Best Place to Buy Outdoor Furniture on a Budget

As a responsible homeowner, you take pride in the home improvement projects you undertake. You want your guests to feel impressed and comfortable every time you come over. That’s why you’re interested in making the most of your home’s outdoor living space. 

If that’s the case, you’re in luck. The good news is that you’ve come to the right place by reading this article. Detailed below is everything you need to know about finding the best place to buy outdoor furniture. 

You’re not alone in wanting to invest in and improve your home, by the way. Consider the following statistics regarding homeowners throughout the United States. It indicates that, on average, homeowners spend around one to four percent of the home’s overall value on home improvement projects every single year. 

Keep reading, then, to optimize your outdoor living space. You and your family will appreciate it in the long run. 

Consider What You Expect from Your Outdoor Living Space

The first thing to think about is what you actually plan to do with your outdoor living furniture. Take the time to think about what your lifestyle entails.

Do you throw a lot of holiday parties for friends and family members, for instance? If so, it’s likely that you’ll want plenty of seating and tables for everyone to enjoy at their leisure. For more detailed guidance, check out this article on planning a perfect outdoor party

Instead, do you spend most of your time in your backyard meditating and connecting with nature? In that case, you’ll want to leave plenty of room on your patio for your yoga mat. At the same time, you’ll still want furniture items like an umbrella to shield you from the sun or a table to hold your food and beverages. 

You all deserve to make the most of this living space, by the way. After all, even experts recognize that there are benefits when children play outside on a regular basis. No matter what you prefer, there’s a way to arrange your outdoor furniture to suit you and your family’s expectations. 

 

Determine Your Personal Design Aesthetic

Not only should you think about what kind of furniture suits your activities. In addition, you deserve to have the outdoor living space that ties directly to your ideal aesthetic design, too. 

Perhaps you like a rustic and home-y style when it comes to decorating. In this case, you’ll want to use a lot of browns and natural colors in your outdoor furniture pieces. Consider using soft lighting to enhance the atmosphere of such a scene. 

On the other hand, you might like a more sophisticated and modern look for your home. Well, you’ll want to invest in industrial metals and intricate designs in your furniture pieces. It’s also a fun practice to include decorating with your favorite accent color, too.

Either way, there are furniture designs that could be ideal for your personal style. It’s up to you, though, to do the research and find the perfect furniture pieces. Be willing to get creative when it comes to designing your outdoor living space. 

Evaluate the Costs and Your Available Budget

Another thing to consider is how much this project is actually going to cost you. For that reason, it’s in your best interest to analyze your available budget for this home improvement project. How much money are you willing to spend on patio furniture?

Perhaps you’re considering dipping into your savings for this project. That’s okay, but make sure it’s a wise financial move in the long run. It might be smarter to take the time and save up a little bit of money at a time for your patio furniture. 

Of course, you need to know how much your new patio furniture is going to cost you in the first place. Once you’ve developed a backyard living design plan, you’ll know what pieces of furniture you’re going to want. Then, you can add up all of the costs together to plan ahead and get the project done in a sensible manner. 

Research Patio Furniture Providers in Your Area

Thanks to the modern Digital Era, you can find out a lot about a company with some online research. In fact, that’s what you should do when you’re interested in expanding your outdoor living furniture. Your outdoor furniture providers should have a well-developed and reliable reputation before you purchase from them. 

In fact, in the year 2019 alone, the outdoor furniture manufacturing industry has generated $2 billion in revenue throughout the United States. In other words, they should be doing their best to attract your attention and impress you with their products. That’s their best hope at staying ahead of any competitors in their niche market. 

Start with a quick search on Google for the most reliable outdoor furniture providers in your area. Remember, by the way, that you can find excellent furniture pieces online, too. 

When you’re interested in a potential outdoor furniture provider, take a look at their website. Is it clear that they invest in it and keep it updated on a regular basis? Have they established a substantial social media following?

A well-developed online presence is a great way to learn whether you can trust an outdoor furniture provider with your business. It’s likely that you can find testimonials and reviews from previous customers, also. These can provide great insight as to whether you can expect a high-quality experience from this provider. 

Remember to Consider All Kinds of Weather

It’s wise to consider what geographic location you live in when planning for outdoor furniture. This is true, in particular, for those families living in locations with extreme weather. Whether it gets really hot or really cold in your area, it’s important to buy patio furniture accordingly. 

For instance, many outdoor living spaces could do well with a sun umbrella over a sitting area. That way, you can avoid getting contact from the sun’s harmful rays on a consistent basis. 

For cold areas, it might also be wise to invest in a fire pit of some sort for your outdoor living area. This might take the form of an actual fireplace. In addition, maybe you purchase a full-blown propane heater to keep you and your guests cozy all year long. 

