Backyard Projects With the Best Return on Investment in 2026

Outdoor living continues to be one of the strongest home‑value drivers in Texas. With more homeowners spending time outside — and buyers prioritizing functional, shaded, low‑maintenance outdoor spaces — certain backyard upgrades consistently deliver strong returns.

Whether you’re planning improvements for long‑term enjoyment or preparing your home for resale, these backyard projects offer the best ROI for Austin, San Antonio, and Hill Country homes in 2026.

🌤️ 1. Covered Patios (Top ROI in Texas)

A covered patio remains the highest‑value outdoor upgrade in Central Texas. Shade is a premium feature in our climate, and buyers consistently look for homes with protected outdoor living areas.

Why covered patios deliver strong ROI:

• Year‑round usability
• UV and heat protection
• Seamless indoor‑outdoor flow
• Increased appraisal value
• High buyer demand

Explore shade options:

• Covered Patios 

🪵 2. Deck Additions & Upgrades

Decks continue to be one of the most cost‑effective ways to expand outdoor living space — especially on sloped Hill Country lots.

High‑ROI deck upgrades include:

• Composite decking
• Multi‑level layouts
• Cable railings
• Built‑in lighting
• Deck + patio cover combinations

🦟 3. Screen Rooms & Patio Enclosures

Screen rooms are one of the most practical upgrades for Texas homeowners who want to enjoy the outdoors without:

• Mosquitoes
• Wasps
• Oak pollen
• Excessive heat

Why screen rooms offer strong ROI:

• Extend usable living space
• Create a bug‑free environment
• Reduce debris on patios and furniture
• Appeal to families and pet owners

🔥 4. Outdoor Kitchens & Grill Stations

Outdoor kitchens continue to grow in popularity, especially in:

• Austin
• San Antonio
• New Braunfels
• Boerne
• Helotes

High‑ROI features include:

• Built‑in grills
• Prep counters
• Storage drawers
• Beverage fridges
• Stone or stucco finishes

Outdoor kitchens pair exceptionally well with covered patios for year‑round usability.

🌳 5. Landscaping & Native Plant Design

Texas buyers value low‑maintenance, drought‑tolerant landscaping.

High‑ROI landscaping upgrades:

• Native plants
• Stone pathways
• Drip irrigation
• Shade trees
• Xeriscaping

These improvements reduce water usage and long‑term maintenance costs — a major selling point.

💧 6. Pool Enclosures & Poolside Upgrades

Pool enclosures are becoming more popular in Texas as homeowners look for:

• Cleaner pools
• Reduced debris
• Bug‑free swimming
• Safer outdoor environments

🏡 7. Hardscaping: Patios, Pathways & Fire Features

Hardscaping adds structure and usability to outdoor spaces.

High‑ROI additions include:

• Stone patios
• Walkways
• Retaining walls
• Fire pits
• Seating walls

These upgrades create functional gathering areas and improve curb appeal.

📍 ROI Priorities in Austin vs. San Antonio

Austin

Buyers prioritize:

• Covered patios
• Multi‑level decks
• Outdoor kitchens
• Native landscaping

San Antonio

Buyers look for:

• Screen rooms
• Single‑level entertainment decks
• Fire features
• Low‑maintenance landscaping



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