The backyard is a place to relax in the summer. But if there are areas of your outdoor living space such as the patio or the deck that you are avoiding for whatever reason – lack of privacy, old outdoor furniture, stopped being functional – this might be the perfect time for some summer DIY projects. Use these budget-friendly ideas to transform that abandoned patio into an oasis everyone can enjoy.
Clean Slate
If you haven’t been using the patio or deck in a while, it might currently be a storage place or the home of patio furniture you’re no longer using. Start with a clean slate. Remove everything from the patio and give it a thorough cleaning. Sort through everything that you took off the patio or deck. Throw out anything that can’t be reused, repaired, or recycled. Donate items that are still usable, but ones you don’t intend to keep. Put back the items you want on the patio such as the grill, dual-purpose table/storage bench, or oversized planters.
Address any Issues
When deck railings are in poor condition or the surface of the patio has become pitted and chipped, not only is a safety issue, it also detracts from your enjoyment of the space. Repair the deck; restain the deck to give it a new lease on life. If you no longer like the current patio flooring consider replacing it with flagstone, concrete pavers, or outdoor tile.
Where is the patio located? If it is attached to the house and you never use it because you can’t operate the grill underneath the overhang, turn the space into an outdoor dining area or outdoor bar. Don’t underutilize this outdoor living space – after all, it does have built-in shade.
When downspouts drain too close to the patio or the downspouts actually drain on to the patio, there is always the potential for water damage and soil erosion. Consider relocating or rerouting the downspouts – if this is something you can’t DIY, consult a contractor.
Upgrade the Patio Furniture
Perhaps it’s time to upgrade the outdoor furniture especially if it’s 10 years or older. New technologies and industry standards have changed a lot in a decade. Your family and circle of friends have grown bigger. That patio set for four is no longer a good fit.
When there will be children using the outdoor living space, select furniture with rounded corners and is low-maintenance.
Replace any furniture that is not comfortable.
When furnishing a small patio choose dual-purpose pieces that make the most of the outdoor space.
Create some Privacy
A patio that’s on view from either side of your property or even from above can make it a place where you’re reluctant to entertain. DIY projects to create some privacy on the patio include:
- Hanging curtains
- Installing a shade sail
- Installing outdoor screens
- Using oversized planters as container gardens
- Building a fence (consult local bylaws)
- Growing a living screen
Add Outdoor Lighting
Add outdoor lighting to your patio. But what type of lighting should you choose? Mood lighting such as fairy lights or vintage lanterns create a relaxing vibe after a long day. However, if you want enough light to mix a drink by select task lighting or put a string of patio lights on a dimmer switch. Brighter lighting creates a more festive mood.
Accessorize Your Outdoor Living Space
Pull all of the elements in the space together by accessorizing. Add a pop of colour to the patio sofa with brightly patterned pillows.
A small water feature or wind chimes not only look good but also provides a pretty soundtrack.
Use a plant stand with decorative pots as an herb garden.
Place citronella candles around the patio to help with bug control.
Put a rug in the centre of the space to increases the look and appeal of your patio.
