Time to try DIY: Easy outdoor living projects

You can refresh your outdoor living space with easy-to-tackle projects that can be done in a few weekends.

Find online inspiration

Determine the type of outdoor living space you want to create that will fit your family’s needs and complement your existing exterior and architecture. Tap your inner designer by flipping through pages of your favorite magazines, perusing online inspiration and experimenting with online virtual applications that allow you to test different colors and configurations.

Take it to the store

After gathering inspiration, visit your nearby home improvement store, like The Home Depot, for additional ideas. Explore the aisles to check out materials, calculate costs and purchase necessary tools and supplies. Bring with you a list of questions you might have regarding your project. Store associates are always willing to give advice - tap their knowledge for any inquiries you might have.

Enhance your deck with quality materials

With so many types of decking material available it is hard to know which products will give you the best return on your investment. When researching, find quality low maintenance materials that can withstand years of wear and tear from weather, outdoor furniture, dropped grilling tools and foot traffic.

Test your green thumb

From flower beds to vegetable gardens, landscaping can add privacy, beauty and create a better backyard for entertaining family and friends. Evaluate your climate, land, existing plants and structures that will affect your landscape design. After assessing your space, visit your local nursery or home improvement store to select the kind of plants you want to use. Talk with store associates to find out what types of plants grow best in your environment. For smaller spaces, consider planting container gardens. Mix perennials, annuals, ornamental grasses and shrubs in pots for bright bursts of color.

Complete with accessories, furnishings and decor

Finish your outdoor space with durable, all-weather furniture and decorative accessories. Incorporate color with an assortment of weather-resistant cushions, throw pillows and umbrellas in stylish patterns. Finally, add ambiance and safety with outdoor lighting. Available for both decks and landscaping, the proper lighting will enable you to enjoy your beautiful new outdoor living space long after the sun goes down.