Creating a covered area in our gardens is something everyone should desire. In the summer sunshine, there is nothing better than enjoying the warm outside weather whilst being kept cool in a shaded area. Two of the main ways we can do this are with a patio awning or gazebo. Let’s compare these two choices regarding their benefits and disadvantages. Helping you to decide which option is going to be right for your garden.

All About Patio Awnings

Firstly we are going to focus on patio awnings. A patio awning is a permanent fixture that can be added to your garden in many different styles. Including retractable, freestanding and pergola awnings. They all bring a range of different benefits to you, let’s look deeper into these.

One of the main benefits you are going to receive when investing in a patio awning is that it is a permanent fixture. This simply means you are not going to have to spend time putting it up and taking it down before and after every use. It is created in a way to be a permanent fixture that can withstand all kinds of weather. If you choose a retractable awning, they are much easier to put away than a full gazebo. It is also good to note that patio awnings, they have been created in a way that is more hard-wearing and long-lasting. You are going to get more for your money when purchasing patio awnings than other options on the market. They are going to be a long-term purchase and not something that needs replacing after time.

It is also a good idea to look into any disadvantages this product may bring when researching whether to make the investment and compare it with another. So, what are some of these disadvantages?

One of the main disadvantages you will find with patio awnings is the cost. They have a higher price point than other options on the market, but this does correlate to the benefits they bring you. This does mean they may not be within budget for everyone. You also need to remember that patio awnings are not as simple to install. Generally, you will need the help of a professional to install these on your property. This is one reason why they cost more as you are going to be paying for somebodies time as well as the product. Finally, they can be more challenging to keep clean. As you can’t take them down or lower them for cleaning, it can be more difficult. This means, they are more likely to be kept dirty or need professionally cleaned every so often.

All About Gazebos

As you would expect, gazebos are the cheaper alternative to a patio awning. Even though they are cheaper this does not mean they are going to be the best option. Let’s begin by looking at their disadvantages.

Due to their price being cheaper, you may notice that their quality is not quite up to standard. This means they are going to be more prone to weather damage. They are not going to be as long-lasting. They should be used as something more temporary whilst saving up for a more permanent fixture. With a gazebo, you also need to consider the time it takes to install them. As you do not want to leave them up at all times, you need to put them up and take them down after every use. This can be very time-consuming and energy-draining.

Gazebos do come with some benefits though. Of course, the main benefit that draws people to them is their price point. With them being considerably cheaper than patio awnings, it’s no wonder why people chose them. People also like the flexibility of a gazebo. That they can move this around their garden and do, not need to be fixed to one set spot.

Conclusion

So, patio awnings and gazebos. They are both excellent options for creating a covered area within your garden. For us, the winner is always going to be a more permanent fixture of a patio awning. It is up to you what you choose, but we find that patio awnings are going to be more beneficial to you. They are going to last longer and not need replacing as often. If you are still unsure what option will be best for you, every professional will be happy to discuss all options with you to find the one that works best for your property and family lifestyle.

Having a garden fountain or water feature in your garden brings a calming and pleasant ambiance that is hard to top, but you do need to perform a little maintenance on them, to keep them looking nice and properly functioning.

1. Keep any plant debris such as leaves cleared away.
2. Remove any algae growth with a bristle brush.
3. Use an algae cleaner regularly to stop algae growth.
4. Do NOT use chlorine as this could damage the rubber tubes and seals in the pump.
5. Ensure that you top up the fountain with water when needed, so that the pump is always submerged.
6. Clean the water pump once a year to keep it operating properly.
7. Always keep water running, they are meant to stay on, so as to reduce the chances of algae build-up, unless emptying for winter.

Using these tips will help to keep your water fountain or feature from experiencing an algae build-up which will eventually clog the pump and cause it to burn out.

Eventually there will come a time when your wooden garden furniture will need a fresh new lick of paint and maybe even some repair. If you are wondering how to go about sprucing up your rundown wood furniture, here are the steps on how to do it.

Repair Damage

Firstly, if there is any damage to the wood, you will want to start with this area and scrub the area down with a stiff wire brush so as to remove any old paint, rot or small wood bits. You can then repair that area with a high-quality wood glue and allow it to fully dry. Some areas may need a good quality filler which will need to dry and be smoothed down.

Repainting

Before repainting you will need to sand off any old varnish or paint and then use a fine grit sandpaper to rough the wood up a little. Be sure to thoroughly wipe off the wood furniture before painting. You should ensure the furniture is in a well-ventilated area and not in direct sunlight. With paint, it is best to prime the wood first to ensure the colour of the paint will be its best. Ensure you are using good quality exterior paints, stains or varnishes to best protect the wood beneath. You should allow the items to dry fully before doing any additional coats.

Giving new life to your wood garden furniture will brighten up your garden and help you enjoy it more.