7 Simple Steps To Creating The Backyard Of Your Dreams This Summer

When the weather heats up, there’s no better place to be than outside. Our backyards serve as an impromptu living room as we host parties, relax with a good book, and more. Right now is the perfect time to create the backyard of your dreams, and Thumbtack — a home services app used by millions of homeowners — makes it easier than ever to get it done.

Here are seven simple steps you can take to create the backyard you’ve always wanted.

1. Determine Your Budget Beforehand

Before you thumb your way through swatches of wood finishes or take a peek at your Pinterest board for garden inspiration, make sure you have a budget in mind for your backyard project. Having a solid budget can be particularly beneficial when you have a lofty backyard project in mind. Take, for example, building a deck. When you have a set budget in mind, you don’t have to cut corners toward the end by skimping on materials or opting for the DIY approach over hiring a pro.

RELATED: How much does a new deck cost?

2. Start Simple

Creating the backyard of your dreams doesn’t have to be a grandiose, budget-defying project. There are a number of ways to give your backyard a fresh look without breaking the bank. Is the fence surrounding your yard beginning to look a little bleak? Consider hiring a pro to have your fence stained or painted. You can also hire a lawn mowing pro to give your lawn a professional cut that’s sure to restore your backyard to its former glory.

RELATED: How much does it cost to stain a fence?

3. Give Yourself A Clean Slate

No matter what backyard project you have in mind, it’s always a good idea to start with a clean slate. Whether you’re preparing to add new patio furniture to your deck or you're readying your deck for a new paint job, pressure washing is a great option. Pressure washing cleans surfaces, such as concrete and certain woods, by getting rid of loose paint, grime, mold, dust and other materials that might accumulate on those tough-to-clean outdoor surfaces.

Given that pressure washing can be a complex task, it’s one that’s best left to the professionals. In addition to bringing the right equipment, pressure washing pros are equipped with the knowledge needed to clean surfaces without causing any damage. They’re also able to safely clean the trickier spaces and surfaces in your backyard.

RELATED: How much does pressure washing cost?

4. Go Green(er)

Is it possible for your backyard to become even greener? Absolutely! If you’ve ever dreamed of a backyard that doubles as a lush, plant-filled oasis, hiring a landscaping pro can make your dreams a reality. Landscapers are available for a number of green tasks, including planting trees and bushes, and ridding your backyard of weeds. And if your goal is for something simpler — a flower-filled garden, for example — a gardening pro in your area can help you choose flowers and plants that work well in your climate, and then build your dream garden.

RELATED: How much does it cost to hire a landscaping professional?

5. Aim For Renovations That Speak To Your Hobbies And Interests

Your dream backyard should absolutely speak to the things you love. If you love cooking and entertaining, consider hiring a professional to install a gas grill in your backyard. Does your patio or deck double as an amateur yoga studio and an impromptu banquet hall? If so, fuss-free epoxy flooring might be a worthwhile option; it’s easy to clean and maintain, regardless of how much wear and tear you put it through.

RELATED: How much does epoxy flooring cost?

6. Create A Space That Works Day And Night

To create a backyard that works both day and night, you’ll want to hire a professional for two tasks in particular: lighting and pest control. Depending on where you live, your backyard is likely to get pretty dark at night. When you hire an outdoor lighting pro in your area, they can work with you to provide outdoor lighting options that are ideal for your backyard.

Nothing ruins a beautiful summer evening faster than a mosquito buzzing in your ear. We all know that pests like to come out during the cover of night. Keep mosquitoes and other pests in check day and night by booking a pest control professional to safely and effectively treat your backyard.

RELATED: How much does outdoor pest control cost?

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7. Hire A Professional

Regardless of the project you plan to take on, hiring a professional is one of the best ways to ensure that the entire process goes as smoothly as possible and that you receive the best results. When you hire a top-rated professional using Thumbtack, finding someone to paint your fence, build a new deck, power wash a patio and so much more is a breeze.

To connect with a pro on Thumbtack, simply enter your name, email and password directly on the Thumbtack website or the easy-to-use Thumbtack app to create a new account (or sign up with your existing Facebook or Google account). From there, you can search and connect with pros in your area, see their reviews and view cost estimates for just about any service, including house cleaning and plumbing.

Find A Local Pro On Thumbtack And Get Started On Your Dream Back Yard Today!