Best home projects to complete this summer

Raymond Forbes/Stocksy

Raymond Forbes/Stocksy

This article originally appeared on Thumbtack and is syndicated by Cheapism.

Whether you’re planning to host a much-anticipated summer soiree, a family backyard BBQ or a relaxed dinner party with friends, this summer is the year of ‘Destination Home.’ After looking at our database of millions of home projects across 500 categories, we identified this summer’s top home upgrades.

Keep reading to see which backyard, indoor and maintenance projects homeowners across the country are tackling.

backyard deck

Trinette Reed/Stocksy

We’re predicting that plenty of outdoor decor and entertaining items will run out of stock this season — similar to the outdoor heater shortage last year.

If you’re thinking of making a bigger change like installing new play equipment for the kids, giving your deck a remodel or opting for cosmetic upgrades like a fresh coat of exterior paint, it’s crucial to keep your target “done date” in mind. With these projects in high demand, we recommend planning ahead to ensure you can enjoy your outdoor living spaces this summer without any last-minute stressors, like not being able to find the best pro or materials.

Click through to see the 10 most popular backyard upgrades for summer 2021.

Backyard deck landscaping

Raymond Forbes LLC/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $1,034-$5,720

If you plan on hosting summer BBQs and dinner parties at your home, make sure your yard is in order. Work with a landscaping company to enhance your backyard with new lighting, plants, shrubs, a water feature or even a fire pit.

building wood fence

©Thumbtack 2020

Average U.S. cost: $478-$1,684

If you want more privacy in your yard, consider installing a privacy fence that encloses your deck or patio. A new fence can cost between $13 and $50 per linear foot, depending on the material (wood, vinyl, aluminum, etc.) you choose.

Thumbtack

Thumbtack

Average U.S. cost: $45/hour

The summer is the perfect time to give your home’s exterior a quick touch-up. Not only can new paint boost your home’s curb appeal, it can also help protect your home from the outdoor elements.

backyard wood deck

Jodie Johnson/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $1,840-$3,630

Homeowners who want to level up their outdoor space should consider remodeling or building a new porch or deck. Place a few chairs, tables and other outdoor furniture on your deck and voila: you have the perfect space for hosting summer dinners, BBQs and game nights. Plus, a new deck might give you a nice return on your investment when it’s time to sell.

Related: 20 home projects with the best ROI.

kids running in sprinklers

Twenty20 Stock

Average U.S. cost: $300-$400

Have your children been literally bouncing off the walls (and furniture) while being stuck indoors? Consider upgrading your backyard with equipment they can enjoy, like a slide, swings or a playhouse.

artificial lawn

Shutterstock

Average U.S. cost: $3,458

If you already have a healthy, green lawn, skip this idea. But artificial turf might be a great option for you if you want to lower your water bill and enjoy a low-maintenance lawn.

The main benefits of artificial grass: no watering, no mowing and no fertilizing. But keep in mind that sometimes this type of grass is hot to the touch because it absorbs heat.

backyard swimming pool

Raymond Forbes LLC/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $90-$130

Throughout the winter and spring, your pool may have sustained some damage. Are there any holes in your pool liner? Leaks in the pipes? Or clogs in the pump? If your pool needs, get a top-rated swimming pool repair service to take a look and fix it for you.

boy playing in sprinkler

Alicia Bock/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $90-$800

Giving your grass the right amount of water will be important over the next few months. But in addition to making sure your grass is getting enough water, you need to make sure you’re not giving it too much water. Overwatering your lawn can actually hurt it in the long run (not to mention, it’ll cost you).

If you want a thriving lawn, install a sprinkler and irrigation system with a smart timer to ensure your lawn is getting all of the moisture it needs this summer.

Related:7 summer lawn care tips for a healthy, green lawn.

outdoor patio

Twenty20 Stock

Average U.S. cost: $1,480-$3,050

Expand your outdoor living area by installing a new patio this summer. When it comes to materials, you have quite a few options: concrete, bricks, pavers, flagstone and more. Prices per square foot can vary depending on many factors, so get a few estimates from patio contractors in your area.

backyard gazebo

BONNINSTUDIO/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $500-$620

In addition to adding character and charm to your backyard, a gazebo can also protect you (and your outdoor furniture) from the heat and rain. Because gazebos are available in many different materials and styles (wood, metal, canvas, vinyl, etc.), it’s important to do your research and compare prices.

bathroom remodel

Trinette Reed/Stocksy

Small changes can have a big impact. Your home has been through a lot this past year and a half. It’s become a school, office, daycare, bar and safe haven. As homeowners and renters look for little ways to make a change in their homes, we’re seeing lighter-lift cosmetic upgrades on the rise.

Keep reading to see the 10 most popular indoor home projects for summer.

painting pink wall

Ronnie Comeau/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $0.92-$3.43/sq. ft.

