How To Get Your Patio in Shape for Summer
After a long, frosty winter, the arrival of summertime can seem like the light at the end of the tunnel. Because of the heavy snowfall and bitterly cold temps associated with wintertime, there’s little wonder as to why most of us prefer to remain indoors throughout the winter months. Unsurprisingly, by the time summer rolls around, many people are itching for some outdoor recreation. When looking for the perfect place to enjoy the beautiful weather synonymous with summertime, you can’t go wrong with a well-furnished patio. Anyone looking to spruce this space up for the onset of summer can benefit from the following pointers.
Install Outdoor Ceiling Fans
Many of us tend to view ceiling fans as devices that are used exclusively indoors. While it’s true that these fans – and most other electronic devices, for that matter – are generally regarded as indoor tools, they can also prove useful in an outdoor setting. As such, if your ratio has a ceiling, outdoor ceiling fans are definitely a purchase worth considering. If you live in an area with relentlessly hot weather, a dependable ceiling fan can help ensure that you’re able to enjoy the great outdoors without succumbing to intense heat.
Of course, this isn’t to say that all outdoor ceiling fans are created equal. When searching for the right ones, limit your options to fans that feature a convenient assortment of rotating speeds, can safely be installed outdoors and allow users to control them remotely. Going with the cheapest fans you can find may save you a little cash, but this level of thriftiness stands to severely compromise your outdoor comfort. Furthermore, to get the most out of your ceiling fans, set their blades to rotate counterclockwise during the summer months, as this will create a refreshing cooling effect.
Invest in a Good Awning
If your patio isn’t protected by a roof, a resilient awning is a worthwhile purchase. Without cover from the sun, sitting on your patio is liable to be a strenuous – and potentially harmful – experience. Not only will the intense heat leave you sweaty and uncomfortable, the sun’s powerful UV rays can prove damaging to your skin – if not outright hazardous for your health. While an awning won’t completely dispel sun-based threats, it will make your summertime patio experience considerably comfier.
When shopping around for the right awning, look for materials that are resilient against the elements. For example, awnings composed of acrylic and vinyl fabrics have proven particularly effective at standing up to extreme weather conditions. If properly maintained and given sufficient TLC, a good awning can provide you with many years of reliable service. Additionally, for maximum convenience, consider investing in a retractable awning. While single-length awnings can work well for smaller patios, retractable ones enable homeowners to adjust awning length with ease, which can be a boon to anyone with an expansive outdoor patio.
Upgrade Your Outdoor Furniture
As is the case when lounging indoors, the quality of your furniture will largely determine your level of comfort when relaxing on the patio. Like the items discussed above, going with the least expensive option may save you money in the short term, but bargain furniture generally isn’t conducive to long-term comfort. In your search for the right patio furniture, make a point of prioritizing comfort and resiliency. If this furniture is going to be kept outdoors, the latter quality is of particular import. For instance, aluminum and resin wicker are both fairly durable and easy to care for, making them ideal for anyone who enjoys patio sitting. To help ensure that your outdoor furniture lasts as long as possible, take care to clean it on a consistent basis and securely cover it during periods of extreme weather.
By the time summer makes its grand entrance, many of us are champing at the bit for some outdoor recreation. Hiking, swimming, grilling and lounging are just a few of the outdoor activities people engage in all season long. If your family spends a fair amount of time outside during the summer, providing your outdoor patio with some long-overdue upgrades may prove to be a worthwhile investment. So, if your home’s patio has seen better days, don’t hesitate to put the tips discussed above to good use.