People spend more time in their backyard during the summer than any other time of year. And when they are sitting back there, enjoying the sunshine, their minds start to run about how they can improve the area behind their home.
With warm weather and plenty of daylight, summer presents a good time to work on home projects, and plenty of people will be taking the opportunity to do so. If you are one of those people, here are nine great ideas of what you can do to beautify your backyard.
1. Put in a Fire Pit
This sort of project may not be top of mind in the dog days of summer, but it will be something you can enjoy throughout the other three seasons. A fire pit will add a terrific look along with outstanding function. Nothing says fall more than the crackling and smell of a fire pit.
There are standalone fire pits that can be purchased in big box stores, but the recommendation here is to build a fire pit into your backyard. It is easy to cover and maintain, and can be opened up and used whenever you have company or the mood hits you.
2. Install a Greenhouse
Many people have discovered the joys of gardening in the summertime and are thrilled to eat fruits, vegetables, and herbs from their own garden. But when you just plant in your yard, that means you are subject to the whims of the weather and the season.
If you have the room, it may make sense to install a greenhouse in your backyard. These glass-paneled, climate-controlled structures allow you to grow all of the plants and veggies you like while also protecting them from the weather. Just make sure to point it towards the sun.
3. Put Down Mulch and Paving Stones to Create an Outline
You don’t have to spend a fortune to improve your backyard. If it hasn’t been done yet, putting down much and paving stones is a great way to define your backyard.
The nice thing about doing a project like this is that there is a ton of variety and choices. The local big box hardware store will have plenty of different options for paving stones. And if you want to mix up the mulch colors, that’s an option as well, as it comes in brown, red, and black.
4. Go Big and Install a Swimming Pool
The biggest backyard dream of any family that doesn’t have one in the first place is to install a swimming pool. Obviously, the first consideration is going to be about cost, and this isn’t a project that you can do if you don’t have the funds.
Once a family decides to put a pool in the backyard, they have plenty more decisions to make. What size will it be? What shape? Will it have a diving board? Will you use freshwater or saltwater? All these options are part of the fun of putting in a pool that will bring joy for decades.
5. Add a Pond to Your Backyard Oasis
People have long had a connection to water and the tranquil feeling it offers. How great would it be to add a small body of water to your backyard so that you could have that tranquil feeling all the time? It can be done by installing a pond.
The pond can be anything from a simple, small oval to a large habitat with rocks and plants. Even better, you can add a pop of color and nature to your outdoor pond by adding fish like koi. And if you live in an area with lots of mosquitoes, you can even purchase fish that will help to mitigate the problem.
6. Build a Treehouse
Americans have been building treehouses in their backyards for about as long as people have had houses. It is a great thing to do for your children, and building one alongside them teaches valuable skills and creates a place of their very own.
Don’t have kids? It’s not a problem. A recent trend has seen adults building treehouses for themselves to hang out in. This allows the grown-ups to have a little sanctuary of their own and to also feel like a kid again.
7. Painting the Patio Can Create an Incredible Look
Do you have a cement patio that is just dying for a different look? You can make it look fresh and exciting with an easy coat of paint. While you may not be able to add color to a wood deck, a cement patio is a different story.
People can take their outside space and make it their own by painting the patio. First, they should powerwash the area to get rid of all dirt and debris, but after that, a brilliant pop of color can be added.
8. Plant Some Trees For Looks and Privacy
One easy way to define your property is by planting trees like arborvitae or Leyland cypress. These plants are very affordable and easy to plant in your yard by yourself. Even better, the trees do not require all that much upkeep and will mostly grow on their own.
Not only are the trees attractive, but they also provide shade and privacy that will last all year round. When they are in season, these trees will be a brilliant green, and they will also provide a screen for the wind blowing in that direction.
9. Jazz Up Your Space With a Pergola
Do you want to add some pizzazz to your backyard area? Building a pergola over your patio or deck can really make a space look much better. And all it is going to cost you is the price of the lumber and some hard work.
A pergola creates a defined space for relaxing while outdoors and also creates shade and versatility. Best of all, if you ever want to sell your home, the new pergola will almost assuredly add to the home’s value.