How to Improve Your Outdoor Entertaining Space for Summer Fun

We’re well into summer, which often means lots of hanging out with friends and family in outdoor spaces. If spending time on your patio, out by your pool, or on your front porch has you thinking about ways to make your hangout space even better, we’re here to help.

Here are a few ways to make your outdoor space one that everyone wants to spend more time in.

For a backyard retreat in Nashville, SUNDEK of Nashville resurfaced a pool deck using Classic Texture and Aggregate Effects. They revived the space to make it more welcoming and enjoyable to spend time in.

Upgrade your concrete surfaces

You know we had to put this one at the top of our list! Whether you have an existing outdoor space that needs some love or are looking for a refresh, there are many ways to upgrade your surface.

• For cracked or damaged surfaces: Resurfacing is likely your best bet. Often, property owners think that a damaged surface must be torn out. However, that’s not always the case. As long as the concrete is viable, the entire slab can be resurfaced, making it look brand new! Taking this approach saves time and money. It also saves you from the mess that comes along with demolishing concrete. On top of everything else, it's also much more environmentally friendly. Learn more about repairing cracked surfaces.
• For faded or outdated surfaces: Did you know you can color your existing concrete to make it look like new? There are several ways to color surfaces. The best one depends on the state of your existing surface and what your goals are. Coloring options include staining, dying, and resurfacing.
• For surfaces that need a little TLC: Sometimes a deep clean and a reseal is all a surface requires. Sealers do more than protect—they can enhance colors and add to the appearance of a concrete surface. See below for information about deep cleaning and read more about sealers.

A clean and well-maintained surface will last for years. Here, a pool deck resurfaced to create the look of stone. Work by SUNDEK of Houston.

Clean surfaces

Anyone who has thoroughly cleaned their outdoor surfaces knows that this chore isn’t exactly easy. However, like anything else, if you stay on top of your maintenance, it does make it easier. Here are some basic points to keep in mind:

• Regularly sweep or hose off debris from concrete. This will prevent staining from things like dirt and leaf litter.
• Every so often, give your surface a thorough cleaning. Do this using a hose with a high-pressure nozzle or a power washer. This will remove dirt and grime and prevent it from building up. It’s good to do this at least a few times a year, or when you notice your surface needs it.
• Clean spills or hard-to-remove spots with a non-abrasive cleaner as soon as possible. The sooner you take care of those, the less likely they are to become permanent fixtures on your surface.
• Seal your surface and reseal when necessary. Sealers are a must when it comes to protecting decorative concrete. They protect concrete from things like stains and UV damage. Sealers also make it easier to clean the surface since they provide a repellant coating.

Read more about decorative concrete maintenance.

At this backyard residential property, SUNDEK of Austin resurfaced the large concrete pavers and patio area to match. They placed turf strips in between to create a gorgeous hangout spot.

Add greenery

We like concrete surfaces, but balance is key! Adding greenery helps soften hard surfaces. Together, greenery and your hardscaping can work together to create a serene setting. Here are some easy ways to do this:

• Add hanging planters on your pergola or covered patio area. You can ramp up the green by choosing trailing plants.
• Create a grouping of pots to keep in the corner of your patio for a pop of green. When choosing containers, bigger is better. Not only do they look better, but larger pots retain water longer.
• Include a trellis to grow vertically. Climbing plants (passionflower, honeysuckle, clematis, bougainvillea, or other blooming beauties) will add to the ambiance of your space.

Looking for a different way to add green? We love that concrete pavers with grass in between have become more and more popular. See more about this growing trend.

Cushy outdoor seating next to the outdoor fireplace makes this a comfortable spot to hang out. Surface completed by SUNDEK of Austin.

Create comfy spots to lounge and converse

Make your outdoor space more inviting by prioritizing comfort. Hard materials look stylish, but without soft cushions, they’re often unpleasant to sit on. It’s worth investing in seating and cushions that encourage people to linger. When choosing outdoor furniture, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose durable materials that hold up to sun and rain. It’s worth it to get covers to extend the life of your furniture).
• When choosing cushions and pillows, select UV-resistant fabric that won’t fade quickly. Keep in mind that removable covers make cleaning easier.
• Think about how you use your space. If you don’t have plans to dine outside, skip the table and focus on lounge seating.
• Plan your layout with traffic flow and conversation in mind. This will ensure your furniture fits well and feels functional.

Step lights add to the ambiance of this space, but they also make it safer to walk up and down the stairs after the sun sets. Surface by SUNDEK of Nashville.

Ramp up the ambiance with lighting and warmth

To extend the time you and your guests want to spend outdoors, invest in lighting and warmth.

• For lighting, visit your outdoor space in the evening to determine where light is lacking. Other good additions: Uplighting on plants, lighting that illuminates walkways, hanging lights on your patio and pergola, hanging lanterns, tiki torches, and motion censors.
• For warmth, space heaters and fire pits are game-changers for outdoor spaces. There are so many options available when it comes to portable fire pits. If you do put in a built-in fire pit or fireplace, keep in mind that SUNDEK can add coatings to these elements. You can customize them match or coordinate with the rest of your outdoor space.

Need help with your outdoor space?

SUNDEK has contractors all over the country ready to help you improve your outdoor space. Contact us to Schedule a Consultation!

Call us at 877-478-6335
Email us at [email protected]
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