Blog Layout
Here’s How to Transform Your Outdoor Space this Summer | S&S Design Build
Sergio Mota • May 3, 2024
Are you ready to upgrade your backyard into an area where you can have BBQ’s & host family & friends? A patio cover & outdoor kitchen is just what you need. Between the two not only will you have enhanced your outdoor experience but you will also increase the usage of the backyard if you don’t already. Today you will learn all you need to know. From learning about the different materials, to matching your aesthetic with different designs. We’ll also cover things such as budgeting, upkeep, & legal requirements, so you know what to expect. So, let's get started on this exciting journey!
Let’s go over the benefits of having a patio cover & outdoor kitchen.
Patio Cover Benefits:
- Provides Shade
- Protects from Harmful UV Rays
- Shields from Rain & Snow
- Adds Value to your Home
- Creates an Additional Living Space
- Adds your Unique Aesthetic
Outdoor Kitchen Benefits:
- Keeps Unwanted Cooking Odors from Indoor Furniture
- Increases & Improves Home Value
- Great Way to Entertain Guests
- Helps Save Money & Energy
- Makes Cooking Easy & Convenient
Now that we know all the benefits of a patio cover & outdoor kitchen let’s go over the different types of patio covers.
First, we have the most common, including pergolas, awnings, and solid roof covers.
- Pergolas are open, providing partial shade & a sense of openness. Pergolas are ideal for a more natural & airier feel.
- Awnings are fabric or metal covers that attach to the exterior wall of your home & extends over the patio area. Awnings can be retractable & adjusted according to your preference. Awnings provide shade & protection from the sun & rain.
- Solid roof covers offer complete protection from the elements. Solid roof covers are made from aluminum, wood, or composite materials. Solid roof covers are more of a permanent protection & sturdy solution. They are ideal for those who want a fully covered outdoor space that can be used in any weather condition, making it perfect to go over an outdoor kitchen.
Now let’s talk materials,
We have:
- Wood, a classic that adds warmth & natural beauty. However it requires regular maintenance.
- Aluminum, lightweight & durable. Requires minimal maintenance, is resistant to rust & corrosion.
- Composite materials combine the durability of metal with the look of wood. Composite is resistant to fading, cracking, & warping.
Now I know you’re thinking of all the creative ways to add a patio cover to your home, but you should always keep in mind your budget, the maintenance requirements, & the overall look you want to achieve. Here are some steps to help you achieve your dream outdoor project.
- Step 1: Assess your outdoor space & determine the size & shape you want to achieve. Consider the following:
- Space Availability - measure the area, take into account any existing structures or obstacles.
- Functionality - determine how you intend to use the area. Would you like a large covered area to host large gatherings, or do you want to keep the get-togethers intimate.
- Step 2: Selecting style & color for your patio cover.
- Style - choose a style that complements both your taste and the architecture of your home.
- Color - you can choose a color that matches the existing color of your home or opt for a contrasting color to create a striking visual impact.
- Step 3: Obtaining necessary permits & ensuring compliance with local regulations
- Before proceeding with any installation, it’s crucial to obtain necessary permits & ensure compliance with local regulations. Now if you’re hiring a contractor for this project this is the part where you don’t worry, your local contractor will adhere to this. But if you’re DIY’ing the project make sure to do your local research by contacting your local building department.
- Step 4: Hiring a professional contractor or DIY installation
- The next step is to decide whether you want to hire a professional contractor or opt for a DIY installation. While DIY installations can be cost-effective, they require a certain level of skill & expertise. When hiring a contractor, they take care of all the heavy lifting, just do thorough research, and ask for recommendations from friends or family.
- Step 5: Installing the patio cover & ensuring proper maintenance
- Once you have chosen a professional contractor or decided on a DIY installation, it's time to install your patio cover. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or the contractor & ensure that all safety precautions are taken during the installation process. If you're doing it yourself, take your time & follow the step-by-step instructions carefully. After the installation is complete, it's crucial to establish a regular maintenance routine to ensure the longevity & functionality of your patio cover & outdoor kitchen. Regular cleaning, inspection for damage, & timely repairs are essential to keep your patio cover & outdoor kitchen in top condition.
Congratulations! You have successfully transformed your outdoor space with a stylish & functional patio cover & outdoor kitchen. So, go ahead & enjoy your transformed outdoor space, whether it's for relaxation, entertaining guests, or simply soaking up the beauty of nature. Your stylish patio cover will be the perfect addition to your outdoor lifestyle.
As your deck ages, it's important to remain aware of the warning signs that could signify an imminent need for a replacement. Think rotting wood and mold growth, structural cracks in joists or posts—all potential health and safety risks you'll want to avoid! Refreshing yourself on these indicators can help maintain the integrity of your home. Keep vigilant watch over those tell-tale signs - they may be difficult to spot but knowing them will keep both you and your structure safe. Signs That Your Deck Needs Replacing Visible Rot or Mold - If you notice any soft, spongy spots on the wood or see discoloration from mold or mildew, then it’s likely that those areas have begun to rot due to prolonged exposure to moisture and heat. If left unchecked, this issue could cause serious structural damage over time. Structural Cracks or Splitting - As wooden decks age, they can become weak and brittle due to weathering and other environmental factors. As such, if you start noticing cracks in the wood that weren't there before or splitting along the boards, then it may be time for a replacement deck as these issues can cause further damage down the line if they aren't addressed immediately. Warping - Warping is one of the most obvious signs that your deck needs replacing—and unfortunately also one of the most common ones too! Warping occurs when boards become misshapen due to exposure to sunlight and water over time; this issue can cause uneven footing on your deck which could potentially lead to accidents like falls or slips if someone steps in an area with more give than normal. Inadequate Support - The support beams underneath your deck are essential in ensuring its structural integrity; without them, your deck could collapse under its own weight! If you notice any sagging spots on your floorboards or hear creaking noises when walking across them (especially during periods of high humidity), then these are both clear indicators that either additional support beams need to be added or that an entire replacement may be necessary instead depending on how bad the situation is. When it comes to home improvement, knowing the warning signs of when a deck is in need of replacing can be essential for both keeping your family safe and avoiding costly repairs later on. Put simply: investing now in a new, high-quality deck from us here at S&S Design Build LLC could save you money down the road! Don't hesitate to contact our team today—we promise that our decks are made with lasting quality, so you won’t have to worry about them again any time soon.
In today's fast-paced world, finding ways to enhance comfort and convenience at home can make all the difference. For homeowners seeking to add a touch of luxury and functionality to their living spaces, motorized screens offer a fantastic solution. Not only do they provide superior protection against the elements, but they also seamlessly integrate into the aesthetic of your home. Motorized screens are more than a modern marvel; they're your home's new best friend for style and practicality. Designed to elevate both indoor and outdoor spaces, they offer shade, privacy, and protection from bugs and debris—all at the touch of a button. Whether you're looking for a sleek upgrade or a practical solution, these screens seamlessly blend form and function. Imagine the ease of transforming your patio or deck environment with just one click. This is especially handy for those with mobility challenges or anyone who values convenience in adapting to weather changes or privacy needs. Why settle for traditional screens when motorized options offer unmatched durability, customization, and energy efficiency? They're a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance comfort and style in their living spaces. Ready to transform your home? Discover the difference motorized screens can make. Explore our range of options and consult with us today to find the perfect fit for your needs. Upgrade your space, increase your home's value, and enjoy the newfound functionality and appeal.
