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The weather is getting warmer, the sun is shining brighter, and the evenings are much more enjoyable. That means one thing: Spring is on its way. It also means that it’s time to get your patio ready to enjoy the great change of seasons, come rain and sun.

It’s amazing what a few small changes can do for your outdoor lounging area. Here are some tips to revamp your patio for rain and sunshine so you and your family can enjoy all that spring has to offer.

Roll-up Mosquito Net

Out on your patio, you have a large table with chairs and a huge umbrella to provide shade. Unfortunately, with the warmth and moisture, mosquitoes have come as well. Instead of packing up and heading indoors, or dousing your guests with smelly bug spray, try this easy DIY idea to save you and your guests from being bug food.

Using thin bug screen netting, measure out five to six feet lengthwise, stretching the diameter of your umbrella. Every 15 to 20 inches, cut a strip, leaving a four-inch connection. Using buttons or large wooden pegs, sew a small tab and the button to the edge of your umbrella every 15 to 20 inches, opposite the cuts made in the screen netting. Now, using fabric glue or canvas staples, attach the netting to the edge of your umbrella. Roll up each of netting and button the clasp to keep it rolled up.

Any time you hear or feel the buzzing of unwanted insects, simply roll down your self-made mosquito net to keep your party from bugging out!

Shutter Privacy

Wind and rain also come with the spring sunshine. Also, some people prefer a little more privacy when having a patio soiree. It’s easy to get a break from the wind and some protection from rain with a shutter screen. You can find all different models, colors, and sizes of privacy shutters. There are also privacy screens that allow you to see out, but keep others from peering into your party.

Your local building supply store carries the items and the tools needed to install. Instructions for installation are easy, and the privacy screen will make a huge difference on your patio, allowing for more airflow while reducing wind gusts, providing shade and still allowing ample sunlight.

Spruced-Up Gutters

As the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” meaning there will be plenty of rain this spring. Be prepared for the downpour by updating your rain gutters. Old, rusty, and broken gutters are not only an eyesore, they can also cause problems to the integrity of your home. Gutters that clog easily allow for water to pool, weakening your roof. Installing upgraded rain gutters will allow rainwater to flow downward and off your home. Also, choosing a bright and fun color can add some aesthetic value to the exterior of your home.

Another way to get the most out of your gutters is to collect rainwater. Place brightly colored pots with large plants underneath the gutters to water your plants and keep the outside of your home looking lush and green. Or keep large, old-fashioned buckets under the openings and use the water to give the dog a bath or clean your home’s exterior.

Springtime is just around the corner. These are just a few ideas to add some fun to your outdoor experience at home.

View our photo gallery to see how we can help you revamp your home.

Written by Del Thebaud