Extend Your Outdoor Living with These 5 Features
Whether you love or hate the Iowa weather, one thing we can all agree on is that it is unpredictable at best. Twenty-degree temperature swings shouldn’t be surprising to most natives who know that we get to experience all of Mother Nature’s extremes. While some enjoy that we get a taste of all 4 seasons each year, this can also leave you feeling like your outdoor time is limited. We’re here to prove that you can enjoy your outdoor space for much more of the year than you think with these 5 features to add to your outdoor project.
1. A covered deck
Adding some overhead coverage means that rain or shine, you can enjoy your deck. Adding a ceiling soffit, some lighting, or heaters (see below) can enhance this experience even more. This coverage also offers some protection to furniture or appliances on your deck, and even means that you might get some extra use out of your grill outside of the summer months.
Fully covered deck
Covered deck with composite decking, PVC fascia and columns, and aluminum railing
Partially covered deck
Composite deck with roof structure, aluminum railing, and outdoor kitchen.
2. Radiant outdoor heaters
One of our most popular features this year has been the addition of radiant outdoor heaters. These can be installed directly into your ceiling or mounted to your ceiling and provide ample warmth when the weather chills.
Ceiling mount outdoor heaters
Heaters can extend the use of your space by several months in Iowa.
3. An outdoor kitchen
Equipping your outdoor space with a kitchen area can add so much to your entertaining. Whether this includes a bar, a refrigerator, and a sink, or just an upgrade to your standard grill, the experience becomes more enjoyable for everyone. Ensuring these are placed under some sort of overhead coverage means that your plans to grill out won’t be ruined if it rains or snows.
Full outdoor kitchen with built in grill.
These NatureKast cabinets are both beautiful and functional.
4. A fire pit or fireplace
Adding a fire pit is one of the most common additions we see in our builds. Sitting around a crackling fire is a comfort that never gets old. Recently, we’ve found ways of taking this favorite fall pastime to the next level. Instead of sitting around a fire pit where you’re still exposed to the elements, move it closer to the house and add an outdoor fire place. No longer will you be switching seats every time the wind changes or avoiding falling embers, and you can truly relax and enjoy the warmth.
Modern fireplace on a feature wall.
This feature wall gives both form and function with the added heat from the fireplace and beautiful aesthetics.
*Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations on the safety distances from walls and ceilings. If it is an item we specify and provide, these recommendations will be provided to you.
5. Hot tubs
Swimming pools are great in the summer when it’s warm, but hot tubs can be enjoyed year-round, and in Iowa that’s a big seller for investing in your outdoor space. Adding a hot tub means that you can be outside and enjoy looking at the stars, freshly fallen snow, fall colors, and beautiful sunsets when you might otherwise not be able to do so.
*Prior to putting any heavy item, please make sure your structural components can handle it. When designing your space, we always take into account the weight and forces that may be applied to your space to make sure your family stays safe. Items like hot tubs require larger structural members and larger footings.