If it rains a lot in your area, you might want to remember that when you’re buying seats for your patio. You don’t want to buy seats with cushions that start to mold when they get wet all of the time. If you do want those kinds of chairs, though, you’ll just have to remember to keep the cushions covered whenever it starts to rain. 

Check Your Patio Furniture Provider’s Customer Service

When you’re thinking about where to buy patio furniture, don’t underestimate the value of customer service. For one thing, does your outdoor furniture provider offer any return policy? Looking into that may definitely be worthwhile if you have to return or exchange something in the future. 

Plus, when you interact with your outdoor furniture provider, do you feel as though you’re their highest priority? Don’t work with any product provider who doesn’t make you feel comfortable when working with them. 

Continue Caring for and Maintaining Your Outdoor Living Space

It’s important to note that buying your patio furniture is only one part of investing in your outdoor living space. You’re still going to have to maintain this living space throughout the future. 

When it comes to your patio furniture, it’s worthwhile to keep it clean and maintained so that it lasts a long time. Here’s a complete guide on cleaning your outdoor furniture. That way, you can ensure that your patio furniture can last for many years to come. 

In addition, if you find some of your furniture needs repairs, don’t waste too much time before getting it taken care of. There’s no reason to neglect this investment, after all. 

Start Purchasing from the Best Place to Buy Outdoor Furniture

At this point in the article, you have a thorough understanding of how to determine the best place to buy outdoor furniture. There’s no need to cut corners when it comes to investing in your home’s comfort levels. That’s why you’ll take the above guidelines seriously. 

Of course, there are still a lot of ins and outs to navigate when it comes to home improvement projects. As a result, it can be in your best interest to work with professionals on the matter.

In fact, that’s where we can come into play. We prioritize bringing families like yours the most reliable and affordable outdoor furniture on the market. We want your outdoor living space to be just another extension of your home itself. 

For that reason, we encourage you to browse through the rest of our website to see how our services can benefit you and your family. On our blog, you’ll find the latest and greatest trends in home improvement practices of the day. To start, check out more information about patio furniture and other products we have available. 

The Best Patio Furniture: Outdoor Sofas You’ll Want to Buy Right Now

If you want to bring your patio to life, creating an outdoor living space will make it an inviting place to spend your time.

When it comes to choosing the perfect furniture, there are plenty of beautiful, high-quality outdoor sofas to choose from that will instantly enhance your space and make it more comfortable.

Before you commit to your newest outdoor furniture purchase, read on to discover some of the best outdoor sofas available that will add plenty of style and function to your outdoor loving lifestyle.

Try Something Sleek and Simple

You definitely want your outdoor space to be comfortable, but you also want it to look aesthetically pleasing. To accomplish this, choose outdoor sofas that offer the perfect mix of comfort and modern style.

Sleek, slender frames crafted of durable aluminum are a good choice, especially when they’re topped with comfy and colorful weather-resistant cushions. Try pieces from the brand Castelle that boast hand-painted finishes with deep colors and textures.

These sofas will impart an air of style that indicates the outdoor living space is just as important as the living room indoors. Pair a comfortable sofa alongside a single accent chair or loveseat made for two.

When you choose a sleek and simple outdoor sofa, look for muted colors like tan, light green, or gray. These hues will make your outdoor living space blend in with the natural world around them, and they do a good job of exuding contemporary style. The key to a sleek look is to pick out sofas that aren’t too big or overbearing that might take over your space.

Create a Laid-Back Look and Feel

Your outdoor space should be a casual place where friends and family can gather. To achieve this laid-back lifestyle, you’ll want to buy outdoor sofas that offer plenty of cushioning and carefree design.

Choose sofas that have durable frames made of metal that will hold up well to years of use. The design found in brands like Mallin Furniture Company utilizes thick, plush cushions in an array of fun and cheerful colors. From yellow to blue, these lively colors will make your outdoor space come alive.

If you prefer something less formal, select an outdoor sofa made of weather-resistant wicker. The wicker frame will give your patio or poolside a beachy, summery look and feel. Sturdy wicker can last throughout the seasons, so make sure you choose something crafted of high-quality materials.

In order to achieve the ultimate casual look, make sure you find outdoor sofas that are roomy and supportive. The more comfortable the furniture is, the more casual it will not only appear but will also feel whenever you sit on it.

Try Outdoor Sofas with Unique Features

If you really enjoy spending time outside, you want to use an outdoor sofa that does more than just provide you and your guests with a place to sit. Get creative and look for sofas that include unusual features to make them truly unique.

