When you have an outdoor living area, it is usually your little oasis at home. It is a place to unwind and enjoy the summer season. Whether it is an outdoor kitchen, gazebo, or even just a balcony for your apartment, you want to be able to use it when you want and get the most out of it. 

This means that you should strive to make the space as comfortable as possible. Sometimes the elements will be working against you meaning it could be too hot, too cold, or too wet to be able to use the space the way you intended. In this article, we will cover a few basic tips to enjoying your outdoor space to the fullest.

1 –  Pest control

Unfortunately, when we spend time outside, we are in the realm of nature and its creatures. You’ll end up having to share the space with some unwanted pests. 

Prevention is often the best strategy when dealing with pests. This includes landscaping tactics such as avoiding stagnant water that can attract mosquitoes and maintaining a clean, clutter-free yard to deter pests from nesting. 

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your outdoor area, proper handling of food and trash, and the strategic use of pest-repellent plants and essential oils can help you deter unwanted critters.

It’s not uncommon to experience a pest bite when spending time outdoors but don’t let it ruin your experience. For instance, knowing how to treat no see um bites on humans can help alleviate itching and prevent infections. 

2 – Add a water element

Something as simple as adding a water fountain to your outdoor area can have a huge effect on the space. For starters, the running water creates a calming and cozy effect. Not only that, but if you do have a lot of bugs in the area, the birds that are attracted to the water will take care of them. 

Some of the popular options include birdbaths, fountains, ponds, water walls, and swimming pools. Remember, the feature should integrate seamlessly with the rest of your outdoor design.

Make sure to keep a regular maintenance schedule to ensure that the water is always clean and doesn’t end up attracting pests like mosquitoes. 

3 – Shelter and shade

Rain and the sun’s harsh rays can spoil your attempt to relax in your outdoor space. However, when you set it up correctly, you can use the space in just about any kind of weather. 

The key is to cover the area with something to block the sun or shield you from the rain. There are a lot of options to consider with each having benefits and drawbacks depending on your situation. 

Options range from simple umbrellas and retractable awnings to more permanent structures like gazebos, pergolas, or even fully roofed outdoor rooms. Some structures can be equipped with detachable sides or curtains to provide a shield against the wind and cold so you can use the space all year round.