5 Easy-to-Install Backyard Upgrades for Spring

It takes a trained eye to see a backyard paradise where others see a boring plot of grass. But you don’t need to be a design expert if you start small and build your paradise gradually, one upgrade at a time.

Here are 5 ideas to get you started – they’re all great when implemented on their own but work wonderfully together, too.

1. A Pergola

A pergola adds instant old-world charm to your yard and also provides a defined space for relaxing. Set one up freestanding, or extend your living space by attaching your pergola to the exterior wall of your home.

2. An Outdoor Oven

Outdoor ovens have multiple benefits, not the least of which is an instant entertainment center. Once you have the ability to cook outdoors in a real oven, the exciting possibilities are endless. Pizza party, anyone?

Another benefit to this particular upgrade is energy savings on your utility bill in summer. Why heat up the house cooking when you can enjoy preparing your meals outdoors?

3. A Fire Pit

Nothing says “gathering” like the glow of a fire to gather ’round. Every evening can be magical and memorable when you and your loved ones or your friends are gathered around an inviting fire pit instead of the TV.

4. Recycled Plastic Decking

Did you know that wooden decking isn’t totally sustainable? Even treated wood succumbs to the elements and usually needs to be replaced every seven years or so. Plus, it gets stained.

Recycled plastic decking doesn’t stain, lasts more than four times longer than wood, and can be maintained with a hose or pressure washer from time to time. It’s also made from recycled plastic that would otherwise end up in a landfill somewhere. What’s not to love?

5. Solar Lighting

If you plan on using your backyard after the sun goes down, treat yourself to some solar lighting.

Placed around the perimeter or along pathways, it can instantly turn your yard into a magical faerie wonderland. Even if you stay in at night, it’s wonderfully calming to look out your window and see those little solar-powered lights dotting the yard.

Now that you see how easy it can be to upgrade your yard, what’s stopping you? Spring is just around the corner!