Prepping Your Patio

It’s December and you are sitting around your outdoor fire pit enjoying the quiet. For those of us who live in colder climates, that scene is just a dream. Because our patio in winter gets little use.

Instead of just letting your patio fend for itself during those cold, snowy months though, it is a good idea to prepare it for the long winter ahead.

Accessories on your patio in winter

Instead of leaving all of your decorations up to be ruined by the snow and ice of the winter season, store them in a large plastic container. Do not forget to take down your metal wall art pieces, as they may rust during the winter too!

Outdoor living space flooring options

Most patios are created with pavers of a slab of cement. It is important to clear the area of snow and ice. Especially during the winter months to keep the flooring intact. Ice that gets between the pavers can cause your patio to look uneven and buckled come spring. It is also a good idea to use ice melting pellets that are eco- and pet-safe in any area where your family or pets will be walking.

By taking care of your patio furniture and area before and during the winter season, you can be assured that you will have a space to enjoy in the warmer weather.

Patio furniture

Patio furniture is made to withstand the elements, but patio cushions are not. The best thing to do is invest in some weatherproof covers for your patio furniture frames and bring your cushions indoors during the winter months.

By covering the frames you help reduce rust and rot. It also makes them a bit easier to clean when the warmer weather rolls around. After washing and wiping down the cushions, let them dry completely and store them in a large plastic trash bag.

If you neglect the space during the cold months, be prepared for some major clean-up and possible damage when you head out to enjoy a glass of wine by your fire pit in the spring.

A little preventative maintenance and upkeep can save you a lot of time, money, and energy!

Have any questions about keeping your patio in top shape this winter? Contact us here!

Enjoy Your Backyard in Winter

The cold is here to stay. As soon as you step outdoors, you are met by the chill-inducing wind, which whips at you with no remorse. The cold makes you wear multiple layers of clothing and requires you to have a warm drink in your hand at all times.

Winter in Ohio can be rough, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay inside your house and covered with three blankets watching Netflix until spring.

Here are ways you can still enjoy your backyard in Winter!

Warmth

As we mentioned earlier, staying warm during winter can be difficult. However, you don’t have to retreat indoors. You can enjoy the still peace of nature while thawing out by an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit. Bring the blankets and the hot chocolate for a relaxing time with your family or friends.

Snow

When it snows, you often dread shoveling your driveway, cleaning off your car and dealing with other drivers on the road. Why not take a break from shoveling and go have some fun in your backyard? You can build a snowman, construct an igloo or snow fort and have a snowball fight.

Grilling

One great thing you can do year-round on your patio is grilling. Don’t let the bitter cold and snow stand in your way from eating delicious steak, chicken, and burgers. Just remember to prepare and make sure that your grill has fresh dry charcoal or a fresh tank of gas.

If you want to learn more about how you can enjoy your backyard during the winter, we encourage you to contact us today!

Thanksgiving Backyard

With October behind us, it’s time to look forward to Thanksgiving and the holidays! This year, do something a bit unexpected—take your feast outside.

It’s totally doable for those who live in warmer climates. And even in the Midwest, it’s sometimes unseasonably warm in November. With these tips and a bit of prep time, you can style a rustic outdoor supper your friends and family won’t soon forget.

Plus, an outdoor Thanksgiving is more festive (and chic) than being cooped up inside with football on the television.

Use these tips to make your Thanksgiving this year one to remember!

Use Pillows and Blankets to Stay Cozy

Even if it’s warm for November, there will still be a chill in the air on Thanksgiving. Use pillows and wool tartan throws to keep things casual, cozy and autumnal during your feast!

Food Table and Covers

To give everyone room at the table, use a separate table for food and dishes.

Other things you’ll need are mesh food coverings. Protect your delicious food from unwanted pests to ensure everyone can enjoy it!

Patio Lighting

Since the time change, it turns dark fairly early now. To extend your outside feast, you should strong lights around your patio!

Fire Pits

Be prepared for the chilly temperatures and place some firepits in your backyard. Not only will this help warm up your guest, but they can be used to roast marshmallows after dinner!

Yard Games

Outside yard games are a great way to fully enjoy your backyard during Thanksgiving. Some examples of games are cornhole, washers, horseshoes, badminton, and croquet!

Have any questions about your backyard or patio? Then contact us here!

