Use Your Outdoor Room Year-round

You finally built the deck or patio of your dreams during your last home improvement project. Rather than peering out at it longingly once the weather turns cold, make some simple changes to extend its use beyond spring and summer. Join an increasing number of homeowners who find ways to use their outside rooms year-round. Below are some ideas about how to do this.

 

Outdoor Heaters: You may have seen this device at a restaurant's outdoor eating area. It's a tall metal pillar that radiates heat with the touch of a button, making your patio seem more summery even on the coolest evening.

 

Fire Pits: A glowing fire is definitely more romantic and prettier than a metal heater. Fire pits come in a variety of designs that can match the décor of your patio, whether it's old English, Mediterranean, or Southwestern. They usually burn wood, although some can use propane or natural gas. A fire table is similar to a fire pit, but it is portable and can be purchased at a home store. Many fire tables are designed to match patio sets.

 

Chimineas: Originally from Mexico, chimineas are portable, clay fireplaces that rest on a stand. The bottom part of a chiminea is a fireplace and the upper part is a chimney that draws the smoke up and out. They radiate a lot of heat and are safer than open fire pits.

 

Fireplaces: Outdoors has become a popular spot for fireplaces. While gas fireplaces have become common indoors, most homeowners prefer the heat and beauty of wood-burning fireplaces outdoors. You can design your fireplace to blend in with almost any décor.

 

Enclosing Your Patio: For true year-round comfort, consider enclosing your patio or deck.

This doesn't mean you have to lose the outdoorsy feeling altogether. Many enclosures are mostly glass so that you can still feel like you're outside even when you're toasty warm. Another home improvement option is enclosures which allow you to swap out screens for windows. Remember, however, that you are basically converting your outside space into another room of the house. Carefully consider how to heat and possibly air condition the space to maximize year-round enjoyment.

 

Do you have other ideas to extend the amount of time you can use your deck throughout the year?