(about a 3-minute read)
Clean and Refresh Your Deck, Patio, or Porch
Before going further, look for damage or warped areas. New York winters can be tough on decks. Taking care of your deck will keep it safe and strong. This way, you can enjoy it for summer parties and personal use!
The first step to any great home renovation project is a deep clean! Move any winterized furniture or appliances and begin with a sweep or a leaf blower to remove dirt and dust for a clean look.
Depending on your patio or deck type, a pressure washer could be great for deep cleaning! A pressure washer can clean a stained wood deck or a composite deck. However, if your deck is painted, it can damage the paint and cause chipping. Another option is to use a soft bristle brush, soap, and water!
If you need a deck repaired or replaced or want a patio installed, Quality Homes is a trusted deck and patio contractor in Rochester, NY. We install wood and composite decks and can create a deck design for your outdoor entertaining area.
Set Up Outdoor Seating
To entertain outdoors, you’ll need inviting and functional seating. Consider weather-resistant furniture like garden sofas, outdoor sectionals, or classic Adirondack chairs.
To up the feel, you could place an outdoor rug on the ground near your couch or add a side table for guests to put their drinks on. If you have a small deck, a few chairs and a coffee table create a nice space for morning enjoyment.
If you enjoy serving meals or eating outdoors, add cozy cushions to your outdoor seating area and a weather-resistant dining table to take your meals outside this spring.
Add an outdoor bar to your dining area if you enjoy a summertime beverage. You’ll have an outdoor entertaining space in no time!
????️ Pro Tip: Built-in seating or bench storage adds style and function.
Shade and Style for Your Deck
Although the hot sun and the sound of cicadas sounds heavenly now, your future self might be sweating. You will long for shade in a few months as you prepare your porch for a long-awaited afternoon of grilling.
Protect your family and friends from strong sun rays by getting an umbrella or adding a patio cover. Some options for patio covers are an awning, pergola, or shade sail.
A patio gazebo is a more permanent option. Unlike a porch, you do not have to attach it to your house. Instead, you can place it almost anywhere in your yard. A patio gazebo also allows you to fully utilize your outdoor space for entertaining.
If you are a plant lover, a gazebo is a great place to plant climbing vines and flowers.
Extend Outdoor Time with a Fire Pit
A fire pit is an outdoor entertainment classic and for good reason. Evening chill? No problem!
A custom patio fire pit makes your outdoor space enjoyable well into the night. Great for roasting marshmallows or hanging out with friends and family, it also adds a focal point to your backyard design.
????️ Pro Tip: Add solar-powered string lights to elevate your outdoor space to create more nighttime light.
Use Paver Stones to Expand and Guide
Want to expand your patio or add walkways to your garden? Paver stones are a simple way to create paths and gathering zones without disrupting your yard’s natural vibe. They’re also slip-resistant and come in a variety of patterns and finishes.
Ways to Use Paver Stones in Your Outdoor Space
Patio Expansion: If you want to increase your outdoor seating or dining area, consider using paver stones to expand your existing patio. Whether you’re looking for a larger space for entertaining or a cozy nook for relaxation, pavers can seamlessly blend into your current setup.
Walkways and Pathways: Creating defined walkways with paver stones not only helps guide your guests but also adds an aesthetic element to your backyard. Choose pavers that complement your landscaping and home’s exterior for a cohesive, welcoming look.
Fire Pit Area: Installing pavers around your fire pit creates a perfect place to sit. Creating a circle or square of paver stones around your fire pit ensures your outdoor entertaining area feels organized and stylish.
Borders for Garden Beds: Use paver stones as a border for your flower beds or vegetable garden. This adds structure to your landscaping and makes mowing or edging much easier.
Add Color and Life with Flowers and Garden Design
Adding flowers and gardens is a great way to improve your outdoor space. They bring color and beauty to your backyard.
Gardens create a relaxing feel and provide a peaceful retreat when you’re not entertaining.
Plus, the smell of blooming flowers and the colors add to an experience that makes any gathering more enjoyable.
Tips for Flower Garden Design
A flower garden can be hard to plan when all you have in your hands are seeds and bulbs! We put our design minds to the test to develop some general tips to enhance anyone’s garden.
Choose the right flowers for your climate—and when to plant them! Spring cold snaps are bad for budding plants. Check the local farmer’s almanac and follow weather patterns to know when the best time to plant is. Many spring flowers should be planted after the last frost.
Use different heights and layers—this will create some depth in your garden and make it look full and lush! A good tip for planting is to stagger the plants to create a more natural look.
Take advantage of small spaces – if your deck space is limited, flower pots and containers will help you plant flowers. These look good around seating areas or walkways to create an inviting look. Hanging baskets are another great plant idea for limited floor space.
Need Help Designing the Perfect Outdoor Entertainment Space?
At Quality Homes of Rochester, we specialize in turning your backyard into a dream-worthy outdoor living space. Whether you want to upgrade your patio, install a fire pit, or completely redesign your outdoor area, our team is here to help.
