We live in an area where the weather can limit our outdoor gatherings. Homeowners plan their such gatherings around the possibility of inclement weather. Life in Wisconsin is most certainly not immune to that, but we want to find ways to optimize the time we can spend gathering outdoors. In a time where we need to find more time outside, it is important to look at ways to improve our outdoor living space.
A well-furnished, attractive outdoor living area, complete with fountains, is key to taking advantage of outdoor spaces. It also helps you make the most of your property. A functional backyard space increases your home value, which is an advantage if you decide to sell your house in the future.
Below are some home additions and improvements that will help you enrich your outdoor living space.
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Decks
Many homeowners shy away from installing a deck onto their home’s exterior, thinking that it has high maintenance requirements. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Decks come in various finishes, colors, and materials. These options guarantee that you’ll find a design that suits your style, budget, and preferred level of maintenance.
PVC decking is a popular option among homeowners. The planks are resistant to rot, extremely durable, and come in a wide array of colors and designs. You can choose PVC decking planks with a wood-like finish if you want a natural wood deck without the hassle of maintenance.
The good thing about decks is they’re easy to install. Putting in a deck is the perfect weekend DIY project for anyone with passable carpentry skills. You can also opt for professional deck installation if you’re not confident with your DIY skills.
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Patio Covers
A patio cover is important if you want to spend more time in your outdoor area, whether you’re planning to hold gatherings in your backyard or hang out by yourself. The shade protects you if it’s too sunny or windy, keeping you and your guests comfortable.
You also need a patio enclosure if you’re planning to put couches, tables, and rugs to furnish your outdoor living space. The harsh rays of the sun can beat down on your outdoor furniture and cause fading. The cover will shade your furniture and your deck from the sun, preventing discoloration.
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Pavers and Landscape Lighting
Adding paver pathways is a simple, affordable way to enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor space. They also allow your guests to move around your yard more comfortably without trampling your grass.
Plus, your yard looks more organized when you add pavers. You can use the pathways to create a focal point in your landscape or accentuate certain features in your garden.
Add lighting to your walkways to set the mood for your evening get-togethers. These pathway lights also ensure your guests’ safety as they walk around your yard in the dark. You can add accent lighting throughout your landscape to highlight the details and features you want.
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French Doors
Doors are vital in achieving a seamless indoor-outdoor living setup. A set of French doors on your patio expands your indoor living space to the outdoors. For instance, you can have French doors installed in your dining room so that it opens to an alfresco dining space.
Even if you have them closed, French doors have a light, breezy look that allows plenty of natural light to stream into your house. They make your indoor area look wider and more comfortable.
You’ll also want French doors for convenience. If you want an outdoor dining area, you’ll need a quick route to and from your kitchen. Going through the back door can be inconvenient when you’re carrying food and plates. French doors give you easy access in and out of your house.
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Fire Pits
Installing a firepit allows homeowners an outdoor space to be used all year round. By adding a fire pit, you have an enjoyable place to gather no matter if it is warm or cold outside. Creating this centerpiece to your outdoor space will bring cozy and inviting moments to your backyard, no matter the time of year. This hardscape is a popular feature that helps outdoor socializing happen comfortably. A fire pit will bring years of enjoyment.
These five home additions are just a few ideas that can enrich your outdoor space. If you’re unsure how to maximize your property, consult a home improvement contractor. They’ll give you advice on which additions will best complement your exterior design and achieve the kind of outdoor lifestyle you want.
Your Home Improvement Experts in Wisconsin
When you need help repairing, remodeling, or replacing your home exterior, All Exteriors is here to guide you. With 20 years of experience in home remodeling and improvement, we can create a plan that satisfies your requirements, timeline, and budget.