9 backyard upgrades people regret copying
It’s tempting to jump on backyard trends, but not all of them age well. Some sound great at first and end up being costly, impractical, or too much work. These are the backyard upgrades many homeowners wish they hadn’t followed.
Outdoor Kitchens With Everything Built In
A full outdoor kitchen feels like a dream until you realize the upkeep.
Built-in appliances are expensive to install and often don’t get used as much as planned. Weather exposure also means things break down faster than they would indoors. Many homeowners regret spending thousands only to fall back on a basic grill.
Fire Pits That Are Too Big
Oversized fire pits became a trend, but they’re not always practical.
Big pits take up a lot of space, require more wood, and can overwhelm smaller yards. Many people realize a smaller, portable option would’ve been cheaper and easier to use.
Artificial Turf
Some homeowners swapped grass for turf to cut down on mowing.
But turf gets hot in the summer, doesn’t last as long as advertised, and can look fake. The cost is often higher than maintaining real grass, making it a regret for many.
Built-In Pools Without Planning
A pool can be great, but rushing into it without a plan is a mistake.
Some homeowners installed pools only to regret the high upkeep, insurance, and lack of use. Without considering long-term costs, a backyard upgrade meant to add value can become a burden.
Trendy Pergolas
Pergolas look good on Instagram, but they don’t always deliver in real life.
They offer minimal shade, require upkeep, and can feel like wasted space if not well designed. Many homeowners regret installing them when a covered patio or simple umbrella would’ve been more useful.
Massive Decks
Bigger isn’t always better.
Large decks cost more to build and maintain, and they don’t necessarily get used to their full potential. Homeowners who copied the trend often wish they’d opted for a smaller, more functional design instead.
Expensive Water Features
Fountains and ponds sound peaceful until you’re the one maintaining them.
Algae, leaks, and pumps breaking down all add up. Many homeowners find the upkeep isn’t worth the look, especially when they could enjoy simpler landscaping.
Outdoor Televisions
Outdoor TVs were marketed as a backyard luxury.
But many people realized they rarely watched them, and the screens didn’t hold up well against weather. With streaming available on smaller devices, the investment often feels unnecessary.
Elaborate Landscaping That’s Hard to Maintain
High-maintenance gardens full of specialty plants can look great for a while.
But many homeowners underestimate the time and cost it takes to keep them alive. After a few seasons, the regret sets in when weeds take over or plants don’t survive the climate.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
