It may not be a sure thing that you’ll get a tax refund this year, but
one fact is certain – the spring season brings you one step closer to summertime leisure and outdoor fun. If you are handy around the house and lucky enough to have that extra cash coming your way,
it’s the perfect excuse to jump into a backyard DIY project. Here are some ideas to get your wheels turning. Alfresco Pizzeria
As long as you’re up for a bit of masonry work, you can put together
a component to your outdoor kitchen that will really kick things up a
notch when entertaining. Who doesn’t love fresh, crispy brick-oven
pizza? And what better way for you and your guests to enjoy a
piping hot slice than in the great outdoors under a canopy of stars? The keys to success with this project are having a base that is solid
enough to serve as a sturdy foundation and allowing the right amount of time during the various stages of the process to allow for proper
curing. With some heavy lifting, careful adherence to manufacturer’s
Tranquility Space
an alfresco-prepared pie before you know it.
addition to a backyard oasis. There are a number of terrific features
Major Components Needed: Concrete mix, cinder blocks, plywood,
pleasant sound of trickling water, fish for even more visual appeal
instructions and a touch of patience, you’ll be sinking your teeth into
rebar, bricks or tile, stucco and oven kit
The peacefulness of even the smallest of ponds is the perfect
to choose from, including waterfalls and fountains that produce the and the addition of certain plants and flowers to attract wildlife.
Don’t be intimidated by the process – the project can be as simple or as complex as you choose to make it. What’s important to
remember when selecting the location is to take into consideration its accessibility and viewability factors. Lay out the desired size and shape of the pond with a garden hose, rope or even a trail of
sand so you can step back and assess what you are envisioning before you get to digging.
Major Components Needed: Stone, sand, gravel or crushed stone,
rock sealant, submersible pump and rubber liner (a pond kit will include several of these items, as well as instructions) Gaming Arena
When friends and family are gathered for some quality time together, a little lively competition goes a long way. A classic game like
horseshoes can be enjoyed in the convenience of your own backyard
and with some panache when you apply some imagination, knowhow and a touch of elbow grease.
In order to do it up right, consider incorporating special features like backstops to make the arena more “official,” retaining walls
that separate the area as a designated gaming spot and bordering landscaping that will dress it up. Of course, with horseshoes, you’re setting up two mirror-image pits, so you’ll need to keep that in mind when planning out both your location and your expenses.
C O L D W E L L B A N K E R H O M E S . C O M
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