What does your patio look like right now? Leaves, stacked furniture, maybe some dirt build-up? Winter doesn’t encourage us to get out and maintain our patio or yard, but whipping your outdoor spaces into shape for summer doesn’t have to be difficult – a few simple elements can have them clean and ready to enjoy.
Scrub it down
Clean everything! Even a thin layer of dirt can make your patio look dreary and unappealing (and leave a mark on your clothes!). Some water, a stiff broom and a little bit of work will have everything looking and feeling fresh and ready to go.
Reseal or stain if necessary
If your patio has any timber elements, check them for wear and damage like cracking or peeling. If necessary, reseal or reapply stain. This will keep your patio both protected from the summer sun (and summer storms) and have it looking its best. If you aren’t sure how to go about resealing or staining, check out our previous post for some handy tips.
Check furniture
Inspect your outdoor furniture for imperfections. This is especially important if it’s been sitting outside, exposed to the elements. Make sure chairs are still structurally sound and look for rips in any material. If you notice any significant damage, now is the time to replace your outdoor setting. Future guests will appreciate it!
Arrange your space
Once everything is clean and ready to be used, you can go about setting up the patio. Consider the flow of traffic, accessibility to features like the barbeque, and lighting. Don’t forget to think about styling – small details like outdoor placemats, or a shade umbrella if your patio isn’t covered, can make a big difference to both appearance and comfort.
Add the final touches
Summer means mozzies and heat. If you want the ultimate patio for your friends and family to enjoy, consider including a bug zapper, a fan and a cooler for drinks. If you’re working with a smaller space, consider wall-mounting elements like your barbeque, and think about trading in your full table setting for a bar or cocktail-style table. A little bit of planning can go a long way to making your patio perfect for the warmer months!
At Altec, we pride ourselves on being Brisbane’s leading patio builders – for more information about our services or materials, get in touch with our friendly team.
