Many of us love nothing more than relaxing in our backyards as the soothing rays of the sun tickle our skin. However, if your space is covered in old grass, dirty garden toys, and dated furniture, you may cringe at the thought of spending time out there. If this is the case, your backyard is probably in need of a serious makeover. Luckily, this article will display an array of useful tips and tricks to help you upgrade your backyard this summer.
Signs Your Backyard Needs an Upgrade
You Are Surrounded by Dead Plants
A few quaint plants can help transform your humble garden into a rural paradise. But, if these plants have now become wilted or dry, you may feel as if you are standing in an eerie graveyard. Decaying plants are a key sign that your backyard needs some TLC as they signify that it has not been maintained or given the resources needed for plants to flourish and blossom. Wilted plants are also an ideal environment for various pests, putting you at grave risk for a pest invasion. This can cause your home to experience even more damage and may cost a lot of money to have them eliminated.
The Fencing Has Caved In
Fences are often subject to a lot of wear and tear, usually because they are exposed to all the elements. Yet, when your fence has become completely damaged, it can cause your backyard to look unsightly and wrecked. This destruction can also be quite unsafe, especially if your children are forced to run around near large shards of broken wood. Moreover, if you have high fences that surround the perimeter of your home, you could be at risk of being burgled if these fences are damaged or easy to climb over. Fencing can also become dated over time, leaving your garden looking old-fashioned and disheveled.
Limited Spaces for Entertainment
Garden parties are the height of luxury for many people, but some guests may be left to sit on wet patches of grass if your garden does not facilitate enough seating areas. These issues could occur due to a lack of space or even just unsuitable seating options. Regardless, if you notice that your garden is becoming overcrowded, you may have to make some changes to help your guests feel more comfortable. An overcrowded garden can also pose a plethora of safety risks, which can make guests feel anxious and nervous about entering your home.
The Neighbors Are Always Peering Over
Though some of us adore our neighbors, we all need a bit of peace and quiet at times. If your neighbors are always looking in at your garden, it may be a sign that you need to make some changes. This could occur because of inappropriate fencing or landscaping decisions. However, your neighbors can be kept at arm’s length with just a few simple upgrades. It is also important to keep your neighbors out if there is a sense of conflict, or if you do not want to disturb them. Thus, you now have the chance to keep the peace with your neighbors and ensure that you can get along for years to come.
You Are Not Using Your Backyard to Its Full Potential
If you see your backyard more as a storage unit than a place to relax, it may be time to put some effort into this space. Many of us see our gardens as a place for children to play, but with a few loving touches, they can also be a safe haven for the grownups. As such, the whole family now has the chance to make the most out of their excellent backyard.
8 Ways to Upgrade Your Backyard This Summer
1. Hire an Arborist
If you are fortunate enough to have a lot of foliage and horticulture in your backyard, you may benefit from researching a collection of local arborists to help the space seem more streamlined. These professional tree removers can help you get rid of old and damaged trees and work to create an environment that fosters natural growth. This can also be a useful strategy for those who are concerned about the number of looming trees in their backyard and view them as a safety concern for their children and other neighbors.
2. Install a Pool
A swimming pool is a great way to add a touch of elegance of affluence to your backyard. Pools are also a useful asset during the summer months, helping you to cool off and play exciting games together as a family. A local pool company can help to fit a swimming pool that best suits your budget as well as the size of your backyard. In addition, these experts can also offer a wealth of advice and guidance on how to keep your pool clean, hygienic, and free of invasive pests. Since swimming pools are so highly sought-after, especially in hotter states, they can really help to drive up the value of your home, making you more competitive in the overall property market.
3. Get Paving Done
Whether it’s a few simple tiles or a much wider stretch of path, paving is a great way to add a spot of contrast to your backyard. With the help of some local paving companies, you have the chance to really elevate your space, using a range of tools to help make your garden more accessible and attractive. Paving is also a useful feature for those looking to add some new additions to their backyard such as a state-of-the-art barbecue or a few toys for the children to use to their hearts’ content.
4. Hire a Landscaper
An expert landscaper can totally transform your backyard, allowing you to finally have the garden you have always dreamed about. These individuals can take on simple tasks such as planting flowers and sowing lawns, but they are also trained to complete much more extravagant projects such as implementing grandiose water features. As such, landscapers are a great resource for those looking to give their backyard a much-needed refashioning, allowing them to revel in a much more chic environment.
