5 Ways to Build Your Best Backyard this National Barbecue Month
The mercury is rising. The outdoor grills are firing up. Before the full heat of barbecue season is upon you, also consider cool (and simple) ways to make the most of your entire backyard. “May is National Barbecue Month – a smart time to think about updating your outdoor living space,” said Jack Goldman, President & CEO of Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA). “Making backyard upgrades can be simple and fun – whether it’s adding a few new tools for your barbecue or converting it into a full outdoor living room experience. The return on investment is not just added value for your home, but memories with your family, friends, and neighbors that can last a lifetime.” Ready to build your best backyard this season? HPBA offers five simple tips:
Put some extra flame in your space. Heat things up on your patio with a chimenea or outdoor fire table. This simple addition brings the comfort of the indoors right to your patio. Linear fireplaces offer a sleek and modern design that will make your backyard feel like an exotic getaway.
Broaden your capabilities. High-tech gadgets and quality tools can go a long way in your quest to become a barbecue master. HPBA notes that pizza stones, fish/broiling baskets, cedar planks, rotisseries, and grill woks are among the most popular accessories.
Literally turn your backyard into a new room. Convert your patio into the Man Cave or She Shed you always wanted. Add a movie screen, hang up mirrors or waterproof artwork, install speakers and a daybed for serious me time or all-afternoon family relaxation.
Add a second (or third) barbecue to the mix. Loyal to charcoal or devoted to gas? Consider adding a new flame to the mix to diversify your grilling repertoire.
Transform your backyard into a full outdoor kitchen. Join the 10 percent of grill owners that already have a complete outdoor kitchen. Invest in features such as a mini-fridge, dishwasher, outdoor sinks, seating, and entertainment systems like a television and surround sound to completely optimize your best backyard.
To discover the backyard set-up most ideal for your lifestyle, take the HPBA “Your Best Backyard” quiz. For additional inspiration for building your best backyard. The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), based in Arlington, Va., is the North American industry association for manufacturers, retailers, distributors, representatives, service firms and allied associates for all types of barbecue, patio and hearth appliances, fuels and accessories. The association provides professional member services and industry support in education, statistics, government relations, marketing, advertising and consumer education.
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