• Giving your patio some TLC is an investment in adding value to your home
• Weatherproofing your patio is essential for protecting it during all seasons, such as sealing cracks, applying polyurea coating, and installing weatherstripping
• Decorate your patio by adding bright colors, use lighter fabrics, layer up cozy blankets, and add festive decorations.
• For more complex repairs, call a professional contractor to advise on improvements and for specialized skills and tools needed.
You’ve spent weeks picking out the perfect patio furniture and setting up your backyard oasis but have you considered protecting it? Depending on where you live, your patio may be exposed to various weather conditions, including intense heat, cold temperatures, and rain.
Giving Your Patio TLC
A patio is not just a place to relax and entertain; it’s an investment because it adds to the value of your home. Taking the time to properly prepare your patio for the changing seasons will save you money in the long run by preserving its value and extending its lifespan. Here’s how:
Weatherproofing Your Patio
Weatherproofing your patio is the most important thing you can do to protect it. This means ensuring it can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Here are some ways to make sure your patio is ready for any season:
- Seal cracks or holes in the concrete or wood with a sealant or caulk. This helps prevent water from seeping into the patio, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
- Apply polyurea coating to the patio surface. This waterproof coating will help protect your patio from rain and snow since it is highly resistant to water. During the summer, polyurea can also help keep the patio cool by reflecting heat and keeping it from absorbing too much sunlight.
- Install weatherstripping around windows and doors to prevent air leaks. Weatherstripping helps block out drafts and moisture, which can cause damage to your patio furniture and other items stored on or near the patio.
- Invest in outdoor furniture covers that are made of waterproof materials. These will help keep furniture dry during rainstorms and protect them from sun damage.
- Add outdoor rugs or mats that are designed for outdoor use. They provide extra cushioning underfoot and help keep dirt and debris off the surface of the deck or patio area.
- Install an outdoor canopy or awning to provide shade from the sun during hot summer days. This will also help keep the rain off your furniture when storms pass.
- Clean regularly with a pressure washer to remove surface dirt and grime buildup. Make sure you let surfaces dry completely before covering them with furniture or other items again.
Decorating Your Patio for Different Seasons
Your patio should be a manageable space; switch up your decor depending on the season! Add bright colors such as yellow, pink, and green for spring by adding flower pots, potted plants, hanging planters, and other colorful decorations. During summer months, add lighter fabrics such as linen or cotton for tablecloths and cushions so that they don’t absorb too much heat from the sun’s rays.
For fall months, layer up cozy blankets for chilly evenings spent around a firepit or light strands of white lights that twinkle against autumn’s night sky! And finally, for winter months, add festive decorations like wreaths, garlands, string lights, etc., that will give your patio a festive feel during this special time of year.
Recognizing Damages and Making Repairs
Though you have taken the necessary steps to protect your patio, it’s still important to inspect it regularly and make any needed repairs. Look for signs of wear or damage, such as the following:
- Cracked or peeling paint
- Splitting or rotting wood
- Missing tiles or pavers
- Rust on metal surfaces
If you find any damages, make sure to address them right away. Repairs are often cheaper and easier to make when caught early on, so take the time to inspect your patio regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
When to Call a Professional
For more complex repairs or large-scale damage, it’s best to call in a professional. Large-scale damages such as structural issues or extensive repairs may require specialized tools and expertise. A contractor can provide the expertise and experience needed for repairs that require specialized skills and tools. They can also offer advice on improving existing features or adding new ones to your patio, like an outdoor kitchen, firepit, bar seating, etc., to make it even more enjoyable.
Taking the time to properly prepare and protect your patio for the changing seasons is a great way to ensure you get years of enjoyment out of it. Whether you do it yourself or enlist professional help, giving your patio some TLC will pay off in the long run!
