Backyard remodeling is an excellent way to improve the overall outlook and appeal of your home. If you are on a home improvement mission, you should consider incorporating backyard renovation into your plan. Adding elements like a fence, fireplace or outdoor kitchen to a backyard not only makes it more practical and useful, it also adds to the value of your property.
That being said, it is important to choose the right backyard elements to create the best experience. Here are some backyard remodeling ideas to nudge you in the right direction.
Create a Dining Space
Outdoor dining makes your routine meals and special dinners all the more special. Your backyard is the perfect place to stage this. You have virtually endless options when adding a dining space to your backyard. The costs also range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. You can start with as little as a few dining chairs, a table, a BBQ grill and some space.
Add Privacy Features
Many homeowners are concerned about privacy when planning outdoor activities in their backyard. When undertaking backyard remodeling, you must consider this. If privacy is a concern, it is important to plan accordingly. You can get creative with how to achieve privacy. Options range from fences and gates to small trees and tall shrubbery. If your privacy element also doubles as an aesthetic and décor item, that is all the better.
Get a Fire Pit Going
A fire pit is an excellent place to gather, sit down for a casual talk, have fun, go at a round of drinks and so much more. Such versatility makes it a must-have for your backyard. As with outdoor kitchens, fire pits range from very affordable to incredibly high-end. So it is easy to fit one into all budget ranges. However, make sure you consider local safety codes and building regulations when adding one during backyard remodeling.
Include a Water Feature
Flowing water has a relaxing and soothing effect on our mind and body. It also serves as a great attraction for birds. The mere sound of flowing water in a feature such as a pond or a fountain is quite refreshing. You can choose a water feature that fits your backyard and suits your needs perfectly. You can even bring together a water feature with a dining space to create a compact but tasteful area outdoors.
With the ideas listed above, you can customize backyard remodeling and tailor it to your home improvement plans. Ultimately, the best remodel should consider the available space, your budget, expected use and other specific preferences.
If you’re thinking about adding a deck to your property, your planning should take into account ROI variables. Materials, size, access, and the “wow factor” all contribute to a prospective buyer’s perception of the value added by a deck to the property. It’s worth becoming familiar with deck construction in the comparable properties in your area so you can position yours where you want to be value-wise. Another value relationship to consider is that between your deck budget and the overall value of the property. It doesn’t make ROI dollars and sense to build something too grand for the size and likely resale price of the home. One rule of thumb used by contractors and architects is that a deck should be no larger than the home’s biggest interior space.
Keep in mind, too, that adding value to your home gets the attention of the assessor and the underwriter, so your property taxes and insurance premiums are like to be increased. Like anything else built by human beings, a deck will inevitably require some maintenance and/or repair as time goes by. Good choices of materials, with expert design and construction, are the ticket to keeping those costs down and your enjoyment and ROI up.
