pergola

Perhaps now more than ever, our backyards are an extension of our living rooms. From outdoor kitchens and firepits to pergolas and outdoor movie theaters, we practically have a second home in the open air. If you’ve been thinking about building an oasis like this for yourself, we have a few DIY project ideas for you to consider tackling.

Pergola

A pergola is an open structure that usually consists of vertical posts and a roof made of beams and rafters. Many people enjoy a pergola because it can add shade and architectural interest to the yard. It can also help establish an area for a specific purpose – like an outdoor dining room or a yoga deck – and create a backdrop for special occasions, such as a wedding.

Your first step is to decide where your pergola will go and what its main purpose will be. Once you’ve made those choices, you’ll have a better idea of the design that will suit your needs. You can source an array of free pergola designs in this article on The Spruce.

Each design has its own list of tools and supplies, but most pergolas will require lumber, including 4×4 or 6×6 posts and rafters, and hardware such as brackets, bolts and screws. Depending on the design you choose, you might need a post-hole digger.

Plan to spend up to $3,000 on your pergola, and set aside part of your budget for a building permit. You’ll need to secure one before you begin construction because a pergola is considered a permanent structure.

Patio

If you’ve just moved into a new home that has no patio or you want to replace the existing one, you don’t have to hire a pro. Simple patios can be completed in a weekend. They can also improve your home’s value and your enjoyment of your backyard.

Laying out your new patio should start with an evaluation of your current situation and consideration of how you’ll use the new area. Think about practicalities, like the size of your yard and any drainage issues. Don’t neglect the more aesthetic aspects, such as what materials will look best with your home’s exterior. Of course, your budget should also play a factor, but don’t cut corners too much or you may have to redo your patio in a few years.

Gravel can serve as a base layer for your new patio. Featured: Razor-Back Aluminum Scoop

Draft your layout on graph paper or use free landscape design software to assist you. A quick web search will give you several options to help you come up with a plan.

Most likely, you will choose either stone or bricks for your DIY patio. Either way, you’ll start by demarcating the space.

For a stone patio, dig to a depth of about 6 inches plus the thickness of the stones. Lay down landscape fabric to stave off weeds and place gravel on top, followed by sand. Make sure everything is level before you begin placing the stones. Begin in one corner and work your way across the entire patio, filling in the gaps with more gravel or sand.

Brick patios require a little more planning. First, you’ll have to decide on the pattern you want to use. Herringbone is the most complex, so it’s not a good choice for a first-timer. Offset rows is the simplest pattern and may be best for a beginner. Similar to the stone technique, you’ll want to use gravel and sand as your base and lay the first brick in one corner. A string and a level will guide you to ensure straight lines as you go. Keep some sand handy to fill in any gaps.

Whichever material you use, follow a step-by-step tutorial or enlist help from a friend or neighbor who has experience, just in case any issues arise.

Water Feature

Whether you want to create a focal point in your backyard, dampen road noise – or both – a water feature is a great project for somewhat experienced DIYers.

Use your imagination with this project. Repurpose an old wooden bucket or a pitcher. Go thrifting for a vintage fountain. Or build a water feature from scratch with natural materials, like stone.

Give your yard a realistic-looking and soothing mini waterfall and creek.

You’ll find inspiration on Pinterest, YouTube and on blogs. Factor in your skill level, your home’s style and your budget, among other things, to help you pick your project.

No matter what type of water feature you go for, it will probably require a pump for the water to flow. Opt for a low-voltage one to avoid extra work and the need for an electrical permit.

Firepit

A firepit might seem like an odd choice for a summer project, but you’ll be pleased come this fall.

As with most of the backyard projects in this blog post, it’s recommended that you check with your local authorities before you begin. In this case, inquire with your fire department if recreational fires are permitted in your area.

A wheelbarrow makes moving heavy items, like wood for your new firepit, easier.

When building a firepit, you’ll put in more sweat equity than financial expenses. You can save yourself some of the manual labor by starting with a metal firepit ring and surrounding it with fireproof stones or bricks.

For safety reasons, your firepit should be at least 10 feet away from your home and other buildings, as well as any trees. A good interior diameter is 3 to 4.5 feet, with a depth of one foot. This size should accommodate up to four people seated around the finished firepit.

Locate your firepit on a stone or concrete patio or create a gravel paver base on the lawn, after digging two inches below the surface of the sod. If you’re laying down a paver base, tamp down the soil, then add two inches of gravel. Dampen and then tamp the gravel, layer on another half inch of gravel and repeat the process. Now, you can place your stones and fire bricks.

Ready to begin your project? Lowe’s has step-by-step instructions, complete with a video tutorial that shows a variety of shapes and dimensions. Of course, there are numerous other options for your firepit. Explore the possibilities online or visit your local hardware store for advice and ideas.

Make your backyard an extension of your home with one (or more) of these projects. Then prepare to enjoy a staycation or entertain the neighborhood.