Photo: Photographee.eu (Shutterstock)
Porches, patios, and decks have become major go-to spaces for entertaining, particularly since the start of the pandemic. While the changing weather might present you with a few challenges, there are some things you can do to get the most out of you outdoor space even in the colder months. From outdoor heaters to rain protection, here are some moves you can make right now to upgrade your yard for year-round enjoyment.
Picking the right outdoor heater for your hard
There are many different types of outdoor heaters to choose from, and they all have different advantages and disadvantages. Outdoor heat sources mainly come in three types: Electric, propane, and wood burning. Whichever type you choose, make sure to follow all guidelines indicated on its packaging, and always keep heat sources away from flammable objects like furniture and curtains.
Remember, too, that heaters on stands could tip over under the wrong conditions, so keep that in mind when you’re choosing where to place them.
Electric heaters
Electric infrared heaters come as either bars that can be mounted horizontally to a wall or roof beam, or to a stand. There are also some smaller, disc shaped ones that mount to a stand for a smaller area. The thing to keep in mind about an electric heater is that you’ll need a power source outside. Most types can be plugged in to standard house current, so you’ll need an outlet close by.
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Propane heaters
“Pyramid-” and “mushroom-shaped” gas heaters are an option if you don’t have an outdoor electrical outlet. They use refillable propane tanks and can heat about 215 square feet of space for up to 50 hours per tank. There are also a variety of decorative propane heaters available, although their range and tank life vary depending on size. Gas heaters do require more active maintenance than an electric heater might, since you’ll need to switch out the tanks and check the hoses for leaks after each tank swap.
Wood-burning heaters
Fire pits and wood stoves are the most common type of heat source fed by firewood. These don’t need any power source, but should be at least 10 feet from any flammable structure. Open fire pits can also be hazardous in windy and dry conditions, making them subject to weather and climate restrictions. If this is your go-to heat source, having a back-up is also a good idea.
Heater Safety
Make sure to follow all guidelines as indicated on the packaging of your outdoor heater, and always keep heat sources away from flammable objects like furniture and curtains. Heaters on stands could tip over under the wrong circumstances, so keep that in mind when you’re choosing where to place them. Always be aware of fire danger when using any outdoor heat source.
Rain and wind protection
Even if there’s a roof on your porch or patio, rain can still blow in, and wind can cause heat to dissipate quickly. A great way to prevent this is to use curtains or screens around the outside of your structure. There are vinyl, fabric, and bamboo options that are designed to cut down on wind in colder months and add shade during warmer months. For a more affordable option, you can even use shower curtains, which are often already water and mildew resistant.
Canopies and tents
A canopy or tent might be a good option if you don’t have a covered porch area. These come in plenty of different sizes, but they generally need at least some significant space in your yard. Keep in mind that most temporary structures will need to be secured to the ground so they don’t blow away, either by stakes driven into the grass or weights tied to the structure. (Consult the packaging of your item for manufacturer specifications.)
Lighting
As the days get shorter in winter months, outdoor lighting is a must. Defining your space with a splash of light can make it porch more inviting. Some porches have built-in sconces or floodlights, but to give your space a warmer feel, you can add some accent lighting, as well. If you have exterior outlets, a string of LED party lights can go a long way toward brighting up your space. If not, there are a variety of solar powered, rechargeable, and battery-operated options.
Fabrics
Soft, comfortable cushions and blankets are a must for outdoor hang-outs during the winter months. Blankets that are mildew resistant are best for the outdoors, and they should be taken inside when not in use. If you’ve already got outdoor cushions that are in need of an update, you might want to consider sewing new covers for your cushions out of shower curtain fabric—it’s generally cheaper than upholstery and is already moisture and mildew resistant. You can also consider adding an outdoor rug to warm up the area.
