Why wait till spring?
Fall is prime time for tackling outdoor projects
When temperatures start to dip most of us start planning indoor renovations. But Carson Arthur insists fall is the perfect time to tackle outdoor projects.
From building decks and gazebos to installing a hot tub or preparing flower beds for spring, fall offers ideal weather conditions and price points for doing outdoor home improvements, says the landscape expert and host of several DIY home-improvement shows, including HGTV’s Green Force and Critical Listing.
“It seems weird, building something you can’t use for six months. But fall is a beautiful time to build. It’s cooler and there are no bugs.”
A firm believer that “every reno you do outside will increase the value of your house,” Arthur says how much you invest will depend on how long you plan to stay in the home.
A wood deck, for instance, makes good economic sense for homeowners with a five- to 10-year plan. Arthur recommends MicroPro Sienna, a pre-stained, pressuretreated wood that looks like cedar, but without the hefty price tag. “It goes up done,” he says.
For those who have no intention of moving for 10 to 20 years, stone is a smarter choice.
“Stone is a bigger investment, but it’s less maintenance and will last longer.”
As far as trends go, Arthur says, the choice of outdoor improvements vary by age group:
Millennials ( born early 1980s to early 2000s): Plants, vegetables and flowers.
Generation X (1960s to ’80s): Outdoor kitchens, swimming pools, hot tubs.
Baby boomers (1946 to 1964): Fully furnished outdoor rooms to extend living spaces.
But he points out that improving a home’s curb appeal never goes out of style and can greatly increase the resale value of a home. A boldly painted front door, lush gardens and soft lighting are key elements to making a strong first impression. He even recommends adding a bench or seating to make the front yard more inviting.
If budget is an issue, Arthur says there is no better time than fall to shop for outdoor furniture, perennials, patio sets and hot tubs when everything goes on sale. “If you’re smart, take advantage of the clearance sales.”