Imagine enjoying your outdoor space all year round, regardless of the weather. A space where seasons no longer dictate your outdoor experience. Sounds lovely, doesn’t it? Make it a reality. Enclose your patio, enhancing privacy, protection from the weather, and increasing your home’s value, all while enjoying a more versatile outdoor living space. Here’s our definitive list of how to enclose your patio, the pros & cons of each option, and our guide on installation. If you’re looking for your perfect patio solution, look no further.

Uncovering the Perfect Roof Enclosure for Your Outdoor Space

Choosing the right roof enclosure for your outdoor area can be transformative, offering shade, protection, and inviting fresh air for year-round enjoyment. Options range from classic enclosed porches to grand pavilions, each with its distinct advantages and style considerations. Selecting the perfect roofing solution will depend on factors such as your desired level of protection from the elements, your home’s aesthetic, and your budget. Explore the various roofing options available to create a patio space that seamlessly blends form and function, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style, regardless of the weather.

Patio Roofs

The Classic Choice for Homeowners. Patio roofs are a traditional and time-tested option for homeowners seeking to enclose their outdoor spaces. They offer reliable shelter from the elements while maintaining the charm and appeal of an open patio. Patio roofs can be designed to complement your home’s architecture, ensuring a seamless transition from your indoor living space to your outdoor sanctuary.

Pros:

• Classic and widely accepted design
• Provides reliable shelter from the elements
• Can be tailored to match your home’s architecture

Cons:

• May not offer the same level of style and sophistication as other enclosure options
• Can be expensive depending on materials and design
• May require a building permit and professional installation

Pergolas

Pergolas are versatile structures that blend seamlessly with your home’s architecture, providing shade and comfort. They’re the hallmark choice for patio enclosures, creating a stylish yet functional outdoor space.

Pros:

• Versatile and stylish structure
• Provides shade and comfort
• Blends seamlessly with your home’s architecture

Cons:

• Offers limited protection from rain and wind
• Some materials may require regular maintenance
• May not provide complete privacy

Gazebos

Freestanding structures that create a focal point in your outdoor space and can be transformed into enclosed patios or screen rooms. Gazebos offer an elegant solution for an enclosed outdoor living area.

Pros:

• Creates a focal point in your outdoor space
• Can be transformed into enclosed patios or screen rooms
• Elegant design

Cons:

• Freestanding structures may not blend seamlessly with your home
• May require more maintenance than attached structures
• Can be expensive depending on materials and design

Verandahs

Elevate your outdoor living experience with a verandah, a stylish extension of your home that provides additional shade and comfort. Verandahs can be enclosed to create a beautiful outdoor room for relaxation and entertainment.

Pros:

• Stylish extension of your home
• Provides additional shade and comfort
• Can be enclosed for a beautiful outdoor room

Cons:

• May require a building permit and professional installation
• Can be expensive depending on materials and design
• Some materials may require regular maintenance

Pavilions

Create a luxurious and sophisticated outdoor living area with a pavilion – a high-quality structure that provides ample shade and protection. Enclose your outdoor area with a grand pavilion to create a stunning outdoor retreat, perfect for relaxation and entertainment.

Pros:

• Luxurious and sophisticated outdoor living area
• Provides ample shade and protection
• Can be enclosed for a stunning outdoor retreat

Cons:

• Can be expensive depending on materials and design
• May require a building permit and professional installation
• Some materials may require regular maintenance\

Carports

Protect your vehicles and add value to your property while enhancing the outdoor area around your home. Carports can be enclosed to create additional storage or living space, making them a versatile choice.

Pros:

• Protects vehicles from the elements
• Adds value to your property
• Can be enclosed for additional storage or living space

Cons:

• Primarily designed for vehicle protection, not as a living space
• May require a building permit and professional installation
• Limited aesthetic appeal compared to other options

 

Choosing the Right Enclosure Solution For You

Consider the Purpose

Determine the primary purpose of your enclosed patio, such as relaxation, entertainment, or dining, to select the best option for your needs. This will help you choose the appropriate design and features for your project.

