Monday, April 14, 2014

Alternative Ideas for a Backyard Patio

A patio is a great addition for your home. But you might also be wondering what are other alternative outdoor rooms. Actually, there several options that you can build in your backyard. These are also well-known structures for similar purposes. The options below are mostly the popular ones.

Gazebo
This pavilion structure is commonly seen in public places like parks and beaches. But you can have one right in your own property. You can build it at the heart of your backyard space. If the size of your area is limited, a gazebo can also be attached to a wall in your backyard.

A gazebo at home is a great place for small occasions and for relaxation. I can provide a shade or shelter anytime you need.

Porch
A porch is another great structure to extend your house area. You don’t have to get off of your house building to relax and take a breath of fresh air. The area can be a great extension to your house in which you’ll have a great place to pause and relax before getting in and stepping off.

Sunroom
If you want to just enjoy the outdoor scene or landscape from the comfort of your home and not being exposed to the outdoor atmosphere, then a sunroom is perfect for you. It is more like just creating a room with all the furniture and fixtures you need. Then the walls are see-through, made of glass panels or clear PVC. Even the roof can be transparent to have a full view of the sky.

Enjoy the scene while being protected from the outdoor elements, even from snow and rain.

Deck
The most common alternative to a patio is a deck. The setup is very similar and the main difference is that it is elevated and typically made from wood. Usually, an outdoor umbrella is used to provide a shade. If the deck is closely attached to a wall, using an awning is also a great option for a shade. Then you can put some outdoor patio furniture in a comfortable setting.

There you have it. Just choose what’s better for your residential area and the type of climate you have to make a great outdoor space.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Tips: Deciding the Right Patio Umbrella

There are different reasons a person is encouraged to buy a patio umbrella. It could be alluring design and color that catches the attention. Maybe the inspiring outdoor setup with an outdoor umbrella seen on beaches and restaurants. It might also be basically the need of a shade against the sun and rain. Whatever the reason behind your eagerness to get an outdoor umbrella, you should know that you could not just pick whatever that looks good enough.

Picking the right patio umbrella isn’t just about the impression you have. There are some factors that should be considered such as durability and practicality, then follows beauty. These points will make sure you’ll get great relaxing moments and will guarantee your safety while having a refreshment during hot summer days.


Remember the following simple points so you can get the right patio umbrella.


Canopy, The Covering Material

Most patio umbrella canopies are made of fabric, and they are not made the same. Some fabrics are best for sun protection while some are just colorful. When you buy one for your safety, buy those that can block most of UV Rays. Ask the seller about it.


Frame materials
Patio Umbrellas are specifically designed for outdoors, but not all are made to withstand the torture of high winds and outdoor elements. This goes for the materials they are made.

Wooden frames are elegant and can also be sturdy depending on how they are made, but they should be treated and maintained well to avoid mold.

Iron steel umbrella frames are sturdy depending on thickness, but you should keep them dry always because they rust with moisture especially in beaches.

Aluminum and Fiberglass umbrellas are sturdy and weather resistant. They are a bit expensive, but a worthy investment, especially if you are in an area with high winds and hostile to outdoor umbrellas.


Form or Design
There are other forms of patio umbrellas, the offset umbrella otherwise known as cantilever patio umbrellas, and the tilting patio umbrella. These are made for special purposes and design uniqueness comes with it.

Offset umbrellas are made so that center pole is moved to the side. You can then have an ease of space for a better conversation.

The tilting feature is made so you can tilt your umbrella into position so it can block the sunlight in an angle you need. It allows you to enjoy a longer sun protection.


Colors
Choosing a color is not much of an issue, especially that patio umbrellas come in many color choices. You can choose according to your liking. However, it is much better to choose the one that goes well with your outdoor setup or patio design.


These are the basic points to remember, but should help you get the right patio umbrella.