American homes are pretty huge when compared to other homes in the world. It’s estimated that American homes are over 1,600 square feet. Moreover, this figure has been steadily increasing over the past few decades, as more and more people are opting for larger homes. As a result, the average size of a new home in the United States is now nearly double what it was 50 years ago.
There are several reasons American homes have become so much more significant over the years. One factor is that families are simply getting bigger. In 1970, the average American family had 3.1 members. Today, that figure has risen to 3.5 members. So as families have grown, so too have their homes.
Another reason for the increase in size is that people are living longer. Older Americans are looking for big enough homes to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices or allow space for the grandchildren who visit frequently.
However, despite this, some American homes are drastically smaller than others. This can depend on which state you live in and what kind of home you’ve purchased. One of the best ways to increase your home size is to have more space in your backyard. Here are some common ways to do just that:
Add a deck or patio to your backyard
This is one of the most popular options for increasing outdoor space, as it can easily be installed in nearly any existing backyard and doesn’t require extensive landscaping work.
Adding a deck or patio to your backyard is a great way to increase your outdoor living space. Decks are prevalent, as they provide an excellent platform for relaxing or dining outdoors. If you don’t have a lot of space in your backyard, a deck is a great way to make it.
Patios are also an excellent option for increasing your backyard space. They can be installed in any size or shape and are perfect for hosting barbecues or parties. Plus, they’re easy to maintain and can be decorated with plants and flowers to add some color.
Plant trees and bushes
If you want to use your backyard for entertaining, adding some trees and bushes is a great way to make it more private.
You can also use climbing plants along an existing fence or wall to make it harder for others to see into your yard. This will provide you with some privacy and make your backyard feel more secluded. It can be a great way to add some extra color and life to your outdoor space.
Get a New Garage
If you live in an area with a harsh winter, one of the best ways to have extra space in your backyard is to get a new garage.
Depending on where you live, having a garage can be essential for storing your car during the winter. However, if you don’t have a garage, it’s possible that your home was built before garages were standard.
Luckily, adding a new garage is not nearly as difficult or expensive as it may seem. Depending on how much space you need and what kind of look you’re going for, building a single-car or double-car garage is something many people do every year. However, one of the best garages out there is oak-three-bay garages. This will give you more storage space in your backyard, but it will also add value.
Install a pool or hot tub
Another popular option for increasing backyard space is installing a pool, hot tub, or both. While these are typically significant additions, they can be installed in nearly any kind of backyard and give you plenty of room to lounge around during the summer months. You can even add a deck area near the water’s edge to have easy access when going for a swim.
However, swimming pools are fairly expensive. But the space it can give you and the price it can add to your home are unmatched.
Install lighting and/or sound systems
Adding lights and speakers in your backyard is a great way to amplify the space and make it more enjoyable for entertaining. By adding some well-placed lighting, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make your backyard feel like an extension of your home.
Similarly, adding a sound system can be a great way to add some extra ambiance to your backyard. Whether you’re hosting a party or just relaxing on a summer evening, a sound system can really set the mood. Plus, it’s a great way to listen to your favorite music while you’re outdoors.
Depending on how much money you want to spend, there are countless options for lighting and speaker systems out there. From basic lights that can be installed with no work to advanced sound systems that can play music throughout your yard and home, there’s something out there for everyone. Plus, they’re easy to install and