If you live in Moore, Oklahoma, you probably know the usual story: the summers get hot, the winters get cold, and your backyard ends up being a place you mostly look at rather than actually use. Sitting on my old patio last spring, sweating through my T-shirt while my kids traced dusty circles in the yard, I finally admitted what I’d been putting off: we needed something new. Not just a few chairs or a fresh mow—a real outdoor living space that felt like an extension of our home.
As homeowners in Moore, we face the same mix of joys and challenges when it comes to our outdoor spaces. Between the unpredictable weather, the ever-present Oklahoma wind, and family gatherings that always seem to end up outside, it’s no wonder more of us are rethinking what “backyard” really means. This isn’t just about resale value (though that’s nice)—it’s about actually enjoying the place you live.
Understanding the Broader Trend
Across Oklahoma—and honestly, all over the country—there’s been a true shift in how people think about outdoor living. I stumbled across several statistics showing that nearly 80% of U.S. homeowners want more usable outdoor space, with outdoor kitchens, shaded patios, and decks topping the list of most-wanted upgrades. The American Institute of Architects even found that outdoor living spaces have become one of the fastest-growing trends in home design, especially since the pandemic redefined “staying home” as something we could enjoy rather than just endure.
People are putting money where their grill is, investing in things like composite decks (for easier upkeep), customized patios, and even backyard pavilions. This trend isn’t just about hosting more barbecues (though it helps); it’s driven by a focus on healthier living, more connection to nature, and—yes—boosted home values. With the reality of our changing climate, homeowners are also paying closer attention to things like drainage, wind protection, and hardy landscaping that can handle both droughts and downpours.
By tuning in to these broader shifts, we’re able to make choices that are not only stylish but smarter—answers that last longer and feel more meaningful. There’s something satisfying about knowing your backyard isn’t just a slab of grass but a functional, beautiful part of the home.
What Does an Outdoor Contractor Do?
Before I really dove into my backyard project, I held on to a few (embarrassingly misguided) ideas about what outdoor contractors actually do. In my mind, they just built patios, maybe put in a deck, and called it good. But after poking around and, eventually, talking to a few locals, I realized there’s a lot more to it.
A true outdoor contractor—like the folks over at Oasis Outdoor Living Construction—specializes in everything from decks and pergolas to patios, outdoor kitchens, walkways, retaining walls, and more. It’s not just about “adding something nice”; it’s about understanding how different materials handle Oklahoma’s weather, what kinds of layouts fit different kinds of families, and what’s going to last more than one season.
I was surprised to learn how much engineering and planning goes into even a fairly straightforward deck. You have to think about drainage, maintenance, safe footings, and how the sun hits your yard at different times of the day. Materials aren’t all created equal—for example, composite decking holds up better against our wild temperature swings and doesn’t need to be stained every year.
And despite what some of my DIY-happy neighbors believe, there’s a real art (and a serious safety factor) in making sure things are built right the first time. Permits, local codes, and design—all of these things matter.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Outdoor Contractor
Let me be frank: I’m a lifelong DIYer. If something needs fixing, I’ll at least give it a go before calling in an expert. But after watching a friend’s “weekend deck project” drag on for two months, I started to see there are definite advantages to hiring a professional.
First, they save you time—a LOT of it. Anyone who’s tried to rent a concrete mixer knows how quickly a “simple patio” can turn sideways. Pros have the crews, the tools, and the skills to get things done efficiently.
Second, you get quality you can count on. Contractors source better materials (often at better prices than a Saturday Home Depot run), and they know what works in Oklahoma. With code compliance and experience in tricky weather, you’re less likely to end up with a deck that warps, or a patio that turns into a pond every time it rains.
There’s peace of mind too. When my wife and I thought about how much time we’d spend outside—kids running, older parents visiting, neighbors popping over for the game—we realized we wanted things done right. Knowing that warranties, insurance, and proper building practices are involved takes a load off.
And finally, let’s be real: a professionally built outdoor space just looks… better. Clean lines, tidy finishes, and seamless transitions from the house to the yard really do increase curb appeal (and make you a little proud when folks come over).
Why Choose Oasis Outdoor Living Construction in Moore?
One local company that stood out to me in my research was Oasis Outdoor Living Construction, based right here in Moore. In a sea of contractors claiming they can “do it all,” Oasis actually walks the talk.
A few things set them apart. They’re local—they know Moore, Oklahoma City, Edmond, and all the weird quirks (like our sticky red clay soil or HOA rules about fences). Their designs are always tailored—none of the “off-the-shelf” layouts that might not fit your yard or your family needs.