For example, if you have a fire pit outside, opt for a curves sofa that will surround this feature and create a conversation area where people will love to hang out. Sofas don’t have to simply be rectangular – go for something with a slight curve instead. A crescent sofa by Tropitone is perfect for this purpose.

Another great feature to consider is a storage sofa. The seating area of the sofa can be lifted up to reveal hidden storage. Use this option if you have a lot of pool accessories or gardening items that need to be neatly tucked away.

Any outdoor furniture that serves more than one purpose or has an unusual feature will give your patio or garden area a lot more functionality. Think about how you plan to use your outdoor space, and then choose sofas and other pieces that will work around your vision.

The key to a comfortable and pleasant outdoor living area is to incorporate sofas and chairs that give you more than just a place to sit down and relax. They should also be beautiful to look at while helping you to transform your dreams into reality.

Expand Your Horizons with Sectionals

For those who love to entertain a lot of people at once, an outdoor sectional sofa is a perfect choice. These large sofas can easily accommodate more than just three people and they come in a range of sizes depending on your needs.

You can add an outdoor sectional to a deck, patio, or just place one anywhere in your backyard. Thanks to their larger size, they can seat a lot of people together on one cohesive piece of furniture.

Modular outdoor sectional sofas allow you to transform the piece into several different configurations. Try a sectional that includes an ottoman that you can easily move to create a separate footrest or additional seating in your outdoor space.

Kingsley Bate offers an impressive variety of outdoor furniture including a large 9-piece sectional with an ottoman and more. This brand uses modern design and sturdy construction to create beautiful, comfortable furniture that lasts.

An outdoor sectional will make spending time outside a whole lot more fun for everyone. It’s the perfect choice if you plan to do a lot of entertaining outside and need something larger for a bigger group of people.

Go Versatile with Simple Designs

Your outdoor sofa doesn’t have to be overly decorative, intricate, or over the top. If you’re more concerned about function, put your focus on versatile pieces that can handle lots of use while adding a bit of style and comfort.

When it comes to versatility, choose pieces that feature simple colorways like tan, brown, and gray. You can easily change out the cushions later if you want to add a pop of color to your outdoor sofa.

The brand Ratana makes durable outdoor furniture designed for the casual lifestyle. They create furniture that works well in any space from contemporary and modern to classic and traditional. You’ll find this brand in businesses like hotels as well as for use in your own outdoor space.

The key to any type of versatile furniture is its ability to blend in with any environment and any style. Neutral colors and simple, clean lines are the hallmarks of this design. Choose outdoor sofas that will work with whatever else you have going on outside and won’t overtake your space.

Create a Rustic, Beachy Outdoor Space with Wood

Whether you love the idea of a beach-themed backyard or you prefer farmhouse-inspired style, wood is an excellent option when choosing outdoor sofas. The addition of wood to an outside space makes it feel more natural, cozy and inviting.

It’s important to note that not all wood furniture is the same, so make sure you select pieces that are made of high-quality wood that has been treated to make it weatherproof. The type of wood your sofa is made from also plays a major role in its overall durability.

Be sure you select wood sofas and chairs that are made of solid wood and not just a pressed composite or plywood. Sturdy and solid, wood should be something that is built to last for a long time to come.

Outdoor furniture crafted from wood can create a more natural look, even if you live in an urban setting. The addition of wood to your outdoor space will give it a rugged, rustic feel.

The way your patio looks can also depend heavily on the finish you choose. Try dark cherry or espresso for a modern backyard, and natural or weathered finishes if you prefer a nautical or rustic style.

When it comes to wood outdoor sofas, top them with extra-thick cushions to ensure that they’re comfortable to sit on. Most manufacturers include cushions that are custom-made to fit their wood furniture. These cushions will ensure that your beautiful wood sofa isn’t just nice to look at, but that it’s also comfy to sit on.

Transform Your Home with Stylish Sofas

From the endlessly contemporary to the rustic and inviting, there’s no shortage of trendy outdoor sofas to choose from. Whichever style you go for, make sure it’s built to last with durable materials and weatherproof cushions.

Enhance your outdoor living space with a sofa made of wood or try something versatile that comes in a fun, curvy shape. There’s really no shortage of gorgeous options to choose from that will enhance your patio and make it unique to you.

Visit our website and browse our selection of beautiful outdoor furniture, and be sure to contact us so we can help you with all your furnishing needs.

The Best Tips for Buying Outdoor Furniture

Find your outdoor paradise with our outdoor buyers guide.

If your outdoor space needs a makeover, new furniture can do wonders for this important part of your home.

Before you decide which type of outdoor furniture to buy, there are some important factors to keep in mind.

Read on for some helpful tips when it comes to buying outdoor furniture so you’ll pick out quality pieces that everyone will enjoy.

