What are homeowners investing in?
Every homeowner wants their home to be a space of relaxation and enjoyment. Whether that is cosmetic improvements such as a roof and siding or luxury improvements such as water features and elaborate patios, each little aspect of a home combined creates an oasis. The 2017 U.S. Houzz Landscape Trends Study evaluated the interests homeowners have in their yards. Let's take a look at the results....
New Outdoor Living Elements in Outdoor Projects
So, what are homeowners adding to their yards? According to the 2017 U.S. Houzz Landscape Trends Study the majority (36%) are getting outdoor furniture. Well, that is an outdoor essential so that doesn't help you much. Although, if you look further on the graph above you'll notice more luxurious items such as fire pit and build in cabinets are also in the top 13. What does this mean for you? It is obvious that the outdoors are no longer a place just for plants. People are wanting to spend more time outside and on top of that, they want the comfort of the indoors. No one will spend a bunch of money for outdoor living and not have landscaping, hardscape, lighting, irrigation and so on. They have to start with the basics to complete their outdoor oasis.
Top Updated Structural Elements
This goes the same for updates. If the homeowners doing updates have irrigation, lighting and landscaping for their space, it is probably new. I guarantee to have a handful of old clients that could be needing an update on an old system. While you are there, update them on the newest features for their space. Adding in other features such as a small water feature or Nutone Mosquito Repellent system can greatly increase your profits on a patio or deck update.
Top Challenges Addressed in Outdoor Projects
Drainage, poor use of space, and lack of privacy are the top three challenges for outdoor projects. Be efficient with the space you work in. From a design stand point, there are a lot of details to think about. Look at your design from every angle. Look at it from the window inside the house and walking in different directions. You want the space to be functional and aesthetically pleasing. Easier said than done right! There is more than one way to create privacy in a space. Of course, you can install a fence, but some spaces can work well using tall trees, bushes and greenery. Use nature as a natural privacy fence and sound buffer.
Outdoor Usage
Finally, what are homeowners actually using their yards for? Gardening is at a high of 56% with entertainment right behind at 40%. Incorporate rain barrels and other rain harvesting options in your designs for backyards. Entertainment is huge, people want to enjoy their space as if they are indoors. That means cooking, watching tv, heat, air, the whole picture. Adding a water feature promotes tranquility and can become a focal point in a space. Outdoor electronics such as Sonarray Sonance Sound System and Seura Waterproof TV create a great area to enjoy with friends.
Of course at the end of the day these improvements are all fun and games. Keeping up with the cosmetics of a home such as roofing, siding, windows, installation, doors, ect. will make or break the safety of your home. What good is enjoying a beautiful outdoor space this summer if shingles from your roof are torn away. Aside from being a huge eye sore, a damaged roof from the many recent storms jeopardizes the safety and security of your home. Call Collette Roofing today for a free inspection and with any questions you may have.
