GORILLA BROTHERS Renovations

Fresh cedar, a little more privacy, and a place to enjoy the outdoors. Sometimes the simplest improvements make the biggest difference.

You know that smell of freshly cut cedar? It’s one of those things that makes a new fence even better.

The warm colors, natural wood grain, and unmistakable cedar scent can completely change the feel of a backyard. But getting to that finished result sometimes takes quite a bit more work than the pictures might suggest.

That was certainly the case with this backyard transformation in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Before the Fence, There Was a Lot of Hard Work

If you look at the before photos, you’ll notice quite a bit of vegetation and overgrowth along the fence line.

And we’re not talking about simply pulling a few weeds.

There were established areas of woody growth, brush, and unwanted vegetation that needed to be cut back and removed to make room for the new fencing.

It’s the kind of work that doesn’t always make it into the finished photos, but anyone who’s spent a weekend trying to clear out years of overgrowth knows just how much effort it can take.

Along with the fence-line clearing, our team tackled general backyard cleanup to help give the property a fresh start.

Sometimes, before you can build something new, you’ve got to put in the work to clear the way.

There’s Just Something About a Fresh Cedar Fence

With the area prepared, we installed approximately 200 linear feet of six-foot cedar privacy fencing, complete with two walk gates and black metal hardware.

And while privacy was the obvious benefit, cedar brings a few other things to the table.

For starters, there’s the appearance. Fresh cedar has beautiful variations in color, from light golden tones to richer reddish-brown shades. No two boards look exactly alike, and that’s part of what gives a natural wood fence its character.

Then there’s the smell. That fresh, woodsy cedar scent is a nice bonus, especially when the fence is first installed.

Cedar also contains natural compounds that help it resist decay and certain insects, making it a popular choice for outdoor fencing.

What Happens to Cedar as It Ages?

One thing we like homeowners to understand is that cedar doesn’t stay the same color forever.

As it weathers, those fresh golden and reddish tones gradually become more muted. Depending on sun exposure, moisture, and other conditions, the wood may develop a brownish appearance before eventually turning a weathered gray.

That’s completely normal.

The good news is that cedar can be cleaned and maintained. Gentle washing can remove accumulated dirt and surface buildup, and appropriate wood cleaners or brighteners may help restore a fresher appearance.

Pressure washing is possible, but it needs to be done carefully. Too much pressure can damage the wood fibers and leave permanent marks.

For homeowners who prefer to maintain the original color longer, a quality exterior wood stain or sealer with UV protection can make a big difference.

And for those who love the natural weathered look? That’s an option, too.

Don’t Underestimate a Small Concrete Patio

Not every backyard needs a massive covered patio, outdoor kitchen, or elaborate entertaining space.

Sometimes a simple concrete pad is one of the most practical improvements you can make.

For this project, we installed an approximately 12′ x 12′ reinforced concrete patio with steps leading from the home.

It may not sound like a huge addition, but 144 square feet of solid, usable outdoor space can go a long way.

For families with kids: A concrete patio can become a spot for sidewalk chalk, outdoor crafts, ride-on toys, or a small table for snacks and activities.

For pet owners: It provides a convenient surface for food and water bowls, a place to wipe muddy paws, and an area that’s easier to rinse off than bare dirt.

For everyday life: Think about how often you step outside after a rain, walk through wet grass, or end up tracking mud and debris back through the door.

Having a solid, easy-to-clean surface right outside the home can help cut down on some of that mess.

It’s also a practical place for a grill, outdoor seating, potted plants, or simply enjoying a little fresh air.

And unlike some larger outdoor improvements, a modest concrete patio doesn’t have to take over the entire backyard.

Sometimes the most useful upgrades are the ones that make everyday life a little easier.

It’s the Combination That Makes the Difference

A new fence on its own can make a big impact. So can a concrete patio.

But when you combine those improvements with the work of clearing out unwanted growth and cleaning up the surrounding yard, the transformation becomes much more noticeable.

What was once an open backyard with overgrown areas is now a cleaner, more private space with room to enjoy the outdoors.

The fresh cedar gives it warmth and character. The patio adds everyday functionality. And all that hard work preparing the property helped bring everything together.

It’s not always about doing something elaborate.

Sometimes it’s about taking what you already have and making it better.

Planning Your Own Backyard Improvements?

Before jumping into a backyard project, it’s worth thinking about a few things.

Privacy: Would a new fence make your outdoor space more comfortable and enjoyable?

Functionality: Could a small patio provide the space you’ve been missing for everyday activities?

Future plans: Are you eventually considering a pergola, covered patio, outdoor kitchen, or other additions? Thinking ahead can help you plan improvements that work together.

Whether you’re considering a privacy fence, concrete patio, outdoor living area, or a combination of improvements, our team can help you explore the possibilities.

Gorilla Brothers Renovations works with homeowners throughout Tulsa, Owasso, Broken Arrow, Bixby, Jenks, Claremore, and surrounding communities.

Have an idea for your property? We’d love to hear about it.

From Roof to Roots, We’ve Got You Covered!