As we leave long winter days behind and enter the warmth of spring, it's time to find ways to enhance our outdoor living spaces. You may be daydreaming of lounge chairs and grills on hot summer days, but is your deck ready to entertain? Whatever your outdoor living goals may be, chances are your space could use some renewal for the backyard activities ahead. We've put together a list of our top 10 ideas to help you spring into the season in full color and style.
Read on to learn more.
1. Update or Refinish Your Decking
If you have a deck, it may be time for a refresh. Replacing or refinishing older decks may significantly help to increase the value of your home. Not only will this kind of update enhance your aesthetic appeal, but it's also an affordable option that will improve safety and overall usability.
Be sure to remove weathered materials and check for any damage such as swelling, drying out, dislodged areas, cracking, splintering, and breakage, which can be hazardous. Deck railings are particularly susceptible to deterioration. Additionally, altering the shape, size, or style of your deck can make it more functional and enjoyable. You'll be glad you made the decision to do so when it comes time to enjoy the outdoors when the weather is in full bloom!
2. Add Built-Ins
Built-ins are a great way to add both purpose and beauty to your yard. One built-in to consider is flowerbeds—which are sure to bring new life into any tired space (literally). Not only do florals provide color to a blank canvas, but they are natural air cleaners that can attract pollinators and keep mosquitos at bay, depending on the species. Many people also find gardening to be a great stress reliever.
Another option to consider is an outdoor bench. They can be custom-made in a range of designs, styles, and shapes, and may have ornate detailing as well. On top of being a must-have for those who host the most, a built-in bench can be a great focal point for your garden space.
3. Create an Outdoor Kitchen
An outdoor kitchen is an excellent way to expand your living space and make cooking easier, particularly for large gatherings. Many people don't like the lingering smell of cooked food in their homes, and cooking outdoors means no more battling the dinnertime chaos of stove-top shortage.
Bonus? Cooking outdoors can also save on utility bills, as it can reduce the workload on your air conditioning unit during the hot summer months. Talk about cooking smarter, not harder!
4. Plant Colorful Perennials for a Lush Spring Deck
Perennials are a worthwhile investment as they will return year after year so long as you provide proper care. If you want to add depth to your garden, choose tall perennials for the borders, which can be used to create privacy or hide unsightly objects such as chain link fences or air conditioners. From there, lace in a mix of medium and short plants that help create variation throughout your landscaping.
Regardless of the height, choose a variety of plants based on bloom times so that you always have something blooming seasonally. You will want to space each plant far enough so that the roots of the plants don’t interfere with one another, but close enough to where there are no gaps or large open spaces that prohibit seclusion.
5. Upgrade Your Patio Furniture
Investing in quality patio furniture can transform your outdoor space in an instant. Furniture sets the overall tone of your backyard, so choosing the right style appropriate for your aesthetic and the right materials for your climate is crucial in creating a durable sanctuary built to last.
Mixing in timeless outdoor cushions, pillows and throws that reflect your personal style and play off the natural surroundings helps to add character and charm to your converted space. To keep your deck fresh on a dime, pillowcase covers are an inexpensive way to update your furnishings each season and help to extend the life of your pillows.
6. Shade Your Lounge Areas
Shaded lounge areas can make a significant difference in how comfortable you feel while outdoors. Adding shade to areas in direct sunlight can make the heat feel up to 20 degrees cooler, reduce UV exposure, and even lower energy costs by blocking windows and doorways. Additionally, strategically positioned trees can save up to 25% on energy costs.
7. Create Artistic Focal Points
Artistic focal points can reflect your personal style and creativity. Consider adding garden art, such as globes, spinners, chimes, birdhouses, or anything else that inspires you and intrigues guests.
Another fun focal point is an artistic privacy fence or pergola. This can be both functional and beautiful, and act as an animal barrier while providing some solitude from the outside world. Depending on what material the structure is made from, it may help keep the weather out as well.
8. Bring the Outdoors In
Installing glass patio doors can transform a space, bringing the outdoors in and creating an indoor/outdoor living environment that positively impacts your day-to-day life. This type of upgrade will give you a lot of flexibility to create a new entertaining space, depending on your needs, and help you maximize every square foot of your home.
9. Install New Lighting
Installing the appropriate lighting system can significantly enhance your outdoor living space, even after dark. By selecting decorative and artistic fixtures, you can create an ambiance that perfectly complements your style. In addition, the proper placement of these lights can showcase yard decorations while also illuminating the area. Moreover, outdoor lighting can increase the appeal of your home to prospective buyers.
10. Create an Entertainment Zone
Creating an entertainment zone is a fantastic way to maximize your outdoor space for the whole family. Consider adding a fire pit to enjoy the cool summer nights, swing seating for relaxation, or oversized yard games for endless entertainment. If you have the space, consider installing an old-school badminton area. Other games such as croquet, horseshoes, and cornhole can also be great options to add tons of fun!
Whatever option you choose to update your outdoor living space, Doug Ashy has the tools and materials you need to refresh your deck for spring! Our team is happy to help you take your project to the next level.
Visit a location near you to get started!