People say the kitchen is the heart of the home…who are we to argue? Still, when summer rolls around, it’s time to move beyond the heart to your own great outdoors and make the most of warmer, more pleasant weather.

But hold on a sec! Is the view from you window, deck, or porch not quite pleasing to the senses? If not, then fear not. Because now you can remedy the problem in a wide variety of ways, including the following.

1. Gather up tree branches and debris and cut back overgrown vegetation. Is your yard more like a weed farm or host to numerous patches of dead grass or dirt? Nothing that an affordable landscaper can’t fix.
2. Add a seating area or spruce up the one you have with new lawn furniture, an umbrella for your deck table, and a few Chinese lanterns.
3. Let the party extend into the nighttime hours with a fire pit.

4. Add proper shade for those especially sunny days. A few adjustable patio umbrellas or a pergola can offer a cool retreat for you and your guests.
5. Use flowers in strategically placed planters to add a pop of fragrant color to your outdoor living space.
6. Is the visual eyesore in your neighbor’s yard, not your own? Hide it with a trellis, vertical garden, or water feature wall. A water feature wall also can help block out traffic noise.
7. If budget permits, install French doors for a seamless transition from indoors to out.
8. Add ambience with outdoor lighting. Place flame-less tea lights in mason jars and suspend them from low-hanging tree branches, or string white lights around a pergola, umbrella, or even your deck railing. Just be sure the lights are approved for outdoor use.

Here at Excel Electric, we can design a gorgeous outdoor lighting scheme within your stated budget – or we can advise you on your own lighting plans. More importantly, you can count on us for expert installation with strict adherence to all safety standards. Contact us today to schedule a free on-site consultation.