These days, more homeowners want to spend a lot of time outdoors in the summer. Whether you’re grilling, gardening, or just relaxing in your yard, there’s no doubt that being outside is one of the best parts of the season. But if your outdoor living space needs a little TLC, it can be tough to know where to start.
Reports show that the average person spends about $8,305 on home improvements. And while that may seem like a lot, there are plenty of ways to make small changes that will significantly impact your outdoor space.
Here are four cost-efficient projects that will transform your outdoor living space:
1. Consider Adding a Carport
Garages are a great way to protect your vehicles from the element. This is where you store some belongings that you don’t use often. However, building a garage can be expensive. If you’re looking for a more cost-effective option, consider adding a carport.
Carports are typically less expensive to build than garages. They can provide your vehicles with plenty of protection from the sun, rain, and snow. If you live in an area with severe weather, you may even want to consider a carport with a closed or partially closed roof. When it comes to materials, you can choose between metal, oak, or even PVC.
- Metal carports are typically less expensive than other types of carports. They’re also very durable and can withstand severe weather conditions. However, these can be a bit noisy in windy conditions, and they can also be prone to rust if not correctly maintained.
- A wood carport will also add value to your home. Most people prefer a wood carport made of oak. This can be more expensive than other carports and requires more maintenance, such as painting or staining every few years.
- PVC carports, on the other hand, are typically the most affordable option. They’re also very durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. But these can be difficult to install, and there are only limited options regarding the style.
If you want a durable carport that can also aid in adding value to your home, your best choice would be a carport made of oak. You only need to find and reach out to a reliable company that supplies oak carports. They can start crafting your carport based on your specifications. Finding a supplier who works with PEFC-certified timbers would be best to ensure that your new carport is of high-quality and sustainable materials.
2. Add a Patio or Deck
Don’t have an outdoor living space where you can rest, unwind, or even receive guests? Consider adding a patio or deck. This will give you a place to relax and entertain guests, and it can also increase the value of your home.
There are a few things to consider when choosing between a patio and a deck. For one, you need to consider the size of your outdoor space. A patio might be a better option if you have a small yard because it doesn’t require as much space as a deck.
Another consideration is the type of soil in your yard. If you have clay soil, know that this type of soil can expand and contract, which can cause cracking in concrete. If you have clay soil, it’s best to go with a deck because the decking boards can move along with the soil.
Finally, you need to think about your budget. Decks can be more expensive than patios, but they also have the potential to last longer. A patio might be the better option if you’re on a tight budget.
3. Install a Fire Pit
Fire pits are a great way to add ambiance to your outdoor living space. They’re also a great place to gather around with family and friends. If you want an instant fire pit, you can buy a pre-made one from your local home improvement store.
You can also build your own fire pit if you feel more ambitious. This is an excellent project for handy people with some basic construction knowledge. Creating your own fire pit will also be more affordable than buying a pre-made one.
You can start by digging a hole in your backyard. The hole should be about three feet wide and two feet deep. After digging the hole, line it with gravel.
Next, you’ll need to build a ring out of bricks or stones. Ensure the bricks or stones are level to stabilize your fire pit. After creating the ring, fill it with more gravel.
Now, you’re ready to start your fire. Place some wood in the middle of the pit and light it with a match. Once the fire gets going, you can add some larger pieces of wood.
4. Add Landscaping
Adding some landscaping to your outdoor living space can make a difference. This will make the space more visually appealing, adding points to your curb appeal. If you’re unsure where to start, consider adding some flowers and shrubs. You can also add a few trees to provide shade on hot days.
When it comes to landscaping, choose plants native to your area. These plants will better handle the local climate and soil conditions. Not to mention, they’ll require less maintenance than non-native plants.
Don’t forget to add some mulch to your flower beds. This will help keep the weeds at bay and help your plants retain moisture.
There are plenty of ways to spruce up your outdoor living space. By making a few simple changes, you can turn your boring backyard into a stylish and inviting space. These four projects are a great place to start.