Take into Account Your Climate

Choose materials and designs that can withstand the specific weather conditions in your area, ensuring year-round use and longevity. This will help you make the most of your investment and enjoy your patio enclosure for years to come.

Customise Your Enclosed Patio

Select a product that offers customizable options, such as pulldown screens, clear vinyl, or retractable screens, to adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility allows you to create a space that caters to your preferences and lifestyle.

Match the Aesthetics

Ensure the design and materials of the enclosure complement your home’s architecture and your outdoor living area’s style. An aesthetically pleasing patio enclosure will enhance the overall look and feel of your property.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Enclosing Your Patio

Planning and Design

Sketch your desired patio layout, considering factors such as size, style, and functionality. Consult with a professional designer if necessary to ensure your project meets your expectations and requirements.

Obtaining Necessary Permits

Contact your local building department to apply for the required permits, ensuring your project complies with local building codes. This step is crucial to avoid potential fines or future issues with your enclosed patio.

Preparing the Site

Clear the patio area of any debris or obstructions, and level the ground if necessary. A well-prepared site will make the installation process smoother and help prevent potential problems down the road.

Installing the Enclosure

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembling and installing your chosen product. Hiring a professional installer is the only way to give you peace of mind that your outdoor patio enclosure is installed correctly and safely. Consider Outdoor Impressions for a seamless installation process, whether it’s a fully enclosed patio to protect you from the cold weather, or, a

Professional Installation and Maintenance Tips for Your Enclosed Patio

Benefits of Professional Installation

Hiring Outdoor Impressions’ expert installers ensures your patio enclosure is installed correctly, efficiently, and with the highest quality standards. This investment in expertise not only saves you time and effort but also provides you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your project is in capable hands.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your enclosed patio, perform regular maintenance checks. Keep screens, glass panels and clear vinyl clean, inspect the structure for any signs of damage, and address any issues promptly to prevent further complications.

Elevate Your Lifestyle with an Enclosed Patio

Enhance your outdoor living space by enclosing your patios in Melbourne! Enjoy year-round comfort and added home value while protecting yourself from the elements. Contact Outdoor Impressions at +61 3 9728 5377 or visit 1/158 Canterbury Rd, Bayswater North VIC 3153, Australia for expert assistance in creating the perfect enclosed patio. Start transforming your patio today!

Got a backyard that needs a little finetuning? Or maybe you’re trying to plan out your outdoor space in advance before you install anything. With all the available outdoor furniture, decor, and living solutions, it can be a little confusing figuring out which option might look the best on your existing area, but don’t fret! Turning your outdoor space into a luxurious, impeccably styled sanctuary just got easier, with this quick guide on the best backyard accessories to transform your outdoor space. And with the best backyard accessories, you’ll create a beautiful outdoor living area that you’ll love using all summer long.

1. Patios

The summer sun and heat is more than enough reason to go outdoors and soak in the warmth. Of course, it’s always a good idea to add a little bit of shade protection: after all, the sun’s UV rays can be harmful to the skin when exposed for too long, and some days the sun can make it a little too hot to enjoy your outdoor space. Solve that by installing a patio in your outdoor space! With Stratco, the leading brand on the market, there’s an abundance of shades, shapes, and roofing types that will fit your patio needs and aesthetic, and with your patio installers Melbourne, you’ll find that your perfect outdoor living solution is just that easy!

You can even incorporate Cooldek roofing or a sunroof into your patio solution

2. LED Garden Lights

Take your garden or patio from day to night with beautifully twinkling LED garden lights. This stylish addition oozes romance and whimsy, so hang them strategically; whether it’s along the outside walls of your home or laced through support beams of your patio roofing, garden lights or string lights can add that much needed oomph you’re looking for.

3. Lawn Mower

Got a little bit too much of your luscious grass? A lawn mower will do just the trick to help tame that and keep your backyard looking picture perfect. Simply an essential. 

4. Fire Pit

Firepits are one of the most quintessential Australian best backyard accessories. Adding warmth and a focal point to your outdoor space, it’s one of those stylish additions that you should consider if you’re wanting to create an enticing area for friends and family to hang around during those beautiful summer nights. A fire pit is a key point, and what’s more, you could roast smoe marshmallows to make s’mores on it, too.