Spruce Things Up with Pillows

Outdoor pillows are a fun way to give your patio pops of color and personality. These comfortable pillows should be weatherproof so you can leave them outside, even in inclement weather.

When you look at outdoor pillows, choose a quality brand like Elaine Smith that exudes modern style and laid-back living. These pillows can be layered on your outdoor furniture to add a comfy touch.

The pillows you pick out can come in vibrant colors with playful patterns or stripes. Solid outdoor pillows are a versatile choice that will enhance your current furnishings. 

Look for pillows featuring durable Sunbrella fabric so you know you’re getting a quality accessory. A removable cover with a zippered closure will make keeping your favorite outdoor pillows clean a breeze.

Create Some Shade with Umbrellas and Covers

If you love hanging out in the patio area but you’re not too fond of the sun, a patio umbrella is a perfect choice. These durable outdoor covers provide shade for you, your family, and your guests.

Use an outdoor umbrella to make your backyard area much more comfortable. These shade-providing covers make it much more pleasant to eat and mingle. They’ll also make you want to spend time outside.

Brands like Tuuci Umbrella provide stylish options available in a wide range of trendy colors. Spruce up your patio with a bold umbrella featured in a colorful design, solid hue, or a crisp, clean white color.

You want your outdoor umbrella or cover to be made of quality material that will hold up to years of use. From a poolside deck to your outdoor kitchen, shade makes spending time outdoors a lot more palpable. 

Key features of quality outdoor umbrellas include rust-resistant hardware, durable canopies, and simple mechanisms that make opening and closing the umbrella easy. You should also be able to mount the umbrella to the deck or patio so it stays in place.

A well-made outdoor covering brings beauty and style to your patio along with much-needed shade. Choose quality brand names that feature durable materials and versatile options to give you the perfect shade you desire.

Buying Outdoor Furniture for Entertaining

Spending time outside is a great way to relax, and it’s always much more fun when you have a few guests to entertain. Choose outdoor furniture pieces that offer your guests a comfortable place to sit and have a conversation.

The furniture you pick out should be roomy and accommodating as well as durable. Brands like Mallin use beautiful Sunbrella fabric cushions to offer durability and versatility in any season.

This brand also features gorgeous furnishings like loveseats, chairs, and tables. Create your own outdoor living space by mixing and matching a variety of pieces.

A swivel rocker is a wonderful option if you enjoy reading outdoors. These chairs are fun to use and make your backyard a comfortable place to relax.

Chaise lounge chairs make a cool piece of furniture for poolside relaxation. These long chairs include adjustable backrests so you can sit or lie back at any angle. They also include thick, comfortable cushions so lounging time is always a comfy experience.

Mallin offers a variety of fabric colors to help you create your own unique look for a backyard, patio, or deck area. The company sells everything from outdoor ottomans and sling chairs to replacement cushions.

When you spend time entertaining outdoors, remember to keep durability and comfort in mind before any purchase. These two qualities ensure that your new outdoor furnishings last a long time. It also gives you a comfy place to relax for years to come.

Make Outdoor Living Modern

If you have a modern home, sleek lines and clean details complement the space. Contemporary homes need a modern furniture solution for the patio or deck area.

For those who have modern in mind, try brands like Kingsley Bate that uses fine, premium teak wood. They use precise mortise and tension joints to give each piece a slick, unique aesthetic and durability.

Besides teak wood, this brand incorporates other modern elements. A blend of stainless steel and all-weather wicker adds a bold touch. The combination of materials creates a modern sight to behold.

Neutral tones in brown and tan intermingle with colors of cream. These hues are alongside metallic stainless steel for a modern aesthetic. Kingsley Bate crafts some of the finest contemporary outdoor furniture on the market today.

Add some corner ottomans and modular furniture to create your own custom configuration. It’s the perfect way to maximize your outdoor living space and create something unique to your home.

Angular seats and tapered legs on outdoor chairs make your space exude the epitome of modern style. Look for square frames and simple designs that bring your backyard area a splash of contemporary appeal.

Bring the Beach to Your Backyard

If you love the laid-back atmosphere of sandy shorelines, look for outdoor furniture that gives off a “beachy” look and feel. Colorful chairs and tables will add an element of fun to your backyard area, and they look great next to the pool, too.

Seaside Casual furniture makes unique pieces that boast brilliant colors, and materials that can handle the elements with ease. These furnishings are made from a material called Envirowood, a marine-grade recycled HDPE polymer.

Thanks to its unique construction, outdoor furniture from Seaside Casual is completely resistant to fading, insect damage, moisture damage, warping and splintering. Low-maintenance is a hallmark of high-quality outdoor furniture.

