As temperatures begin to drop, you may start spending more time by the living room fireplace than outside on the backyard deck. But cold weather conditions shouldn’t force you to stay inside. If you love spending time outdoors, make your deck, porch, or patio more comfortable. Whether you have a small balcony or large patio, here are some excellent ways you can warm up your outdoor living space.
Fire Pit
Gathering around a fire pit is an excellent way to keep warm on cold nights. Fire pits are popular because they are inexpensive and easy to use. They can use either wood or gas for fuel. If you have a wood fire pit, be sure you use seasoned hardwoods to fuel it. Unlike softwoods, hardwoods are safer because they produce fewer sparks and smoke.
While fire pits are a great way to warm up your outdoor areas, they aren’t suitable for every space. They should only be used in open-air environments, and there should be nothing flammable above the fire pit, including awnings and overhanging branches.
If the fire pit is in a garden or backyard, place it at least 15 feet away from structures and flammable objects. If you live in a city, check local ordinances before setting up a fire pit. Some areas don’t permit traditional wood-burning fire pits but you may be allowed to have one that is propane-powered.
Heat Lamps to Warm Up Your Outdoor Living Space
Heat lamps, also known as propane heaters, are portable and compact – making them ideal for small outdoor spaces. They are commonly found on the patios of commercial establishments like restaurants and bars, but they’ve become increasingly popular for home use.
Heat lamps are available in various designs and sizes, making them a great way to add style and warm up your outdoor spaces.
Heated Floors
Radiant heating beneath your deck or patio flooring is an elegant way to warm up the space. This option is ideal for surfaces like tile and natural stone that conduct heat well. It isn’t suitable for hardwood surfaces because they are poor heat conductors. However, installing heated floors isn’t a DIY job. If you opt for this upgrade, contact a professional to tackle the project.
Hot Tubs
A hot tub is a luxurious way to warm up outdoor spaces. Even in cold conditions, a hot tub will instantly warm you. But there’s a caveat: hot tubs require regular maintenance. If you don’t mind the work involved, they’re a great investment. You can also turn the temperature down in the summer and still enjoy a soak in warmer weather.
Use Textiles to Warm Up Your Outdoor Living Space
Textiles, including outdoor rugs and throw blankets, are an excellent way to warm up your deck or patio. While they won’t keep you as warm as fuel-burning options, they’ll make your space cozier and more attractive.
To keep your textiles in good condition, don’t leave them outdoors as they can mold or mildew. Additionally, keep your textiles away from heat sources because most are flammable.
Cold weather shouldn’t stop you from spending time outdoors. Improve your courtyard, patio, and deck even during colder weather with these options to warm up your outdoor living space.
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