5. Brick Pizza Oven

A backyard pizza oven? Sign us up! Pizza ovens are made from brick and use a contained fire that helps cook your pizza quickly. You can build your own, with DIY kits available on the market, or hire a trusted builder to help you create your very own pizza oven. Pizza night, anyone?

6. Lounge chairs

Make space for lounging around on your patio by investing in beautiful lounge chairs. Go for durability and comfort, first and foremost: you’ll find that with all the lounge chairs available on the market, you’ll be spoiled for choice on shade and aesthetic. There’s also easy to adjust models, which can go a long way so you can really personalise your chairs to your own personal comfort. A lot of lounge chairs come fully assembled as well, which will save you time and energy that you’re better off using by laying on your new lounge chairs and relaxing your day away.

7. Wicker furniture set

Wicker furniture is the tried and tested standard for easy care outdoor products. Weatherproof yet stylish, look around in your outdoor furniture stores for wicker furniture sets that include chairs and a patio table for a cohesive aesthetic.

8. Tree Swing

Got a big tree in your backyard? See if you can add a tree swing for your kids and family to enjoy: there’s varying lengths to make sure it’s safe for the little ones, too.

9. Outdoor speakers

Like entertaining and love having some ambient music while you do? Outdoor speakers are your best bet for good tunes that work, rain or shine! Maximise the summer heat and invite your friends over for a get-together fuelled by good friends, amazing music, and great weather.

10. Solar powered lighting

Exterior lighting is an important addition to any deck or patio. Once the sun goes down, it can get extremely dark without exterior lighting, so make sure to add solar lights with warm white lightbulbs for a bright, yet not-too-bright glow that helps you see in the dark, no matter what time of night it is.

11. Hammock

Hammocks are a funky addition to any outdoor space, helping you ease into comfort without impeding any air flow around your body, which is definitely crucial during those hot summer months. Make sure to choose a hammock that has canvas or soft woven cotton fabric, as these are the most comfortable types of hammocks to rest on. Long-lasting and soft, you’ll find you’ll be wanting to spend day in and day out on a hammock, one of the best backyard accessories!

12. Vertical gardens

Vertical gardens are all the rage at the moment, with beginner gardeners utilising small outdoor spaces and wanting a fool-proof, easier to care for garden. We recommend using plants such as Ferns, Begonias, and English Ivy: these not only work well with vertical gardens, but they also look amazing on the sides of your house, providing a hint of whimsy and nature where you need it.

13. Outdoor fridge

Want to make sure your friends and family are well-hydrated and refreshed when they come over? Stock up on their favourite beverages and make it extra easy to grab their drinks by installing a small outdoor fridge in your backyard under the patio: you’ll love how easy it is to entertain by having easy access at your fingertips!

Hit us up for your patio needs

Feeling inspired to create your own outdoor oasis? Start with your patio in Melbourne! Contact Outdoor Impressions at +61 3 9728 5377 or visit us at 1/158 Canterbury Rd, Bayswater North VIC 3153, Australia to kickstart your ideal outdoor space. Don’t wait, turn your backyard into a stunning retreat now!

There really is no place like home. Whether it’s sunny skies or cool wintry winds, Australian weather year-round makes for a beautiful backdrop to outdoor rest and relaxation. And maybe you already know about what makes for a stylish and functional outdoor space; from layout, ample shade, to comfortable furniture pieces that will wow and inspire you to spend more time in nature. But what about maintenance? It can be tricky to know how to protect patio furniture in any weather condition. 

While it may be a given that rain and water damage need to be prevented before they can affect your patio furniture, it’s an often forgotten fact that the sun’s rays can also cause fading and damage, too. So how do you protect your space and take care of your outdoor decor not only to keep it looking good, but to ensure that your curated patio furniture is protected from all types of weather? Below, we’ve got the best ways to protect patio furniture from both rain and wintery weather, and the harsh sun during summertime!

