Having a patio in your San Antonio backyard opens up a whole new world of possibilities. From barbecuing with friends to kicking back with a good book and a blanket, the outdoors are your oasis. At least, until the weather turns and you get caught in a rainstorm or the temperature becomes unbearably hot. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these tips for extending your patio all year long!
1. Let There Be Light!
If you want to extend an outdoor party late into the night, the first thing you’ll need to invest in is lights. Having a good source of light will allow you to enjoy your patio even after the sun goes down.
There are many options when it comes to outdoor lighting. Installing a set of wall sconces for the exterior of your home is a great start. You can also use solar lights around the border of your patio, highlighting any ledges or steps, and keeping guests safe. String lights over your awning or pergola for a stylish lighting solution.
2. Bug Me No More
Once you add lights to the mix, you may notice some uninvited guests. Mosquitoes, moths, and other night-time bugs are naturally drawn to the light. You can fight back by planting mosquito repellent plants around your patio. Several herbs, like mint, scare the bugs away, so you don’t have to use harmful pesticides.
Another easy DIY method of backyard pest control is to burn citronella candles. This age-old remedy is an excellent way to keep mosquitoes away while adding extra lighting to your outdoor space.
3. Add Some Heat
Adding some outdoor heaters or a fire pit to the backyard will allow you to use your patio all winter long. Add some comfy seating around the outdoor fireplace, and it will be a place guests will want to congregate. One advantage of propane heaters is that they’re portable- move them around to accommodate your guests.
4. Provide Cover
Nothing sends a party inside faster than a sudden rainstorm. Keeping it dry will help you enjoy your patio in any weather. Having a canopy or an awning will add a beautiful feature to your outdoor space and keep the rain at bay. That canopy will be even more valuable during the dog days of summer when the sun is unbearable. Just exchange those portable heaters for some misters and even the San Antonio sun won’t force you back inside.
If you’re looking for something a little more green, then a vine-covered trellis is the answer. The lush vegetation will add to the environment of your patio while creating shade and offering protection from the elements.
5. Keep The Wind At Bay
A sudden gust of wind could send plates and napkins flying across your perfectly manicured lawn if you’re not prepared. Don’t let the wind ruin another party or rob you of quality time outside.
Tall shrubs and hedges offer natural protection from the wind. They also create a great privacy fence. If you’re looking for something more robust, then consider installing a windbreak or slatted walls
6. Extra Seating
After a long day working in the yard, you may want to sit outside and take in your handiwork. Whether you're looking to relax with a book or entertain a party of twenty, you’ll want to make sure you have enough seating.
Having a patio set will be enough when it’s you and your family, but when it comes to entertaining a party, you’ll need more. Some homeowners opt to add hardscape stone seating by building a seating arrangement into the patio itself. If that’s out of the question, then keep extra lawn chairs on hand.
7. Outdoor Food and Drinks
Keep yourself and any guests hydrated and well-fed as long as you’re spending time out on the patio. A drink station or an outdoor mini bar is a must-have. This will offer you and your guests a place to gather, quench your thirst, and cool off on a sunny weekend.
Making sure your guests are well-fed can be as easy as firing up the grill and throwing some burgers and hotdogs on. If you intend on spending even more time outside, it may be a good idea to invest in an outdoor kitchen set. With a grill, a prep station, and refrigerator– you’ll turn your backyard into the neighborhood hotspot!
8. Add Some Color
Sitting outside is only made better by the beautiful colors and smells of a blooming flower garden or your ornamental plants. Planting an array of flowers will add splashes of color to your scenery, creating a beautiful view for you and your guests to enjoy. Be sure to maintain a colorful landscape with proper watering and pest control just as you would with your lawn.
The beauty of living in San Antonio is being able to enjoy the outdoors during all four seasons. With these tips for extending your patio season, you may never want to use your indoor kitchen again.
