Plan To Get Your Patio Ready for Summer
Spring will come, followed by even warmer weather. As the snow starts to melt and the gloom of winter begins to lift, it’s a good time to plan to get your patio ready for summer. These tips should help you prepare for that first glorious day when you don’t need a jacket or a sweater to go outside and enjoy the sunshine.
Remove Debris
The first step in getting your patio summer-ready is removing any debris that might have accumulated during the colder months. Leaves, twigs, and dirt can make your patio look untidy and could even cause damage if not removed. Use a broom or a leaf blower to clear away any loose debris.
Clean Wood and Concrete
After removing all debris, clean the wood and concrete surfaces of your patio. Use a mild detergent and a stiff brush for concrete surfaces. For wooden surfaces, opt for a deck cleaner that won’t harm any plants around your patio, but will get rid of mold and mildew that has invaded the wood planks.
Update Furniture, Cushions, and Umbrellas
Next, turn your attention to the furniture, cushions, and umbrellas you use on your patio. You probably stored these away when you prepared your patio for winter. Now that it’s time to pull them out again, look them over for signs of wear and tear. If the furniture looks stained, rusty, or broken down, consider investing in new pieces. Inspect cushions and umbrellas, replacing any that are faded or damaged. Updating these items can give your patio a fresh, new look for the summer.
Improve Shade
Winter can be hard on your landscape, and you may not have noticed branches that have come down around your patio, impacting the shade your trees can provide in the summer. Assess your current shade situation and consider adding fast-growing trees and shrubs that could provide additional shade or investing in a pergola or shade sail if needed. These items not only provide relief from the sun but also add a stylish element to your outdoor space.
Enhance Security
It’s a sad fact that patio doors create temptation for burglars in many communities. Consider enhancing security by choosing a new patio security door. These doors look beautiful and make patio doors much more difficult or even impossible to break into.
Check the locks on all exterior doors or gates leading to the patio and replace them if necessary. Consider installing additional outdoor lighting or a security camera for added peace of mind.
Add Space for a Grill and Outdoor Dining
Instead of rolling the grill out and putting it away again every time you barbeque, consider constructing a dedicated, sheltered space for a grill or building an outdoor kitchen. Be sure to include ample space for outdoor dining. Having a dedicated area for cooking and eating can transform your patio into the perfect spot for summer barbecues and family dinners.
Getting your patio ready for summer requires a bit of planning and effort. But with these steps, you can create a welcoming and enjoyable outdoor space for the summer months. Start planning today to ensure your patio is ready for the upcoming summer season.