Most people associate patios with spring flowers and summer barbecues, leaving their outdoor living spaces neglected during the fall and winter months. However, with a few updates and accessories, your patio can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Fire pits are a popular item in Chattanooga for a reason. There’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm fire on a cool weekend night, enjoying laughter and s’mores.
Upgrading to a permanent gas fire pit is a great way to make those campfire experiences available anytime with just a touch of a button. If you have a large patio space, you could also consider patio heaters to keep your family and guests warm well into the winter.
Enclosing your patio is another way to keep the cold out while still enjoying the winter scenery.
Screens, roll down shades, curtains or awnings are all options to help keep you toasty when the temperatures drop.
If you have nosy neighbors, enclosures or fences will also provide more privacy during winter months when barrier trees and bushes have shed their leaves.
Your patio furniture might also need some updates to stay inviting through the colder months. If you’re considering a new seating, look for all-weather options like a modern patio sectional with plush cushions. Or to upgrade your current furniture, switch out any tropical or summer print pillows for more neutral colors and prints such as tans, browns or reds.
And be sure to add a new all-weather rug to keep your toes warm and a couple of soft, fleece blankets for cuddling up under the stars.
With the longer nights of fall and winter, it’s important to make sure you have ample lighting to enjoy your patio to its fullest. Consider mixing a few different lighting options to create just the right ambience like solar torches, led lanterns and festive string lights.
For help with your fall and winter patio upgrade, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga’s member directory at www.HBAGC.net to find a list of qualified, local professionals from awning experts to fire pit installers who can help.