 

 

Updating Your Patio

Just because the warm weather is giving way to cooler temperatures does not mean that your patio has to sit idly as the month’s pass. In fact, fall is a great time to take advantage of the outdoor space. There are several ways you can enjoy your backyard living area. Here are a few of our favorite ideas to extend the use of your patio into autumn.

1. Make it More Inviting

The point of a patio is to extend the living space of your home. Therefore, why not transform the area into a bit of a backyard paradise? While you can take on an expensive remodel, there are also some simple things you can do to make space a little cozier.

If your current patio set is worn down, broken or uncomfortable, you are not likely to spend much time outside. We would recommend taking the time to restore your patio furniture or splurge on something you will actually enjoy. No matter how you go about it, having the right furniture is essential.

Another way to keep the space warm and colorful is to get an outdoor rug to serve as a barrier between the cold concrete pavers and your feet. This extra splash of color is a simple – and cheap – way to make your patio cozier.

2. Light It Up

A sure sign of autumn is that the days get shorter, and nighttime comes sooner and sooner. As daylight fades, you may be inclined to head indoors unless you have properly outfitted your backyard space with the right lighting scheme. Depending on the theme of your space, you may choose to play with tiki-style lighting or even overhead appliances. For a fun look, consider stringing lights around the space, which works especially well if you have a deck or other structure to support it.

 

3. Keep It Warm

 

Another great way to make your patio useful this fall is to install a fire pit. In addition to creating heat, you can also use the pit for doing fall activities such as roasting marshmallows. Fire pits can be free-standing, which are typically more affordable, or you can have them added to the stonework of your existing space.

Have any questions about how to turn your patio into a perfect fall space? Contact us here!

 

Your Backyard

Fall has arrived and it’s time to fill your backyard living area with cozy features perfect for fall.

Your backyard is a continuation of your home which showcases your style and personality. Why should that end with summer? Extend your time in the fresh air with outdoor seating areas that feel as cozy as your couch.

Secluded Backyard Living Space

We all need a getaway from time to time. Create a secluded area that feels warm and cozy in your own backyard. Natural landscaping creates the perfect backdrop for this unique fireplace and stone flooring. Add a few wicker chairs and a matching end table that mimic the surrounding landscape to enjoy your peaceful retreat for hours.

Add Some Sizzle

Don’t neglect your deck! With beautiful views or a custom outdoor space, your deck is the perfect place to enjoy the autumn air. Add a free-standing hot tub to stay warm on those chilly nights or enjoy time with family and friends.

Incorporate Greenery

Plants are a flexible, quick, and budget-friendly way to update your outdoor design each season. Adding vines to a pergola or fence softens the space while adding variety and interest. For a splash of color, consider potted plants that give you the flexibility to replace depending on the season or your color palette.

Backyard Living Room

A living room forms a gathering place in your home, so why not have the same outdoors? A pergola acts as a roof to create a defined space, just as your walls do indoors. With the addition of brick flooring, comfy furniture, and a warm fireplace, you’ll feel right at home.

Wanting to find the best features for your home? Contact us here or visit us!

Patio Furniture

Patio furniture can turn your backyard into the perfect entertainment space, but maintaining that new look of outdoor furniture is difficult when facing the elements. Whether hauling out your tired and true patio furniture or shopping for new pieces to add to your backyard for any season, here are some ways to help keep your patio furniture looking new.

Furniture covers

Furniture covers are a great way to extend the life of any outdoor living set. Covers protect your furniture all day and night from sun or storm. The fear of fading will no longer be a problem with a furniture cover since it protects from the sun. Covers also come in a large variety of shapes and sizes to fit any backyard piece.

Regular cleaning

By cleaning your furniture on a regular basis you are able to not only extend the life of your furniture but also keep it looking new. For the most part, basic cleaning for outdoor furniture can be soapy water, but any wicker pieces should be washed with water alone.

Storing Patio Furniture

Winter can take a toll on patio furniture. The cold can cause furniture to crack and if it gets wet mold and mildew can be a major problem. Finding storage for your pieces during the winter can allow them to last many more seasons. If you are unable to find storage, use a furniture cover, but make sure it is waterproof to prevent mold and mildew build-up.

Using these steps will help keep your furniture looking spotless giving you a beautiful outdoor space to relax and entertain all summer. If you’re in need of the perfect patio furniture, contact us for more information.