How to Enjoy Winter Patio Weather
Colder months are notorious for bringing freezing pipes and unruly travel conditions, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend all your free time indoors. In fact, with a little seasonal tweaking, you can transform your outdoor patio into the ultimate hangout spot. Yes, even when the temperature begins to drop and the sun sets at 5 p.m. Think: fire pits, outdoor rugs, cozy blankets, and sparkly twinkle lights.
To help whip your patio into tip-top winter shape, we rounded up six ideas that will maximize any outdoor space on those crisp, chilly days.
Weatherproof Furniture
Mother Nature loves to throw sleet, hail, and, occasionally, snow at Texans during the winter months, so it’s imperative to winterize outdoor spaces and weatherproof your patio furniture. Not only will it save you money in the long run by eliminating the need for yearly replacements and repairs, but weatherproofing furniture helps keep it comfortable. It’s also worth investing in protective coatings for wood, rust-resistant spray for metal, and water-repellent spray for fabric. Think of it as your patio’s winter coat.
Invest in Accessories
Transforming your patio into a winter sanctuary is all about the cozy details. Consider adding plush all-weather cushions to furniture, seasonal pillows, some thick blankets, and outdoor rugs. Just be sure to store your decorative items inside when they’re not being used to help keep them clean and comfortable for when you’re ready to relax outside.
Add a Heat Source
You’ll want to stay warm when the temperature drops, so it’s important to consider a heat source for chilly nights. An outdoor fire pit can be a great, weather-resistant solution for bringing warmth to your backyard. Chimineas are another option that adds a decorative element. If you prefer something more portable, try a freestanding heat lamp or heated blanket. Regardless of which you choose, ensure you’re keeping yourself and your home safe by following fire safety best practices.
Create Ambiance
Lighting can transform a space, so consider wrapping lanterns or string lights around branches, fences, or roof beams. The illumination itself is helpful as the sun sets sooner in the winter months, but the flickering glow also converts your patio into a twinkly winter wonderland. Some lights require an electric outlet, but many options run on a battery for simple use.
Incorporate Plants
An indoor garden can bring a burst of life into your space during the winter months, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor patio has to be void of greenery. In fact, boxwood, holly, and other Christmastime flowers can withstand the cold and bring a bit of cheer and vibrancy to your deck. Adding tall shrubs along your patio’s periphery can even help block the wind, making your outdoor space feel extra warm and inviting.
Get Creative With Entertainment
Making the most out of your yard in any season contributes to the fun of hosting lively gatherings and intimate get-togethers, so engaging patio activities are a great way to keep the energy alive when the weather might be otherwise dreary. Board games or a giant Jenga set are always a crowd-pleaser, but you also can’t go wrong with roasting marshmallows over an open fire or setting up a hot cocoa bar. If you have an outdoor TV or the space for a projector screen, we also suggest a family movie night curled up on the outdoor couch.
If you’re itching for more approachable home improvement projects to tackle this winter, keep reading.
