. Faux shrub covers provide an ingenious solution to conceal the offenders once and for all. Invest in one today and rediscover the joy of your gorgeous outdoor oasis, now flawlessly uninterrupted.