When you choose something that’s easy to maintain, you won’t have to spend your precious time worrying about your investment. Choose pieces from this brand to give you durable furniture that’s also beautiful to look at.

They offer everything from deck chairs and bar stools to complete lounge sets including tables and chairs. Pick out pieces boasting vibrant colors to make your outdoor space pop.

With any outdoor furniture, the goal is to find something that can handle all types of weather. If you live in a hot climate or one with lots of winter snow, your furniture should be able to stay outside and remain in good condition.

Durability and comfort are always important for any style of backyard furniture. Look for brands like Seaside Casual that combine new developments in materials with a classic style you’ll love.

Blend Function and Style Together

To get the most from your backyard furniture, look for items that blend beautiful design together with versatile function. Large coffee tables with drawers offer you a place to stash items and give you plenty of surface space.

Sturdy chairs with thick, weatherproof cushions ensure that all your guests stay comfortable while enjoying the beauty of your furniture. The brand Plank and Hide provide customers with gorgeous outdoor furniture that’s easy to maintain.

Mixing modern elements with comfortable options makes Plank and Hide’s “dream cushion” furniture a must-have for any backyard. The large, thick cushions look beautiful but can also be removed for easy cleaning.

Pieces made of wide, flat wicker are woven in intricate designs that give each piece a sleek look and durability. An aluminum frame ensures that this outdoor furniture will stand the test of time.

To get more from your backyard furniture, look for unique options from Plank and Hide like their tabletop fire pits. These unusually beautiful tables open in the center to reveal a stainless steel burner so you can stay warm.

Other furniture pieces include comfortable swivel lounge gliders, deep seating sofas, loveseat, and ottoman. The combination of modern design and comfort make this furniture a great option for anyone who plans to spend a lot of time outdoors.

Elevate Your Life with Outdoor Furniture

If you need outdoor furniture for your home, keep these essential qualities in mind. Durability and weatherproof features will ensure that your furniture lasts through many seasons.

Look for designs that incorporate modern lines or vibrant colors. Outdoor umbrellas will give you extra shade to entertain in comfort, even during the heat of summer.

For the best brand names and highest quality furnishings, visit our website and contact us today for more information. 

Cleaning Your Outdoor Furniture

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Before you haul your dingy patio furniture to the curb, try cleaning it using these common household cleaners.

Wicker

Wicker can be tricky to clean because the woven fibers create crevices where dirt can accumulate.

  1. Using a soft brush, scrub with a mild oil-based soap.
  2. Rinse the wicker with a hose.
  3. Hose down every few weeks to keep clean.

Aluminum

  1. With a dampened cloth, wipe the furniture with mild dish detergent.
  2. Rinse with water.
  3. To remove scuff marks, use a multipurpose bathroom cleaner and rinse clean.

Cushions

There are few things less welcoming than soiled and discolored outdoor cushions.

  1. Create a solution of one-quarter cup of clear liquid detergent per gallon of lukewarm water.
  2. Sponge the detergent thoroughly into the cushion.
  3. Rinse with a garden hose.

Teak

In particularly hot and humid climates, teak furniture can suffer from mildew growth.

  1. Sponge on a solution of one cup of ammonia, a half-cup of white vinegar, one-quarter cup of baking soda and one gallon of water.
  2. Keep white vinegar in a spray bottle to spot clean any small mildew stains.

Wrought Iron

  1. Wipe clean with a dampened cloth and a mild dish detergent.
  2. Rinse with a hose.

 

To build your patio wonderland, contact All American Pool and Patio by calling 1-877-930-7070.

The Key to a Perfect Outdoor Party

The Key to a Perfect

Summer may be almost over but there’s still plenty of sunlight and the cool, fall breeze to enjoy. There’s no better way to celebrate the lovely weather than with an outdoor party or event.

One of the keys to throwing an amazing outdoor party is having comfortable patio furniture that lends itself well to gatherings. All American Pool & Patio has some great recommendations for outdoor furniture that will enhance any outdoor occasion.

