When it comes to patios, there are many benefits and hardly any downsides. Patios are great as outdoor living or dining areas. They make for fabulous gathering places for you and your friends and family. They can also be a place where you relax in solitude, reading a book or drinking tea. And they can look magnificent and they increase the value of your home.
The only possible downside is maintenance, which can take up a bit of your time. However, with proper organization and discipline, you can maintain your patio fairly easily. Here are some suggestion to maintain your patio and making it as comfy as possible.
How to Maintain Your Patio Simply and Easy
Sweep and clean the paving regularly
Regular sweeping and washing can prevent stains that are notoriously difficult to remove. Sweeping removes fallen leaves and dirt. It also removes some of the seeds before they’ve had the chance to germinate. This prevents weeds from growing in the cracks and joints.
Power cleaning can be very handy if your patio needs a good scrub. It can also cause damage to the stone of tiles. If you’re unsure, it may be better to use the old-fashioned brush and bucket method. Either way, use a mild soap and rinse it off with clean water afterward. This is a simple way to maintain your patio
Remove the weed, moss, and lichen
If you don’t have enough time to properly maintain your patio, weeds, moss, and lichen can take root in the cracks or on the surface of the stone. Make sure to pull out any weeds. Use a weed killer if you have to. Moss grows in the dirt that’s left on the surface of the patio and is not difficult to remove. However, it does leave stains. Use household bleach mixed with water to remove the stains. Lichen is a bit more problematic because unlike moss, it grows directly on the surface of the patio. Therefore, it is not easy to remove.
You might be tempted to scrape them off. But you should refrain from doing that as it will inevitably ruin the stone or tiles your patio is made of. Again, bleach is the way to go. Mix it with water, apply on the affected areas, and leave it for an hour or so. Then, bring your bucket of soapy water and scrub it all away.
Clean your patio furniture
Another thing you need to keep clean is the patio furniture. Make sure you know how to clean different types of furniture. For example, plastic furniture can be easily washed with a power washer. You should avoid using it on wooden chairs. Wood and metal should be gently scrubbed to remove any dirt or debris. Check for any damaged spots on your furniture, and replace those pieces that are beyond repair, as they can be a danger to you and your guests. Keeping the furniture clean goes along with your routine to maintain the patio.
Hide it from the sun
One of the most important things to think about during the summer months is protection from the sun. Too much exposure can cause serious health issues. Not to mention, it’s highly uncomfortable. Therefore, you need to find some way to protect yourself and your loved ones while you’re enjoying your outdoor space in summer. Again, this part of the routine to maintain your patio.
Some companies, such as Aspect Shade, deal with creating shade in outdoor areas. The employees can give you useful advice if you’re having doubts about what exactly you want because there are so many options. You can get a pergola, awning, shade sale, or a simple patio umbrella. It all depends on the space you’re working with, and on your own needs and preferences. For example, if you don’t want shade all year long, you can use one of the retractable options. If you want protection from rain and snow as well as from the sun, you’ll need a waterproof awning.
Make it comfy
Although it is important to maintain your patio, coziness is important too. A patio goes to waste if it’s not comfortable. It simply isn’t inviting and therefore doesn’t get used as often. Therefore, in order to make the best possible use of your patio, make it comfy.
Use nice patio furniture, and plenty of pillows and blankets to make it even more welcoming. Add a fire feature to give the space extra warmth. Provide opportunities for making s’mores and hot-dogs outside. You can even add a hammock, for those lazy moments we all love. Make it as tempting as possible. You and your family will enjoy it much more and much more often.
Light up the space
Use soft lighting to make your patio look warm and romantic. Landscape lighting or string lights are a wonderful way to light up your patio. If you want to create an even more romantic and fairytale-ish atmosphere, you can use lanterns and candles. Lighting can make a huge difference. Don’t be afraid to experiment.
With these simple tricks, you can maintain your patio all while transforming it into a beautiful place for you and your family. Make sure it’s nice and cozy so that you’ll always want to spend your time in it and use it to its full potential.
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