Fall is a wonderful time of year. The landscape changes and the fall colors are really something to behold in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Naturally, spending time outdoors and enjoying the last days of warm, enjoyable weather is something to make the most of.
5 Things You Can Do To Get Your Outdoor Living Space Ready For Fall
To be able to make the most of outdoor living during fall, there are a few things one needs to consider and make preparations for – like installing a patio cover and some form of heating.
So, here are a couple of things you can do to prepare your outdoor living space for fall.
Prep your outdoor furniture
Outdoor furniture can become seriously damaged if you don’t take proper care of it. Both rain and shine can have a negative effect. So, either way, it’s a good idea to waterproof and add protective finishes to your existing furniture – particularly wooden furniture.
In the case of wooden furniture that can become damaged by exposure to sun and rain, make sure you treat the wood on a regular basis with protective varnishes.
As an additional precaution, it’s a good idea to invest in some protective covers for furniture and appliances, like grills. Your outdoor furniture will last longer, and you won’t end up having to replace it annually – saving you a ton in the long run.
Get cozy with a fireplace
Nothing says outdoor living like a fireplace. It’s both functional and ambient in that it provides warmth on those chilly fall evenings, but it also creates a wonderful atmosphere.
Whether you’re entertaining friends and family outdoors, or just simply relaxing by the fire with a glass of wine, you’re guaranteed a stunning experience.
If your patio doesn’t have the space to install a large fireplace, there are tabletop options or smaller fire pits that could also be options to consider. They’re equally as ambient and functional as a traditional fireplace, and perhaps, even more, cost-effective too.
A word to the wise – make sure you have the right permits and follow safety regulations when installing a fireplace or fire pit, and make sure your installation is up to code. In this case, it’s best to consult with a professional like Seattle Outdoor Spaces to help you build the perfect fireplace or fire pit for your outdoor living area.
Protect your outdoor living area with a pergola or patio cover
A patio cover or pergola is not only a great idea for summer, but also for fall. In summer, you’ll have the shade you need. And in fall, you’ll have protection from rain and the harsher elements. This, in addition to furniture covers, will ensure your outdoor living area is protected from the cool, wet weather that fall brings.
A patio cover of some sort is also great for retaining warmth. So, if you’re installing a fireplace, an overhead cover will help retain the heat from the fire – making the fall outdoor living experience much more pleasant.
Brighten things up
Lighting is always a good idea. And we mean always.
As the sun begins to set earlier in fall, having sufficient outdoor lighting to extend your outdoor time is a good idea, especially if you enjoy entertaining! There are so many options: from lighting along walkways and overhead string lights to lanterns and sconces.
Something to consider is to have your lighting match the general style and aesthetic of your outdoor area. If your outdoor space is rather rustic, then try to keep your lighting in line with that style. Adversely, if your patio is very contemporary, you wouldn’t have rustic lanterns and sconces. Instead, the style should be more modern.
Install paved surfaces
Dirt paths and walkways are lovely in summer, especially if your backyard has a natural feel. But, as the weather starts to change and it begins to rain more, it won’t be as much fun constantly mopping up dirt tracks and mud in your home.
So, a good idea to make your backyard fall-ready is to pave your pathways and driveways. That way, you’ll avoid having a muddy, water-logged garden. And you’ll never have to worry about mud tracks all over your home after a day’s rain!
Pavers can look absolutely stunning and you’ll be able to customize the style to suit your home’s overall style. Whether you prefer a more neutral, natural style or creative patterns and mixed colors, the options are endless!
Conclusion
We all want to make the most of our outdoor living areas, even in the cooler weather months. So, with a few alterations to your outdoor living space, that won’t cost an arm and leg, you’ll be able to enjoy the last few beautiful days before winter hits.
If you’re in need of some advice, get in touch with us, and we’ll help you prepare your outdoor living space for the fall.