Outdoor Party Essentials

  • Patio Dining Table – One of the core pieces of all outdoor functions is a deck or patio dining table. All American provides four outdoor dining sets in exciting styles and materials to complement the theme of any outdoor area and will allow your guests to rest in comfort and enjoy the conversation round the dinner table with you and other guests.
  • Patio Cushions – Rest easy and in comfort with All American’s outdoor cushions. Our outdoor cushions come in a bright array of colors and styles to fit the aesthetics of your outdoor furniture without sacrificing quality or comfort.
  • Bar Stools and Tables – If you’re aiming for a swanky cocktail feel for your event, All American has you covered. Our wide selection of bar stools and tables come in a variety of unique styles and colors with optional sling, cushion and strap collections.
  • Modular Seating – Give your patio an upscale, outdoor bar and restaurant feel with All American’s modular seating furniture. Our modular seating patio options are praised for their ability to be rearranged into the configuration of your choosing, giving you the ability to make the most of any social gathering. Modular seating is perfect for cozily wrapping around a fire pit to keep you and your guests warm on a cool fall night.
  • Patio Umbrellas – Although the sun’s intensity is beginning to dim around this time of year, it’s still important to provide ample shade from harmful UV rays if you’re hosting a daytime event. All American has you literally covered with a variety of unique patio umbrella styles, including umbrella light hybrids and cantilever umbrellas to suit your shading needs.
  • Patio Bar – No happy hour or home cocktail event is complete without your own personal bar. All American provides complete bar sets at affordable prices to help your outdoor space exude a classy outdoor bar atmosphere. Our bar sets are available in both cushion and sling with resin wicker and wrought iron styles.
  • Patio Accessories – Complement your outdoor patio or event with serving accessories from All American. Our beautifully designed serving trolleys are the perfect addition to any outdoor shindig, adding some much needed flair and pizzazz to the event. We also provide lovely planters and wall art to accentuate your outdoor function and enamor your guests.
  • Café/Bistro Furniture – If you’re looking to create a quaint café or bistro type of atmosphere, All American has the perfect furniture to bring your patio café to life. Gather your friends close around our petite café/bistro table and catch up on old times in comfort.

Make Your Outdoor Party Memorable with All American Pool & Patio

Contact All American Pool & Patio today to purchase outdoor furniture that will make your event memorable. Our staff are experts on the functions and capabilities of all our outdoor furniture and accessories and can help you pick the right furniture for your particular function or party’s theme and purpose

Luxurious Patio Accessories That Elevate Outdoor Entertaining

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For people who love to entertain, the patio and its surrounding outdoor setting can make for the ideal backdrop when the weather permits. With some careful planning, homeowners can design a patio and outfit it with furnishings and accessories that complement the setting’s elegance and functionality. When creating and furnishing your luxury patio, be sure to keep the following ideas in mind.

High-Functioning Outdoor Kitchen

If you entertain outdoors on a regular basis, you might think about installing an outdoor kitchen on a portion of your patio. To integrate your kitchen into the patio space, you might consider custom built-ins that can accommodate your cooking appliances (i.e. grill) and counter space for food preparation. The style of your patio can inform the type of design you choose for the space whether you opt for a modern style, traditional, or something more particular like a hacienda or Tuscan villa style. Naturally, you’ll want to choose accessories such like dishes, cushion fabric, and potted plants that enhance your chosen style.

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Dining Area

Consider the type of entertaining you do before you outfit your dining space with furnishings. If you generally invite extended family to your home, you might want to opt for a grand outdoor table, one that’s large enough to seat the adults you typically invite to your home. If you, on the other hand, tend to host large events, you might opt for a series of café or bistro sets that encourage guests to mingle and even move from table to table. You can choose elegant table settings for this area of your patio along with table centerpieces like candles, vases, and even oil lamps.

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Outdoor Bar

An outdoor bar is ideal for homes that do a lot of entertaining. It’s often easiest to site the bar near the home so that running water and electricity is less difficult. From small yet swanky to large and elaborate, outdoors bars run the gamut in terms of style and size. You can select one that complements your outdoor kitchen, but also provides a focal point for your outdoor entertainments. When it comes to bar accessories, you can opt for elegant stemware and glassware that match your decorative style.

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Patio Furniture

From teak to wrought iron, patio furniture is available in a myriad of styles. You might opt for wicker, wood, or metal in a style that suits your decorative plan. You can create an outdoor family room with outdoor chaise lounges, chairs, and couches that are set out in a fashion that’s conducive to conversation. While the family room style might be fine for smaller gatherings, you may need more seating for larger entertainments. Stools, benches, and functional seating can be made more comfortable with outdoor cushions that can be easily stored when they’re not needed.

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Other Considerations

When designing and decorating your patio, don’t forget to think about how to shade your guests during daylight events. You might want to include a pergola or gazebo in your plans. For night-time entertaining, you’ll need to infuse light onto your patio so your guests will be safe walking about. You can accessorize the space with gorgeous outdoor lighting fixtures that are both durable and functional. Finally, consider adding an elegant focal point to your setting like a fountain or outdoor fireplace.

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Once you create your ideal outdoor setting, you’ll love entertaining outdoors where your guests can enjoy the outdoor climate in a beautiful setting. Keep these considerations in mind as you plan your patio and shop for outdoor furnishings.