Walk around your home and pay attention to the walls. Is the paint peeling, chipping or flaking? Or, are you ready to finally add an accent wall in your bedroom or living room? If you’re feeling inspired, start planning your paint project today.

Evgeny Drablenkov/iStock

Evgeny Drablenkov/iStock

Average U.S. cost: $110-$137

If a bulky TV stand is taking up precious space in your living room or bedroom, consider mounting it to your wall. Compared to larger home projects, TV mounting is a fairly quick and easy process. A TV wall mount professional can recommend the best types of mounts for your TV and even help you design your entertainment area for better viewing and listening.

installing wood floors

©Thumbtack 2020

Average U.S. cost: $1-$22/sq. ft.

Tired of dealing with tile floors with dirty grout? Want to replace your laminate floors with something more luxurious? Consider upgrading the floors in one or more of your rooms. Just remember that if you’re replacing floors in your bathroom (or another room that’s prone to moisture), choose a water-resistant material, such as porcelain tiles or vinyl.

man on ladder installing tile

Thumbtack

Average U.S. cost: $1-$40/sq. ft.

You can install tiles in various places inside your home. Tile is a great option for a bathroom, laundry room, kitchen backsplash and countertop. If you’re on a budget, opt for ceramic or porcelain tile. If you fancy something a little nicer, consider granite or marble.

bathroom remodel

Trinette Reed/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $90-$250/fixture

Brighten up your home with new lighting fixtures. Perhaps you created a new home office during the pandemic? If so, consider getting task lighting (like desk lamps) and even a few accent lights (like wall sconces) for your office. Need more light in your kitchen? Look for recessed, pendant or chandelier lighting options. Choose a few styles you like, and find a lighting professional who can safely install your new fixtures.

bathroom remodel

Trinette Reed/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $4,395-$5,502

Remodeling a bathroom is no easy feat, but it may pay off in the end. Some studies have found that midrange bathroom remodels can recoup roughly 60% of the cost. Think about upgrading your bathroom’s tile, faucets, lights, counters and even the tub or shower this summer.

painted front door

Trinette Reed/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $250-$350

Installing a new door is a great idea if you want to quickly boost your curb appeal or or improve your home’s efficiency. For example, insulated steel and fiberglass doors are more energy-efficient than classic wooden doors. Contact a local door installation company to see what your options are.

home construction remodel

©Thumbtack 2020

Average U.S. cost: Costs vary greatly, see prices near you.

Completing a major home remodeling project during the summer is a good idea if you want to improve your home’s value, conserve more energy and create a more enjoyable environment.

Twenty20 Stock

Twenty20 Stock

Average U.S. cost: $137-$175

In addition to making sure your HVAC system is working properly this summer, you might want to install a new ceiling fan to help circulate cool air indoors. Pro tip: make sure the blades are spinning counterclockwise so that the air is being pushed down and providing a cool breeze.

wallpaper behind fireplace

©2014 Ruth Black/Stocksy

Average U.S. cost: $297-$350

Instead of painting your walls a different color, consider installing new wallpaper. Or, perhaps you want to do a combination of both to enjoy a new texture, pattern and color all at once. Get creative this summer, and give your rooms a visual refresh.

home exterior front yard

©Thumbtack 2020

It’s not exactly “fun” to think of the small things that keep our homes running — but it is important. A leaky pipe, broken washing machine or that new hole in the wall thanks to your at-home kickboxing classes can create trouble in paradise.

These days, your home has people in it 24/7, so make sure to invest in repairs before they become costly emergencies. Consistent maintenance and proactive checkups on your appliances, plumbing, windows and frame can go a long way toward preventing damage or other unexpected surprises.

This summer, consider tackling these 10 home maintenance projects:

  1. Appliance repair and maintenance – $191 on average in the U.S.

  2. Electrical wiring repair – $150-$205 on average in the U.S.

  3. Plumbing pipe repair – $150 on average in the U.S.

  4. Drywall repair and texturizing – $250-$390 on average in the U.S.

  5. Roof repair and maintenance – $100-$200 on average in the U.S.

  6. Plumbing drain repair – $130-$180 on average in the U.S.

  7. Sprinkler and irrigation system repair and maintenance – $75 on average in the U.S.

  8. Fence and gate repairs – $250 on average in the U.S.

  9. Gutter cleaning and maintenance – $140-$170 on average in the U.S.

  10. Garage door repair – $99 on average in the U.S.

Create a schedule for these routine maintenance checks and set yourself up for success.

*“Trending” data was collected between March 2020 and March 2021, showing a comparative change in projects YoY.

**Cost data is based on average national estimates and may vary based on location, supply and pro rates and pro experience. These numbers are a benchmark but are not indicative of what a customer will pay.

Related: A seasonal home maintenance checklist