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CartHere’s How to Extend Your Outdoor Living into the Cooler Weather
The end of summer doesn’t need to bring an end to your outdoor living space. Lights, shades, rugs, and heat sources can add hours to the end of brisk fall days, and even extend your backyard entertaining into the winter months. Here’s some great ways to keep cozy outside after the shorts and sandals are packed away.
Patio Heaters
Outdoor heaters come in several different styles and configurations. Choose what works best for your backyard space.
Portable Propane Patio Heaters
Freestanding propane patio heaters are an ideal way to cozy-up your deck or patio. Tabletop models can keep a small group warm, while floor units can heat an area up to 25 square feet. You can choose either a bronze or silver finish to complement your other outdoor furnishings. Utility and construction heaters can also work well. Either way, the small footprint of these portable heaters makes for easy summer storage.
Portable Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are another great option. Larger units provide a good amount of warmth and are an affordable way to heat your outdoor living space on short notice. Smaller floor models can be placed discreetly around your patio for minimal visual impact. Wall- and ceiling-mounted units will leave your floor space clear and keep heat sources safely away from pets and small children.
Electric Fireplaces & Stoves
If you have a backyard porch that can be protected from the elements, you might also consider an electric fireplace or stove. These authentic-looking units are an attractive option for semi-outdoor heating needs.
Fire Pit
A fire pit offers an inviting place to gather ‘round on a cool evening, toasting marshmallows and enjoying a warm drink. Portable options range from cost-effective, lightweight tabletop models to heavier floor-standing firebowls. A wide variety of beautiful fire pit tables are also available to match your outdoor décor. Choose a wood-burning fire pit for a traditional look and feel, or opt for the quick-start convenience of propane.
For a more permanent solution you can go the DIY route and create your own backyard fire pit. We have all the building materials you’ll need do the job right. Check out our Backyard Fire Pit Guide for more information.
Outdoor Fireplace & Chiminea
A portable fireplace is a good choice for smaller outdoor spaces, and you can take it with you if ever move. Sometimes referred to as chimineas, these attractive units feature eye-catching flues to capture the feel of a built-in fireplace. Usually made of clay, steel or cast iron, a portable outdoor fireplace emits ample heat for small outdoor gatherings, and the covered top protects the fire from rain. You might also consider purchasing a masonry fireplace kit to create a beautiful, permanent focal point for your backyard.
Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor candles and tea lights can create a warm feeling in your outdoor space. If backyard breezes are an issue, you can use glass jars to protect the flame or opt for flameless candles. Consider adding more string lights and outdoor lanterns, and remember to adjust the timers to reflect an earlier sundown. Walkway lighting and spotlights can also help set a welcoming tone for arriving guests.
Patio Curtains & Shades
Curtains and shades will help your patio retain heat during cooler weather. If you’re using patio heaters, curtains and shades will avoid heating up all outdoors. They can also help block the wind and add privacy to your patio. If you have a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, just be sure to keep your curtains at a safe distance to avoid a fire hazard.
Patio Rugs
An outdoor rug can add warmth and colour to your entertaining space. It also provides a soft layer between feet and a cold concrete patio. With a patio rug, your family and guests will feel comfortable padding around without shoes and curling up on couches.
Blankets & Cozy Wear
Have plenty of throws and warm clothing items on hand for friends and family alike. This includes outdoor blankets, electric blankets, toques and gloves.
Outdoor Movie Nights
Consider planning an outdoor movie night for friends and family. Here’s a list of essentials and nice-to-haves for creating your own DIY backyard theatre:
Portable table for holding your AV equipment
Additional patio chairs and couches or folding chairs for seating
Artificial grass to keep feet dry and mud-free
AV Projector, speakers and screen (or a large white sheet)
Laptop, gaming console or other type of movie player
Outdoor bar (available at Home Building Centres and Home Hardware Building Centres)
Outdoor Pizza Oven
An outdoor pizza oven will add warmth to your backyard, plus a whole lot more. You’ll have the best pizzas in the neighbourhood, and your pizza oven will become the focal point of your backyard entertaining. Be sure to have a look at our Outdoor Pizza Oven Guide for some great ideas.
Outdoor Kitchen
An outdoor kitchen can make your backyard a prime destination on chilly days. Consider including a grill, smoker, pizza oven or other outdoor cooking options to help heat things up. If properly shielded from the elements, you could even add a sound system to set the tone.
Porch & Gazebo Packages
You could also explore adding a porch or gazebo with blinds or curtains to keep out the cold. These attractive additions will not only extend your outdoor living season, they will increase the value of your home.
Backyard entertaining has never been more popular. With what you know now, you can extend your outdoor living season indefinitely into the cooler months.
