Fall is one of the best times of year to spend on your deck or patio. However, with the temperatures dropping, you may be looking for ways to warm your outdoor living space. Here are 6 options to make your outdoor space more comfortable in cold weather.
Warm Your Outdoor Living Space with a Fire Pit
Gathering around a fire pit is a classic way to get warm on a chilly night outdoors. While it is a great way to warm up some types of outdoor living spaces, it isn’t safe everywhere. A fire pit should only be used on an uncovered living space like an open-air patio. If used on a deck, there should be nothing overhead and a fireproof mat underneath. If the fire pit is in a garden or courtyard area, it should be at least 10 feet away from trees and structures.
Use seasoned hardwoods to fuel the fire pit, as soft and wet wood produces more sparks and smoke. There are also gas fire pits that can conveniently be turned on and off quickly. They don’t get as hot as wood-burning fire pits but provide some warmth and the same ambiance.
Propane Heaters
Propane heaters, also commonly called heat lamps, are commonly found on the patios of commercial businesses like restaurants. You can also purchase them online or in a hardware store for residential use. They house a refillable propane tank in the base for fuel. There are different types and styles to choose from. Many people prefer the look of the pyramid tower with flames shooting up through the center, but they are not as efficient as classic standing patio heaters.
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are basically space heaters designed for outdoor use. They work well in covered outdoor areas with a power outlet available. There are mounted and standalone models to choose from. Keep furniture and fabrics at a safe distance from the heaters and be aware that touching them can cause burns.
Heated Floors
Radiant heating underneath a deck or patio floor is a luxurious way to heat your outdoor living space. Stone and paver surfaces work best for radiant heating, and these materials tend to get cold without it. Radiant heating doesn’t work well with wood or composite because they are not great heat-conductors, but you can find heated mats for these types of floors.
Hot Tub
Another popular way to provide some warmth to your outdoor space is by adding a hot tub. Hot tubs do take regular maintenance, but if your lifestyle allows you to use it regularly, it is worth the investment of time and money.
Textiles Warm Your Outdoor Living Space
The most affordable way to warm up outdoor spaces is with textiles like blankets, outdoor rugs, and curtains. Textiles don’t provide as much warmth as fuel-burning options, but in a mild climate, they can provide enough extra warmth to be comfortable. In colder weather, combine these solutions with a gas or electric-powered heater.
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