Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Boost your home value with these 5 outdoor project upgrades

-

Are you looking for attractive and practical ways to upgrade your home? Consider investing in an outdoor renovation project. From installing or remodeling a patio to adding an outdoor fireplace, these outdoor projects can make your home an inviting space at which you and others will want to spend time.

To inspire and help you along your outdoor design journey, Belgard — a leading provider of outdoor home products such as pavers, retaining walls and other landscape features — offers five outdoor design inspiratio­ns you can implement in your next home-improvemen­t project.

1. UPGRADE YOUR PATIO

A patio or deck can be a wonderful addition to your home. It acts as an extension of your home and provides another livable space to relax and socialize with family and friends. You can even incorporat­e an outdoor dining area and workspace to create a multipurpo­se patio.

Whether you want to add a patio or upgrade your existing one, doing so also adds value to your home. According to the National Associatio­n of Realtors Research Group 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, a new patio typically costs $10,000 to $10,500. However, homeowners who installed a patio recovered 95 percent of the value from the project.

When designing your patio, consider using concrete pavers to incorporat­e textures and colors. Concrete pavers are a great way to complete the feel of your outdoor space and seamlessly blend the hardscapes in with the existing layout because pavers complement various design styles. They are also a great investment and have a life span of 30 to 100 years to withstand extreme weather and bear heavy weight.

2. INVEST IN LANDSCAPIN­G

If you want to improve the appearance of your home and get an instant return on investment, upgrade your landscape. Not only does investing in landscapin­g enhance your home’s curb appeal, but it also extends a warm invitation into your home for visitors.

The NAR report found that lining your walkway of pavers with plants, or adding in raised beds and shrubs, allowed homeowners to recover 104 percent of the project’s cost. However, if you want to start small, adding flowering shrubs and shade trees and mulching are easy, cost-effective ways to revive your yard.

3. ADD SHADE STRUCTURES

During the warmer months, you will want shade structures so you can get the most out of your outdoor space, no matter the temperatur­e. Escape the heat by installing a pergola on your patio.

Pergolas are a popular option because homeowners can choose various materials, styles and colors to fit their layout. A well-designed pergola can boost property values and increase the usability of the backyard.

Decorate your pergola with sun-blocking curtains and hanging plants to create the perfect private getaway in your backyard. For a more cost-effective option, a trellis with plants or greenery can provide both privacy and shade.

4. INSTALL AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN

Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasing­ly popular with homeowners and potential homebuyers. These kitchens allow people to spend as much time outdoors as possible while entertaini­ng and feeding guests. It also means you do not heat up your house during the summer months.

Compared to other outdoor homeimprov­ement projects, outdoor kitchens offer a substantia­l return on investment. NAR found that homeowners recovered 100 percent of the cost of building an outdoor kitchen. The report also found that 99 percent of homeowners who added an outdoor kitchen felt a greater desire to be home, and 71 percent felt an increased sense of enjoyment with their home.

Note: Ensure that the kitchen is functional within your space and has shelter from rain or intense sun so you have optimal time to utilize the space throughout the year.

5. INCORPORAT­E A FIRE FEATURE

Whether you choose a fireplace or fire pit, an outdoor fire feature will add value to your home and allow you to make memories with friends and family in a cozy environmen­t huddled around whichever feature you choose.

Fire features also add 32 percent better functional­ity, livability and personalit­y to your home and make your outdoor space more usable so you can enjoy it during a brisk summer evening or in colder climates.

Consider your budget, space layout and function for fire features to ensure that you choose the right one for your backyard and family. A DIY fire pit is a great inexpensiv­e option with versatile use and style. Opt for an outdoor fireplace if you are looking for a more premium option that can double as a privacy wall and will take up less space than a typical fireplace.

Let these five outdoor renovation projects inspire you to upgrade your home, add value to your property and make your home a place where you and others want to spend their time. For more outdoor design inspiratio­n, visit Belgard.com.

 ?? ??
 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States