How to Extend Your Patio Use Into Fall

The patio is the centerpiece of backyard entertainment. It is the ideal place to be during spring and summer for barbecues, pool parties, and birthday celebrations. For many people, fall signals the beginning of the end for their patio use. But by doing some upgrading to your outdoor space, you can expand the life of your patio past the seasonal transition. Check out some of these additions that can help make your patio the place to be this fall.

Firepit

Your friends and family will love having long talks into the night while sitting around your firepit, and there are a variety of options to choose from to suit your needs. Wood-burning firepits are popular—nothing says fall like the smell of burning wood and roasting marshmallows on a cool night. However, if you’re not a fan of building your own fire, you can opt for a gas-burning firepit instead. Firepits also come in an array of designs, such as bowls and tables, and you can find models made of concrete, composite materials, and steel.

Patio Heater

Don’t let the cool temperatures force you inside. A patio heater will help keep you comfortable on brisk evenings. Like firepits, there are several options to choose from to fit your needs. Patio heaters can use gas or electric power and come in tabletop and stand-alone varieties. One benefit of patio heaters is their mobility. Even most larger models have wheels, allowing you to move them around.

Outdoor Fireplace

Like its indoor counterpart, the outdoor fireplace can be the center of your entertaining. Outdoor fireplaces are fixed in place and can be made of stone, steel, or both. They can also be custom-built to fit your existing outdoor area. One of the best aspects of an outdoor fireplace is it can warm a sizeable area, so it is the perfect addition to a larger patio space.

Chimineas—Spanish for “chimneys”— are a particular type of outdoor fireplace, distinguished by a long chimney-like ventilation system. The design of chimineas keeps rain off the fire while providing heat, and directing smoke up through its vertical vent. And with its rustic look, the chiminea can be a wonderful centerpiece for your patio. But remember: chimineas are not designed for very low outdoor temperatures. So, if you live in an area with extreme winters, you should plan to store your chiminea indoors.

Outdoor Kitchen

If you enjoy eating outdoors, upgrade your grill to a full outdoor kitchen. Cooking some of your favorite comfort foods outside is easy when you have an area to prep food, a sink, and a fridge. Customize your outdoor kitchen space with additional appliances like slow cookers and pizza ovens. There’s nothing like cooking some of your favorite tailgating foods in the backyard while watching the big game with loved ones.

For of-age guests, an outdoor bar can be an entertainment highlight. Items like a kegerator, blender, and a stock of spirits ensure that you can make the best seasonal drinks for games and holidays.

Upgraded Patio Furniture

If you are choosing new patio furniture this fall, think about the materials strategically. Metal will be cool to the touch on brisk evenings, while wood and wicker can retain heat much better. If you do opt to update your metal furniture, do so by adding warm cushions or covers.
When it comes to fall, the cozier the better. Try upgrading your space with some warm blankets, comfy throw pillows, or an inviting outdoor couch.

Hot Tub

A hot tub is the ultimate addition for rest and relaxation. While it might get too cold to use your pool, you can still take a soak in a hot tub. There are numerous styles to choose from: inground or portable; inflatable or wooden; circular or square. There are styles to fit everyone’s needs and preferences. After a long day of work or raking leaves, you’ll love lying back and letting your muscles relax as you watch the stars above.

Entertainment

For many, fall is all about football. No matter if you’re cheering on your alma matter or your favorite pro team, catching the game can mean less time outdoors. But by adding an outdoor television to your patio, you can watch the big game alfresco. Remember: get a television made for the outdoors.

Setting up a large white sheet or screen and a projector is a great option, since you can more easily take it down and bring it inside in the event of inclement weather. Curling up outside under the stars with a favorite movie will be a fun activity for everyone.

Just because the weather is cooler doesn’t mean you can’t be active outdoors, and playing backyard games is a great way to do it. You can make a more permanent addition by adding horseshoe pits or a bocce court—your friends and family can enjoy these throughout the year. Looking for something a little less permanent? Cornhole is also a party favorite and perfect for tailgating at home.

Cool-Weather Plants & Veggies

Adding some foliage can help make your patio more inviting during the fall. There are plenty of plants that will continue to bloom well into autumn. Try planting lettuce, broccoli, radishes, spinach, and kale. You’ll not only get to show off your green thumb but also enjoy your bounty for dinner.

Outdoor Lighting

With the days growing shorter, you’ll need some extra light to be able to enjoy your patio to the fullest. There are plenty of lighting options to make a more welcoming backyard, including wall lights, path lights, and string lights. You can also stagger candles throughout your dining and lounging areas for increased visibility at night.

The sole purpose of your patio is to enjoy it. By applying some of these ideas to your outdoor space, you will have a few more months to make lasting memories with your friends and family.