5 Ways to Make Your Outdoor Patio Cozy for Winter

With summer behind us, most homes in Schaumburg start to close up their patios for the winter. With the world being different in 2020 and social distancing rules in place, having an outdoor space to gather with friends and family is important, even in the cold months.

To get your patio ready for chilly nights and mornings, here are 5 tips to consider.

1. Heat Sources

The first step to creating a cozy outdoor space is to create a heat source. Deciding on the right patio heater for your space is the first place to start. Your choice will depend on your budget, the size of the patio you are working with, and the style of the heater you’d prefer.

There are several types of heaters available – freestanding, fire pits, or fire tables. Each comes with their own pros and cons, depending on what you’re looking for in a heating source. Research each type and decide which is best for your needs.

2. Comfortable Seating

Seating in winter is different than seating in summer. Wicker and plastic seats may work in the summer heat but as the winter weather sets in, seating becomes comfortable cushions, couches, and blankets.

Winter furniture requires seating that is deeper and thicker than summer seats to keep guests warm and comfortable, but that’s not all. Consider adding storage for blankets and throw pillows to your patio during the winter.

It’s not important that all furnishings match – quilts and handmade blankets make things cozy and comfortable.

3. Outdoor Rugs

Don’t forget to cover the cold ground. Cold concrete and even colder feet will negate all of the hard work you’ve put into making things as comfortable and cozy as possible. Covering the ground with outdoor rugs will make the ground feel warm and welcoming, and it’s another way to make the area inviting and decorated to your liking.

Outdoor rugs are designed specifically for outdoor use – they can stay outside during any type of weather without fear of rain or snow ruining the material. Rugs are a simple way to make a big difference to any patio setting.

4. Outdoor Lighting

Now that you have seating and decor ready, it’s time to consider adding warm lighting to your patio space. Days are shorter in the winter months, and while a fire pit or heater will produce very little light, you will still need some other outdoor lighting to keep the space bright.

String bistro lights will produce a pretty warm glow, and white Christmas lights make a backyard twinkle. You can use the smaller string lights on shrubbery or potted plants. Harsh lights may want to be avoided as they tend to be uncomfortable for guests.

5. Protection from the Wind

If you live in an area like Northern Illinois that is prone to whipping wind, enclosing your outdoor space may be an option to consider to keep guests comfortable. Enclosures including screens, temporary walls, or curtains can keep wicked winds at bay. They also allow guests to sit comfortably outdoors on your patio for longer periods of time.

Construction Services at McMahon Services

At McMahon Services, our construction team can provide the tools and team necessary to build your dream outdoor space. We service all of Chicago and surrounding areas with a dedicated team of construction professionals ready to start on your next project immediately.

Call us today for a free consultation, or visit our Construction page for more information.