How to Transform Your Patio and Balcony for Year-Round Use

A patio or balcony is the perfect place to be in the summer, but during winter, it becomes another unused space on your property – until now. If you want to get more use out of your full property, including the outdoor spaces, then you'll need to upgrade what you have. With these easy fixes, you can enjoy your patio or balcony year-round:

Add Beautiful but Functional Windbreakers

One of the main issues with outdoor spaces is the wind, which can make it feel much colder than it actually is. Consider adding attractive but functional windbreakers to your patio or balcony to combat this. Natural options include a trellis covered in climbing plants or elegant privacy screens. However, if you have a stunning view that you don't want to obstruct, you'll want some glass windbreaks. These are essentially glass fences that can be extended vertically to block out the wind.  

Include Beautiful Heaters to Keep Things Cozy Year-Round

Even with windbreakers in place, it can still get chilly outside during the cooler months. Adding a heater to your outdoor space is a great way to extend the use of your patio or balcony into the fall and winter. You can choose freestanding propane heaters, wall-mounted electric units, or even install a natural outdoor fireplace. This heater will need to be either sit center of your patio or, alternatively, around your furniture to create a cozy environment. Regardless of what option you choose, always follow safety guidelines.

Make Sure Your Furniture is Weatherproofed

If you're going to be spending time outside year-round, you'll need furniture that can stand up to the elements. Look for outdoor furniture made from materials like plastic, tough-wearing woods, or metal that are naturally resistant to moisture and insects. If you already have furniture that you love but that isn't weatherproof, consider applying a waterproof sealant to protect it from the elements. You can also invest in outdoor furniture covers to help protect your furniture from the elements when it's not in use.

Add a Roof or Clear Tarp Overhead

If your patio or balcony is completely exposed to the elements, you might want to consider adding a roof or a clear tarp overhead. This will not only help keep rain and snow off of your furniture but also create a cozier, more intimate space. A pergola is a great option for a patio, as it provides some shade and protection without completely enclosing the space. A clear tarp can then be added to create a temporary waterproof roof that can be removed during the warmer months.

Protect Furnishings in a Weather-Tight Storage Box

Even with the best windbreakers, heaters, and furniture, you'll still need a place to store everything when the weather gets really bad. A weather-tight storage box is a great solution for keeping your patio or balcony clean and clutter-free year-round, and it's particularly great if you have cushions you want to keep in good condition. Look for a box made from weather-resistant materials like resin or metal that can withstand the elements. If there's anything soft that you don't want to rot or get infested, opt for storage units with full sealing. A garden shed can then be used to store your gardening equipment and other low-priority items.