Now that the cooler weather has subsided and the afternoons are getting warmer it is the perfect time to start spending more time outdoors. As we enter the season of backyard pool parties and Christmas gatherings it is important to ensure our yard is prepped and ‘party ready’.
Here is a list of our top tips to get your garden and outdoor area in shape for the summer season.
OUTDOOR FURNITURE
You will want to choose furniture that is durable enough to withstand the heat and occasional summer storm, but is also practical and suits your needs. Opt for teak or rattan furniture as it is natural, versatile and can handle all different weather conditions.
One other great way to help you decide which furniture will best suit your outdoor area is to ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the area going to be used for?
- How often will I use it?
- Am I designing it primarily ‘for me’ or ‘for entertaining’?
- Where is the sun in relation to the space?
- What time of day will I use this space most – morning, afternoon or evening?
- Do I want to use it all year round?
- Are their trees overhanging that will drop leaves?
- Do I need the area to be undercover in case of rain?
You also need to factor in comfort. Gone are the days of the plastic outdoor dining setting. There are plenty of affordable and stylish options but you must consider how you like to entertain. The more thought you put into how you will actually use the space, the more you will get out of it.
POOL HEALTH
With the days getting warmer, your pool (if you are lucky enough to have one) is bound to get a bit of a workout. With kids jumping in and out, sunscreen residue and those pesky leaves making their way into the pool, it can sometimes be a bit hard to keep all your levels correct. here is a quick and easy pool maintenance breakdown to keep your pool sparkling during summer.
- Daily: Check sanitiser level and run the filtration system for 6-8 hours a day.
- Every 2nd Day: Check Chlorine and pH levels.
- Weekly: Clean the skimmer basket to help remove debris and keep the water clear.
- Monthly: Re-balance pool water and backwash the sand filter. This may need the occur more often, it will just depend on how often you use your pool and how often it has rained.
THE GARDENS
Give your garden a spring spruce up in time for the warmer months. Pull out all the weeds and maybe even plant some new plants. Do some research to see what plants can withstand the heat and are best suited for your environment. Aslo, make sure you factor in your gardening abilities and the amount of time you can dedicate to taking care of your garden.
ALL THE TOOLS
If you are going to be hosting this summer it is important to ensure your place is equipped with all the tools of the trade. Is your BBQ ready and gas bottles filled? Maybe you’ve gone the extra mile and added in a free-standing pizza oven, an under bench drinks fridge, or outdoor fire pit? Whatever it may be, ensure it is stocked and in working order so it is ready to go for all your summer parties.
THE FINISHING TOUCHES
Once you have all the basics organised it is time to add a bit of flair! Cozy up the space and make it feel more inviting with soft furnishings such as cushions, throws, and rugs. Also, try using colour and texture to liven up your outdoor spaces. You can also use plants and decorative pots as styling pieces. You’d be surprised at the impact a beautiful plant in a statement pot can make.
Also, don’t forget about lighting! If you are thinking of using your outdoor space into the night you will need to cater for this and ensure you aren’t sitting in the dark all night.
ABOUT US
iThink Property has a team of real estate agents in Ipswich and Toowoomba offering property sales and property management services. With a passion for people and property, iThink Property was conceived with the notion of building a team of good people to work in a real estate brand that did things differently. iThink Property focuses on transparency, communication, innovation and teamwork and has become a leading independent brand with unique points of difference. So whether you are thinking of buying, selling or renting, think iThink Property.
