Many homeowners love spending their weekend afternoons in backyard gazebos. They can read, enjoy drinks with a few friends, and watch the lightning bugs come out after sunset during the summer. However, some climates get so hot in the summer — and so cold in the winter — that backyard gazebos can be used only for a few months out of the year. But you can take the following three steps to upgrade your gazebo for year-round use.
Screen the Sides for Better Insect Control:
While spending time outside is one of the best parts of summer, many people end up running indoors as soon as the sun starts to set. Mosquitos can be relentless when the sun goes down, and they can carry dangerous diseases such as West Nile and Zika viruses. Some people brave the outdoors, but they find themselves covered in sticky insect repellent containing many types of dangerous chemicals.
If you want to enjoy your gazebo after the sun goes down, consider installing screens around the sides to keep the insects out. Not only will these screens protect your family from mosquitoes, but they can also turn the space into an eating area for outdoor picnics. These protective screens can also keep other unwanted guests, such as flies and ants, from joining you at dinner.
Install Plastic Sheeting to Create an Indoor Haven:
Along with screening in your patio, you can also consider installing plastic or glass siding for year-round use. This option will create insulation to keep the space warm during the winter and deflect moisture and humidity during the summer.
If you strategically add glass siding, you may be able to install a ductless air conditioning system to keep the gazebo cool during the hottest months of the year. Not only will you be able to enjoy the space year-round, but your kids can also treat it like a clubhouse and play in the space without getting overheated.
When you install the paneling, look for sliding screens that let you open up your gazebo. This adjustment flexibility will allow the breezes to pass through during the early spring and fall months so that you can enjoy the best weather outside.
Invest in Durable Waterproof Furniture:
Even if you insulate your gazebo, you still want to make sure it can survive in the outdoor elements. If you try to use indoor furniture to decorate the inside, you may find that the fabrics become dirty and fade quickly. If the furniture isn’t water-resistant, you could have moldy gazebo furniture that’s unhealthy to use.
Try to shop for furniture that meets your style needs but can also weather the elements. If your gazebo gets soaked by a spring shower, you don’t have to worry about much cleanup. Not only does this decision make good decorating sense, but it’s also a smart investment for your home decor.
Once you have your gazebo remodeled, the only step left is to enjoy it. From your kids pretending it’s a spaceship to you and your spouse curling up together to watch the rain fall, your gazebo is sure to become a great place to create memories for your family.
