One of the benefits of owning a home is having yard space. When it comes to the back yard, many homeowners don’t make as much use as possible of their space.
At Experts In Your Home, our goal is to see you happy in your home. We know that part of that happiness will come from using not only the indoor spaces but taking advantage of the outdoor ones as well.
You may be thinking “I don’t like yard maintenance” or “I just don’t know where to start” when it comes to remodeling a back yard. Never fear, here are some ideas to get you started!
Consider these Options to Make Your Back Yard Space More Enjoyable:
Patio
The patio you choose for your back yard will provide the space to step out and BBQ, sit on furniture and relax, play, etc. There are different options for a patio surface that can make your outdoor living more enjoyable. Here are some common choices:
Concrete patio: this option can be more cost efficient and can be large or small, creating a patio that gives you space to stretch out.
Stone pavers: the options for stone or brick patios are exciting because they range in styles and colors, allowing you to create a back yard theme of your choice. A trip to your local home improvement store can give you inspiration and an idea of the selection and cost.
Gravel options: gravel can be mixed with concrete block pavers and allow you to create a walkable and livable space in your back yard. This option may save you money on supplies, but require slightly more maintenance to keep the weeds out.
Deck
Depending on how your home is constructed, a deck may be the perfect choice. A deck gives an option to walk out on a level surface and still have access to the yard with steps that lead off of the deck. This choice is a good fit with homes that are on a raised foundation or built on a slope,
One of the common hesitations about building a deck is the maintenance, since wood needs to be treated regularly. If that's a concern for you, alternative options are various types of engineered wood that may last longer and require less maintenance.
Gazebo
For a roof top in your outdoor space the best choice is a gazebo, which can be built from scratch by a contractor (or a DIY project if you are handy), or you can purchase gazebo kits from places like Lowe’s or Home Depot.
Outdoor Kitchen
One of the best ways to enjoy your outdoor space is to be able to cook and eat outside when the weather is nice. Building an outdoor kitchen can be a practical way to make the most out of your space.
While a grill is essential, some also opt for an outdoor brick oven that you can cook pizza and other foods in. Add in some counter space and an outdoor sink and you’re well on your way to enjoying cooking in the outdoors.
Outdoor Fireplace
One way to use your outdoor space in the colder months is to add an outdoor fireplace. This can provide a gathering spot that takes the chill off while you're able to spend time with others without being cramped up in the house. You can get creative with the style of your fireplace, and by installing a gas fireplace you can warm things up with the flip of a switch.
Outdoor Furniture
Back yards are a great place to play, but also a great place to relax. You can find comfortable back yard furniture that will help you take a load off and enjoy the evening. Some will choose built in furniture (benches along a deck or stone seating built into the landscape) while others will purchase furniture and create an outdoor “living room” or “dining room” space.
Whatever way you choose to furnish your outdoor area, it will greatly enhance your ability to enjoy your back yard.
Fencing
Do you place a high value on privacy? Consider adding a 6’ privacy fence to the back yard. Most HOA’s and city ordinances allow this, but you’ll want to double check and make sure before installing the fence. A fence can give you a sense of your own space, and the benefit of not having a 24/7 view into the neighbors yard!
Pool/Hot Tub
Adding a pool to the back yard can create an environment where family and friends can recreate, cool off and enjoy their time together. Pools are not cheap, but can be a worthwhile investment if it fits your lifestyle and budget. Don’t forget to consider that pools will require ongoing maintenance as well.
When it comes to a hot tub, they are easier to install and can be purchased for a few thousand dollars. The benefit of hot tubs is they can be used in colder months and create a relaxing place to unwind at the end of the day.
Get Help from a Chico Area Contractor
Contact Experts In Your Home if you are embarking on any home remodeling project and need a Chico, CA contractor, we’ll be able to discuss your options and help you take the next steps from there.
