As the mum of five young children, I know how important it is to have access to a safe outdoor space for your children to play. Being cooped up in the house all day isn't good for the kids or the parents, but you also can't let young kids play in a space that's hazardous. When we bought our new family home, there was a lot of work to do in the garden to make it childproof, and we also wanted to make it a fun place for the kids to play. We erected a new fence, fitted a combination lock on the garden gate, had poisonous plants removed, cordoned off the pool and created a play area complete with swings, a slide and outdoor games. I started this blog to share my DIY gardening tips, and I hope you find it interesting and useful.
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When you see outdoor living areas, you tend to find a covered option deck style fenced option. Both of these options leave you and your guests exposed to the elements. If it rains or there is a hard wind, you will need to retreat indoors. Instead of retreating from the weather, consider creating an outdoor all-weather living space option using blinds and awnings. Here are considerations to get your plans started.
Retractable Options
One of the first things to consider is if you want a retractable awning option for your outdoor space. There are pros and cons to this option. If you choose a retractable awning you may be paying a larger amount that having a fixed awning option installed. You will also need to choose a material that retracts easily without being damaged. On the plus side, you can offer a quick cover to you and your guests, block sun, and keep your patio furniture protected. This also means you can avoid having to store outdoor furniture cushions during bad weather.
Material Options
You will need to consider the material that you want for your blinds and your awnings. For example, if you a wood look to your blinds you should choose a wood look material rather than actual wood. You can find wood blinds that are suitable for outdoor use in all-weather conditions, but a vinyl option that looks like wood may require less maintenance. You may also consider cloth options for both, but if you do, consider the type of weather proofing the particular material will need.
Enclosed or Open
A question you need to ask yourself is if you want a permanently enclosed area or if you want an open space that offers a blinds and awning option to block weather conditions. This will help determine if you need to have any structural supports built, a deck option constructed, or if you need a contractor to place mounts for the blinds and awnings options you choose.
Maintaining Your Design
You need to consider the steps for maintaining your design options. If you have chosen cloth, you will need to make sure it is waterproofed and sealed. You will also want to make sure that you know what to look for if you think the sealant is fading or needs to be replaced. Make sure you know what cleaning products you can use and which ones should be avoided. For example, the cleaning product you can use on your vinyl blinds may not be ideal for wood grain or for plastic options.
These considerations should be taken into account as you start your planning and design. When you have an idea of what you want, contact your local blinds and awning company (such as Miles Ahead Blinds & Awnings). They help you bring your project to life and give a price estimate for the various options available.
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