Decks, courtyards, porches, and patios are a great way to extend your home’s living space, but if they are not well-maintained, these areas quickly become an eyesore. Prepare your deck or patio for spring with a few simple projects. You’ll improve your outdoor living spaces and create an inviting oasis to spend time with friends and neighbors. Here are five ideas you can do yourself.

1. Add Color to Improve Your Outdoor Living Spaces

Adding color to outdoor spaces will significantly improve the look and feel of the patio or porch. Accessories are an easy and affordable way to spruce up a deck or garden with color.

Accent pillows with fun patterns make the seating area more comfortable while adding visual interest. A new set of cushions adds brightness and warmth to neutral-toned furniture. Outdoor rugs are another great option for adding texture and color without committing to a permanent change.

2. Install Lighting

Adding lighting to your deck, porch, or patio creates a warm ambiance for evening gatherings or romantic dinners under the stars. Consider installing string lights, pathway lights, tiki torches, lanterns, and wall sconces. Shop at your local home improvement store or online for outdoor lighting options.

3. Improve Your Outdoor Living Spaces with Flowers & Greenery

Planting flowers and greenery in containers on the deck is an easy way to add color and life to the area. Consider adding evergreen shrubs along one side of the deck to create privacy or placing potted plants around the edges of the space for texture and beauty.

4. Create Shade

If you want to enjoy your outdoor space during hot summer days without getting sunburned, creating shade will be essential. Build a pergola with fabric drapes to provide much-needed relief from the sun while enhancing the look of your outdoor area. Alternatively, you could install a patio umbrella above the seating area – this is great if you don’t have enough room for a larger structure like a pergola.

Shade sails are another popular option. These colorful fabric shapes can be installed above the deck or patio to create shaded areas to escape from the heat.

5. Upgrade the Outdoor Furniture

If you don’t already have patio furniture, invest in attractive options like wicker chairs or cedar benches. Comfortable furniture makes it easier for you to entertain guests outdoors. A bistro set or a couch and end tables will give the space a finished, welcoming look.

Improve the furniture by adding cushions and throw blankets. The space will feel warm and inviting for family and friends.

There are many ways to improve your outdoor living spaces on any budget. Find ways to add color and create comfortable places to relax and unwind.

Stevens Home Inspections provides inspection services in the Northern Texas area, including Dallas, Frisco, Plano, Allen, and Prosper. Contact us to schedule an appointment.