Many homes have comfortable, safe, private spaces with all the amenities for the occupants and guests. However, the outdoor space provides much more despite exposure to weather elements. Although the indoors often win in terms of comfort and safety, the outdoors might offer something even more important, such as sunlight and a cool breeze, which helps reduce stress.
However, even people with enough outdoor space hardly ever leave the house to enjoy all the benefits of spending time in nature. Luckily, there is a solution to this, a compromise that provides the best of both worlds: pergolas.
These outdoor shelters can be tailored for comfort and style, encouraging families to leave their houses and connect with nature. Can people use pergolas even in extreme weather? This article will share tips on how homeowners can use pergolas in different seasons.
Canopy Pergolas
Pergolas come in different designs, colors, and shapes, so homeowners find it hard to choose one that will suit their homes. However, regardless of their preference, they must buy a quality pergola kit that can complement the overall appearance of their backyard.
Since pergolas come in various designs, homeowners should consider getting canopy pergolas with retractable roofs. These outdoor structures offer better protection against weather elements. The innovative retractable function allows homeowners to control the amount of rain, wind, or sunlight that enters their outdoor space.
With this option, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of their outdoor spaces regardless of the season. When the weather is hot, they can get plenty of sunlight and a cool breeze. However, they can close these structures and continue enjoying their outside space when it gets too hot or starts raining.
Prioritize Furnishing
It is one thing to invest in a pergola, and it is another to actually use it. Without furniture and equipment, even those who like spending hours outdoors might not use the pergola often. That’s why homeowners are encouraged to get quality furnishing for their outdoor space.
A common mistake property owners make is assuming they can use some old furniture or try DIY sitting in the outdoor space. However, they later realize that the space is uncomfortable and spend more money and time to modify it.
When choosing furniture, homeowners should invest in weather-resistant pieces that can withstand the changing seasons. They should get outdoor sofas, tables, cushions, and pillows that they can easily swap out for different seasons. During the cold seasons, they will need a thicker cushion and blankets to help keep the space warm, while they can go with lighter fabrics in the summer.
Outdoor Heating
Thanks to the warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, it is easy to get people outdoors in the summer. That’s why homeowners have no problem using their pergolas during the warm months. But does that mean people should ignore their pergolas when the cold season comes?
Families can enjoy their pergola even during the colder months; all they have to do is keep it warm. For instance, they can build fire pits or fireplaces where they can gather around the fire when it gets chilly. They can also invest in free-standing patio or infrared heaters, which can help keep the space warm.
The challenge with outdoor heating is that heat will likely be lost if the heater is not installed correctly. If this happens, the heating system will have to work harder to ensure optimal temperatures, which can lead to high utility bills. Homeowners can avoid such problems by hiring professionals to install the heating system in their pergolas to avoid making installation mistakes
Outdoor Cooking
There is unexplained magic behind food and how it brings people together. One way families can make use of their pergolas every season is by incorporating an outdoor cooking structure. A great option is to get a grill, where families can make barbecues and serve in the pergolas.
Grilling is great in the hot months when families can enjoy the outdoor cooking experience. Similarly, they can cook outside in the colder months since the grill provides warmth. What’s more, the aroma of grilled food can be particularly enticing in colder months.
When getting an outdoor kitchen for their pergola, homeowners should ensure it is functional and stylish. It should have a preparation space and enough room for barbeque chefs to move around. If properly installed, the outside kitchen and pergola might become a favorite family spot.
Entertainment Space
One thing that keeps people indoors is entertainment. They can spend hours outdoors watching their favorite movies or TV shows or listening to music. Homeowners can encourage their family members to spend most of their time outdoors by setting up an entertainment area in the pergola. Something as simple as a sound system or an outdoor TV could motivate the family members to spend time in the pergola.
It does not matter if the family members spend time outdoors watching their favorite movies or listening to music; they will benefit from connecting with nature. Additionally, families can use the entertainment space to bond with each other or entertain their guests. The outdoor space makes it easier to create memories than the house, where many guests and events take place.
When setting up an entertainment area, homeowners need a sturdy space for their televisions and music systems. The location should also be protected from rain and direct sunlight, which could damage the electronics. If a homeowner has difficulty setting it up, they should hire a professional. The entertainment equipment storage should be safe to reduce the risk of theft when the family members are away.
Can homeowners enjoy their pergolas all year round? Families should invest in a pergola that they can use throughout the year. Though using the pergola all year will require some adjustments, the investment is worthwhile since it will help make their outside space more functional.
However, before setting up a pergola, homeowners should get a quality kit from reliable dealers. They should also get a pergola that they can use regardless of weather changes after making minimal adjustments.
