Many people with backyards and patios don’t spend much time using them. Perhaps it’s because the space doesn’t provide privacy or maybe it doesn’t have any inviting features. If this sounds like you, don’t let your outdoor space go to waste. There are many easy projects you can do to make your yard or patio into an outdoor oasis that you can’t wait to use.
Tackle Backyard Privacy Issues
For many people, the biggest deterrent to spending time outside is that there’s no privacy from the neighbors. Luckily, this is one of the easiest problems to fix.
- Potted plants or hedges can both make great privacy screens.
- If you don’t have the patience to grow your own screen, faux plant screens work, too.
- If the faux plant look isn’t for your, it’s easy to build a basic wooden privacy wall.
- Building a fence is another option: be sure to document the installation as this project could increase your home’s value.
Give Your Patio a Makeover
A deck or patio is the perfect place to sit and enjoy some fresh air. However, if your patio has seen better days, it’s probably not beckoning you to spend time outside right now.
- If your current patio is beyond repair, start from scratch by building a DIY deck.
- A deck in decent shape can be restored with a fresh coat of stain or an oil finish.
- Get some comfortable furniture that you’ll actually want to use.
- Better yet, make a porch swing to sit on.
- Pick up a few large containers and plant some flowers or greenery to liven up the porch.
- Put the finishing touch on your patio by using candles, lanterns or outdoor string lights.
- Enhance the area around your patio by hiring backyard landscaping services to beautify your yard.
Add Kid-Friendly Features
If you’ve got a family, making your backyard appealing to the kids is a great way to get them outside more often. These ideas can make your yard fun and educational at the same time.
- If you don’t have a playset or swing, consider putting one in.
- Something as simple as a sandbox can provide hours of fun for little ones.
- Adding a garden provides a great learning opportunity as well as healthy, whole foods.
- A garden can also involve children in meal planning and cooking.
- Use your backyard as a learning opportunity for children. There are several fun activities you can encourage, such as stargazing and building bird houses.
If you’re lucky enough to have a patio or backyard, make sure you put the space to good use. Adding privacy features, making your yard kid-friendly, and revamping your patio will completely transform your outdoor space into a place that feels like true getaway.
This article was written by guest writer, Carrie Spencer of The Spencers Adventures.
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