Finally! I think it’s safe to say winter is over! We survived another season of cold and snow and as our reward, we have three whole months of warmth and sunshine in front of us. That means it’s time to start thinking about backyard improvements.

Summer’s here, and that means it’s time for a few backyard improvements.

Top 5 backyard improvements

1. Patios
   Stone or brick patios allow homeowners to add a bit of design to their backyard without having to go the route of modern art  (am I the only one that never understands what those statues are trying to say?). Beautiful and interesting designs can be made with whatever pavers you choose and are great conversation starters over cocktails and appetizers.

2. Fire Pits
   The smell of summer always seems to be lightly lined with wood smoke and burnt marshmallows. Why travel out to a campground when you could have your own fire pit in your backyard? Whether you go with a free-standing or built-in option, fire pits are the perfect excuse to invite friends and family over for an evening of yard games and roasted hot dogs.

3. Cutting Gardens
   Having a separate flower garden for cutting bouquet flowers might sound a little frivolous or like you’re just asking for more work, but it doesn’t have to be! Cutting gardens are a great way to be able to bring flowers into your home without taking them from your flower garden. By planting a variety of flowers that will bloom through the season, you’ll always have flowers waiting to be brought into your home.

4. Play Areas
   It wouldn’t be summer for the kids without an area for them to play outside. Jungle gyms are just as popular as they have ever been and are the perfect place for kids to let their imaginations run wild with pirate chases or lakes full of alligators . . . what? You didn’t have those in your backyard as a kid? Weird.

5. Decks
   Decks always seem to conjure up images of summer afternoons spent with family and friends and good food. Multilayer designs are a great way to add “sections” to your deck and to help the deck match the design of your house. Another great option for decks are built-in benches, tables, food serving areas, and grilling stations.