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Prepare Your Deck for a Summer Outside
With patio season around the corner, preparing the deck for activities is the perfect way to ring in the summer. So, if your home has exterior spaces, that means getting ready to dust off your outdoor furniture.
Whether you're hosting a barbecue, having breakfast outside, or lounging in the sun all day, here are eight tips to ensure your deck is primed and ready to make this summer the most memorable yet.
1. Clean Your Deck or Patio Space
Before rearranging or making any changes, thoroughly clean your outdoor space and furniture to remove the debris, leaves, and dirt that accumulated over the colder months. On wooden decks, use a mildew-resistant cleaner for extra protection. For a deck that's been exposed to the elements all winter, consider a pressure washer for a deep cleaning to tackle stubborn stains.
2. Create a Layout
How do you want to use your outdoor space? Do you want to have a focal point or create the feel of a lounge? Do you want part of the floor space to be covered? Do you want a nook for reading? How about an area for grilling or a table for dining?
Answering these questions will help you plan and create a layout that suits your needs. For example, if you're planning for a space to lounge, tan, or read, check to see how much sun it gets. Ventilation is something to consider when picking a place for your grill, and space around a dining table is critical for the flow of movement.
3. Choose Your Outdoor Seating
Next comes the seating. For smaller spaces, consider a compact outdoor sofa you can complement with accent chairs or a loveseat. If you have more room, sectionals and chaise lounge chairs lend the perfect blend of comfort and style.
For anyone with plenty of space to work with, you can even consider outdoor dining sets and fire pit seating to set your backyard game apart.
4. Get Shady
It's important to have shade on your deck to protect you from the sun during peak summer hours. Most people rely on outdoor umbrellas to guarantee their deck stays cool. Umbrellas come in different styles and sizes, from large cantilever designs for covering dining tables to smaller, portable types you can move around.
They can also add some flare to your setup with a vibrant color or complement the look to create visual harmony. When selecting umbrellas, go for a model that has UV protection and is sturdy enough to handle summer breezes.
5. Outdoor Table Space
With seating and shade taken care of, it's time to consider table space. Outdoor dining tables are great for more formal settings or households where larger gatherings occur regularly. For casual settings, coffee and side tables are versatile options you can use in different ways. Finally, if you want a place to eat without the commotion of a formal dining setup, a small bistro table for intimate meals is a terrific choice.
6. Incorporate Outdoor Rugs
Incorporating outdoor rugs will up your patio game by lending a cozy feel while adding texture and color. Rugs can help punctuate entryways or define a space in your outdoor setup. They usually work best in casual or lounge areas and are as functional as they are stylish.
7. Frame Your Space With Lights
When carefully appointed, outdoor lighting will take your deck's nighttime atmosphere to the next level. Here are a few options to consider:
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Wrap these around railings, fences, or tree branches for a warm, inviting glow.
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Put them on steps, tables, stoops, or perches around your deck. Lanterns provide a diffused light and a decorative touch.
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Use them to highlight specific features like trees, sculptures, or elements of your home's architecture.
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Mount them on exterior walls for primary ambient light. Fixtures come in hundreds of designs and illuminate main areas and walkways.
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In covered spaces or where there's no wind, candles add a soft, natural light to create a cozy vibe.
7. Frame Your Space With Lights
When carefully appointed, outdoor lighting will take your deck's nighttime atmosphere to the next level. Here are a few options to consider:
•
Wrap these around railings, fences, or tree branches for a warm, inviting glow.
•
Put them on steps, tables, stoops, or perches around your deck. Lanterns provide a diffused light and a decorative touch.
•
Use them to highlight specific features like trees, sculptures, or elements of your home's architecture.
•
Mount them on exterior walls for primary ambient light. Fixtures come in hundreds of designs and illuminate main areas and walkways.
•
In covered spaces or where there's no wind, candles add a soft, natural light to create a cozy vibe.
8. Add the Finishing Touches
Finally, you'll add character with some final touches. Accessories such as planters, sculptures, pillows, ottomans and poufs, and decorative accents offer a wide range of styles, textures, and colors to infuse personality in your space. Outdoor curtains will also provide additional shade or privacy while adding a touch of elegance. Remember, the ultimate goal is to create a comfortable and welcoming outdoor space, so feel free to experiment with different patterns and colors.
Outdoor Furniture Tips
How To Maintain Outdoor Furniture Year-Round
Follow these tips to keep your outdoor setup in good shape all year:
1.
Clean outdoor furniture once a week to prevent mold or dirt buildup.
2.
Deal with any structural or cosmetic damage right away.
3.
Use non-abrasive cleaning products or mild, soap-and-water homemade solutions.
4.
Store any padding, cushions, or decorative accents inside when not in use.
5.
Cover your furniture or store it indoors, such as in a garage, during the harshest winter months.
6.
Treat wooden furniture with special preservatives once a year to maintain its appearance and durability.
What Materials Are Best for Outdoor Furniture?
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Aluminum, wrought iron, and stainless steel are popular options. Aluminum is lightweight and portable, while iron and steel are durable and sturdy.
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Teak and cedar are examples that work well outdoors due to their resistance to weather and pests.
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Natural and durable, rattan are interwoven, thin-jointed palm tree stems.
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Resin wicker is an example of a synthetic material that looks similar to rattan but is a more economical option.
Start Your Summers Off Right
Nothing makes for a good time in the sun like a clean, appointed deck that provides comfort, versatility, and style. Whether you like to have people over or just love the outdoors, the deck will be a popular place for hosting and relaxing this summer.
With dozens of patio furniture options and backyard ideas to spark inspiration, you can create an outdoor oasis to spend the summer in style.