I liked that Oasis focuses on clear communication and honesty. They’re a small team, but that comes with big benefits: you’re not just a number, and they’re hands-on from start to finish. It’s reassuring when you can reach out with a question and get a straight answer instead of phone tag with subcontractors.
Their workmanship matches the talk—from decks to pergolas, kitchens to patios, you can tell that these guys have pride in their work. It feels good supporting a local business with roots in the community and a solid reputation for listening first, building second.
Local Considerations for Moore Homeowners
Living in Moore means your outdoor project comes with unique considerations. Our climate is famously “all over the place”—hot, stormy summers, heavy rainfalls, and occasional tornado threats. That means choosing materials and designs that hold up through extremes.
Soil is another major factor. The clay here can wreak havoc if a deck’s footings aren’t done right, and patios need extra attention to slope and drainage—otherwise, the first heavy rain will teach you a quick lesson.
Architectural styles matter, too. Many homes in Moore are newer builds with functional layouts, but there’s a growing trend toward outdoor kitchens and entertainment zones—perfect for block parties or family nights. And if you have an HOA, you know how specific rules around fences, building heights, or even patio covers can influence your plans.
Local regulations are another piece. Permits, inspections, and neighborhood guidelines can be tricky to navigate. Having a contractor who’s familiar with these details is not just a convenience—it helps avoid headaches and makes sure your new outdoor space is up to snuff.
Finally, lifestyle in Moore leans family-friendly and relaxed. Outdoor spaces get used! From graduation parties to fall football hangouts, whatever you build should work for everyday life, not just special occasions.
Real-Life Example – Oasis Outdoor Living Construction’s Deck Services
While brainstorming what direction to take with our own project, I ended up spending a good chunk of an evening browsing Oasis Outdoor Living Construction’s custom deck page. If you’re curious, you can check it out for yourself here: https://byoasisofedmond.com/services/decks/.
What I appreciated about this page was it wasn’t just glossy before-and-afters (though I admit those are fun to scroll through). It dives into the specifics: different decking materials available, options for multi-level designs, tips for weatherproofing, and even ways to customize your deck with lighting or built-in seating.
The most helpful part for me was how they broke down the pros and cons of wood versus composite—a big debate in our house. There were also real-world examples of decks built all across Oklahoma City, including nearby neighborhoods, which helped me visualize what could work for my own space.
For anyone in Moore feeling overwhelmed by options, it’s refreshing to see a contractor explain things in plain English, with local references that actually make sense for our weather and our yards.
Tips, Ideas, or Solutions for Homeowners
If you’re thinking of starting your own outdoor project, I’ve gathered a few tips from my experience (and the wisdom of local pros):
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Plan for the Weather: Shade is your friend. Pavilions, pergolas, or even a well-placed tree can make your space usable more months out of the year.
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Ask About Materials: What works in other states may not work here. Double-check that your contractor uses materials rated for Oklahoma’s weather—especially for decks, patios, and anything that sits on or in the soil.
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Check Local Codes: Before you fall in love with an elaborate design on Pinterest, ask your HOA and city office about any restrictions or permit needs.
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Think Long-Term: Quality construction costs more up front but saves money in the long run. Seek out features that require less maintenance (composite decking, powder-coated fixtures).
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Budget Realistically: Get multiple estimates and ask for breakdowns. Professional contractors should be happy to walk you through costs, from materials to labor.
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Go for Comfort: Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, or built-in seating are the new “wow” factors and can make your yard the go-to house on the block.
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Seasonal Maintenance: After installation, keep things looking great with simple seasonal checks—treat wood if needed, clear debris, and tighten bolts on pergolas or pavilions.
Most importantly—don’t rush! Take time to consider how your family actually uses the space, and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions.
Conclusion
After finally sitting out on our new deck—coffee in hand, kids running circles, neighbors dropping by to chat—I had a moment to reflect on the journey. Home improvement isn’t just about adding “stuff” to your house. It’s about making the place you live feel more like home, about creating spaces where stories happen.
Looking back, I see how much being informed helped. Knowing the broader trends, understanding what a real outdoor contractor does, learning from local experts like Oasis—all of it made the process smoother and the results something I’m really proud of.
If you’re a Moore homeowner thinking about your next home project, my best neighborly advice is this: take your time, learn from the folks who know the area, and treat your backyard like the heart of your home. You might be surprised by how much joy (and peace) it brings.
Tags: #HomeImprovement #MooreHomes #OutdoorLiving #Decks #LocalProjects
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