Creating the Ultimate Backyard Paradise

Kaitlin Krull

Although summer is now officially past its halfway point, there are still plenty of sweltering hot days and blissfully cool evenings left to enjoy. At Home Improvement Leads, we think there is no place better to soak up every last second of sun than your very own backyard. If your own personal outdoor paradise is slightly less than idyllic, you still have time to make it right. Here are a few of our top tips for creating the ultimate backyard paradise this summer—and every summer after.

Give your deck a facelift

Homeowners who spend most of their time outside know that a deck is the perfect transitory space between the interior of your home and your backyard. However, decking is notoriously difficult to maintain, so make sure yours is up to scratch with regular staining, resealing, and repairs. If you want to create a decking space that stands the test of time and makes a statement, consider investing in porcelain pavers, interlocking deck tiles, or structural wood tiles. We love these non-traditional options because they require very little maintenance and can be replaced easily without having to remove entire portions of your deck.

Install a pergola or awning

If you have a wide open or south-facing backyard, shade can be difficult to find. Pergolas or wall-mounted awnings are relatively inexpensive and easy to assemble, giving your deck area comfort and respite from the heat. Pergolas in particular also give your backyard a sophisticated style reminiscent of Mediterranean estates and all-inclusive resorts, which is perfect for entertaining.

Make a fire pit

A summer soirée is not complete without a lazy evening spent in front of the bonfire. Creating a fire pit to give your backyard parties an unforgettable edge is easier than you might think: either build your own in a flat, open space with bricks or stones, or buy a small standalone fire pit or chiminea from your local home improvement store. If your outdoor entertainment area is undergoing a large scale renovation, consider incorporating your fire pit into the deck itself—just make sure the area is a safe distance from the house and any trees or other overhanging structures.

Upgrade your entertainment space

For many homeowners, summertime is all about outdoor entertaining. Give your backyard an instant lift with updated seating, dining, and barbeque areas. All-weather furniture made from rattan, wicker, or other wipe-clean materials will stand the test of time, but rain covers are a good idea if you’re particularly worried about any of your furniture warping or becoming damaged as the seasons change. Check, service, or even upgrade your grill, making sure to stock up on charcoal or gas before any big get-togethers. We promise that spending a bit more time and money on these upgrades will be worth the investment. If you love your outdoor entertainment area, your friends and family will, too.

Tidy up your landscaping

All the decking, furniture, and entertainment in the world will mean nothing this summer if your yard isn’t up to scratch. Take the time to maintain your lawn, trees, and flower beds, outsourcing the job to professionals if it becomes too much for you to complete alone. For most busy homeowners, less is more when it comes to backyard landscaping—lush green grass, tidy paving stones, and a blooming flower bed or two will give a far better impression than an unkempt Secret Garden style yard.