The 3 Cornerstones Of Any Patio Area

If you're looking to enhance your home, building a fantastic outdoor living area is one of the best investments you can make. Having a high-quality outdoor living space allows you to relax outside during pleasant weather, entertain family and friends, and enjoy cooking delicious meals on an outdoor grill.

When designing your outdoor living space and patio, there are numerous factors to consider. Ultimately, it's crucial to focus on the three pillars that can transform any patio into an incredible addition to your home. These three pillars include comfortable and stylish patio furniture, weather protection such as shade or covers, and most importantly, a premium outdoor grill.

Outdoor BBQ Grill

While having a shaded area and great outdoor furniture is essential for any patio, the cornerstone of any outdoor entertainment space is undoubtedly a quality grill. A good grill lets you spend countless afternoons and evenings preparing delicious meals that will create lasting memories. When choosing a residential BBQ grill for your patio, several factors should be taken into account.

Charcoal vs. Gas Grill

One of the first considerations is the type of grill you should opt for. Although some people prefer charcoal grills, gas grills fueled by natural gas or liquid propane are often a better choice. They are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and easier to control the temperature, ensuring consistent results for all your culinary creations. Dealing with charcoal can be messy and inconvenient.

Mobility

Another factor to think about is whether you want a portable grill or a built-in one. Many modern grills are sturdy and can be connected directly to a natural gas line, offering convenience. Built-in grills are essentially permanent fixtures on your patio, so careful planning is necessary when designing your outdoor space.

On the other hand, some people might prefer a more portable option. Grills mounted on carts with wheels make it easy to move the grill around. These typically connect to a liquid propane tank, providing flexibility in placement.

Accessories

Grill owners should also consider adding various accessories and add-ons to their grill setup. Some of these are permanent fixtures that require consideration when planning your patio. For instance, outdoor cabinets and shelves can store your accessories, or you might want a separate table for mixing drinks.

Other accessories fit within the confines of the grill itself. Items like a grill timer, warming racks, briquettes, and even a rotisserie can make your grill more efficient and help you prepare even better meals.

Patio Furniture

When planning your outdoor patio and living space, the first pillar of your design should be a set of quality patio furniture. Comfortable furniture gives you and your guests a cozy spot to enjoy a delicious grilled meal outdoors. You can also purchase lounging chairs that allow you to unwind and sip coffee or a cool drink on a hot summer day.

When selecting patio furniture, comfort and aesthetics are key. Find pieces that match your personal style and complement the rest of your outdoor retreat. Remember, you'll likely spend a lot of time on this furniture, whether hosting parties or simply relaxing with a book.

Protection from the Elements

Another vital aspect to consider when creating your outdoor living space is protection from the weather and other environmental factors. Even the best patio furniture has its limits if you don't have protection from the sun, rain, or cold. There are several ways to shield yourself and your guests from the elements.

Umbrellas and Awnings

A patio umbrella, awning, or lattice covering is an excellent way to protect yourself from the sun during hot summer days. These provide immediate shade and can also protect against rain and snow.

Infrared Patio Heaters

While an awning offers protection from the rain and snow, it doesn’t provide warmth. During colder months, you’ll likely still want to spend time outdoors. To stay comfortable, consider getting an infrared heater.

When shopping for a patio heater, there are various options available. They can be powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. Additionally, they can be permanently installed or portable, allowing you to move them in and out of storage based on the weather. These heaters can keep you warm during winter and cooler summer nights.