Tag Archives: heat patio or deck

Use Safety First with Outdoor Heaters

Kansas City has finally begun to experience below freezing temperatures after an oddly mild start to the winter season. And one of the reasons many locals love this area is because of the winter weather. So if you’re an avid fan of snow, ice and freezing temperatures, now is a good time to take advantage of your outdoor space. With the right heating mechanism in place, you can enjoy warmth in the middle of a winter wonderland!

But first, here are some outdoor heating safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Never use any outdoor heating without first reading the instruction manual and other important documentation it may have come with.
  • Keep the heater away from walls, outdoor furniture and other items that could potentially burn, melt or catch fire.
  • Never leave any outdoor heating device unattended, especially when children or pets are around.
  • Don’t leave without first making sure the heater is completely turned off.
  • Make sure there’s a first aid kit nearby to immediately treat any accidental burns.
  • A fire extinguisher should also be nearby in case it’s needed.

Are you brave enough to hang outside in this cold weather… even with an outdoor heater?

Image by Chris Pittock on GettyImages.com

Keep Enjoying Your Deck or Patio with an Outdoor Heater

Homeowners that have invested in a deck or patio have an advantage over others. You have the freedom to enjoy your outdoor space throughout the winter season. By incorporating an outdoor heater (electric, natural gas or propane), you can easily spend time outside and still stay warm and toasty!

Do outdoor heaters really work?

Take a look at local establishments around Kansas City. You’ll notice that restaurants, bars and other public venues frequently use outdoor heating methods to keep patrons and employees warm. Now think about how that can benefit your deck or patio. You can stay warm while watching the kids play in the snow!

Types of outdoor heaters

There are plenty of styles to choose from. The most popular ones are freestanding units with round, hat-like tops (like the one pictured above). They provide a ton of heat to large, open spaces, and they’re portable. There are also wall mounted electric units, natural gas heaters and radiant heating methods that can be attached to outdoor ceilings or walls.

Are you using an outdoor heater this winter? If so, what kind?

Information adapted from ServiceMagic.com  

Image by Chris Pittock on GettyImages.com

Make Your Outdoor Space Cozy for Winter

Just because it’s still cold outside doesn’t mean you have to wait until spring to enjoy it. Here are a few ways you can create an amazing winter outdoor living space: 

  • You’re sure to find deals on fire pits and fireplaces as winter gradually comes to an end. This is perfect for entertaining family and friends without having to be crammed into the kitchen or living room. Click here to read more about heating your patio.
  • Don’t forget to decorate outside just like you would inside. Large planters, table cloths, outdoor rugs, oversized blankets and candles will make it look like a cozy room in no time.
  • Since it gets darker earlier during the winter, good lighting for your outdoor space is key. Many lighting systems can been set to automatically dim during the day and brighter as it gets darker outside.

Have you been enjoying your patio or deck despite the cold winter weather? Leave a comment and let us know!

Photo courtesy of Flickr

Upgrading Your Patio – Part I

Each year it’s a good idea to add upgrades to your patio or at least make some type of change to give it a new look. Not sure how? Here are a few ways you can upgrade your deck with style:

Furniture – No patio is complete without furniture to lounge on. Many beautiful sets are sold ready-to-assemble and are probably more affordable than you may think.

Clay pavers – These are super durable and their color rarely fades. Just make sure your foundation is as flat as possible before laying clay pavers. An uneven or bumpy foundation and ruin the look of your patio and can even pose safety risks.

Concrete pavers – Ditch the poured concrete and go with something a bit more trendy. Choose from tons of different colors, shapes and sizes to lay your patio’s foundation. Pavers are also easier to replace or repair compared to a concrete slab.

Heat – During times of the year when temperatures dip, and on cool nights, patio heaters are a welcome accessory. Click here to read more about heating your patio.

Natural stone – For a more random design pattern, natural flagstone is perfect. Be aware that laying natural stone will take more work and time than most other types of hardscapes.

If you’re in the Overland Park/Kansas City area, don’t forget to call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 for more information about how we can help upgrade your patio.

Photo via Outdoor Environments Facebook Gallery

5 Features Your Backyard Will Need This Spring

We know the weather outside is still frightful, but that’s no excuse for letting your home’s outdoor space go without a makeover for the New Year. There are plenty of ways to prepare your backyard for the warm weather that is only weeks away. So, what exactly do you need to get started? Here are a few product ideas that will turn your outdoor living space into a relaxing retreat.
BEFORE:
Single or multi-level decks added to the rear or side of your home can create an endless number of possibilities. Decks can be built using many types of wood, fiberglass, vinyl and even recycled materials like plastic.
A hearth is a heating option used for outdoor living spaces. Fireplaces (wood or gas) and firepits offer the warmth and coziness you need during the cold winter months, but they’re also perfect for cool nights during the spring, summer and fall.
Outdoor furniture is a must if you plan to truly enjoy your backyard area.  Create an lovely oasis with lounge chairs, tables, umbrellas, a hammock and other comfortable furnishings.
Gazebos, sun-screened rooms, and awnings all provide wonderful shaded shelter for any time of the year. Be shielded from the scorching summer sun or protected from cold wind and rain.
No outdoor living area is complete without some type of water feature. A swimming pool is the obvious choice here. But you can always take it a step further with a spa, hot tub, Jacuzzi or even a pond with a waterfall.
AFTER:
Are you ready to get your outdoor living area ready for spring 2011? Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today!