Easy Ways to Maintain Your Fire Pit

If you want to expand your outdoor living space and make it comfortable when the weather turns cold, adding a fire pit to the back yard is a great way to do just that. There is nothing like sitting around a fire pit telling ghost stories and roasting marshmallows to bring the family together. Once it is in place, the fire pit will quickly become the focal point of your outdoor living space. When properly installed and well maintained, the fire pit will be both enjoyable and safe to use. Proper maintenance is the key to continued safety, so take the time to learn the proper techniques. Below are some easy ways to keep your fire pit in great shape.

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Perhaps the most important maintenance tip is to make sure the fire is out before you leave the pit. Do not leave the area until the fire has burned out completely and the ashes are cool. Hot embers can still spark a fire, so always put safety first. Once the fire is out and the ashes have cooled sufficiently, you can clean the fire pit and get it ready for the next use. Cleaning the fire pit thoroughly after each use is the best way to keep it looking and running like new. It is recommend to wait a day after use, before cleaning your fire pit. It is very important you wait until the fire pit is completely cooled before cleaning.

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Use an angled broom to seep the interior of the fire pit. Sweep in the same direction instead of moving the broom back and forth – this will keep the ash from being moved around and make cleanup easier. Use a dust pan to remove the accumulated ash and dispose of it properly. Again, make sure the ash is completely cooled off before disposing of it. Once the interior of the fire pit has been swept and the ash safely removed, you may also take a damp rag and wipe out any access ash that is remaining in the bowl. You want to eliminate any soot build up or any food debris; these can clog burners and cause stains to your bowl.

December2015_cleanfireplace

Check the perimeter of the fire pit carefully and make sure there is no debris that could spark and catch fire. Remove branches, leaves and other potentially flammable materials until you have a clear space at least 10 feet in diameter. Make sure to re-check the perimeter before using the fire pit again.

If your fire pit is made of decorative concrete pavers, you will need to seal them to prevent premature wear and tear. Apply a thin coat of stone or concrete sealant to the fire pit, making sure to use a product designed to withstand high heat. You may need to reseal the pavers from time to time – just check for wear each time you use the fire pit and reapply the sealant as needed.

December2015_firepit

For further protection from the outside elements, a patio grade cover is durable, breathable and water resistant. Maintaining the fire pit the right way can extend its lifetime and make it safer to use.

Décor Tips for a Welcoming Front Porch to Ring in the New Year

With the holiday’s right around the corner, it’s a great time to plan some festive decorating projects. You can create an inviting front porch setting that is both welcoming and decked out for the holiday season. The following ideas can inspire you to decorate your front porch with a dramatic new look that is sure to help you ring in the New Year.

December2015_winterporchdecor

Restyle Your Seating

If you have a bench, chairs, or small café-style table and chairs on your front porch, be sure to add some holiday-inspired cushions to your seating. Even solid colors like red or green will infuse your front porch with holiday color. Changing your cushions seasonally helps you reduce their wear and tear while complementing your home’s exterior décor.

December2015_festivecushions

Dramatic Garlands

Simple garlands of evergreen can add visual interest to your front porch railings and door all winter long. However, you might want to enhance your garland with tinsel, red tassels, or gold ornaments to celebrate the New Year. For a more rustic garland, you can add pine cones along with dried red berries.

December2015_Windowgarlands

Light It Up

A great lighting display will help you to create a beautiful and welcoming front porch that will enhance the exterior of your home throughout the holiday season. You can add lights to outdoor garlands, wreaths, banisters, columns, or throughout your entire porch area for a stunning effect. While white lights will complement any type of home, you might prefer colored lights for a more whimsical effect.

December2015_Garland

Holiday Planters

Your planters can make a great display when you fill them with holiday plants like poinsettias, but they’ll also transform your front porch when you deck them out with some creative ideas. You can fill your front porch planters with small Christmas trees festooned with ribbon and bows along with other trimmings that will hold up to the weather. For something unique, pile some wrapped presents atop your planters or window boxes for a fun holiday look.

December2015_poinsettias

Metallic Touches

Accessorizing your front porch with metallic props is perfect for New Year’s decorating. Fill a large silver pail with logs strewn with holly. Hang over-sized ornaments from your porch roof. Add some bright gold or bronze planters beside your door filled with dried plants that complement your decorative plan.

December2015_oversizedornaments

Let It Snow

Even if you live in a hot climate, there’s nothing wrong with transforming your porch with an elegant snowflake display. White and silver are timeless winter colors that will add a beautiful touch to your New Year’s exterior display. From enhancing white wreaths and holiday trees to decorative snowflakes you hang throughout your porch, you can achieve a dazzling winter setting that you can even leave up long after New Year’s Day.

December2015_Snowflakedisplay

Decorating for New Year’s starts with your front porch. A great outdoor display will set the perfect tone for holiday celebrating as you welcome guests to your home. Keep these ideas in mind as you decorate your home for the upcoming holidays.