Strong materials make for hardwearing pieces

Make sure that when you’re selecting your outdoor patio furniture that you’re going for sturdy materials that not only look good, but are made well, too. Seek out furniture made from things that are weather-proof or weather-resistant when you’re looking at how to protect patio furniture, with materials like plastic, resin, aluminium, steel and wrought-iron, wood, and even rattan.

Plastic/resin

A more affordable option, plastic is light and easy to clean if you’re wanting to get the basics for your outdoor items first. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth and some soapy water can do the trick. However, be mindful that plastic/resin outdoor furniture needs to be under cover and out of direct sunlight when possible, as the sun’s UV rays can dull the surface and even cause discolouration.

Aluminium

A rustproof material that can withstand the rain, this easy to clean option is lightweight and can be relocated with little fuss when needed. Keep in mind, however, that some aluminium furniture pieces may not fold up for easy storage, which can be tricky as it is recommended to keep metal outdoor furniture indoors during especially cold winters.

Steel and wrought iron furniture

There’s something inexplicably charming about steel and wrought iron furniture that’s made it a popular choice for garden and metal furniture lovers. While they can be a little heavy and need a bit more regular maintenance to keep the quality of the paint and surfacing, they’re proven to withstand hot and cold weather conditions year-round. A tip: don’t place these on top of grass as it can be difficult to move around when you’re trying to mow your lawn! Place on a patio for easy access.

Wood

Go back to basics with wood patio furniture, which is a charming and proven option for beautiful outdoor pieces. Make sure to choose wood that is hardy, such as cedar, teak, jarrah, or any hardwood that’s well treated, and to keep up regular maintenance with a preservative to protect the wooden surface from the elements.

Synthetic rattan

Synthetic rattan is a beautifully durable option made of woven plastic strands that are coated to ensure protection from the elements, resisting sun, wind, and rain. These are usually paired with different types of hardwood, making it a good idea to consider when you’re wanting something a little more elevated than your normal wooden outdoor furniture, with little to no maintenance to boot.

Adjacent to this is wicker furniture, or resin wicker furniture, too!

Keep it clean

Make sure to stick to a regular cleaning schedule to keep your outdoor furniture from depreciating and eroding. This means looking into the right cleaning products for the materials, whether it’s mild soap, dish soap, a soft brush, a fresh coat of varnish, warm water, or anything in between, making sure that the products you’re using achieve a deeper clean.

Remove rust quickly and work to prevent it

 

Got metal or aluminium outdoor furniture? Use a coat of paste wax to protect the material; it’s almost like the wax is the sunscreen for your outdoor furniture. This works for both metal and plastic furniture pieces!

See the signs of early corrosion or rust? Make sure to scrub that off first, then apply primer, paint, and paste wax on top. There are rust neutralisers available on the market, too!

Protect fabrics

There are spray-on sun and water shields available for fabric-type outdoor furniture. Don’t be afraid to use these to repel water, prevent yellowing and fading, and protect your outdoor cushions and seating the easiest way possible! And remember, try to bring the cushions and outdoor fabrics indoors when it’s the rainy season if you can.

Can’t be bothered? Use covers to protect your furniture from uv rays and rain, too.

Cover your patio

There are amazing patio builders out there working with Stratco, the Australian favourite for outdoor living solutions. For patios Melbourne, this can be the best way not only to protect your outdoor spaces and furniture, but also to prevent mold and mildew from growing on furniture covers, fabric protectors and the like during the rainy season.

Plan ahead

The best thing to do when considering how to protect patio furniture? Plan ahead. 

 

Keep your outdoor furniture protected and secure with these simple tips! Store them during high UV or precipitation days, and tie down chairs, anchor cushions, and stack pieces when not in use. For more patios in Melbourne furniture care tips and expert advice, contact Outdoor Impressions at +61 3 9728 5377 or visit 1/158 Canterbury Rd, Bayswater North VIC 3153, Australia. Enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest!

Warm weather, longer daylight hours, hangouts with friends and family… Summer is right at our doorstep, and with it comes bigger and better opportunities to make the most out of the great outdoors. Whether you love to hike, have a dip in the ocean, or even just take a stroll at a local park, there’s just something about the hot summer months that gets people motivated and energetic. 

