There's nothing like summer to get people excited about summer outdoor decorating. The season may be short if you live in the east or Midwest or mountain states, or it may extend almost year round if you're in southern states or California. But wherever you may find yourself, it's time to get outside and enjoy the wonderful weather and beauty of nature.
Vacations are a wonderful time to get outdoors, enjoy hiking, do some outdoor cooking, or just lie around reading a good book. But you don't have to reserve those wonderful activities for those too-short times. Read here for information on some wonderful new products and suggestions on how to make the most of your outdoor time.
One of the wonderful things about summer weather is that it lets you expand your living space without a costly home renovation or addition. In many cases, you don't have to do much decorating at all. All you really have to do is sweep off the front porch and move a comfortable chair outside. Others of you may want to create a room outside, and the newest products for outdoor living can help you do that at a minimal cost.
Comfortable outdoor furniture is a must, but doesn't have to be expensive. Two lounging chairs and a table with four chairs for eating will really make your outdoor space comfortable.
Many products are available in a wide range of prices and come ready-to-assemble. You can go to your local discount store and find very inexpensive pieces that will last a year or two and give you good wear. Or you can make a modest investment in cast aluminum or wrought iron pieces that will last longer. Any of these needs to be brought inside in the winter to give you the longest life, but they're made to stay outside for the summer months.
More substantial furniture pieces made of teak, redwood, or the new, less-expensive eucalyptus will give you many years of service if treated properly.
If you're looking to save on the pocketbook but not the quality, you can put some models together yourself with glue and a dowel system.
No matter what kind of wood you select, you should have a place indoors to store it through the winter.
Wicker furniture looks wonderful and classic outdoors, but does not wear well in the elements. Cushions must be brought in from the rain and the wicker will deteriorate in the hot sun and humidity if not cared for properly. New all-weather wicker furniture may be the answer and is made by a number of companies.
A glass- or porcelain-topped table will hold up well throughout the season. Top it with an umbrella to keep the sun off. You may want to look at a fade-proof umbrella. Some new umbrellas are enhanced with solar-powered LED lights strung up the inside on the spine. They give a wonderful light for 8 hours after dark and are easy to maintain.
To enhance your outdoor space, flowers and plants are a must! Classic terra cotta pots can be put anywhere to create a border around your outdoor space. New materials are being used to make pots lighter and easier to move around. Lightweight metal, PVC and plastic can be made in any size and shape, are lighter than terra cotta, and can be moved more easily. If you don't like the exterior finish you find, try rag painting or spray painting them to the color and finish of your choice.
Some new planters have an integrated watering system or a bottom water reservoir. They’re the answer if you are going to be away from home a lot and you don’t have any neighbors to water your plants.
What are you waiting for? The season is short, and if you don’t get outside, you’ll regret it later. Enjoy the outdoors in your new-found outdoor living space.