Spring is in the air—we have longer days, more sunlight and spring trees and flowers budding. As the backyard barbecue and entertaining season begins, we have a few simple ways you can wow your neighbors with new backyard projects.
Decks: Decks are the true crowd pleasers during the barbecue season. A little re-staining may be all your deck needs this spring, but you can also consider installing a deck railing or built in deck seating.
Deck Awnings: Why should a little rain ruin your outdoor entertaining? With an awning, you save energy by reducing heat from sun shining directly on southern facing windows and glass doors. And a little rain won’t ruin your cookout.
Raised Garden Beds: If you’re an urban gardener, have trouble bending or have loving kids and animals that mischievously run through your newly planted garden, consider raised garden beds this year. They don’t have to be a rectangle or 1 foot off the ground—get creative! There are many DIY websites out there to show you step-by-step how to create one such as this one in Sunset magazine; http://www.sunset.com/garden/perfect-raised-bed-00400000039550/
Built-in Outdoor Kitchens: Do you spend most of your summer grilling outside on the barbecue? An outdoor kitchen creates the wow factor and eliminates the back-and-forth when entertaining. Think of ideas such as adding a built in barbecue station, refrigerator, disposal, sink or wine rack.
Fencing: There are many reasons for a fence—to protect a garden, to keep pets in or to mark a property line. There are many types of fencing as well; vinyl, white picket, or even a hidden electrical fence to keep dogs within property lines. If your wooden fence looks worn and drab, restain it to brighten your backyard. Re-staining will also protect the fence boards from rotting due to rain and snow.
Fire pits: Fire pits are one of the most exciting elements of summer night entertaining. People love to sit around a 
“campfire” and talk into the evening. And who says you have to be in the wilderness to roast s’mores. You can either purchase a fire pit at Home Depot, Lowes or Cabela’s or build one into your landscaping.
Lighting: One of my favorite outdoor landscaping features is lighting. Whether it is up-lighting a magnificent tree, lighting a path or white lights hanging from an awning, lighting is always a pleasant and festive surprise. You also have the option between electric and solar lighting. If your backyard is designed with sustainable materials and plants, try solar lights.
Handyman Connection in Boise is offering a spring fix it special—15% off any work except electrical and plumbing. Stain a deck, or build a deck; clean up the back yard; build shelving for storage; paint a room. Visit our website for all specials: boise.handymanconnection.com
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