Patio season is right around the corner, but is your patio ready for spring? Typically, as soon as temperatures rise, Canadians are eager to spend sunny days outside but if you do not properly weatherproof your patio, you may incur damage, experience temporary closures, and turn away business from patio-seekers.
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There are a few steps you can take to better weatherproof your patio, so it’s fully functional this spring and summer.
Cover up
Having a patio that functions rain or shine means being able to keep it covered in inclement weather. While some patios are open-air, a great feature in the summer sun, a convertible cover may afford you the best of both worlds. Consider a retractable awning, pergola, and installing sides that fold down to keep your guests dry during spring rain.
Protect your investment
Patio furniture is expensive, so you want it to stay in great shape as long as you can manage. Be proactive in protecting your furniture from the elements. If your patio is closed in the winter, ensure that the furniture is covered or – even better – brought inside to spare it from the dramatic temperature shifts, ice and snow, and frost damage.
The sun can also do a number on your furniture, so keep it looking great through the summer by taking care of it in the spring. Work on keeping it clean by wiping it down regularly with soap and water to remove dirt, grime, and any bird droppings. Invest in umbrellas to help delay fading and cracking that often comes from extended sun exposure. Also, remove cushions when not in use to store them inside to spare them from mould or mildew that can grow when they get damp.
Adjust your décor
Limit the damage your patio might incur when a storm comes in by decorating accordingly. If you have planters, try and make them heavy enough that they won’t be affected by high winds, or secure them to your structure or the ground to keep them in place. This also applies to your umbrellas and any other furnishings that could be affected by wind or driving rain.
Trimming any trees that are close to your patio can also help avoid any storm damage, should they come down or break off during extreme weather.
While it is still cool in the early spring, you may want to consider adding a fire feature or patio lamps to help keep eager guests warm. If they give off a lot of heat, consider removing them during the summer months and storing them inside to provide more space and keep your desired aesthetic.
While consumers may be eager for outdoor dining, restaurateurs need to make sure that they can accommodate guests in all types of weather as patio season approaches.
