Is your patio ready for summer?

Posted on June 14, 2013
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Winter can certainly be hard on us, but it can also be just as hard on our patios and decks. If your outdoor haven needs a fresh new look for summer, here are some easy tips to help you get started!

A Clean Slate

Rearranging furniture can give any room an instant face lift, and it can do the very same thing for decks and patios. The best way to do this is to clear everything off and then experiment with the larger pieces like the table, chaise loungers and the grill.  Take into account traffic patterns and consider where the sun will be positioned during the times you will be using these areas the most.  Once you have a fresh new arrangement that works for your needs, then add the smaller pieces back into the mix.  Eliminating any excess pieces at this point is a great way to make the space seem larger and more welcoming.

Think Outside the Box

Give your patio or deck new life by re-staining or painting worn wooden deck or patio surfaces or adding a new, plush and comfy outdoor area rugs.  If your furniture has seen better days, sprucing it up with a coat of paint and recovering the cushions can be a great way to feel like you have brand new furniture, without busting the budget.  Using neutral hues on furniture and cushions will enable you to change up your design whenever you want just by changing pillows and accent pieces.

Special Touches For Added Comfort

Things like outdoor drapes, awnings or sun shade sails add splashes of color and also offer cooling shade and a cozy feeling of privacy that will entice you to spend even more time in your home outside of home.  A portable fire pit extends the use of your deck or patio into the fall and adds a beautiful focal point for a glass of wine and long fireside chats.  A fountain can add soothing natural sound and enhance relaxation while ptted flowers and herbs like mints and lemon balm can add color, interest and whiffs of sweet perfume and natural freshness.

Inexpensive and fun, these tips can help you make that rarely used patio or deck into the favorite "room" in your home. So, get started on your patio update and make some beautiful memories this year and many years to come!