Although for many people, winter is the time of hibernation and staying inside as much as possible (preferably with lots of hot cocoa or mulled wine involved), it doesn’t have to be like this. There are plenty of ways to warm up your outdoor space, such as the backyard or the patio, so that you can enjoy the fresh air even during the cold months.
With only some simple additions, you can make the most out of your outdoor area throughout the whole year. Want to find out more about those solutions? Keep on reading then.
Fire Pit
A fire pit is basically a more modern version of a classic campfire. Usually, the design includes a basin that contains the fire (typically made of steel, stone, or polyresin). Many fire pits are portable, which means that if you suddenly change your mind about its location, you can simply lift it and move it to the desired place.
As experts from Highest Cash Offer say, outdoor fire pits are quickly becoming a hot trend all over the world – especially in the US. So, what’s a better time to try one for yourself than the fall/winter season, right? There are so many options available nowadays that you are bound to find one suitable for you and your needs.
Portable Electric Fireplace
Want to add some charm to your outdoor space? Look no further. Electric fireplaces do not only keep you warm during the winter months, but they also give your patio, backyard, etc., a cozy feeling. They are energy-efficient and safe. What’s more, they also have a long life span, due to the fact they are quite rust- and corrosion-resistant.
If you are one of those people that worry too much about safety, then you will be glad to know that many models come with an automatic shut off feature.
Custom-Built Fireplaces
One of the advantages of this option is that you can choose the size and shape of the fireplace that will work the best with your outdoor area – not only in terms of visual appeal but also its functionality. Apart from that, you can add some extra features to it, such as a pizza oven or a grill.
Although custom-built fireplaces are more on the pricey side, they are definitely worth the money. Also, if one day you decide to sell your house, having one of those can increase the home value, as well as make it more intriguing to potential buyers.
Heat Lamps
Heat lamps are a more budget-friendly choice that will keep your outdoor space warm even during the coldest nights. When it comes to types available, there are three main ones – hanging, mounted, and standing.
Just like portable electric fireplaces, many products have automatic shut off features, which ensure that the lamp will not overheat, even if you forget about it after a busy evening spent entertaining your guests.
Hanging Heaters
Hanging heaters are both visually pleasing and functional. Due to the fact they come in a variety of colors and shapes, you can easily choose those that will work just fine with your exterior home architecture and create a cohesive design.
There are various types of hanging heaters available – also in terms of fuel, for instance, there are infrared electric heaters and propane gas heaters. Between those two, the first one is a better option, as it is more environmentally-friendly (it doesn’t produce carbon emissions), as well as cheaper. On top of that, they can also be safely used around kids.
Outdoor Chimineas
If you haven’t heard about them before, a chiminea is a freestanding, front-loading fireplace with a bulbous body and a vertical chimney so that the smoke can be released. They are affordable, quite easy to use, and great in providing your outdoor space with a charming rustic look. Aside from keeping you warm, these are perfect for cooking as well.
Among the most common materials from which chimineas are produced nowadays, you can find cast iron. Originally, however, they were made of clay due to its efficient heat retention.
Table Style Outdoor Heater
If you love to have friends over and chill outside with a cup of hot coffee or a cocktail, then this will be a perfect choice for you, as it will allow you to continue doing it even in winter. These heaters are built into the base leg of a freestanding table so that you can keep your legs warm while standing or sitting around it.
Among the most commonly chosen models, you can find the bar-style tall, round table with an infrared radiant heater built into the base.
How to Choose the Perfect Option for You
Now that you know the available options (although the ones we mentioned are only the tip of the iceberg), it’s time to make a decision – which one will be the most suitable for your outdoor area.
The truth is that it depends on several factors. For example, it’s important to take into consideration how big your outdoor area is – if it’s small, then you should probably choose something portable so that you won’t permanently lose space that you could devote to something else at times.
If the budget is your main concern, then hanging heaters and heat lamps are your best bet. Lastly, if you want to transform your outdoor area into your primary entertaining space year-round, then an outdoor electric fireplace or chimineas will be the best choice.
The Bottom Line
During the winter months, most people prefer to stay inside their homes, preferably with a hot beverage, under a blanket, and with their favorite book in hand or favorite movie playing on TV.
We get it – when it’s cold, the will to spend time outside decreases.
However, it doesn’t have to be this way. As you could see, there are several ways to warm up your outdoor space, even during the coldest winter nights. Choose one of them (or more, why not!), and make the most out of your outdoor area despite the temperature drop. You definitely won’t regret it!