5. Build a Decking Area
A decking area offers your garden a unique sense of space, allowing you to enjoy some time away from the rest of the backyard. A deck builder can ensure that this space is constructed safely and securely, creating an asset that will last for many years to come. Decking areas are also perfect for hosting parties and events, offering guests a space to kick back and relax as they gaze out at the tremendous views that sit before them.
6. Add Decorative Elements
Sometimes all a garden needs is a few decorative elements to help it really stand out. A collection of outdoor cushions and pillows can make your backyard seem more cozy and homely, making it a great place to relax after a long day at work. A spot of color can also help to make your garden look more eye-catching. Therefore, if you are eager to give your garden a touch of brightness, consider hiring a local painter to make the job a little easier. These professionals can also help you decide on an appropriate color, making your garden look as perfect as possible.
7. Create a Patio Area
Patios often resemble quaint courtyards, allowing the entire space to feel more intimate and charming. These spaces are a great option for couples who are looking for a space to unwind and catch up after a busy day. Unfortunately, because these spaces are usually quite open, they can become vulnerable to debris and other harsh weather conditions. However, a patio cover can help to protect your space, whilst still helping it look attractive and decadent. These covers are often constructed from wood and create an outdoor shade solution so that you can continue to enjoy the space whatever the weather.
8. Get the Gutters Cleaned
Gutters are often regarded as a crucial part of any roofing structure as they help to collect any debris or foliage that has fallen off of the roof. Despite their purpose, they can sometimes become clogged, creating a very unfavorable sight. By employing a local gutter service, you can be free of any unsightly debris and help to keep your gutters clean and in working order. As such, you can immerse yourself deeper in your amazing backyard without having to worry about the condition of your guttering system.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Backyard
Offers an Array of Health Benefits
Spending more time outside offers us the chance to supercharge our health and enjoy a series of advantageous effects. Sunlight emits a vital substance called vitamin D, which is responsible for the normal development of our immune system. Thus, by making our backyards more attractive, we have a better chance of fighting off common colds and viruses during the winter months. Fresh air is also an effective cure for those with respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD, allowing sufferers of these illnesses to breathe easily and relax.
Expands Your Living Space
If you have enough space, you can also add a summer house to your backyard. These are large wooden structures that can be used as an additional room or living area. As such, these summer houses can be transformed into quirky indoor bar areas or even fashionable home offices, giving you the chance to spend more time in your backyard and learn to appreciate its versatility and overall beauty. An attractive garden can also be used as a hub for entertaining and al fresco dining, making your home a more communal and lively space.
Better Sense of Security
Even the safest neighborhoods can be victims of crime, meaning that everyone should be aware of potential predators. By adding a high-end security system to your backyard, you can keep an eye on your space and deter criminals from entering your home. If you are upgrading your backyard on a budget, you can add a few security lights to help illuminate your space and scare off those who try to enter your property illegally.
Create a Stronger Sense of Community
Many of us feel embarrassed at the state of our homes and may feel the need to shy away from our neighbors and peers as a result. However, with a few simple upgrades and assets, you can learn to feel more appreciative of your backyard and feel more confident to invite people over. Whether you are hosting an immense dinner party or creating a few cocktails for everyone to enjoy, you can begin to feel more relaxed in your community and build lifelong relationships with those who live closest to you. This is also a good way to support more vulnerable members of your neighborhood such as single parents and senior citizens, inviting them to feel at home in your backyard.
Support Your Growing Family
Children also deserve a safe and beautiful backyard to play in, helping them to create a plethora of cherished memories. By adding a separate patio or decking area, the adults can enjoy some time to themselves, whilst the children continue to play. A local landscaper can also help you to implement a wealth of outdoor toys securely, meaning that you can rest assured that your children are protected as they continue to explore their climbing frames.
Your backyard is supposed to be a fundamental part of your loving home, so it is vital that it receives the same treatment as the interior. By implementing a series of affluent upgrades, you can transform your backyard from a simple space into an environment that you will never want to leave. As such, if you are looking to give your backyard a makeover this summer, be sure to follow the advice and guidance offered in this article.