But if you’re the type that likes to stick close to home, it might be a good idea to take a look at utilising your outdoor living space, and transform it into the ideal spot for entertaining family and friends. Plus, an outdoor living area not only provides you with a gorgeous and functional space to entertain; it also adds value and aesthetic to your home that you’ll love. 

If you’re wondering how to make the most of the summer, and want to figure out how to maximise your outdoor entertaining area, have a look at our easy guide to outdoor entertaining, so you can work your way to becoming an amazing summertime host for any party!

 

Invest in Functional Furniture

If you’re wanting to entertain a lot of people all at once, one of the most important things for outdoor entertaining is to ensure there is adequate comfy seating for all the guests. Make sure that you have comfortable seating options that utilise the space appropriately without making it feel cramped.

Think seating areas with lounge and deck chairs, benches, corner seating, bean bags, and even oversized cushions. Kids will love playing and hanging out on an outdoor rug with board games and floor pillows, too. This helps keep the space engaging and gives guests room to move about without feeling claustrophobic, whilst still having extra seating.

Consider adding an outdoor impressions in your backyard too, which takes your outdoor dining game to a whole different level. It’s an easy way to entertain and cook for guests in an expanded dining area, and makes clean-up after the party’s over an absolute breeze. Plus, an outdoor kitchen also helps to add to your home’s value!

But if you have a small backyard and cannot fit a kitchen, try to arrange the layout so that there’s an easy flow to and from the inside kitchen, and invest in a good outdoor dining table for a dining experience in the fresh air. Adding a bar fridge is a great idea for storing cold drinks and easy access to snacks and fresh fruit, too, which your guests will absolutely love.

 

Keep it Fresh and Funky

Part of making sure that your outdoor space is appealing to guests and your family members, too, is creating a clean and green space that’s easy to enjoy. Make sure that your outdoor furniture is spruced up, from cushions and throws being freshly laundered to surfaces wiped of dust. Take a long broom and sweep away spider webs in corners, and mow the lawn, too!

And to really level up that welcoming vibe, make full use of patio plants for your outdoor entertaining area. Plants in your garden are a great way to bring the outdoors into your entertaining space, making things feel cool and inviting. Experiment with potted plants, climbing vines, and even vibrant flowering plants to draw the eye.

Few things are more important than great lighting, especially at outdoor gatherings. As the day begins to fade, you’ll want to ensure you introduce enough lighting to your outdoor area – for both practical and aesthetic reasons.

 

Take the Space From Day to Night

 

Many people have fond memories of warm summer nights, hanging out with friends and family around an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. If you’re wanting to harken back to fun times like this, it’s important to think about your outdoor lighting. 

Mood lighting is a great way to create a social space that will encourage conversations even as the sun goes down. Think candles on tables, paper lanterns strung up between trees, string lights around the patios melbourne, and even solar lights, which turn on as the sun sets and helps to light pathways in and out of your outdoor spaces.

 

Keep Your Guests Covered

Outdoor spaces are amazing in the summer if you’re wanting to catch a little bit of Vitamin D, but it’s always important to be sun-safe. Protect your guests from harsh UV rays by investing in patio roofing, which takes your outdoor entertainment area from a harshly lit space in the summer to a cool paradise in the warmer months. 

For an outdoor room to be functional all year round, especially in the cooler months where rain can put a stop to your entertaining plans, it’s definitely recommended to invest in a high quality outdoor living solution like Cooldek roofing, which has been tried and tested for Australian climate no matter what time of the year. Not only does it add to your home’s value, but there’s nothing worse than having to end a fun get-together because your guests are being rained on. 

So whether you’ve got a patio, an al fresco, or even a hot tub that you’re wanting to keep under cover and protect from the elements, it’s worthwhile to invest in high quality roofing!

 

Whether you’re after a natural garden oasis, a poolside paradise, or a party-worthy outdoor room, have a chat with our friendly staff to find the perfect patios in Melbourne. Contact Outdoor Impressions at +61 3 9728 5377 or visit 1/158 Canterbury Rd, Bayswater North VIC 3153, Australia.