 

Weather Proof Your Patio Furniture

Adding a patio to your home is one of the best ways to expand your living space without breaking the bank. Putting an addition on your home could cost tens of thousands of dollars, but a high quality patio will cost only a fraction of that price. Although you are spending less, you are still making an investment, one that will add equity to your home.

December2015_Patio

When creating an outdoor living space, you will want to outfit your patio with a hot tub, a high end grill or just a quality furniture set to complete the space. It is important you take steps to protect your purchase so you can maximize its use. With the right care, a quality patio furniture set can last for many years, but if you neglect it those pieces could start to show their age after just a year or two.

December2015_Outdoorpatiofurniture

First, make sure to regularly clean your furniture during the summer months. Wipe up spills immediately to avoid staining. Lay a towel down after getting out of the pool to avoid transferring left over tanning oil or sunblock. Keep your furniture out of the sun for prolonged periods of time. Also, apply a sealant to the wood to protect the stain color from sun damage.

December2015_woodsealant

One of the best things you can do to prepare your patio furniture for the long winter season is to give it a deep cleaning prior to storing it. Start by wiping the wood down with a quality furniture polish to remove dust and built-up dirt. Polish the wood carefully until all dirt has been removed, then apply a sealant to protect the wood from moisture. Even if you store your patio furniture indoors, moisture can still build up. Applying a protective coating can prevent serious wood damage later.

December2015_Furniturecoveredinsnow

After the patio furniture has been thoroughly cleaned, you will need to store it properly. If you have a shed on your property, now is the time to clear out space and store your furniture. If you do not have a storage shed, you might consider buying one to store the furniture. Patio furniture will last much longer if it is stored out of the elements. If you do not have a way to store your patio furniture indoors, invest in a quality patio cover to provide protection from ice and snow. Patio covers should be tight fitting, durable, water resistant, and made from high quality acrylic, and nylon fibers. Be sure to remove any upholstered cushions and store them indoors, since excess moisture could damage them, making them unusable.

December2015_Protectingyourpatiofurniture

Taking time to protect your patio furniture from the seasonal elements and harsh winter weather will allow you to enjoy it once the weather permits. With the right care, your patio furniture will last for many years.

Easy Ways to Maintain Your Fire Pit

If you want to expand your outdoor living space and make it comfortable when the weather turns cold, adding a fire pit to the back yard is a great way to do just that. There is nothing like sitting around a fire pit telling ghost stories and roasting marshmallows to bring the family together. Once it is in place, the fire pit will quickly become the focal point of your outdoor living space. When properly installed and well maintained, the fire pit will be both enjoyable and safe to use. Proper maintenance is the key to continued safety, so take the time to learn the proper techniques. Below are some easy ways to keep your fire pit in great shape.

december2015_patiofireplace

Perhaps the most important maintenance tip is to make sure the fire is out before you leave the pit. Do not leave the area until the fire has burned out completely and the ashes are cool. Hot embers can still spark a fire, so always put safety first. Once the fire is out and the ashes have cooled sufficiently, you can clean the fire pit and get it ready for the next use. Cleaning the fire pit thoroughly after each use is the best way to keep it looking and running like new. It is recommend to wait a day after use, before cleaning your fire pit. It is very important you wait until the fire pit is completely cooled before cleaning.

January2015_cooledfirepit

Use an angled broom to seep the interior of the fire pit. Sweep in the same direction instead of moving the broom back and forth – this will keep the ash from being moved around and make cleanup easier. Use a dust pan to remove the accumulated ash and dispose of it properly. Again, make sure the ash is completely cooled off before disposing of it.

December2015_cleanfireplace

Once the interior of the fire pit has been swept and the ash safely removed, you may also take a damp rag and wipe out any access ash that is remaining in the bowl. You want to eliminate any soot build up or any food debris; these can clog burners and cause stains to your bowl. Check the perimeter of the fire pit carefully and make sure there is no debris that could spark and catch fire. Remove branches, leaves and other potentially flammable materials until you have a clear space at least 10 feet in diameter. Make sure to re-check the perimeter before using the fire pit again.

January2015_Cleanfirepit

If your fire pit is made of decorative concrete pavers, you will need to seal them to prevent premature wear and tear. Apply a thin coat of stone or concrete sealant to the fire pit, making sure to use a product designed to withstand high heat. You may need to reseal the pavers from time to time – just check for wear each time you use the fire pit and reapply the sealant as needed.

December2015_hotembers

For further protection from the outside elements, a patio grade cover is durable, breathable and water resistant. Maintaining the fire pit the right way can extend its lifetime and make it safer to use.