As the country emerges from the long pandemic-driven hibernation, it seems that Americans are beginning to step away from investing in elaborate backyard upgrades. In the early days of quarantine, when people were mostly confined to their homes, backyard upgrades quickly became the trend. Pools, open-air kitchens, and zen gardens were among the high-end renovations undertaken by many. However, as public places and workplaces are opening up again, this trend seems to be on the wane.
One of the most iconic symbols of our escape from the monotony of the lockdown was undoubtedly the backyard pool. As public pools and beaches were shut down, a private pool was a dream come true. Companies that specialize in pool installation reported record revenues. Yet, as the restrictions are easing up and public pools and beaches are reopened, the fervor for backyard pools has significantly cooled down.
The cost to install and maintain a pool is one of the key determinants of this shift. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to install a pool ranges from $14,000 to $42,000, and the annual upkeep can set homeowners back by $1,200 to $1,800. Nevertheless, during the pandemic, these costs seemed warranted, providing both a recreational outlet and re-sale value. Now, as the opportunity to recreate outdoors is back on the table, these costs have come under closer scrutiny.
The boom in outdoor kitchen installations also seems to have simmered down. The culture of ‘staycation’ led to a surge in the popularity of outdoor cooking spaces. However, with restaurants and eateries reopening and take-out services becoming more efficient, the need for an elaborate open-air kitchen setup seems to be diminishing.
When people were restricted to their homes and no travel was allowed, turning the backyard into a vacation-like paradise seemed like the best bet. Zen gardens, hot tubs, outdoor theater systems, and more were trending additions. But as national parks, theaters, and theme parks are reopening, these features don’t hold the same allure.
Another affecting factor is the rising cost of raw materials. The prices for lumber and other construction materials have skyrocketed because of supply chain disruptions due to the pandemic. What would have been an affordable project last year, could now be cost-prohibitive for many.
Hard data coming from Home Improvement Research Institute and The Freedonia Group supports these observations. They anticipate a sharp decline in spending for home improvement products in 2021, post a record-breaking high in 2020.
In conclusion, the backyard pool party may be wrapping up as societal dynamics shift back to something akin to pre-pandemic normalcy. The craving for outdoor connections and travel has started to outweigh the need for backyard cosmos. Yet, the memories made during those endless backyard pool parties and barbecues will be cherished, reminding us of a time when the world stood still, and life was lived and enjoyed in the confines of home.
